The primary purpose of this position is to work alongside the Director of Financial Aid to manage the financial aid programs at Ridgewater College. The position leads the process of awarding financial aid to students of Ridgewater College and leads in the processing of student loans. It is responsible for the reporting of all federal aid payments made to the students to the Department of Education for reimbursement to the college. The position also exists to assist students and families in the financial aid process. The position requires a high level of knowledge of Federal and State regulations that are needed to ensure compliance of the financial aid programs and a high level of knowledge of the software used and knowledge of the Department of Education websites. A high level of customer services and confidentiality is required in performing the duties in this position. Strong organizational skills are essential due to the high volume of record keeping and data collection.
Required Qualifications:
Bachelor's degree in a related field and two years of relevant experience OR 6 years of relevant work experience (ex: professional-level experience with detailed knowledge of financial aid rules and regulations, project management, and the ability to interpret and understand new rules, regulations, and statutes.)
Excellent oral and written communication skills to communicate complex concepts and guidance to students. The ability to fluently speak, read, write, understand and respond to a variety of spoken and written communications as well as effectively communicate policies, procedures and information in a positive, professional and courteous manner.
Ability to collect, analyze and assess data with record management and/or U.S. government reporting tools, and make effective recommendations to enhance continuous improvement and efficiency.
Technical computer skills are sufficient to create word processing documents, spreadsheets, data collection, and create reports.
Preferred Qualifications:
A working knowledge of complicated and ever changing Federal and State regulations governing financial aid programs along with the goals and objectives of the Financial Aid Office.
Experience using MinnState Integrated Student Record System and Image Now
Knowledge of all Ridgewater College academic programs
Maintain a working knowledge of the rules, regulations and policies as established by MinnState and Ridgewater College
·Ability to maintain the confidentiality of private information according to law, rules, policies, and procedures is essential.
Knowledge of:
State and Federal statutes, policies, and regulations in regard to educational institutions.
Student services/student life policies, procedures and promising practices.
Required computer software applications such as ISRS, Excel, Microsoft Word, Microsoft Publisher and/or Adobe Photoshop, Access, Internet, Social Networking, etc. and well as office equipment (computer, fax, copier, etc.).
Knowledge and experience using U.S. Department of Education software and websites, including NSLDS, COD, FAA Access
Five or more years of experience within higher education financial aid/student services, preferably in the Minnesota State College and Universities system
Proven knowledge of Title IV regulations and programs
Self-starter and an ability to function with minimal direction. Ability to collaborate with team members between departments to execute initiatives.
Other Requirements:
In accordance with the Minnesota State Colleges & Universities (MnSCU) Vehicle Fleet Safety Program, employees driving on college/university business who use a rental or state vehicle shall be required to conform to MnSCU's vehicle use criteria and consent to a Motor Vehicle Records check.
About:
Institution Information MISSION: Ridgewater College empowers diverse learners to reach their full potential and enrich their lives through personalized and relevant education in an accessible, supportive, and inclusive environment.
VISION: Ridgewater College is a student-centered educational leader focused on innovation, excellence and affordability.
GUIDINGPRINCIPLES:
Enterprising – We are future-focused, and change-oriented, developing creative solutions to challenges that maximize our institutional, system and local resources.
Empowerment – We develop and empower employees to make decisions to best serve students and stakeholders.
Excellence – We strive to exceed expectations in all that we do.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion – We seek to understand and appreciate the needs and experiences of every individual and actively work to provide genuine opportunities for everyone to succeed and participate in college activities and processes.
Trust and Respect – We are committed to developing a culture based in processes and behavior that create trust and respect among all stakeholders.
Collaboration – We connect and work together to achieve common goals while respecting needs and interests of stakeholders.
Curiosity and Creativity – We constantly strive to understand, learn, change, and improve.
Accountability – As individuals and groups, we willingly accept and take ownership of our successes and failures.
Benefits Info:
Why Work For Us
GREATBENEFITSPACKAGE! Minnesota State offers a comprehensive benefits package including:
11 paid holidays each year
Medical Insurance (Single Coverage $38.50 per month and Family Coverage is $262.66 per month
Dental Insurance (low deductibles)
Paid Parental Leave (six weeks)
Employer paid life insurance
Short and Long Term Disability
Pre-tax Flexible Spending Accounts (Medical and Dependent Care)
Ridgewater College is a community and technical college that offers more than 100 educational programs in Transfer Education, transfer options, and technical education. Ridgewater College serves more than 5500 students on its campuses in the growing communities of Willmar and Hutchinson, Minnesota. Ridgewater College also offers some programs that are unique in the state of Minnesota and nationally. Small class sizes, up-to-date technology, and access to many student activities and organizations (including intercollegiate sports, choir, theater, and Student Senate) give students the opportunity to enjoy a positive college experience. Ridgewater College is proud of its scholarship foundation, and excellent graduation and job placement rates. As a partner in the region's business and industry, Ridgewater College strives to maintain a quality of education for tomorrow's workforce, and to keep pace with the needs of the community by offering Customized and Continuing Education courses. Ridgewater College is recognized as an educational leader that exemplifies innovation and excellence within a student-centered learning environment, and is dedicated to providing an accessible, affordable, and supportive setting for all students.