Director of Financial Aid

At ATS Institute of Technology, we are seeking a detail-driven and strategic Director of Financial Aid to oversee all aspects of financial aid operations with precision and compliance, while maintaining a student-first approach. This senior leadership role is responsible for the accuracy and timeliness of aid packaging, documentation, projections, and disbursements — ensuring students receive the funding they are entitled to without delays or errors.

As Director, you’ll oversee the administration of all financial aid programs, lead and develop staff, implement best practices for efficiency and compliance, and collaborate closely with leadership to align financial aid strategies with institutional goals. This is a career-defining opportunity for a financial aid leader who thrives in higher education operations and is committed to advancing student success.

Job Summary:

The Director of Financial Aid provides full leadership and operational management of the Financial Aid Office. This includes ensuring all aid documentation is complete and verified prior to packaging, monitoring accurate and on-time disbursement of funds each term, and directing all R2T4 calculations and refund processes in compliance with federal timelines.

This role requires both technical expertise in financial aid administration and strong leadership skills to ensure operational integrity, regulatory readiness, and exceptional service to students. The Director supervises financial aid staff, develops policies and procedures, and ensures institutional compliance with all audits, program reviews, and reporting requirements.

Key Responsibilities:

• Aid Packaging, Documentation & Disbursement – Oversee timely, accurate packaging and disbursement of aid each term; verify all documentation; assign tasks to advisors; and maintain audit-ready student files.
• Compliance & R2T4 Oversight – Lead all Return to Title IV (R2T4) processes, ensuring strict adherence to federal timelines and institutional policies. Monitor eligibility, conduct regular audits, and resolve errors proactively.
• Leadership & Management – Supervise, train, and evaluate financial aid advisors; maintain policies and procedures; and foster a culture of accountability, accuracy, and student-centered service.
• Collaboration & Support – Work closely with Admissions, Registrar, Student Accounts, and Academic Affairs to support enrollment, retention, and persistence goals.
• Data, Reporting & Improvement – Prepare DOE, IPEDS, and compliance reports; analyze aid trends and metrics; and lead process improvements to increase efficiency and student satisfaction.

Why Join Us?

• Operational Leadership – Lead and oversee financial aid operations with accountability for accuracy, compliance, and efficiency, while working within established institutional review systems to ensure integrity and consistency.
• Impact at Scale – Ensure students receive accurate, timely aid that directly influences access, retention, and success.
• Mission-Driven Work – Join an institution dedicated to affordability, accountability, and educational opportunity.
• Collaborative Culture – Partner with executive, academic, and student services leadership to align aid strategies with institutional goals.

• Education: Bachelor’s degree required; Master’s degree preferred in Higher Education, Business, Finance, or related field.
• Experience: 5+ years in financial aid administration, with at least 2 years in a leadership role.
• Expertise: Proven success managing packaging, documentation, disbursement, compliance, and R2T4 with precision and timeliness.
• Knowledge Base: Strong understanding of Title IV, DOE, state, and accreditor regulations, audits, and program review readiness.
• Leadership Skills: Effective manager and mentor with strong organizational, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• Technical Skills: Familiarity with COD, NSLDS, CPS, SIS/financial aid systems, and working with third-party processors.

At ATS Institute of Technology, we invest in our leaders and team members by offering:

• Comprehensive Health Coverage – Medical, dental, and vision plans.
• Generous PTO & Paid Holidays – To recharge and balance personal priorities.
• Retirement Savings – 401(k) with employer match.
• Professional Growth – Tuition reimbursement and leadership development opportunities.
• Mission-Driven Work – Be part of a team that transforms lives through access, affordability, and education.