Financial Services Specialist

Financial Services Specialist The Financial Services Specialist plays a critical role in supporting the financial operations of the Student Accounts office at Holy Family University. This position is responsible for providing customer service related to student account transactions. The Financial Services Specialist works closely with students, parents, staff, and various campus departments to ensure accurate and timely billing, collection of tuition and fees, along with the day-to-day operations of the Student Accounts office. The Financial Services Specialist is expected to learn both Student Accounts and Financial Aid operations to better serve our students. Billing and Payment Processing: Assist in the communication of student billing statements, ensuring accuracy and completeness. Record all payments as they are received, including cash, checks, credit card payments, and wire transfers, by the end of the business day. Ensure that financial aid, scholarships, and third-party payments are accurately applied to student accounts. Monitor and reconcile student accounts to ensure accurate balances and charges. Audit and clear balances daily so that a hold is removed within 1 business day of account activity. During peak times (resident move-in weeks, academic registration periods), reconciliations should happen hourly. Update housing clearance documents with every change in status. Set up and monitor payment plans. Assist in adding Tiger Tag funds, adding/dropping housing related charges, and adding/dropping commuter meal plans. Review and apply withdrawal procedures, returning funds, and student refunds. Reconcile cash receipts to cash collected at the end of the business day. Customer Service and Support: Serve as a point of contact for students, parents, and staff regarding inquiries related to tuition, fees, billing, and payments. Resolve billing issues and answer questions concerning tuition charges, financial holds, and account balances. Assist students in understanding payment plans and help them navigate available payment options. Answer detailed financial aid inquiries without needing to redirect students to that office. Respond to all emails and voicemails (both individual and office account) within one business day. Data Management and Reporting: Maintain accurate records of student financial transactions and ensure compliance with institutional policies and procedures. Generate financial reports on student accounts and billing. Assist in audits of student accounts and help ensure proper documentation is maintained. Document every interaction with students in Colleague. Additional Responsibilities: Provide backup support for Accounts Receivable, Financial Aid, and other office personnel during peak times or when necessary. Stay informed of industry trends, regulations, and best practices related to higher education finance and billing. Education & Experience Requirements: High School Diploma required; Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Business Administration, Finance, or a related field is preferred. (Equivalent work experience may be considered in lieu of a degree.) Minimum of 3 years of experience in a financial or administrative role, preferably in a higher education setting. Experience with financial software systems (preferably Colleague) and Microsoft Office Suite. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: Strong knowledge of student account management, billing processes, and financial regulations within higher education. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with attention to detail. Excellent customer service and communication skills, both written and verbal. Ability to manage multiple tasks and prioritize effectively in a fast-paced environment. Knowledge of higher education financial aid programs and policies. Ability to work collaboratively with a diverse group of students, parents, and staff. Familiarity with FERPA (Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act) and other relevant student privacy and financial regulations. Work Environment: Operates in an office environment that may have frequent interruptions. The area is well-lit, temperature controlled and free from hazards. Noise level is generally quiet to moderate. Physical Requirements: Communicates frequently, in person, over the phone, or via a computer. Hearing is needed for extensive telephone and in person communication. Regularly required to sit for long periods of time; use hands to finger, handle or feel; reach with hands and arms. Manual dexterity is needed in order to operate a computer keyboard. Operates standard office equipment such as computers, phones, photocopiers, filing cabinets and fax machines. Other important information: Evening or weekend work will be required during peak billing periods or for special projects. Non-Discrimination Statement: Holy Family University seeks to foster a welcoming and a healthy educational and work environment based on respect, the dignity of each person and the oneness of the human family. Holy Family University is dedicated to ensuring an environment free of discrimination or harassment of any kind, and promotes equal opportunity in its employment and education.