Program Assistant I

Join a team dedicated to supporting student success through exceptional service and financial aid expertise. The Office of Financial Aid at South Dakota State University is seeking a detail-oriented and student-focused professional to help administer a variety of federal, state, and institutional aid programs. This position plays a key role in guiding students and families through the financial aid process and contributes to the effective operation of financial aid services across campus.

SDState is the state’s largest, most comprehensive university with over $94 million annual research expenditures, more than 200 academic programs and an enrollment of approximately 12,000 students. The university is part of a dynamic community for families, students, young professionals, and retirees, which offers an abundance of attractions and activities. The Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships is committed to transforming lives by expanding access to higher education through high-quality, student-centered services, the team supports student success and empowerment. The office fosters a collaborative environment that values continuous improvement, professional growth, and employee well-being. This position is located in Brookings, South Dakota.

Must be authorized to work in the U.S. Sponsorship is not available for this position.

Job Responsibilities:

• Assist in the administration of federal, state, university, and other financial aid programs, including the Federal Direct PLUS Loan Program, Federal Nursing and Health Professions Loan Programs, and Satisfactory Academic Progress appeals.
• Independently implement work processes, develop procedures, and make decisions based on Financial Aid Office policies and applicable federal and state regulations.
• Interpret program guidelines and requirements to provide accurate information and guidance to students, families, and campus stakeholders.
• Support Financial Aid Office staff with ongoing projects and initiatives related to the administration of aid programs.
• Deliver high-quality customer service by offering timely, clear, and helpful assistance to students and families navigating the financial aid process.

Benefits: SDState offers a wide range of excellent benefits including medical, dental, and flexible benefits, retirement plans, compensation packages, paid holidays, and vacation leave. We offer a generous retirement plan that includes 6% matching, 10 hours of annual leave each month, 9.34 hours of sick leave each month, and eleven paid holidays. Employees also have access to internal and state-sponsored training as well as reduced tuition for state-supported courses at all State of South Dakota academic institutions. Relocation benefits are available per university’s guidelines.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

Knowledge of:

• Computer applications including Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, Zoom, Teams, and PowerPoint
• Customer service practices

Skill & Ability to:

• Interpret and apply federal and state laws and regulations
• Exercise independent judgment in evaluating situations, making decisions, and prioritizing work
• Administer financial aid processes and apply federal needs-analysis formula, federal awarding methodology, and professional judgment decisions
• Strong attention to detail
• Ability to interpret and follow procedures
• Illustrate strong written communication skills
• Demonstrate strong verbal communication skills
• Strong interpersonal skills including ability to easily develop and maintain rapport with students, and other constituents
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively and effectively in a team environment, build effective working relationships with peers, supervisors, and others
• Apply basic accounting skills and use algebra to add subtract and to calculate percentages and ratios
• Maintain confidentiality

Preferred Qualifications:

• One year of financial aid experience
• Minimum of 1 year of experience working in Higher Education
• Minimum 1 year of experience with customer service
• Experience working with student information systems such as Banner Student/Financial Aid
• One or more National Association of Financial Aid Administrators credentials

Application Procedures: SDState accepts applications through an on-line employment site. To apply, visit: https://yourfuture.sdbor.edu, search by the position title, view the job announcement, and click on “apply for this job.” This system will guide you through the electronic application form. This employment site will also require the attachment of a cover letter, which should specifically address how the candidate meets the qualifications as outlined in the advertisement, resume, and a reference page with the contact information for three professional references. Email applications will not be accepted.

Any offer of employment is contingent on the university’s verification of credentials and other information required by law and/or university policies, including but not limited to, successful completion of a criminal background check. SDState is a tobacco free environment. It is the policy of the University to maintain a drug-free environment and to thereby establish, promote, and maintain a safe and healthy working and learning environment for employees and students. This position is subject to South Dakota State University’s Drug and Alcohol Testing Policy 4:14.

For additional information regarding this position or questions about the online application process, please contact Human Resources at 605-688-4128. 

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