Financial Aid Operations Specialist

This is a hybrid role based in our Great River, NY office. The Financial Aid Operations Specialist is responsible for managing, maintaining, training on, and updating Banner Financial Aid systems, including all patches and testing, and for developing and automating operational policies and procedures in accordance with US Department of Education requirements. Additionally, this position plays a critical role in all Enrollment and Financial Aid audits, serving as a partner in retrieving files, reviewing records, and ensuring accuracy prior to submission. Working closely with Admissions, Registrar, Bursar, and Clinical Education Operations, the Financial Aid Operations Specialist ensures financial aid processes, systems, and reporting is integrated to support a positive student experience. Essential Functions Reviews and Processes Leave of Absence (LOA) and Withdrawal requests in alignment with federal and institutional requirements. Review and support c-flag compliance. Reviews banner letter reporting and compliance reporting to ensure compliance standards are met and followed. Reviews high-level compliance reporting and provides updates to the Operations team. Updates policy manual and workflow procedures to maintain compliance with federal aid requirements. Identify potential areas of compliance vulnerability and risk, develops/implements corrective actions plans to manage and mitigate risk and improve compliance practices. Identify training requirements and changes and implement necessary updates to training materials and communications for students and staff. Develop, modify, and provide oversight of the office policies and procedures that are following current US federal guidelines/regulations. Support new institutional initiatives while maximizing operational efficiency, maintaining compliance with US federal and state regulations and prioritizing service excellence. Work cooperatively with other departmental partners. Solve complex issues and work both collaboratively and independently in a fast-paced, high stress environment. Support all activities relating to both internal and external audits. Participates in reporting duties; assists in gathering, compiling, auditing, maintaining, and analyzing data for the maintenance and preparation of records and reports; identifies required data elements to create database queries; creates selection sets. Other Duties Provide coverage for financial aid operations as needed to ensure uninterrupted service to students, staff, accrediting bodies. Perform other duties and special projects assigned by leadership. This description is not intended to be all-inclusive. This position may perform other related duties as required to meet the ongoing needs of the department/institution. Well-developed analytical, cognitive, and computer skills. Highly skilled in excel; macros, complex formula, development. (advance level required) Advanced written and oral communication skills and the demonstrated competence to effectively present information in either format. Strong analytical, technical, and problem-solving skills with a focus on compliance and automation. Proven technical skills with specific focus on Banner financial systems to ensure data integrity, compliance, and adequate internal controls. Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work with employees at all levels of the University. A high degree of personal motivation, independent judgment, and persuasiveness. A commitment to continuous improvement and a continued working knowledge of current issues and trends. Demonstrated professionalism, integrity, and openness. Apply forward and creative thinking with high ethical standards to develop strategic vision. Excellent organizational, time management, collaboration, attention to detail and active listening skills. Strong interpersonal skills; proven ability to collaborate across multiple departments. Possess sound judgment and be sensitive to issues of policy and process. Work independently and collaboratively Use tact, diplomacy and discretion when handling sensitive and/or confidential matters or materials. Qualifications Minimum of five years of progressive experience in Financial Aid or process improvement. Advanced Microsoft Excel skills required. Advanced knowledge of US Title IV financial aid regulations and programs preferred. Work Environment & Physical Demands Professional office setting; frequent use of computers and office equipment Ability to concentrate in a high-volume, fast-paced environment Flexibility for evening and weekends during peak periods #J-18808-Ljbffr