Operations Specialist - Student Financial

Location: Chicago, Illinois Business Unit: Rush Medical Center Hospital: Rush University Medical Center Department: Student Financial Aid Work Type: Full Time (Total FTE between 0.9 and 1.0) Shift: Shift 1 Work Schedule: 8 Hr (8:00:00 AM - 4:30:00 PM) Rush offers exceptional rewards and benefits learn more at our Rush benefits page ( Pay Range: $23.12 - $32.66 per hour Rush salaries are determined by many factors including, but not limited to, education, job-related experience and skills, as well as internal equity and industry specific market data. The pay range for each role reflects Rush’s anticipated wage or salary reasonably expected to be offered for the position. Offers may vary depending on the circumstances of each case. Job Summary The Operations Specialist, Financial Aid is a senior-level operational professional responsible for executing and supporting complex financial aid processing, systems functionality, and compliance activities. This role plays a critical function in ensuring accurate, timely, and compliant delivery of financial aid services that support student success, enrollment goals, and institutional risk management. Working under the direction of the Associate Director for Operations, the Operations Specialist applies advanced knowledge of financial aid regulations, systems, and operational workflows to resolve complex cases, support system integrity, and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives. This position serves as a subject-matter resource for Financial Aid Advisors and collaborates across teams to ensure consistent, student-centered service delivery. The Operations Specialist exemplifies the Rush mission, vision, and values and acts in accordance with Rush policies and procedures. Required Job Qualifications Bachelor’s degree 3 years financial aid experience working with student information systems (Banner, PeopleSoft, Colleague, etc.) Strong working knowledge of Title IV rules and regulations. Skilled in using computer applications and programs (Excel, Word, CPS, COD, NSLDS and ELM). Problem-solving and critical-thinking skills Preferred Job Qualifications Master’s degree. 5 years experience working with student information system set up Experience with graduate/professional school setting. Ellucian Colleague experience. Competencies Excellent interpersonal, initiative, teamwork, problem-solving, independent judgement, technology, time management and presentation skills. Strong written communication skills. Superior customer service skills to connect with students (incoming and current), and other colleagues/peers across campus Demonstrated ability to assist with training financial aid staff and provide leadership in reaching departmental goals. Strong commitment to professional development and keeping current on financial aid best practices. Values and exhibits strong commitment to Rush ICARE values. Experience with resolving conflict and barriers in a strategic and diplomatic manner. Job Responsibilities Financial Aid Operations & Processing Perform complex financial aid processing functions, including need analysis, verification, aid packaging, revisions, and resolution of atypical or escalated cases. Apply professional judgment within established guidelines to address complex student circumstances and ensure equitable and compliant outcomes. Monitor processing workflows and timelines to support service standards and peak-cycle efficiency. Provide operational support during critical processing periods and assist with workload balancing as needed. Systems & Technology Support Serve as a functional expert for the student information system and financial aid platforms, supporting configuration, testing, data validation, and troubleshooting. Assist with system upgrades, process automation, and implementation of operational enhancements. Identify system issues or data anomalies and collaborate with leadership to resolve them efficiently. Compliance & Quality Assurance Maintain working knowledge of federal, state, and institutional financial aid regulations and policies. Conduct quality control reviews to ensure accuracy, consistency, and compliance of financial aid processing. Support audit and program review preparation by maintaining documentation standards and assisting with data requests and file reviews Collaboration, Training & Support Serve as a subject-matter resource for Financial Aid Advisors, providing guidance on complex processing issues and regulatory interpretation. Assist with onboarding and training of new staff related to systems, procedures, and operational best practices. Participate in the development, documentation, and refinement of standard operating procedures. Reporting & Operational Analysis Compile and analyze operational data related to processing volume, trends, and outcomes. Provide regular updates and reports to the Associate Director for Operations on workload, system issues, and identified risks. Other Responsibilities Perform other duties as assigned to support departmental operations and institutional goals. Rush is an equal opportunity employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, and other legally protected characteristics. #J-18808-Ljbffr