Assistant Program Manager

The Student Financial Aid Program Specialist serves as the primary administrator for core federal and private financial aid programs?specifically the Federal Pell Grant Program, William

D. Ford Direct Loan Program, and private/alternative education loans.

The Specialist is responsible for daily and cyclical processing activities, including federal file transmissions, disbursement management, eligibility review, compliance monitoring, and monthly reconciliation.
This position requires strong technical and analytical skills, deep familiarity with Title IV regulations, and the ability to ensure full compliance with federal, state, and institutional policies.
The Specialist also provides high-quality service to students, families, and campus partners while supporting the mission and values of the Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships and the University of Michigan?

Dearborn.

Federal, State, and Private Loan/Grant Processing (70%)

• Serve as the primary administrator for the Pell Grant Program, Direct Loans (Subsidized, Unsubsidized, PLUS), and private/alternative loan programs.
• Manage all federal data transmissions through COD/SAIG and ensure timely acceptance of originations and disbursements.
• Monitor, troubleshoot, and resolve rejected, delayed, or conflicting records for Pell, Direct Loans, and private loans.
• Process entrance counseling, Master Promissory Note (MPN) data, disbursement holds, and student eligibility requirements.
• Perform transfer monitoring and resolve NSLDS conflicts to ensure accurate awarding.
• Complete monthly program reconciliation in collaboration with Financial Services.
• Review and resolve over award reports, compliance audits, and disbursement exceptions.
• Support the timely certification and disbursement of private/alternative loans.
• Assist students and families with questions related to loan disbursement, eligibility, and required steps for aid release.
• Serve as the primary resource for OFAS staff and campus partners regarding federal and private loan processing.

Compliance and Program Oversight (20%)

• Ensure full compliance with Title IV, state, and institutional regulations for all assigned programs.
• Interpret regulatory updates and advise internal stakeholders of operational impacts.
• Maintain accurate program documentation, including an up-to-date processing manual.
• Stay current with federal and state regulations by reviewing Department of Education updates, NASFAA guidance, and other professional resources.
• Recommend updates to procedures, forms, and workflows related to federal and private loan processing.

• Bachelors degree or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• 2-3 years of experience in financial aid processing or a comparable regulatory/data-driven environment.
• Working knowledge of Title IV regulations, especially Pell Grant and Direct Loan administration.
• Experience with integrated student information systems (Banner preferred) and document imaging systems.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret financial documents and resolve complex data or eligibility issues.
• Excellent organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple deadlines accurately.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to support students and collaborate with staff.
• Demonstrated ability to exercise sound judgment, work independently, and maintain strict confidentiality.
• Must not be in default or over payment on any Title IV aid program.

The University of Michigan-Dearborn is a vibrant and diverse community, centrally located within one of America's largest business regions. The area provides a variety of urban, suburban, and rural environments within a reasonable commute, including…