Assistant Director, Federal Programs

Syracuse University is committed to delivering an exceptional student experience through vibrant, engaged campus communities. This position is anticipated to be filled on a fully remote basis if the candidate is not identified in the Syracuse/Central New York area. Not all geographical areas within the United States are eligible. Local candidates may be expected to report to campus as business needs require.

For candidates outside of the region, when travel to the campus is deemed necessary, expenses will be covered by the University in accordance with University Travel Policies. Remote work arrangements are coordinated in accordance with University policy.

$62,400

Pay rates at Syracuse University are based on a combination of factors including, but not limited to, the job responsibilities; the candidate’s education, training, work experience and key competencies; the university’s strategic priorities; internal peer equity; applicable federal, state, local laws, grant funding and contractual requisites; and external market analyses.

S4

Exempt

Standard University business hours

8:30am – 5:00pm (academic year)

8:00am – 4:30pm (summer)

Hours may vary based on operational needs.

Full-time

The Assistant Director of Federal Programs supports the Associate Director in the administration of federal and private loan programs within the Office of Financial Aid. This position plays a key role in the setup and management of the annual aid calendar, including academic years, loan periods, and payment period dates. The Assistant Director supervises two loan processors, oversees the day-to-day workflow of loan processing operations, and ensures accurate and timely completion of required reports and processes.

In addition to managing federal responsibilities such as NSLDS Transfer Monitoring and the TEACH Grant program, this role oversees the administration of private education loans.

Due to recent regulatory changes the Assistant Director also maintains ELM Select offerings, assists with interpreting and implementing federal regulatory changes, and supports the development and maintenance of policies and procedures to ensure compliance and improve operational efficiency. Additionally, this role supports the Associate Director with special projects, contributes to the strategic direction of federal and private aid initiatives, and assists with reviewing and updating the office’s online reference manual.

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in financial aid administration, with a focus on federal aid programs.
• Knowledge of federal regulations governing Title IV aid, including Direct Loans, NSLDS, and TEACH.
• Experience with financial aid management systems (e.g., People Soft, Banner, Power
  
  FAIDS) and third‑party platforms (e.g., COD, ELM, NSLDS).

• Strong supervisory, organizational, and analytical skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, Outlook).
• Experience with ELM Select administration.
• Experience using querying software such as Tableau (or similar product).
• Familiarity with recent legislative updates.
• Ability to analyze and streamline operational workflows.
• Demonstrate strong attention to detail, critical thinking, and problem‑solving abilities, with the capacity to effectively prioritize multiple tasks in a fast‑paced, deadline‑driven environment.
• Exceptional organizational skills and adaptability to evolving federal regulations are essential.
• Proven supervisory experience with effective communication and interpersonal skills is required to lead and support a team.
• Must possess advanced computer proficiency, including experience with complex financial aid management systems and reporting tools.
• Thorough understanding of federal and private loan programs, compliance requirements, and student aid processes is highly preferred.

• Collaborate with the Associate Director of Federal Programs to create and maintain the financial aid calendar, using published academic calendars to define academic years, loan periods, and payment periods for Federal Pell…