Financial Aid Counelor

Division: Enrollment Management | Department: Office of Financial Aid | Reports to: Executive Director of Financial Aid

About the Role

The Financial Aid Counselor advises and counsels students, parents, and other interested parties regarding financial aid programs. This role verifies student files in accordance with federal and institutional requirements, processes financial aid appeals, and manages projects related to financial aid programs in collaboration with other campus offices. The position also conducts financial aid and financial literacy presentations both on and off campus, contributes to departmental growth, and promotes safe working conditions. Nights and weekends may be required during peak enrollment season and for campus events.

Exposure to highly confidential information is an unusual work condition for this role.

Responsibilities

• Provide outstanding customer service to students and families seeking or receiving financial aid, demonstrating patience and understanding.
• Advise students on financial aid eligibility, application procedures, available programs, educational costs, and financial management strategies, including debt management and financial planning.
• Counsel students and parents on financing an education at the university through heavy contact via email, phone, and in-person meetings.
• Manage a student caseload, review applications for accuracy, determine financial need, and award aid in compliance with federal, state, and institutional policies.
• Calculate student award packages using software programs and federal, state, and university resources, including gift aid and self-help options.
• Maintain compliance with regulations, monitor and verify information with required documents, and ensure consistency of financial aid data, tax transcripts, and verification documents.
• Process applications, corrections, need analysis, document tracking, and evaluation; generate award notifications or deny aid if ineligible.
• Work occasional nights and weekends and be available for presentations and outreach events with little notice.
• Perform other duties as assigned, with potential changes or additions to responsibilities.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree required.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with PowerFAIDS financial aid software.
• Strong desire to provide high-level service to students and families, with an energetic and positive approach to work.
• Excellent communication skills.
• Knowledge of federal and state aid programs and regulations.
• Spanish-speaking ability is a plus.