Bridgewater State University is an inclusive community dedicated to the lifelong success of all students, focused on the continuous improvement of its people, and responsible for leading innovation that benefits Southeastern Massachusetts, the commonwealth, and the world. Bridgewater's accessible environment of teaching and learning stimulates critical thinking, pursuit of new knowledge,and deeper understanding, the cultivation of meaningful and diverse interpersonal relationships, and fostering an appreciation for global engagement, all aimed at transforming lives and improving the human condition.
Our commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion is reflected in our institutional values, which ensure that all students are supported and succeed.
Bridgewater State University is equal employment opportunity/affirmative action employer. Members of underrepresented groups, and those committed to working in a diverse cultural environment, are strongly encouraged to apply.
The missions of the Financial Aid office are to assist students and families in navigating the world of Higher Education and the costs associated with obtaining a degree. Successful candidates will be staff members that can work with their colleagues to help meet the mission of the Financial Aid office in serving and supporting our racially and ethnically diverse campus community.
Position Summary:
The Assistant Director is a member of the Financial Aid Department residing within the Office of Financial Aid. The Financial Aid Assistant Director reports to the Director of Financial Aid and has the primary responsibilities of educating students about the process of financing their education while supporting the mission of the university. The Assistant Director will administer financial aid awards and will be involved in other areas of financial aid administration, including compliance with state and federal regulations. This position will have a primary emphasis on the counseling of students and their families.
SUPERVISIONRECEIVED: The Assistant Director shall work under the direct supervision of the AVP of Student Financial Assistance & Enrollment Management
SUPERVISIONEXERCISED: N/A
This is an APA position and is subject to the terms of that union agreement. Tour of Duty: Monday – Friday, 8:30 – 5:00
(Evening and weekend hours may be required)
(Saturday and Sundays as days off)
Essential Duties:
Delivers exemplary customer service to prospective and continuing students and families in planning and coordinating the funding of their education.
Manage a dedicated caseload, providing students and their families with individualized counseling in all aspects of the financial aid process, including federal verification, alternative financing, and responsible debt management
Provide regular outreach and follow-up to students on outstanding items such as incomplete or missing loan applications, financial aid forms, and other documents required for packaging
Determine financial aid eligibility of students based on institutional, state, and federal regulations
Perform regular file reviews to ensure compliance with institutional, state, and federal regulations; adjust student aid packages and adjust funds based on changes to students' enrollment statuses
Exercise discretion and demonstrate strong professional judgment when making decisions in special or complex circumstances; seek assistance from the Director and, when appropriate, provide recommendations to best resolve these cases
Remain current on all institutional, state, and federal regulations; participate in regular training and professional development on best practices to ensure compliance
Assist the Director with other projects as needed
Required Qualifications:
Members of underrepresented groups, minorities, women, veterans, persons with disabilities, and all persons committed to diversity and inclusive excellence are strongly encouraged to apply.
· Bachelor's Degree
· Experience with and knowledge of the structure, practices, and procedures of college student financial aid programs
· Experience in service of racial equity (e.g. mentorship of racially minoritized students; service on committees; advising student organizations that represent racially minoritized groups or social justice causes)
· Commitment to customer service excellence/support to enhance an environment of equity, diversity and inclusion
· Ability to communicate appropriately and professionally, both verbally and in writing, with a diverse student body, faculty, and staff.
· Strong presentation, interpersonal, networking, and organizational skills
· Strong organizational, multitasking, and time-management skills
· Attention to detail
· Ability to take initiative
· Ability to contribute in a team environment
· Demonstrated ability to work independently, meet deadlines
· Takes responsibility to accomplish job assignments within reasonable deadlines
· Experience and comfortability with using multiple computer systems
Preferred Qualifications:
Linguistic proficiency in Spanish, Cape Verdean Creole and/or French.
Experience working in a diverse and inclusive team environment
Experiences in office management/administration, including principals, practices and techniques of supervision
Physical Demands:
Bridgewater State University complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) to provide reasonable accommodation to qualified applicants and employee with disabilities. To request a reasonable accommodation for the application process, please complete and submit this electronic form: https://cm.maxient.com/reportingform.php?BridgewaterStateUniv&layout_id=18
Special Conditions:
Please be aware that employment at Bridgewater State University is contingent upon completion of a successful background check. This position is not eligible for H-1B sponsorship.
COVID-19 Vaccination Requirement
This position must comply with the University Covid-19 Attestation requirement. All employees must be fully vaccinated and complete the Covid-19 Attestation upon hire.
Medical or Religious Exemptions
An employee may request an exemption to the vaccination requirement based on the existence of medical contraindication to vaccination. In addition, an employee may request an exemption to the vaccination requirement based on a sincere religious belief. In both cases, an employee will be required to submit documentation to support the request for an exemption. Employees who secure an exemption may be required to take additional precautions in the workplace and will be required to participate in weekly COVID-19 testingthrough the university's Wellness Center.
EEO Statement:
Bridgewater State University (BSU) is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer which actively seeks to increase the diversity of its workforce. We are dedicated to providing educational, working and living environments that value the diverse backgrounds of all people.
Salary Range: $55,000-$65,000
Special Instructions:
Please note the following information is required to complete your application for this position:
a minimum of one (1) employment history entry.
a minimum of three (3) professional reference entries.
Since its founding in 1840, Bridgewater has remained steadfast in its commitment to empower individuals and instill in its community an abiding desire to advance the public good. Our rigorous and dynamic academic environment encourages students and faculty to develop their strengths and become leaders in their fields. At the same time, we strive to lead by example. As the university continues to build momentum, we continuously reinvest in the success of our students and our region.