Financial Aid Program Manager I

The Herman Ostrow School of Dentistry of USC is a leader in dental education, research, and clinical care, with a strong commitment to student success. Our school is home to 850 students enrolled in over 12 different programs, all operating on a trimester schedule—a unique structure that requires efficient and responsive financial aid support. We are seeking a Financial Aid Program Manager I to oversee financial aid operations, provide critical support to students, and ensure compliance with university and federal financial aid policies.

About the Role

As the Financial Aid Program Manager I, you will play a pivotal role in ensuring that students receive the financial support they need to pursue their education. You will lead a team, oversee financial aid programs, provide expert guidance to students and families, and ensure adherence to university and federal financial aid regulations.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage the financial aid office within the Herman Ostrow School of Dentistry, overseeing daily operations, staff performance, and service delivery.
• Lead and develop a team of financial aid professionals, providing training, mentorship, and performance evaluations.
• Counsel students and families on financial aid options, loan applications, repayment plans, and eligibility requirements.
• Review and approve financial aid awards in compliance with federal, state, and institutional policies.
• Ensure the seamless processing of aid and loans, especially given the trimester-based academic calendar, which requires fast-paced adjustments.
• Administer and monitor financial aid budgets, overseeing the distribution of scholarships, emergency loans, and other aid programs.
• Collaborate with external stakeholders, including donors, lenders, and government agencies, to maximize funding opportunities for students.
• Organize financial aid workshops and presentations, educating students and families on financial aid processes and best practices.
• Monitor and enhance financial aid systems and records, ensuring data integrity and generating reports to assess trends and service effectiveness.
• Ensure compliance with university, state, and federal financial aid policies, including Title IV regulations.

What We’re Looking For

• Education:
  • Bachelor’s degree required; Master’s degree preferred.
  • A combination of education and experience may substitute for the minimum qualifications.
• Experience:
  • Minimum of 3 years of financial aid experience in higher education, with a strong preference for supervisory or leadership experience.
  • Familiarity with USC financial aid systems, policies, and external regulatory requirements is a plus.
• Skills & Abilities:
  • Strong leadership and team management skills.
  • Ability to analyze complex financial aid issues and provide clear solutions.
  • Exceptional communication and counseling skills to assist students and families.
  • Strong organizational and data management skills to ensure timely aid processing.
  • Proficiency in financial aid systems, student records management, and compliance tracking.

Why Join Us?

• Make an Impact: Guide students through financial aid options, ensuring they have access to the resources they need to succeed.
• Work in a Dynamic Environment: The trimester-based schedule and diverse program offerings make financial aid management here both unique and fulfilling.
• Growth & Professional Development: Gain leadership experience and develop expertise in financial aid management at a top-tier university.
• Be Part of a Prestigious Institution: USC is a leader in higher education, offering a supportive and collaborative work environment.

The annual base salary range for this position is $89,851.75 - $103,844.34. When extending an offer of employment, the University of Southern California considers factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, the candidate’s work experience, education/training, key skills, internal peer equity, federal, state, and local laws, contractual stipulations, grant funding, as well as external market and organizational considerations.

USC will consider for employment all qualified applicants with criminal records in a manner consistent with applicable laws and regulations, including the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for employers and the Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, and with due consideration for patient and student safety. Please refer to the Background Screening Policy Appendix D for specific employment screen implications for the position for which you are applying. 

Minimum Job Qualifications: Education: Bachelor's degree Work experience: At least 3 years related work experience. Skills: Lead or supervisory experience in financial aid counseling.