Director of Student Financial Aid

Overview

The University of Alaska Anchorage (UAA) and the Office of Enrollment Services seek a Director of Financial Aid. The Director manages the day-to-day operations of a fast-paced, student-centered office within the division of Student Affairs. This role requires background in higher education and financial aid administration, with a focus on reducing financial barriers for students and supporting enrollment goals.

This position is part of a dynamic leadership team within Enrollment Services, which includes Admissions and Recruitment, Financial Aid, Office of the Registrar, Student Information, International Students Services, and Military and Veteran Student Services. The Director sets vision and direction for professional, classified, and student staff to ensure compliance and timely processing while educating students and families about policies, processes, and options that aid in financial planning and educational achievement.

The role emphasizes best practices in Title IV compliance and student financial aid, with strong supervision and team development to support student success.

• Provide leadership and direction for the Financial Aid Office to ensure compliance with federal and state financial aid regulations and efficient processing of aid.
• Educate students and families about financial aid policies, processes, and options to support financial planning and educational attainment.
• Develop and manage a high-performing team of professionals, staff, and students; foster collaboration across Enrollment Services and with campus partners.
• Monitor and align operations with strategic enrollment goals and institutional objectives.
• Maintain knowledge of best practices in financial aid administration and technical systems (e.g., Ellucian/Banner) to support effective workflows.

• Minimum of five years of experience in student financial aid at an accredited institution, with progressively responsible leadership in financial aid or enrollment management.
• Strong understanding of federal and state financial aid regulations and compliance standards; experience in a large public higher education environment preferred.
• Familiarity with Ellucian/Banner; strong technical skills and knowledge of best practices in financial aid administration.
• Excellent communication, critical thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities; proven leadership and organizational skills; ability to motivate and manage a diverse team.
• Commitment to collaborative work with individuals from varying backgrounds.

• Minimum Qualifications: Master’s degree in a related field and five years progressively responsible higher education experience with three years of management experience, or a Bachelor’s degree in a related field and seven years progressively responsible higher education experience with three years of management experience, or an equivalent combination of training and experience.

This is a full-time, exempt staff position with a competitive salary and a complete employee benefits package. Benefits include retirement options, annual leave, 12 paid holidays per year, tuition waivers for employees and family members, and medical, dental, and vision coverage. New hires are placed on the UA Staff Salary Schedule (Grade 83) based on education and experience.

Applications will be accepted for review on 04/24/2026. To ensure consideration, apply by 11:55 PM Alaska Standard Time on 04/23/2026. The University reserves the right to require on-site work; hybrid or remote work may be approved for Alaska-based employees at the University’s discretion. Remote work for employees based outside Alaska may be approved only in exceptional circumstances or when required by job duties.

For questions regarding this position, contact Craig Mead at cimead.

• Eligibility: Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States without restriction. Visa sponsorship requirements may affect eligibility.
• Background Checks: The successful applicant is required to complete a background check. Any offer of employment is contingent on the background check.
• Accommodations: The University provides reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities throughout the applicant screening process. Contact atua-ada for assistance.

The University of Alaska is an Equal Opportunity/Equal Access Employer and Educational Institution. The university prohibits discrimination on the basis of legally protected status. All employees are expected to uphold high standards of ethics and professionalism. Public records laws may apply to applications.