State Aid Technical Specialist

About the role

This position supports activities related to the effective and efficient delivery of State of Michigan student financial aid resources and services, including quality assurance, troubleshooting, and error resolution. Under the general direction of the Assistant Director of State Aid and Compliance, this individual will complete all the steps necessary to ensure that federal, state, and institutional financial aid is awarded, originated, and disbursed in a timely manner, and in compliance with federal and state regulations and institutional policies and procedures.

Responsibilities

• Manage financial aid processes related to State Aid programs, specifically determining student eligibility per program, State financial aid awarding, satisfactory academic progress evaluation, and updating students within MI-SSG, the State’s Student Aid portal.
• Responsible for the processing of re-packaging aid post return of Title IV funds (R2T4) for credit hour programs, including post-withdrawal disbursements.
• Implement the process for regular download of program rosters from the State of Michigan on a weekly basis (or more frequently as needed).
• Ensure that student records are updated appropriately.
• Ensure the use of the GRCC data system to appropriately identify and track students based on their eligibility for the aid programs.
• Affiliate with the Michigan Reconnect program, Michigan Reconnect Expansion program, Community College Guarantee Scholarship, Tuition Incentive Program, Fostering Futures Scholarship, Children of Veteran’s Tuition Grant Scholarship, Michigan Competitive Scholarship, and Gear UP Michigan Scholarship financial aid programs.
• Monitor and resolve MISSG’s Clear Ineligible Reasons identified per student by the State of Michigan, work with students to resolve any of these ineligibility reasons, and track for any changes that may occur as a result of new student selection.
• Facilitate the refund disbursement process, ensuring that all State aid eligibility criteria are met at the time of disbursement.
• Facilitate the Enrollment Cancellation process, ensuring that all State aid eligibility criteria are met and students are appropriately awarded at the time of cancellation if eligible.
• Track, resolve, and provide follow-up for State financial aid-related questions and concerns.
• Support financial aid student service functions including face-to-face meetings, orientations, financial aid presentations and workshops, phone calls, email, and text campaigns.

Requirements

A minimum of 2 years of financial aid experience is required, in a higher education setting preferred. A minimum of 2 years of experience utilizing financial aid related web systems (such as SAIG, COD, NSLDS, FAFSA Partner Portal, Mi-SSG, etc.) preferred. A minimum of 2 years of customer service experience is required, in a higher education setting preferred.

Qualifications

A bachelor’s degree is required. A strong understanding of accounting principles, analytical skills, and statistical knowledge is preferred. A high level of attention to detail and working with complex processes is required. Demonstrated technology skills, including proficiency with MS Office products and financial aid web systems including the Common Origination and Disbursement website (COD), National Student Loan Data System (NSLDS), and FAFSA Partner Portal, are required. Must demonstrate high levels of customer service and interpersonal skills, as well as strong attention to detail, organization, and problem-solving abilities.

Skills

• A strong understanding of accounting principles, analytical skills, and statistical knowledge.
• A high level of attention to detail and working with complex processes.
• Demonstrated technology skills, including proficiency with MS Office products and financial aid web systems including the Common Origination and Disbursement website (COD), National Student Loan Data System (NSLDS), and FAFSA Partner Portal.
• Ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously with a high level of accuracy.

Benefits

Health Coverage: Six health insurance plan options, including one with no health insurance premiums.
Time off: Enjoy substantial vacation time.
Wellness Program: Access resources for physical and mental wellbeing, and an onsite gym membership.
Continuous Learning: Career development and educational opportunities.
Retirement Plans: Secure your future with our retirement options including a state retirement plan.