Assistant Director of Admission and Financial Aid

Job Description

Job Description

Assistant Director of Admission and Financial AidThe Pennington School, an independent, coeducational school for students in Grades 6–12, seeks an energetic, relationship-driven, and globally minded professional to serve as Assistant/Associate Director of Admission and Financial Aid.Reporting to the Director of Admission and Financial Aid, this full-time, exempt position plays a key role in recruiting and enrolling talented students from across the region, the United States, and around the world. The successful candidate will combine exceptional interpersonal skills with strong analytical abilities to support enrollment growth, guide families through the admission process, and contribute to the strategic allocation of financial aid resources.Essential Responsibilities:Serve as a primary ambassador for The Pennington School and guide prospective families through the admission process from inquiry through enrollmentRepresent the School at secondary school fairs, conferences, community events, and recruitment programs locally, nationally, and internationallyConduct student and parent interviews and prepare thoughtful evaluative reportsReview applicant files and make admission recommendations aligned with institutional priorities and enrollment goalsParticipate actively on the Admission and Financial Aid CommitteesManage communications regarding admission decisions and waitlist activityCollaborate in planning and executing admission events, including Open Houses, Information Sessions, Revisit Days, and Welcome eventsUtilize admission databases, CRM systems, spreadsheets, and emerging technologies, including AI tools, to improve operational efficiency and enhance the family experienceServe as a visible advocate for The Pennington School and its missionEssential QualificationsBachelor 's degree requiredThree or more years of experience in admission, enrollment management, educational recruitment, higher education admission, or a related relationship-driven field preferredIndependent school or boarding school admission experience strongly preferredStrong communication, presentation, and interpersonal skillsDemonstrated ability to connect with students, families, educational consultants, and School partners from diverse backgroundsExcellent organizational and project management skills with strong attention to detailHigh level of professionalism, discretion, and emotional intelligenceCollaborative, positive, and flexible approach to workGrowth mindset and willingness to learn, innovate, and adapt within a changing enrollment landscapeAbility to work evenings and weekends during peak admission seasonsValid driver's license and ability to maintain an acceptable driving recordOther Requirements:Ability to work a flexible schedule, including evenings, weekends, and occasional School holidaysAttendance at admission, enrollment, and other School events as neededAbility to travel extensively, both domestically and internationally, in support of recruitment and enrollment effortsAbility to stand for extended periods during admission events, school fairs, and recruitment activitiesAbility to transport and lift admission and marketing materials weighing up to 30 poundsValid driver's license required and ability to travel locally as neededSuccessful completion of a criminal background check and fingerprinting in accordance with New Jersey Department of Education requirements and School policyThis position is full-time, on-campus, Monday to Friday, for 10 months from August to June during the academic year, and is exempt from overtime, with a starting date in August 2026. The minimum annual salary for this position is $55,000. The actual offer will be commensurate with skills and experience. The Pennington School offers comprehensive benefits, including medical, dental, and vision insurance options, as well as life, short-term, and long-term disability programs, and a 403(b) retirement plan.Qualified candidates should submit a cover letter and résumé to: