Financial Aid Counselor

Under the direction of the Assistant Director of Financial Aid, the Financial Aid Counselor provides high-quality customer service to prospective and continuing students regarding financial aid eligibility. This role involves analyzing federal financial aid applications to determine financial need, preparing and awarding aid offers, and performing all aspects of the financial aid process. The counselor interacts professionally with students and families—often in complex or sensitive situations to help resolve issues related to eligibility and financial aid awards while ensuring a supportive and solution-oriented experience. Responsibilities Advise students and families on financing an Iona university education, including financial aid eligibility, application processes, available programs, and financial planning strategies (loans, payment options, and budgeting). Deliver high-quality customer service through email, phone, and in-person interactions, demonstrating professionalism, patience, and cultural sensitivity. Maintain strict confidentiality of all student and family financial information. Manage a student caseload, reviewing financial aid applications for accuracy and completeness to determine eligibility and financial need. Package and award aid in compliance with federal, state, and institutional regulations using multiple financial aid systems and resources. Work with the Assistant Director to manage daily operations of the Federal Pell Grant and Federal Loan Programs, including originations, disbursements, and resolution of processing errors. Process financial aid applications, including verification and corrections. Analyze documentation such as tax returns and supporting materials to identify discrepancies, resolve issues, and ensure data integrity. Complete verification, update records, or determine ineligibility as appropriate. Exercise professional judgment in reviewing special circumstance appeals and dependency override requests. Counsel students on Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) and guide students through appeal processes. Utilize institutional databases and systems to manage student records, update awards, and ensure accurate data entry. Generate and maintain reports, records, and documentation related to financial aid operations. Serve as a subject matter expert for assigned federal, state, and/or institutional aid programs. Conducts high school college night presentations and on campus presentations as needed. Participate in student recruitment and retention initiatives by supporting a variety of campus events, including evening and weekend programs such as new student orientations, late night registration, admitted student days, open houses, and move-in activities. Engage with prospective and incoming students and their families, providing information, answering questions, and contributing to a positive and welcoming campus experience. Qualifications Experience in working with financial aid software such as PeopleSoft, EDconnect, COD, NSLDS, FAFSA Partner Portal and NYSHESC. Interacts effectively with diverse groups of people with various cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds and interest. Commitment to diversity, equal opportunity, and the academic, intellectual and social development of all students and employees. Analyze situations accurately, be able to solve problems and offer solutions in order to adopt an effective course of action., interpret, apply and explain rules, regulations, policies and producers. Excellent communication skills and be able to answer emails on a timely matter. At least one year of experience. Associate’s degree required, Bachelors’ preferred. Visa sponsorship is not available for this position. About Iona/EEO Statement: Founded in 1940, Iona University is a private, Catholic, coeducational institution of learning in the tradition of the Edmund Rice Christian Brothers. Iona is a growing, highly accredited institution located just 20 miles north of Midtown Manhattan, with campuses in New Rochelle, Bronxville, and a new location in County Mayo, Ireland. With over 4,000 students, Iona offers small classes, engaged faculty, and a wide range of programs across the School of Arts & Science, the LaPenta School of Business (AACSBaccredited), the NewYorkPresbyterian Iona School of Nursing & Health Sciences, and the Hynes Institute for Entrepreneurship & Innovation. Recognized by The Princeton Review, The Wall Street Journal, Forbes, and U.S. News & World Report, Iona is nationally ranked for academic quality, social mobility, and longterm return on investment. The University’s continued growth and rising reputation reflect its commitment to academic excellence, innovation, service, and opportunity. Iona University values and celebrates diversity and is committed to providing a welcoming and inclusive environment for all employees and applicants for employment. Iona is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will be considered free from discrimination based on any legally protected characteristic under applicable federal, state, or local laws. Iona University encourages applications from qualified candidates of all backgrounds. #J-18808-Ljbffr