Assistant Director of Financial Aid Graduate Programs; HR Manager, Financial Aid

Assistant Director of Financial Aid for Graduate Programs (HR

Title:

Manager)

Southern Methodist University, Dallas, TX

Full Time

Salary Range:
Salary commensurate with experience and qualifications.

Under the general supervision of the Director of Financial Aid, the Assistant Director will manage and direct financial aid activities for the graduate and professional programs, serving over 5,000 students. Responsibilities include determining individual student eligibility, offering aid, monitoring compliance with federal, state, and institutional policies, and acting as the primary liaison between academic departments and the Division of Enrollment Services.

• Create financial aid offers – review and evaluate FAFSA data, resolve conflicts, determine eligibility, and package aid programs. Ensure compliance with all regulations and improve processes.
• Assist current and potential graduate students through one‑on‑one consultation, email, phone, video calls, and recruiting visits, including support of the Graduate Student Desk during peak periods.
• Consult with faculty and deans on special‑needs students, departmental training, and the impact of departmental funds and new programs on aid eligibility.
• Manage data for website content, perform quality controls, evaluate academic progress, address special requests, develop graduate budgets, and advise on academic structure for aid applicability.
• Serve on the financial‑aid advising leadership team and supervise two advisors, ensuring excellent customer service and up‑to‑date knowledge of regulations.
• Complete other duties as assigned and attend leadership meetings and trainings.

Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree required, Master’s preferred.
• Minimum 3 years of experience in a university setting with financial aid services, disbursement, and awarding.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Strong interpersonal, verbal, and written communication; conflict resolution.
• Problem‑solving, analytical thinking, and organizational, planning, and time‑management skills.
• In‑depth understanding of academic policies (program structure, progress, withdrawals) and federal/institutional aid regulations.
• Diplomatic, friendly, adaptable, approachable, and student‑focused.
• Familiarity with People Soft, Microsoft Office, Teams, Zoom preferred.
• Availability for evening/weekend community engagements and occasional travel.

• Sit for long periods of time.

Applications received by June 9, 2026 will receive priority consideration. Position is open until filled.

SMU is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, sexual orientation, or gender identity and expression.

SMU offers a competitive array of health, dental, and vision benefits, wellness programs, retirement plans, and professional development opportunities, including tuition benefits.

Location/Region
:
Dallas, Texas