Financial Aid Officer

About Tidewater Tech

At Tidewater Tech, we are committed to helping adult students develop the skills necessary for meaningful entry-level careers. Founded in 1969, our institution is steeped in a tradition of career education and workforce development. As a leading educational provider in the trade industry, our programs, designed in collaboration with industry leaders, ensure that students are well-prepared for today's workplace. With high academic standards and hands-on training, we create a learning environment that supports student success. At Tidewater Tech, we're dedicated to shaping the next generation of skilled professionals.

Position Purpose

The Financial Aid Officer is responsible for managing and processing financial aid documentation for students, ensuring compliance with federal, state, and institutional regulations. This role involves evaluating financial aid applications, providing guidance to students on available financial resources, and facilitating access to funding that supports their educational goals.

Key Duties

• Understand and apply financial aid regulations, process applications accurately, and maintain up-to-date records.
• Provide exceptional support to students by clearly explaining financial aid options and guiding them through the application process.
• Work effectively with other departments to resolve issues and enhance the student experience, demonstrating strong analytical and organizational skills.

Job Responsibilities

• Process financial aid documentation, including VA Education Benefits, Military Tuition Assistance, and scholarships, to ensure students have the necessary funds for tuition.
• Monitor FAFSA submissions and receipt of ISIRs, maintaining accurate records and completing timely verification for selected files.
• Track the submission of Master Promissory Notes (MPNs) via COD and conduct entrance and exit loan counseling sessions for students.
• Stay updated on financial aid regulations, including the Federal Student Aid Handbook, to ensure compliance while regularly reviewing incomplete student files and disbursing funds only when students are eligible.
• Monitor student accounts for proper financial aid packaging and oversee cash flow to ensure timely funding disbursement.
• Meet with incoming students to explain available aid options and necessary documentation, providing ongoing support for questions and issues while referring them to appropriate staff for academic advising.
• Perform additional tasks or projects as assigned by the Campus Director of Compliance & Administration, Campus Assistant Director, or Campus Executive Director.

Required Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED, and Financial Aid experience.
• College level coursework in accounting, finance, or related field.
• Strong computer skills, with advanced proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook, as well as the ability to quickly learn and adapt to new financial aid software and systems.
• Exceptional organizational skills and meticulous attention to detail, enabling the management of multiple tasks and accurate record-keeping in a fast-paced environment.
• Outgoing personality with outstanding interpersonal and communication skills, fostering positive relationships with students, families, and colleagues.
• Ability to thrive in a collaborative team environment, effectively engaging with a diverse college student population and contributing to a supportive campus culture.
• Must not be in default on federal student loans, reflecting a commitment to financial accountability and integrity in managing student aid.
• Strong dedication to providing excellent customer service, ensuring students receive timely and informative support throughout the financial aid process.

Preferred Qualifications

• Proprietary school financial aid experience.

Compensation

Up to $30 per hour, based on experience, qualifications, and other relevant factors.

Schedule

40 hours per week. Monday - Thursday: 9:00AM to 6:00PM. Friday: 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM. One Saturday per month from 9:00AM to 1:00PM.

Benefits

• 401(k) and Matching
• Comprehensive Health Coverage: Health, Dental, and Vision insurance
• Life Insurance
• Parental Leave
• Paid Time Off
• Employee Assistance Program
• Tuition Reimbursement