Director of Financial Aid and Scholarships

The Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville (UTK) invites applications and nominations for our Director of Financial Aid & Scholarships position. We are seeking candidates who can contribute in meaningful ways to enhance the accessibility of higher education, fostering a diverse and inclusive academic environment, and improving the recruitment and graduation of our students. The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, has been ranked by Forbes as one of America’s best large employers, as recognized on the 2024 list.

 

Applications received within the first 2 weeks (14 days) of the job posting date will receive priority review.

The target starting salary for this position is mid $90,000 annually, depending on experience and qualifications.

 

This is an on-campus position with some hybrid/remote work schedule flexibility. 

Under the leadership of the Assistant Vice Provost for Financial Initiatives & Chief Financial Aid Administrator (AVP), the Director of Financial Aid & Scholarships has direct oversight of the Office of Financial Aid & Scholarships (OFAS). The Director is responsible for formulating, interpreting, and implementing federal, state, and institutional financial aid policies and takes responsibility for the daily internal operations of the department. The position exercises substantial independence of administrative authority and discretion and is authorized to independently commit the institution to financial aid decisions. This role collaborates closely with the Enrollment Management division and other campus partners to support institutional enrollment, retention, and financial wellness goals. The Director serves as a key leader in enhancing operational effectiveness, developing staff leadership, and contributing to the university's strategic vision for financial aid and scholarships.

This position provides leadership and strategic support to all aspects of the OFAS, including data accuracy and integrity, operational efficiency, compliance with state and federal regulations, and active support of student financial aid data systems, including the OnBase document management system, DASH solutions for federal work-study, scholarship management platforms, and the university's Ellucian Banner student information system. The Director is responsible for comprehensive planning and execution of key initiatives, major projects, and the work of staff, including senior-level managers. The position facilitates coordination and communication between university departments, creating a positive educational experience for students and ensuring compliance with federal, state, and institutional policies.

Required Education and Experience: 

Bachelor's degree in Higher Education Administration, College Student Personnel, or other related fields. 

• At least 5 years of progressive experience in administration of Title IV Federal Financial Aid, state aid, and institutional awards. 

• Complete at least four NASFAA Professional Credentials within one year of hire date.

• 2 years minimum of supervisory experience of professional staff.

 

Preferred Education and Experience: 

Master's degree

• At least 7 years of relevant experience including time spent in leadership role in a financial aid office.

• Previous experience in financial aid administration in higher education. 

• Thorough understanding of federal and state financial aid rules and regulations.

 

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: 

• Well-developed oral and written communication and interpersonal skills. 

• Ability to adapt to work in an innovative and fast-paced environment and meet deadlines. 

• Strong leadership, communication, interpersonal and supervisory skills. 

• Ability to collaborate effectively with internal and external stakeholders. 

• Proven ability to manage complex projects and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

 

Preferred Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: 

• Familiarity with Microsoft Office products (or similar).

• Ellucian Banner, Argos Reporting, OnBase, Tableau, Campus Logic, Next Generation Scholarship Manager and/or similar platforms.

 

Benefits: 

University of Tennessee employees are eligible for a comprehensive suite of benefits that includes:

• Generous paid leave, accruing up to 24 days of vacation and 12 days of sick leave annually, plus 14 paid holidays and administrative closing days

• Flexible work arrangements, offering a hybrid schedule to most team members

• Education benefits for employees and their dependents at UT System campuses

• Retirement and deferred compensation plans, including 401(k), 403(b), etc.

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance plans

• Employee discounts to attractions, services, and goods

 

For full consideration, applicants should submit a cover letter detailing relevant experience along with a resume and the name, e-mail address, and telephone number of three to five professional references. References will not be contacted without explicit permission of the candidate.

The university holds a strong commitment to its land-grant mission of learning and engagement, with a tradition of service and leadership that carries that Volunteer spirit throughout the state and around the world. It has been ranked nationally as “Best Employer for New Graduates,” “One of America’s Best Large Employers,” and “Best Workplace for Women,” and has been designated as “Best Place for Working Parents” by Forbes Magazine.  

Apply today and join the Tennessee Volunteer community!