This role is part of the Financial Aid and Scholarships leadership team and oversees a large unit of mid-level systems analysts and financial aid production staff. The position ensures the compliant, efficient processing of federal, state, and institutional aid and manages the department’s technology strategy and systems integration. Key platforms include PeopleSoft Campus Solutions/Oracle Student Financial Aid, Perceptive Content, TDClient, and other critical systems.

This leader serves as the department’s IT liaison, ensuring systems and data processes align with operational needs and compliance requirements. They coordinate across departmental units, represent Financial Aid on university-wide committees, and act as the director’s designee when needed.

The position manages a team of experienced professionals and hourly staff, guiding short- and long-term operational planning, setting objectives, and developing policies. It requires strong leadership and project management skills, with significant autonomy and responsibility for achieving strategic goals. This role frequently advises senior leadership and shapes campus-wide strategies related to financial aid systems and services.

We'd love to have you join our team!

Boise State University Financial Aid and Scholarships Department has a results-driven work environment where all employees treat each other with respect, develop themselves personally and professionally, support team efforts, and are accountable for their actions. Many efforts including leadership coaching and training are taking place to grow a department where you will enjoy working.

Recognized subject matter expert who knows how to apply theory and put it into practice with an in-depth understanding of the professional field, with limited oversight from managers. Independently performs the full range of responsibilities within the function; requires deep job knowledge of area typically obtained through higher education combined with experience. Manages large projects or processes and problems faced are difficult and often complex; analyzes problems/issues of diverse scope and determines solutions. May manage programs that include formulating strategies and administering policies, processes, and resources; functions with a high degree of autonomy. Influences others regarding policies, practices and procedures.

60% of time the Associate Director of Systems and Operations will:

• Lead a team of experienced professionals in achieving departmental goals through coordinated efforts, setting objectives, and functioning with autonomy.
• Interpret and apply federal, state, and institutional regulations related to student financial aid; ensure compliance through quality control, process reviews, and ongoing professional development (e.g., trainings, conferences).
• Oversee the full financial aid awarding process for all eligible undergraduate, graduate, and extended studies students across all enrollment periods (fall, spring, summer).
• Provide advanced technical and functional support for systems used in daily operations, including module management, system troubleshooting, testing, updates, and documentation.
• Maintain and improve business processes to minimize downtime and encourage collaboration across departmental units.
• Serve as information security steward by managing system access and ensuring appropriate internal controls.
• Utilize structured change management methodologies to support successful system and process changes; adapt approaches based on departmental culture and needs.
• Represent the department on project teams and lead the implementation of new functionality through project management best practices, including task delegation, timeline management, and risk mitigation.
• Coordinate with end users to resolve production-critical issues by validating technical fixes in a test environment prior to implementation.
• Ensure all system-supported financial aid processing functions (e.g., file completion, awarding, disbursement) comply with federal, state, institutional, and private aid regulations.

35% of time the Associate Director of Systems and Operations will:

• Oversee annual functional setup and audit controls for key financial aid processes including document tracking, needs analysis, budget formulas, award loading, notifications, aid processing, and reporting.
• Collaborate with department managers to develop, implement, and update policies and procedures for verification, packaging, awarding, and aid refunds; regularly audit student files for accuracy and compliance.
• Recruit, train, supervise, and evaluate staff; promote staff development through cross-training and professional growth opportunities.
• Lead operational improvement initiatives and provide configuration support for the implementation of new system functionality.
• Plan and deliver financial aid informational sessions and participate in community outreach events for students and families.
• Provide ad hoc support for Client Services and Scholarships teams as needed.
• Actively participate in and assign staff to support financial aid-related outreach and engagement activities.

5% of time the Associate Director of Systems and Operations will perform other duties as assigned. 

• Proven ability to envision, implement, and oversee innovative, state-of-the-art software systems and service enhancements.
• Demonstrated expertise with complex student information systems, preferably PeopleSoft/Oracle Student Financial Aid, including the ability to lead technological change initiatives.
• Strong analytical and critical thinking skills for problem-solving related to office operations, financial aid compliance, and systems optimization.
• Proficiency in writing queries (SQL) and experience in technical or higher education environments, with in-depth knowledge of financial aid programs and services.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills, with the ability to present complex technical concepts to a variety of audiences and provide technical training to non-technical users.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities, projects, and timelines in a fast-paced environment.
• Demonstrated leadership in staff and project management, including a commitment to team collaboration and customer service excellence.

Bachelor’s Degree and 5 years of professional experience or equivalent relevant experience, including 1 year of managerial experience.

• Degree in Computer Information Systems, Information Technology Management, or Computer Science preferred.
• 6 years of professional experience or equivalent relevant experience, including 2 years of managerial experience in a similar type of work.

• Resume
• Cover Letter
• Contact Information for 3 References

Nestled along the Boise River and steps from the state capitol, Boise State University fosters a vibrant and welcoming academic environment that fuels student and employee success. We’re a trailblazing institution, nationally recognized for our innovative spirit and commitment to positive impact on Idaho and beyond.

Boise State is proud to be recognized by Forbes as the only Idaho employer listed in the top 100 of all national midsize and large employers. We’re building a thriving community of faculty and staff whose unique skills, experiences, and perspectives come together to create a rich and rewarding academic experience. Applications from all backgrounds are welcomed.

Learn more about Boise State and living in Idaho’s Treasure Valley at https://www.boisestate.edu/about/