FINANCIAL AID BASIC NEEDS COUNSELOR

About the Organization

Founded in 1965, UC Irvine is a member of the prestigious Association of American Universities and is ranked among the nation’s top 10 public universities by U.S. News & World Report. The campus has produced five Nobel laureates and is known for its academic achievement, premier research, innovation and anteater mascot. Led by Chancellor Howard Gillman, UC Irvine has more than 36,000 students and offers 224 degree programs. It’s located in one of the world’s safest and most economically vibrant communities and is Orange County’s second-largest employer, contributing $7 billion annually to the local economy and $8 billion statewide.

The Division of Enrollment Management is a key campus thought partner that provides collaborative leadership in university-wide efforts, utilizing systematic, innovative, and synergistic approaches to leverage a data-informed enrollment strategy to improve market distinctiveness, and execute the campus strategic plan. The division comprises the offices of Enrollment Management, Financial Aid & Scholarships, University Registrar, and Undergraduate Admissions.

The Office of Financial Aid & Scholarships is a key contributor to student success and student access in higher education, administering all types of financial assistance for eligible students demonstrating financial need, academic merit, and/or other merit factor(s). This includes, but is not limited to scholarships, grants, loans, and/or work-study awards.

About the Role

Working independently under general supervision, the Financial Aid Basic Needs Counselor applies a broad understanding of student aid program practices and policies to determine appropriate allocation of aid awards, authorize exceptions, and provide individual counseling on non-routine, sensitive aid issues. Serves as point of contact and principal resource for students, staff and affiliates associated with the Basic Needs Center, supporting system-wide Basic Needs initiatives including programs which address food, housing, health and wellness, and financial insecurity. Participates as a standing member of the campus Economic Crisis Response Team (ECRT) and proactively awards emergency grants as identified by the ECRT.

Responsibilities

• Calculate financial aid with attention to detail and accuracy.
• Address complex issues and provide suggestions and solutions; maintain security and confidentiality of information and records.
• Apply working knowledge of advising and counseling techniques.
• Assess processes and implement improvements.
• Demonstrate thorough interpersonal skills and organizational skills to prioritize work and meet deadlines.
• Use strong proficiency with standard office software as well as internet and email applications; working knowledge of common University-specific computer application programs.
• Exhibit strong written and verbal communication skills, including active listening and customer service orientation for diverse audiences.
• Apply working knowledge of policies, regulations, and practices for awarding financial aid; specialized knowledge of particular programs.
• Utilize problem identification, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills; judgment and decision-making ability.
• Use complex databases and define specifications for database programming.
• Compose and edit clear, concise, and factually and grammatically correct written and analytical reports.
• Apply working knowledge of University policies, processes, and procedures.
• Coordinate and organize multiple complex projects and tasks, managing competing deadlines.
• Interpret policies and develop procedures to ensure compliance.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in related area and/or equivalent experience/training.
• 5-10 years of directly related professional experience.

Preferred Qualifications

• Knowledge of Institutional Need Analysis System (INAS).
• Experience using Student Financial Planning and/or Student Billing Systems.

Special Conditions

• Occasional/seasonal nights and weekends required.
• Must complete US Department of Justice background check.
• Hybrid position. On-site availability is required. On-site days to be determined.

Pay

The expected pay range for this recruitment is $66,990 - $70,400 (Annual).

Benefits

In addition to the salary range listed, we offer a wealth of benefits to make working at UCI even more rewarding. These benefits may include medical insurance, sick and vacation time, retirement savings plans, and access to a number of discounts and perks.