Job DescriptionThe Senior Associate Director of Student Financial Aid and Scholarships provides senior-level operational leadership within the Office of Student Financial Aid and Scholarships at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga (UTC). Reports to the Director, this position is responsible for oversight of multiple functional areas, direct supervision of staff, and leadership.
This role exercises a high level of independent judgment in the management of personnel, daily operations, and scholarship processes, while operating within established institutional policies and regulatory frameworks. The Senior Associate Director contributes to the implementation of strategic priorities and ensures alignment of operational practices with institutional goals.
ResponsibilitiesDistinguishing Characteristics- Operates with broad discretion in managing assigned functional areas and staff, within established policies
- Exercises independent judgment in personnel management, operational decisions, and problem resolution
- Oversees multiple operational units or program areas, including scholarship administration
- Translates strategic direction from senior leadership into tactical and operational execution
- Contributes to policy implementation and regulatory compliance; does not serve as final policy authority
- May serve in a leadership capacity in the absence of the Executive Director
Organizational Leadership and Staff Supervision - Directly supervises professional and support staff across multiple functional areas
- Exercises independent judgment in hiring, training, performance evaluation, disciplinary actions, and staff development.
- Establishes clear performance expectations and accountability measures
- Monitors workload distribution, productivity, and service quality to ensure effective operations and a high-performing, student-centered team
Title IV Program Administration and Operational Oversight- Assists the Director in the administration and oversight of federal Title IV financial aid programs, ensuring compliance with federal regulations, institutional policies, and U.S. Department of Education requirements.
- Provides day-to-day leadership for Title IV operations, exercising independent judgment in the awarding, reconciliation, and administration of federal student aid programs to ensure timely, accurate, and compliant delivery of financial assistance.
- Develops, implements, and monitors operational procedures and internal controls that support regulatory compliance, audit readiness, and effective stewardship of federal funds.
- Oversees operational processes related to federal aid programs, including awarding, disbursement, reconciliation, reporting, and compliance activities, while identifying opportunities for continuous process improvement.
- Collaborates with campus partners, including Enrollment Management, Student Financial Services, the Registrar, Information Technology, and Academic Affairs, to resolve complex Title IV issues and ensure efficient delivery of financial aid services.
- Provides guidance, training, and operational support to financial aid staff, promoting consistent application of federal regulations, institutional policies, and best practices.
Scholarship Program Oversight - Provides oversight of institutional, foundation, and departmental scholarship operations to ensure alignment with institutional policies, donor requirements, and strategic enrollment objectives.
- Monitors scholarship administration processes, internal controls, and compliance activities, working with the Associate Director of Scholarships to promote accuracy, consistency, and operational effectiveness.
- Reviews complex scholarship issues and provides guidance on policy interpretation, process improvements, and cross-functional coordination, escalating significant concerns to the Director as appropriate.
Student Service and Issue Resolution- Ensures delivery of responsive, accurate, and student-centered financial aid services.
- Exercises discretion in resolving escalated student issues and service concerns.
Collaboration and Institutional Coordination- Partners with campus stakeholders, including Bursar, Registrar, Athletics, and Advancement, to support coordinated service delivery.
- Represents the office in cross-functional initiatives and contributes to institutional efforts related to enrollment and student success.
Competencies/Qualifications- Staff supervision and performance management
- Scholarship program administration and coordination
- Operational oversight and process improvement
- Application of policies and regulatory guidelines
- Effective communication and collaboration
- Analytical thinking and problem-solving
QualificationsMinimum Qualifications: Bachelor's degree. Significant progressively responsible experience in financial aid, scholarships, or student services. Demonstrated experience supervising staff and managing multiple functional areas. Working knowledge of financial aid operations and program administration.
Preferred Qualifications: Master's degree. Experience with scholarship administration and awarding strategy. Experience in a public higher education environment. Familiarity with federal Title IV programs and systems.
Review of applications will begin on August 10, 2026 and will continue until the position is filled. Applications received bythis datewill receive priority consideration.
Compensation and Benefits:- UT Market Range: MR13
- Anticipated hiring salary: $80,200 - $90,000
- Find more information on the UT Market Range structure
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