Assistant Director of Financial Aid

Company Description

By working at Harvard University, you join a vibrant community that advances Harvard's world-changing mission in meaningful ways, inspires innovation and collaboration, and builds skills and expertise. We are dedicated to creating a diverse and welcoming environment where everyone can thrive.

Why join the Harvard Faculty of Arts and Sciences?

The Faculty of Arts and Sciences (FAS) is the historic heart of Harvard University. It is the home of Harvard’s undergraduate program (Harvard College, founded in 1636) as well as all of Harvard’s Ph.D. programs (the Harvard Kenneth C. Griffin Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, founded in 1872), Harvard Athletics and the Division of Continuing Education. The 40 academic departments and 30+ centers of the FAS support a community unparalleled in its academic excellence across the broadest range of liberal arts and sciences disciplines. Together, the FAS seeks to foster an environment of ambition, curiosity and shared commitment to knowledge and truth that elicits excellence from all members of our community and prepares the next generation of leaders through a transformative educational experience.

Job Description

The Assistant Director of Financial Aid independently performs financial aid activities including evaluating and analyzing financial information submitted by applicants, counseling students on financial matters, and preparing financial aid reporting and analysis in accordance with established federal and University standards and guidelines.

Reporting to the Associate Director of Financial Aid, this position is responsible for overseeing assigned programs at Harvard Kenneth C. Griffin Graduate School of Arts and Sciences (GSAS).

Duties include, but are not limited to, the following:

Administer Financial Aid

- Evaluates and analyzes financial information submitted by applicants, ensuring data is accurate and compliant, and processes awards.
- Prepares aid packages and award notifications; administers both Harvard and external grant/fellowship programs; allocates Harvard restricted funds and donor-supported awards in accordance with program guidelines; and supports the administration of federal financial aid programs, including eligibility determination.
- Ensures compliance with federal, state and institutional financial aid requirements and auditing standards.
- Develops and evaluates financial aid materials, website content, forms, etc.
- Assists in planning and implementing financial aid strategy to attract applicants.
- Interprets and advises students, applicants, and colleagues on financial aid policies, procedures, and funding regulations; contributes to the development and implementation of policy and process improvements.
- Manages the collection, analysis, and reporting of data for financial aid and fellowship programs, supporting institutional planning, compliance, and external reporting requirements.

Counseling, Communication, and Leadership

- Counsels prospective and current students on financial planning and financial assistance, including application process, fellowship sources, loans and employment.
- Works extensively with assigned academic departments across Harvard University to coordinate aid for students and advises departments on financial aid policy.
- Coordinates and communicates with other Harvard Griffin GSAS offices to support student success and ensure the effective delivery of financial aid, fellowship, and student services programs. 
- Collaborates with University partners responsible for student records, billing, enrollment, and funding programs to ensure the effective delivery of financial aid
- Represents Harvard Griffin GSAS at national and state level professional conferences and university-wide financial forums.
- Provides direct and/or indirect supervision, training, and guidance to staff

Working Conditions:

- This is a hybrid position and on-campus location is Cambridge, MA
- Travel may be required
- May be required to work nights and weekends

Physical Requirements:

- Sitting using near vision use for reading and computer use for extended periods of time
- Lifting (approximately 20 to 30 pounds), bending, and other physical exertion

Qualifications

Basic Qualifications:

- Bachelor’s degree or equivalent work experience required
- Minimum of 5 years’ relevant work experience

Additional Qualifications and Skills:

- Strong technology skills required, including proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, and the ability to quickly learn and effectively use new systems and applications; experience with SharePoint and Adobe Acrobat preferred;
- Demonstrated aptitude for leveraging technology, data, and process improvements to enhance efficiency, streamline operations, and improve service delivery;
- Prior experience in financial aid administration preferred, including familiarity with federal financial aid programs, policies, and compliance requirements;
- Strong counseling, customer service, and interpersonal skills, with a demonstrated ability to work effectively with students, faculty, and colleagues;
- Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills, with sound independent judgment;
- Exceptional attention to detail, accuracy, and organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment;
- Demonstrated ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a team-oriented setting;
- Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information with discretion;
- Demonstrated commitment to fostering an inclusive environment and working effectively with individuals from diverse backgrounds;
- Experience working with graduate students preferred;
- Experience with PowerFaids preferred;
- Familiarity with Harvard University systems, policies, and processes a plus

Additional Information

- Application Information: A cover letter is required to be considered for this position
- Standard Hours/Schedule: 35 hours per week
- Visa Sponsorship Information: Harvard University is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position
- Pre-Employment Screening: Identity, Education, Criminal

Work Format Details

This position has been determined by school or unit leaders that some of the duties and responsibilities can be effectively performed at a non-Harvard location. The work schedule and location will be set by the department at its discretion and based upon operational needs. When not working at a Harvard or Harvard-designated location, employees in hybrid positions must work in a Harvard registered state in compliance with the University’s Policy on Employment Outside of Massachusetts . Additional details will be discussed during the interview process. Certain visa types and funding sources may limit work location. Individuals must meet work location sponsorship requirements prior to employment.

Salary Grade and Ranges

This position is salary grade level 057. Please visit   Harvard's Salary Ranges   to view the corresponding salary range and related information.

Benefits

Harvard offers a comprehensive benefits package that is designed to support a healthy work-life balance and your physical, mental and financial wellbeing. Because here, you are what matters. Our benefits include, but are not limited to:

- Generous paid time off including parental leave 
- Medical, dental, and vision health insurance coverage starting on day one 
- Retirement plans with university contributions 
- Wellbeing and mental health resources 
- Support for families and caregivers 
- Professional development opportunities including tuition assistance and reimbursement 
- Commuter benefits, discounts and campus perks

Learn more about these and additional benefits on our Benefits & Wellbeing Page .

EEO/Non-Discrimination Commitment Statement

Harvard University is committed to equal opportunity and non-discrimination . We seek talent from all parts of society and the world, and we strive to ensure everyone at Harvard thrives. Our differences help our community advance Harvard's academic purposes.

Harvard has an equal employment opportunity policy that outlines our commitment to prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, religion, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or identified in the university's non-discrimination policy . Harvard's equal employment opportunity policy and non-discrimination policy help all community members participate fully in work and campus life free from harassment and discrimination.