Financial Aid Officer - Sumner College (closes 9/30/26)

Portland, OR

About the role

The Financial Aid Officer at Sumner College coordinates and administers financial aid programs to students, ensuring compliance with federal and state regulations. The officer provides guidance and support to students and their parents on financial aid matters, including the application process, eligibility criteria, award determination, and disbursement of funds. The role also involves systems and procedures planning, implementation of specific programs, and participation in administrative and operational tasks.

Responsibilities

• Disseminate information about financial aid programs and the application process, and counsel new students and their families on eligibility factors and alternative financing options.
• Act as a backup for Senior Financial Aid staff.
• Implement, coordinate, and oversee specific administrative programs and/or service areas as assigned.
• Provide financial aid counseling to students and parents regarding application procedures, eligibility requirements, and assist with the completion of application forms.
• Review and assess eligibility of applications for financial aid.
• Review for accuracy and provide signature approval/disapproval of loan applications, promissory notes, and other financial documents.
• Participate in orientations and graduations.
• Conduct entrance and exit interviews in accordance with college, state, federal, and other agency guidelines.
• Respond to inquiries, research, and resolve problems related to transactions handled by the unit; serve as a liaison with other constituencies to resolve day-to-day administrative and operational issues.
• Provide information in person, by telephone, and electronically to students, prospective students, and families regarding student financial aid, admissions, student account balances, and registration status.
• Conduct workshops and/or presentations for students, parents, and other interested parties on financial aid policy and procedural issues.
• Perform miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Associate degree required, preferably a Bachelor’s degree in a related field.
• At least one (1) year in a professional financial environment.
• At least two (2) years of customer service experience.
• Flexibility and adaptability to new/changing circumstances.
• Effective time management skills and the ability to self-direct and manage dynamic reprioritization of tasks to best serve students’ needs.
• Experience with online student information systems and personal computers.

Skills

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to work effectively with a wide range of constituencies in a diverse community.
• Proficiency in the use of personal computers and related software applications.
• Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
• Ability to verify and assess student eligibility for financial aid.
• Analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Interviewing skills.
• Ability to make evaluative judgments.
• Ability to investigate and analyze information and draw conclusions.
• Ability to supervise and train employees, including organizing, prioritizing, and scheduling work assignments.
• Organizing and coordinating skills.
• Knowledge of federal and state laws, regulations, and policies concerning the provision of financial aid to students.
• Knowledge of financial aid policies, procedures, and eligibility requirements.
• Knowledge of data management systems and processes.
• Ability to develop and present educational programs and/or workshops.
• Knowledge of the policies and eligibility requirements of a range of federal, state, and agency scholarship programs for tertiary students.
• Preferred knowledge of Title IV, direct loan programs, and other financial regulations.
• Preferred knowledge of EdExpress, EdConnect, COD, and NSLDS.

Benefits

• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance
• Tuition reimbursement
• Vision insurance

Compensation discussed with selected candidates. Full-time position.