Financial Aid Counselor

About the role

As a financial aid counselor, you will play a crucial role in assisting students in navigating the financial aid process, ensuring access to education through effective financial planning. This position requires a keen understanding of financial aid regulations, excellent communication skills, and a commitment to promoting accessibility to education.

Schedule

Hybrid schedule: two days on site in the Albany office, with the flexibility to work remotely the remaining days. Core hours are 8:30 AM–5:00 PM (including a 1-hour lunch), for a 37.5-hour week.

Responsibilities

• Provide individualized counseling to students regarding financial aid options, eligibility criteria, and application procedures over the phone, email, text, and in virtual meetings.
• Assist students in understanding different types of financial aid programs and amounts of funding available, including grants, scholarships, and loans.
• Evaluate financial aid applications, ensuring accuracy and compliance with federal, state, and institutional guidelines.
• Collaborate with other departments to obtain necessary documentation and information for financial aid assessments.
• Review financial aid packages based on student eligibility and financial need.
• Communicate award information clearly to students, addressing any inquiries and providing additional guidance as needed.
• Conduct workshops and informational sessions to educate students and parents about the financial aid process, application deadlines, and available resources.
• Stay current on federal and state financial aid regulations, ensuring adherence to compliance requirements in all aspects of financial aid administration.
• Attend trainings and conferences to enhance professional development.
• Maintain accurate and confidential student records related to financial aid applications, awards, and communications.
• Provide excellent student service by promptly responding to inquiries, resolving issues, and guiding students through the financial aid process.
• Collaborate with other departments, such as admissions and academic advising, to ensure a coordinated approach in supporting students' financial needs.
• Perform other duties as assigned to support the unit or institution.

Requirements

• Associate degree in a relevant field (e.g., finance, business, education).
• Previous experience in financial aid administration or related field preferred.
• Knowledge of federal and state financial aid regulations.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to interpret and explain complex financial information to diverse audiences.
• Detail-oriented with excellent organizational and time management skills.
• Experience in PowerFAIDS preferred.

Pay

The hiring salary range for this position is $40,875–$42,000.