Financial Aid Counselor

Description

The Financial Aid Counselor will take primary responsibility for managing and administering one or more federal, state, institutional, or campus-based aid programs or initiatives, depending on the candidate’s particular area of expertise and the needs of the office. The successful candidate will also assist the Director and Associate Directors with the administration of aid for current students, as needed.

Essential Functions:

• Counsel students and families on financial aid eligibility, application procedures, and various financial aid programs
• Respond to student inquiries in person, by phone, and email
• Maintain current knowledge of federal Title IV regulations, state rules, and institutional policies pertaining to financial aid
• Develop and administer training to the financial aid team on designated program(s) / area(s) of expertise
• Perform verifications
• Evaluate financial aid award appeals, professional judgments, and dependency override requests
• Maintain and compile data necessary for program functionality, reconciliation with various campus offices, institutional research, and state and federal reporting pertaining to areas of program responsibility
• Provide support and training to Admissions staff on financial aid procedures and processes
• Prepare written communications about financial aid processes, procedures, and policies
• Give presentations on financial aid, payment options, etc. during recruiting events
• Serve on committees as needed
• Actively participate in professional development and training opportunities

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree and/or 1 - 3 years administrative experience preferably in higher education
• Working knowledge of federal, state, and institutional regulations
• Experience working with Ellucian Colleague preferred
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, as well as public speaking ability
• Ability to communicate complex processes to a diverse audience
• Customer service and training experience
• The applicant should have experience working with a diverse population of students, including first generation and high need students, and a demonstrated track record of providing exceptional service to students and their families.

Some weekends and evenings may be required, as well as speaking at recruiting events like Open Houses and Accepted Students Days.