DESCRIPTION

Reporting to the Assistant Director of Financial Aid and Scholarships, the Financial Aid Counselor position is empowered to serve every financial aid customer (prospective students, current students, and families) at every stage of contact with the university.

Independently applies a broad understanding of student aid program practices and policies including federal, state and university regulations to determine appropriate allocation of aid awards, authorize exceptions, and provide individual counseling on non-routine, sensitive aid issues. As a specialty/project leader, may plan, develop, implement and coordinate at least one financial aid related program or specialty with the ability to be flexible and demonstrate a supportive team attitude.

~Cover letter required for a complete application.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor's degree with an emphasis in Finance and/or Counseling, or the equivalent combination of education and experience.

• Working knowledge of University policies, processes, and procedures. Thorough knowledge and understanding of the mission of the University and Student Affairs and the integral role of financial aid in student recruitment and retention.

• Critical understanding of the fiduciary responsibility of the university as approval decisions for funding each student are made and the associated reconciliation and reporting are completed on behalf of the university to external agencies.

• Ability to interpret policies and develop procedures to ensure compliance. In-depth knowledge of regulations in interpreting and administering of federal Title IV, state and university financial aid programs to ensure compliance. Ability to research interpret and apply complex rules and laws. Write and present concise findings with recommended course of action.

• Ability to calculate financial aid with attention to detail and accuracy. Understand financial aid eligibility requirements pertaining to academic progress, citizenship eligibility, default and overpayment of federal aid, etc.

• Working knowledge of policies, regulations, and practices for awarding financial aid; specialized knowledge of particular programs. In-depth knowledge of the financial aid service partners with a thorough understanding of the processing relationships and the technology of different mechanisms between entities (Federal Government, State Government, IRS, central processing agencies, lenders, guarantors, scholarship agencies, etc) to facilitate eligibility confirmation and problem resolution.

• Strong written and verbal communication skills. Active listening skills. Possesses strong customer service orientation skills. Ability to communicate effectively and in a sensitive and confidential manner with campus colleagues to ensure student success and to respond to students who are in financial crisis.

• Working knowledge of advising and counseling techniques.

• Experience using complex databases. Ability to define specifications for database programming. Strong technology skills with financial aid management software systems. Knowledge and understanding of databases and external financial aid systems (ProSAM, EdExpress, COD; NSLDS, CPS, Web Grants, ELM) and experience with document management and imaging systems.

• Problem identification, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills; judgment and decision-making ability.

• Strong ability to assess processes and implement improvements. Thorough interpersonal skills. Ability to work with community members and to provide outreach presentation as part of recruitment and enrollment management.

• Organizational skills and ability to prioritize work and meet deadlines. Ability to prioritize, organize, assess, and coordinate programs and activities with other staff, departments and organizations to meet multiple deadlines and goals.

• Strong proficiency with standard office software as well as internet and email applications. Working knowledge of common University-specific computer application programs.

SPECIAL CONDITIONS

• Duties may require direct contact with children (defined as individuals under the age of 18). Completion of the Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act (CANRA) form is required.

• Job offer is contingent upon a satisfactory clearance based on background check results.

• Available to work evenings/weekends during peak periods; some domestic travel may be expected.

• Must be able to withstand the demands of heavy public contact.

• Cover letter required for a complete application.