Scholarship Administrator

About the Job

The Scholarship Administrator provides operational activities for institutional undergraduate scholarship awarding within the Office of Financial Aid, serving as a subject matter expert on University scholarships to new and continuing students. The Scholarship Administrator reports to the Senior Associate Director, OFAS. The position also serves as a functional expert and professional support to the scholarship leadership team, One Stop Student Services and other University departments for in-depth, scholarship specific issues.

This position may be eligible for a hybrid work arrangement (1-2 days remote per week) following completion of required job-related training. Work arrangements are subject to change based on leadership direction and operational needs.

This posting will be used to fill two (2) openings.

Administration of scholarships (55%):

• This position will administer institutional undergraduate scholarships for new and continuing students on the Duluth campus, and will provide data and feedback regarding scholarship processes, and implement awarding strategies determined by the scholarship leadership team.

• Make award decisions according to institutional policy and donor MOA's, ensuring stewardship of funds
• Administer initial awards, fund swapping, and renewal awarding within parameters of funds available, and student eligibility requirements.
• Review emergency grant applications and make award decisions and administer funds
• Conduct business using integrated information systems (People Soft, Salesforce, DMS, Star, etc.)
• Interpret and enforce a wide range of policies, procedures, regulations and guidelines
• Ensure accuracy and compliance with financial aid regulations (Federal, State, Institutional or other outside agencies)
• Recommend policy and process changes based on the analysis of qualitative and quantitative data
• Identify systemic issues, make recommendations for enhancements as a result of problem analysis or policy changes
• Identify, manage, analyze, report and resolve issues associated with core functions, and communicate changes effectively
• Maintain program records to meet the OFAS audit requirements
• Write and maintain effective documentation and training materials
• Develop annual budgets, gather data and other supporting materials as requested
• Other duties may be assigned

Counseling & Communication (45%):

This position will communicate in writing with award recipients and other stakeholders regarding awards, including renewals and appeals, as well as UMD scholarship programs, functions, and policies. May communicate directly with students, as needed, regarding individual applications for scholarships, emergency grants, or other institutional funds.

• Communicate with students over the life span of an award
• Serve as a resource to One Stop counselors and other campus stakeholders for scholarship programs; offer proactive and timely diagnostic support and problem resolution
• Collaborate with other professionals at the University and Office of Development, to maintain program integrity and resolve issues.
• Counsel students and parents referred by One Stop on scholarship specific issues.
• Manage scholarship appeals and application communications, as appropriate.

Required Qualifications:

• BA/BS degree plus at least four years of relevant experience, or master's degree plus at least two years of relevant experience.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Higher Education experience
• People Soft campus solutions experience
• Experience interpreting regulatory guidance
• Degree and/or work experience in accounting, math or business fields

Pay Range: $53,490 - $57,200 annually; depending on education/qualifications/experience

Time Appointment: 100% Appointment

Position Type: Faculty and P&A Staff

Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information regarding benefit eligibility.

The University offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs supported by the Regents Tuition Benefit Program
• Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Disability and employer-paid life insurance
• Employee wellbeing program
• Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity
• Financial counseling services
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost

While our salary ranges provide a framework, it is important to note that most of the time, the initial pay may not reach the maximum of the range. This approach ensures that compensation reflects the value and unique contributions of each candidate while maintaining equity within our organization. As part of our commitment to fair and equitable compensation, please be aware that the salary offered to incoming candidates will be based on their individual…