Middlesex Community College
Coordinator of Financial Aid
Middlesex Community College, Lowell, Massachusetts, United States, 01856
Middlesex Community College Job Posting: Coordinator of Financial Aid
Middlesex Community College (MCC), established in 1970, provides access to affordable education to prepare individuals for success and lifelong learning. We promote academic excellence, provide workforce development opportunities, and empower all learners to become productive and socially responsible members of our local and global communities. The College offers a broad range of services essential for attracting, rewarding, and retaining talented faculty and staff. Our work environment supports employees to best serve our student population. We provide classes on both the Bedford and Lowell campuses, as well as a robust online course offering. MCC is committed to transforming lives by educating, challenging, and supporting all students, as evident in our strategic plan. Reports to:
Associate Director of Financial Aid Date:
September 22, 2025 (Re post January 5, 2026) General Summary:
Reporting to the Associate Director of Financial Aid, the Coordinator of Financial Aid is responsible for providing financial aid services to MCC students. The Coordinator administers the planning, organization, and administration of federal, state, and institutional financial aid programs including grants, scholarships, loans, and student employment, and manages a specific program. Duties and Responsibilities
Works with the Director of Financial Aid to interpret federal and state financial aid policies, regulatory changes, and processes. Assists in the development and implementation of plans and strategies while supporting customer service goals by maintaining the delivery of ongoing services. Assists the Associate Director and Director in the formulation of policies and procedures for all financial aid programs related to MCC non‑standard programs with other units of the College. Works with students and parents to process and determine financial aid eligibility in general. Coordinates the administration of financial aid with regards to non‑standard academic programs at the College, within existing federal and state regulations. Ensures that the College remains in compliance with regards to reporting and program reconciliation within published deadlines. Maintains a caseload of students which includes: performing needs analysis according to FM, completing verification, requesting additional documentation for conflicting information, and other responsibilities related to the financial aid process. Provides direction to staff regarding state and federal financial aid programs. Coordinates the administration of the Reserved Placement Program (RPP) student cohorts. Manages the Massachusetts Application for State Financial Aid (MASFA) system set‑up in its entirety including implementation, manual awarding, specialized communications and troubleshooting; this also includes the management of the Tuition Equity Law (and pertinent programs) and communication with any students deemed ineligible to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Conducts workshops on the financial aid process to students and their families, community groups, and area high school (may require nights and weekends on occasion). Assists in the front desk operations as needed, including responding to incoming calls and walk‑in visitors. Maintains current knowledge of applicable federal and state regulations to ensure appropriate compliance. Reviews cases of special conditions to determine whether these cases warrant the application of professional judgement. Interviews students to determine student financial aid eligibility and recommends appropriate action. Approves or disapproves student eligibility for federal, state and institutional financial assistance based upon provided data, standardized procedures and program guidelines. Verifies quality of given data and makes judgement based on documented exceptions (medical, etc.). Composes correspondence involving unique circumstances on needs assessment or eligibility exceptions. Prepares official correspondence and reports. Counsels and provides information in assisting students and parents with financial planning. Provides leadership and direction to financial aid counselors, assistants, and staff by assessing workflow issues, reviewing work for quality and accuracy, including training. Maintains knowledge of all office duties and understanding of various financial aid programs administered at Middlesex Community College. Participates in college recruiting and retention efforts through financial aid high school nights, open house programs and other related activities. Participates in special assignments and/or projects that may arise during the course of office operations. Other duties as assigned. Relationships with College Community and Outside Entities
Works with the Registrar to resolve data conflicts between the National Student Clearinghouse and the National Student Loan Data System. Updates the monitoring for and reviews the accounts of transfer students on the National Student Loan Data System. Works in conjunction with the representatives from the Student Success and TRIO programs regarding the process of awarding offices' grants. Responsible for maintaining a strong working relationship with other college offices such as Admissions/Recruitment, Registrar/Student Information Center, Advising, Information Technology, Communication Center, etc. Requirements
Master's degree in Education, Business Administration, Accounting, Human Services, or closely related field; with a minimum three (3) years of experience and/or training involving financial aid operations, or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience. Broad knowledge of state and federal financial aid programs and record‑keeping requirements. Comprehensive understanding, interpretation, and application of federal and state financial aid regulations. Experience using integrated higher education student information systems. Ability to form strong coalitions with internal and external constituencies. Experience using integrated higher education student information systems. Ability to resolve problems and to develop relevant alternatives and recommendations. Financial management and strong analytical skills. Ability to manage multiple tasks and to be organized and detail oriented. Ability to recognize departmental priorities and work cooperatively to support their accomplishment. Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing; to establish positive public relations for the college; and to interact effectively with a variety of people. Able to work independently and as part of a project team to meet deadlines. Preferred Qualifications
