Financial Aid Specialist

About the role

The Financial Aid Specialist reports to the Associate Director of Financial Aid and works closely with all units within the division of Enrollment Management. The position is available immediately.

Responsibilities

• Scan and index student files and reports using Banner Document Management System (BDMS)/Application Xtender; supervise and maintain Document Imaging computer
• Create and implement Dynamic Forms for all financial aid and scholarships forms; assist with the setting up of forms and adding to website
• Maintain files in an accessible manner for the length of time required by federal regulations
• Assist Student Central and students with questions regarding documents and other aspects of their files
• Maintain office P&P manuals as well as forms on an annual basis or as necessary throughout the year
• Retrieve and coordinate all outgoing and incoming mail for the Office of Financial Aid & Scholarships; monitor and respond when necessary to office email account
• Coordinate, disseminate and/or archive all daily reports, and mail necessary letters to students when appropriate
• Review and electronically approve time sheets for student workers each pay period. Gather student worker work schedules and create a Master schedule for the office to use each semester
• Cover all financial aid appeal processes, appeal history, investigating any issues for resolution, assisting with Deans’ questions, etc.
• Oversee the Chaffee Educational and Training Voucher (ETV) Program
• Respond to requested information (statistics, cost of attendance, etc.) from various government and private agencies/companies
• Organize our office brochure development and presentation displays along with all necessary supplies
• Maintains office petty cash fund. Responsible for collections and disbursements of funds
• Coordinate all personnel emergency contact information with division secretary
• Coordinate all office purchases, travel forms, equipment inventory/maintenance
• Monitor NASFAA News and FSA Partner Connect website for updates such as electronic announcements, Dear Colleague Letters, etc.
• Make complete and accurate notes in the system regarding all student contacts and actions taken
• Promote and support the University through participation in events outside of the typical workday such as Preview Days, Commitment Days, tabling events, etc.
• Represent McNeese State University, as well as The Office of Financial Aid & Scholarships at conferences (in person and virtual) and other meetings
• Comply with all office attendance and leave policies
• Record and distribute weekly staff meeting minutes. (upon request)
• Other duties as assigned by the Associate Director of Financial Aid

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution or an equivalent combination of education and related experience
• Friendly, cheerful disposition and positive attitude
• Service-oriented and able to work under pressure in a fast-paced environment
• Able to handle confidential information in a professional manner
• Elevated level of initiative and self-motivation
• Commitment to providing the highest-level quality service to a diverse group of individuals
• Proficient in MS Office, student information systems, social media, and education-related technologies; able to obtain information from reliable sources on the internet
• Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills
• Detail oriented with strong organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills

Skills

• Database management experience, including proficiency in an SQL, report writing or query tools
• Strong technological skills
• Experience working in higher education
• Experience with Ellucian Banner
• An understanding of Federal Financial Aid programs

Benefits

• Comprehensive retirement programs through the State of Louisiana or Optional program
• Supplemental retirement accounts (403B and 457) pre-tax and roth versions
• Health Insurance
• Life Insurance
• Supplemental Insurance to include Vision, Life, Dental, Cancer, Intensive Care, Short Term Disability and more
• Paid holidays
• Tuition fee reduction program for eligible employees and dependents
• Leave accrual and carryover
• Many other on campus perks/discount programs