Financial Aid Advisor (Loans)

St. John’s, established in 1870, has two New York City campuses; international locations in Rome, Italy; Limerick, Ireland; and Paris, France; and study abroad locations around the world. The University offers more than 100 undergraduate and graduate programs in its six colleges and schools, with a growing number of programs offered online. A dedication to diversity, equity and inclusion is at the heart of our mission as a Catholic and Vincentian university.

About the role

The Financial Aid Advisor plays a critical role in advancing the University’s commitment to Student Success by ensuring access to financial resources, providing personalized guidance, and collaborating across departments to remove financial barriers that may impact retention and graduation. Under the general direction and reporting to the Sr. Assistant Director of Student Financial Services, the Advisor will assist in the management of key federal aid processes, including the Federal Direct Loan programs, federal verification and Private Loans, while delivering exceptional service to a diverse student population.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with the Senior Assistant Director and Senior Associate Director to ensure federal and private loan processes are efficient, accurate, and student-friendly.
• Run loan origination and disbursement extract processes in Banner and prepare files for transmission to the U.S. Department of Education (COD) and ELMOne.
• Import and post COD response files, ELMOne certification files, and disbursement rosters, resolving discrepancies as needed.
• Manage federally required loan disclosure notices to ensure adherence to all compliance standards.
• Maintain a working knowledge of federal and state financial aid regulations and university policies.
• Review and complete federal verification cases, ensuring accuracy and compliance with federal regulations.
• Package financial aid for transfer students accepted for the spring semester.
• Evaluate and apply Professional Judgment for students with special circumstances in accordance with federal guidelines.
• Provide individualized financial aid counseling to students and families, including guidance on loan programs and verification requirements.
• Serve as Counselor of the Day and provide backup support for the Student Financial Services Center.
• Assist with the management and monitoring of the University’s loan email account.
• Utilize data to identify opportunities for process improvement and increased student engagement.
• Partner with Enrollment and other University departments to support holistic student success.
• Conduct financial aid presentations, workshops, and virtual chats on financial aid topics and financial literacy.
• Represent Student Financial Services at recruitment and onboarding events, including Open House and Accepted Student Day (evening and weekend availability required).
• Perform other duties as assigned in support of departmental and institutional priorities.
• Assist with managing student workers.

Requirements

• Ability to learn and apply federal, state regulations and university policies in support of the timely delivery of federal student aid.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.
• Excellent attention to detail, multitasking, and prioritization skills.
• Ability to manage complex conversations and resolve escalated concerns with empathy and professionalism.
• Effective communication and presentation skills (in-person and virtual).
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint; willingness to learn and embrace innovative technologies.
• Bachelor’s degree.
• Experience with Microsoft Office Suite.
• Must be eligible to access Federal Student Aid systems.

Qualifications

• Experience with Ellucian Banner.
• Prior experience in higher education.

Schedule

Full-time, Monday-Friday 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Some evening and weekend work required for enrollment events.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and life insurance.
• Long-term disability insurance.
• Tuition remission.
• Generous 403(b) employer contribution.
• Employee assistance program.
• Liberal paid time off policies.
• Access to performing arts, libraries, bookstores, dining facilities, campus recreation, and sporting events.