Bilingual skills a plus Additional Information
Salary Range:
77,358 is the starting salary for a Grade 06, Financial Aid Coordinator, Full‑Time MCCC Professional Staff position; actual salary commensurate with academic background and experience. Employees of Middlesex Community College are considered employees of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and receive benefits, which include: High‑quality and affordable health insurance through the Commonwealth's Group Insurance Commission (GIC) Competitive Dental and Vision Plans Flexible Spending Account and Dependent Care Assistance programs Low‑cost basic and optional life insurance Retirement Savings: State Employees' Pension or Optional Retirement Program (ORP) and Deferred Compensation 457(b) plan or 403(b). 12 paid holidays per year and competitive Sick, Vacation, and Personal Time Tuition Benefits for employees and dependents at state colleges and universities Short‑Term Disability and Extended Illness program participation options Professional Development and Continuing Education opportunities Cell Phone Bill Discounts with Verizon and T‑Mobile Cell Phone Carriers Access to the Commonwealth's Mass4You, employee assistance program Free employee parking on Bedford and Lowell campuses Eligibility towards Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Location:
Lowell campus with occasional travel to Bedford as needed Hours:
37.5 per week, schedule to be determined upon hire. This position will be eligible for a maximum of one day of telework in accordance with the College’s telework policy. Expected Start Date:
February 2026 Application Deadline:
January 26, 2026 Application Instructions
All applicants must apply online by submitting: Resume Names and contact information for three (3) professional references Pre‑Employment Requirements
The College will not sponsor applicants for work visas. All offers of employment at Middlesex Community College are contingent upon clear results of a thorough background check. Background checks will be conducted on all final candidates, as deemed necessary. Middlesex Community College only accepts application materials through our online application system. We are unable to accept application materials through mail, email, fax, or hand delivery. If you do not have access to a computer, please contact Human Resources at careers@middlesex.mass.edu . Middlesex Community College strives to make the application and interview process accessible for all applicants but understands that applicants may still encounter barriers due to ability, language, or technology. If we can make the process any more accessible for you, contact Human Resources at 781‑280‑3546 or careers@middlesex.mass.edu .
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Middlesex Community College (MCC), established in 1970, provides access to affordable education to prepare individuals for success and lifelong learning. We promote academic excellence, provide workforce development opportunities, and empower all learners to become productive and socially responsible members of our local and global communities. The College offers a broad range of services essential for attracting, rewarding, and retaining talented faculty and staff. Our work environment supports employees to best serve our student population. We provide classes on both the Bedford and Lowell campuses, as well as a robust online course offering. MCC is committed to transforming lives by educating, challenging, and supporting all students, as evident in our strategic plan. Reports to:
Associate Director of Financial Aid Date:
September 22, 2025 (Re post January 5, 2026) General Summary:
Reporting to the Associate Director of Financial Aid, the Coordinator of Financial Aid is responsible for providing financial aid services to MCC students. The Coordinator administers the planning, organization, and administration of federal, state, and institutional financial aid programs including grants, scholarships, loans, and student employment, and manages a specific program. Duties and Responsibilities
Works with the Director of Financial Aid to interpret federal and state financial aid policies, regulatory changes, and processes. Assists in the development and implementation of plans and strategies while supporting customer service goals by maintaining the delivery of ongoing services. Assists the Associate Director and Director in the formulation of policies and procedures for all financial aid programs related to MCC non‑standard programs with other units of the College. Works with students and parents to process and determine financial aid eligibility in general. Coordinates the administration of financial aid with regards to non‑standard academic programs at the College, within existing federal and state regulations. Ensures that the College remains in compliance with regards to reporting and program reconciliation within published deadlines. Maintains a caseload of students which includes: performing needs analysis according to FM, completing verification, requesting additional documentation for conflicting information, and other responsibilities related to the financial aid process. Provides direction to staff regarding state and federal financial aid programs. Coordinates the administration of the Reserved Placement Program (RPP) student cohorts. Manages the Massachusetts Application for State Financial Aid (MASFA) system set‑up in its entirety including implementation, manual awarding, specialized communications and troubleshooting; this also includes the management of the Tuition Equity Law (and pertinent programs) and communication with any students deemed ineligible to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Conducts workshops on the financial aid process to students and their families, community groups, and