Assistant Director, Student Accounts-Student Financial Services

SUMMARY:

The Assistant Director of Student Financial Services - Student Accounts is a full-time, benefits-eligible position responsible for overseeing student billing, account management, and receivables operations within the Office of Student Financial Services (SFS). This role manages tuition and fee assessment, payment processing, financial aid application to accounts, reconciliations, and collection activities to ensure accurate records and adherence to institutional policies.

The position performs accounting functions-including journal entries, general ledger maintenance, and receivables monitoring-and collaborates closely with Finance & Accounting on month-end and year-end processes, audits, regulatory reporting, and IRS tax compliance. The Assistant Director reports to the Director of Student Financial Services and indirectly to the University Controller.

Note:

This position is on-campus and requires regular, in-person interaction with students and families and is ideal for candidates comfortable working in a student-centered environment.

This position is exempt from provisions of the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) and is not eligible to earn overtime pay or compensatory time off for hours worked above 40 in a single work week. This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

Student Accounts Operations

* Deliver superior customer service to students and families via email, phone, and text.

* Maintain and enhance billing processes within the Jenzabar (J1) campus system.

* Review charge batches and ensure accurate student billing.

* Share responsibility for the student refund process in collaboration with SFS and Accounts Payable.

* Handle external invoicing for student-related functions.

Accounting & Reconciliation

* Prepare timely and accurate journal entries with supporting documentation.

* Ensure all approved Student Accounts journal entries are posted to the general ledger.

* Prepare monthly analysis and reconciliation of assigned general ledger accounts.

* Investigate and resolve discrepancies, ensuring reconciling items clear promptly.

* Ensure timely, thorough, and accurate month-end close for Student Accounts.

* Assist with preparation and completion of year-end audits.

Compliance & Reporting

* Maintain records and prepare data for IRS Forms 1098‑T and 1042‑S using J1 Desktop and external tax portals.

* Maintain strict confidentiality of sensitive student and university data, adhering to FERPA and all applicable regulations.

Collaboration & Communication

* Serve as the primary SFS liaison to student-facing offices such as the Registrar, Pulliam Center for International Education, and Student Engagement.

* Work closely with Information Technology Services on systems related to student billing, tax reporting, and technical troubleshooting.

* Submit and maintain non-current Student Accounts with approved collection agencies.

Non-Essential Duties

* Performs other duties and special projects as assigned to meet departmental or University needs.

Required Experience, Knowledge, and Skills

* Bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, or a related field (or equivalent combination of education and experience).

* 1-3 years of accounting systems experience; higher education or nonprofit experience preferred.

* High proficiency in Microsoft Excel, accounting software, and Windows applications; experience with Jenzabar J1 Desktop preferred.

* Exceptional attention to detail and consistent ability to produce error-free work.

* Strong organizational skills with proven follow-up and follow-through.

* Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.

* Ability to clearly communicate complex accounting information to diverse audiences.

* Strong problem‑solving skills with the ability to analyze and resolve complex issues.

* Excellent written and verbal communication skills with a record of proactive communication.

* Ability to quickly learn and apply new systems and processes.

* Proven ability to maintain confidentiality.

Application Process

If this position sounds like a great fit, please submit the following:

* A cover letter addressing your qualifications and relevant…