Financial Aid Counselor

Financial Aid CounselorAt Colorado College, 2,100 students learn and live on our beautiful 99-acre campus in downtown Colorado Springs. We attract top students seeking new perspectives with an array of experiential learning opportunities possible only in an immersive learning environment. Here, students take only one class at a time to facilitate deep exploration of a topic. We call this the Block Plan. This unique approach allows members of our campus community to share a rhythm of experience as we work together to fulfill our mission.The Student Financial Services (SFS) Counselor provides comprehensive financial aid counseling and administration for prospective and current students and families, helping them understand college affordability, financial aid eligibility, application requirements, and available resources. Manages assigned financial aid processes and special populations, reviews student records and documentation to determine eligibility and identify required follow-up, and provides proactive outreach to students who need additional assistance completing the financial aid process. Applies federal, state, and institutional policies and regulations consistently and partners across Student Financial Services to ensure accurate, timely, and student-centered delivery of financial aid.Responsibilities include:Advise and counsel prospective and current students and families regarding financial aid eligibility, application requirements, financing options, regulatory requirements, and student account impacts.Research and resolve complex financial aid and student account concerns, explain the interaction of aid, charges, payments, and refunds, and identify matters requiring additional review, professional judgment, or specialized functional support.Review financial aid applications, supporting documentation, and student records for accuracy, completeness, and consistency; resolve conflicting information and identify additional documentation or follow-up required to determine eligibility.Complete assigned financial aid processing, revisions, and disbursement-related work in accordance with federal, state, and institutional requirements and established procedures.Administer assigned federal, institutional, private, and other financial aid programs and processes, ensuring accurate and timely awarding, disbursement, reconciliation, and ongoing program management.Serve as the financial aid resource for assigned student populations and program areas, which may include international students, student-athletes, first-generation students, students with high financial need, and students participating in study abroad.Develop effective working relationships with campus partners, provide proactive outreach and individualized support, and represent Student Financial Services through informational sessions, campus programs, and other outreach activities.Maintain current knowledge of applicable financial aid regulations, institutional policies, and industry practices through ongoing professional development and, as appropriate, participation in state, regional, and national professional activities.Minimum qualifications include:High School Diploma or GED2 years of experience in a related fieldOne year of relevant work experience may be substituted for one year of required education (OR) one year of relevant academic coursework beyond the minimum requirement may be substituted for one year of required professional experience.Anticipated hiring salary range: $23.08 to $27.70 per hourWhat we offer includes:Medical, Dental, and Vision InsurancePaid vacation and sick timePaid seasonal breaks and holidays403(b) retirement plansTuition benefits for employee and eligible dependentsPublic Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Assistance ProgramWellness benefits including free access to the sports center, swimming pool, arts and crafts, outdoor programs, and financial consultants