area high school (may require nights and weekends on occasion). Assists in the front desk operations as needed, including responding to incoming calls and walk‑in visitors. Maintains current knowledge of applicable federal and state regulations to ensure appropriate compliance. Reviews cases of special conditions to determine whether these cases warrant the application of professional judgement. Interviews students to determine student financial aid eligibility and recommends appropriate action. Approves or disapproves student eligibility for federal, state and institutional financial assistance based upon provided data, standardized procedures and program guidelines. Verifies quality of given data and makes judgement based on documented exceptions (medical, etc.). Composes correspondence involving unique circumstances on needs assessment or eligibility exceptions. Prepares official correspondence and reports. Counsels and provides information in assisting students and parents with financial planning. Provides leadership and direction to financial aid counselors, assistants, and staff by assessing workflow issues, reviewing work for quality and accuracy, including training. Maintains knowledge of all office duties and understanding of various financial aid programs administered at Middlesex Community College. Participates in college recruiting and retention efforts through financial aid high school nights, open house programs and other related activities. Participates in special assignments and/or projects that may arise during the course of office operations. Other duties as assigned. Relationships with College Community and Outside Entities
Works with the Registrar to resolve data conflicts between the National Student Clearinghouse and the National Student Loan Data System. Updates the monitoring for and reviews the accounts of transfer students on the National Student Loan Data System. Works in conjunction with the representatives from the Student Success and TRIO programs regarding the process of awarding offices' grants. Responsible for maintaining a strong working relationship with other college offices such as Admissions/Recruitment, Registrar/Student Information Center, Advising, Information Technology, Communication Center, etc. Requirements
Master's degree in Education, Business Administration, Accounting, Human Services, or closely related field; with a minimum three (3) years of experience and/or training involving financial aid operations, or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience. Broad knowledge of state and federal financial aid programs and record‑keeping requirements. Comprehensive understanding, interpretation, and application of federal and state financial aid regulations. Experience using integrated higher education student information systems. Ability to form strong coalitions with internal and external constituencies. Experience using integrated higher education student information systems. Ability to resolve problems and to develop relevant alternatives and recommendations. Financial management and strong analytical skills. Ability to manage multiple tasks and to be organized and detail oriented. Ability to recognize departmental priorities and work cooperatively to support their accomplishment. Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing; to establish positive public relations for the college; and to interact effectively with a variety of people. Able to work independently and as part of a project team to meet deadlines. Preferred Qualifications
Bilingual skills a plus Additional Information
Salary Range:
77,358 is the starting salary for a Grade 06, Financial Aid Coordinator, Full‑Time MCCC Professional Staff position; actual salary commensurate with academic background and experience. Employees of Middlesex Community College are considered employees of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and receive benefits, which include: High‑quality and affordable health insurance through the Commonwealth's Group Insurance Commission (GIC) Competitive Dental and Vision Plans Flexible Spending Account and Dependent Care Assistance programs Low‑cost basic and optional life insurance Retirement Savings: State Employees' Pension or Optional Retirement Program (ORP) and Deferred Compensation 457(b) plan or 403(b). 12 paid holidays per year and competitive Sick, Vacation, and Personal Time Tuition Benefits for employees and dependents at state colleges and universities Short‑Term Disability and Extended Illness program participation options Professional Development and Continuing Education opportunities Cell Phone Bill Discounts with Verizon and T‑Mobile Cell Phone Carriers Access to the Commonwealth's Mass4You, employee assistance program Free employee parking on Bedford and Lowell campuses Eligibility towards Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Location:
Lowell campus with occasional travel to Bedford as needed Hours:
37.5 per week, schedule to be determined upon hire. This position will be eligible for a maximum of one day of telework in accordance with the College’s telework policy. Expected Start Date:
February 2026 Application Deadline:
January 26, 2026 Application Instructions
All applicants must apply online by submitting: Resume Names and contact information for three (3) professional references Pre‑Employment Requirements
The College will not sponsor applicants for work visas. All offers of employment at Middlesex Community College are contingent upon clear results of a thorough background check. Background checks will be conducted on all final candidates, as deemed necessary. Middlesex Community College only accepts application materials through our online application system. We are unable to accept application materials through mail, email, fax, or hand delivery. If you do not have access to a computer, please contact Human Resources at careers@middlesex.mass.edu . Middlesex Community College strives to make the application and interview process accessible for all applicants but understands that applicants may still encounter barriers due to ability, language, or technology. If we can make the process any more accessible for you, contact Human Resources at 781‑280‑3546 or careers@middlesex.mass.edu .
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