Financial Aid Specialist

Responsibilities

• Aid in the annual setup of Financial Aid processes, including FAFSA submissions.
• Conduct interviews with students seeking financial assistance.
• Perform needs analysis and assist in packaging financial aid awards, including scholarship applications.
• Accept and review financial aid applications for completeness and accuracy; verify reported information to determine eligibility.
• Maintain budgets for federal work-study students and ensure they meet academic progress requirements.
• Utilize financial aid software to update student records, generate award notifications, and prepare reports.
• Apply financial aid policies to identify students exceeding funding limits and assist with appeals.
• Maintain confidentiality of student records and financial aid matters in compliance with FERPA.
• Interpret and adhere to federal and state regulations governing student financial aid.
• Stay updated on changes in financial aid guidelines and regulations.
• Provide technical assistance and financial aid eligibility information to students, staff, and the public.
• Collaborate with Admissions, Records, Counseling, Student Support Services, and other campus departments, as well as external colleges and agencies.
• Award scholarships based on financial need and available funding.
• Perform additional duties as assigned by the Director of Financial Aid, Dean, or Vice President.

Competencies

• Strong investment in student support and success.
• A strong work ethic.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively.
• Adaptability, initiative, and flexibility.
• Attention to detail and accuracy.
• Strong technical skills, including the ability to analyze data and set benchmarks for student success.
• Customer service orientation and interpersonal skills.
• Excellent time management skills and ability to prioritize work.
• Supports the objectives, goals, and mission of the college.

Minimum Qualifications

• Ace in a regionally accredited institution with an Associate degree.
• Ability to organize and prioritize a wide variety of assignments, with emphasis on processing skills.
• Excellent interpersonal communication skills.
• Ability to work under deadline requirements.
• Computer literacy is required. A functional knowledge of word processing, spreadsheets, data entry, or database management.
• Ability to maintain complex filing systems and records.
• Excellent analytical problem solving and customer service skills.
• Ability to read and understand federal and state regulations and guidelines.
• Ability to work with a diverse student body.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution.
• Ability to work well with the public in high pressure situations.
• Ability to multitask and to perform detailed tasks accurately.
• Strong computer skills with a focus on office applications.
• Two years’ Community College experience in Student Services and/or an office setting at an educational institution.

Benefits

• Health Insurance
• Paid Holidays
• Vacation
• Sick Leave
• Optional flexible benefits: dental, vision, 401K/457, deferred compensation plans, flexible spending accounts, life insurance, long-term disability.