Program Manager

The Financial Aid Program Manager provides programmatic and operational oversight for one or more large and complex financial aid programs within the Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships. This position contributes to the timely and accurate delivery of financial aid to students and complies with all federal, state, University and other applicable financial aid regulations. The position also serves as a functional expert to the financial aid leadership team, One Stop Student Services and other University departments for in-depth, program specific issues.

Priority consideration will be given to applications received before April 30th, 2026

Core functions:

• Manage Federal and State Work Study Programs
• Manage MN Fostering Independence Higher Education Grant
• Process and verify student dependency determinations
• Manage student eligibility verification (citizenship, grade level, etc.)
• Manage financial aid for students studying abroad

Responsibilities:

• Oversee business processes using integrated information systems (PeopleSoft, COD, NSLDS, etc.)
• Interpret and enforce a wide range of policies, procedures, regulations and guidelines
• Create, update, and audit processes to ensure accuracy and compliance with financial aid regulations (Federal, State, Institutional or other outside agencies)
• Recommend policy and process changes based on the analysis of qualitative and quantitative data
• Identify systemic issues, make recommendations for enhancements as a result of problem analysis or policy changes
• Identify, manage, analyze, report and resolve issues associated with core functions, for all clients; communicate changes effectively
• Serve as primary liaison with One Stop counselors and other internal and external stakeholders for all managed programs; offer proactive and timely diagnostic support and problem resolution
• Maintain program records to meet the OFAS audit requirements
• Write and maintain effective documentation and training materials
• Develop reports and other supporting materials as requested
• Participate in OFAS and stakeholder business process discussion, system testing, and maintenance of enterprise information systems to ensure accurate financial aid records and services
• Collaborate with other financial aid professionals at the University of Minnesota, federal and state agencies and professional organizations, to maintain program integrity and resolve issues
• Counsel students and parents referred by One Stop on program specific issues
• Other duties may be assigned

Required Qualifications

• BA/BS degree plus at least four years of relevant experience, or master's degree plus at least two years of relevant experience.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Higher Education experience
• Financial Aid experience
• PeopleSoft campus solutions experience
• Experience interpreting regulatory guidance

Pay Range: $53,490 - $57,200; depending on education/qualifications/experience

Time Appointment: 100% Appointment

Position Type: Faculty and P&A Staff

Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information regarding benefit eligibility.

The University offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs supported by the Regents Tuition Benefit Program
• Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Disability and employer-paid life insurance
• Employee wellbeing program
• Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity
• Financial counseling services
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost

While our salary ranges provide a framework, it is important to note that most of the time, the initial pay may not reach the maximum of the range. This approach ensures that compensation reflects the value and unique contributions of each candidate while maintaining equity within our organization. As part of our commitment to fair and equitable compensation, please be aware that the salary offered to incoming candidates will be based on their individual credentials and experience.

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will be given the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume.

Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-8647.

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

University of Minnesota, Duluth (UMD)

The University of Minnesota, Duluth (UMD) consistently ranks among the top Midwestern, regional universities in U.S. News and World Report's "America's Best Colleges" issue.

Overlooking Lake Superior, UMD provides an alternative to both large research and small liberal arts environments and attracts students looking for a personalized learning experience on a medium-sized campus of a major university. A firm liberal arts foundation anchors a variety of traditional degree programs, as well as professional and graduate students that draw on UMD's many research institutes and labs.

At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by the Star Tribune as a Top Workplace for 2021, as well as by Forbes as Best Employers for Women and one of America's Best Employers (2015, 2018, 2019, 2023), Best Employer for Diversity (2019, 2020), Best Employer for New Grads (2018, 2019), and Best Employer by State (2019, 2022).