Student Aid Operations Assistant

Job Description

Job Description

Bethany College

Lindsborg, Kansas

Bethany College

STUDENT AID OPERATIONS ASSISTANT

FLSA Status:

HOURLY, NON-EXEMPT

Department:

Admissions

Reports to:

Director of Financial Aid

Positions Managed:

None

Why Bethany:

Rooted in our Lutheran heritage and the transformative power of the liberal arts, Bethany prepares students to lead lives of purpose, leadership, creativity, and service in a complex and changing world. Located in Lindsborg, Kansas—affectionately known as "Little Sweden" and celebrated for its vibrant arts community—Bethany offers a close-knit environment where faculty and staff know students by name and mentor them in a highly personalized setting.

Education at Bethany is rooted in intellectual discovery and a deep sense of belonging, equipping students to think critically, lead ethically, and serve with purpose. As a small, private, rural college, Bethany plays an essential role in renewing civic life, expanding opportunity, and fostering community revitalization. We believe in the value of personalized liberal arts education, the power of community, and the promise of rural America.

At Bethany, you'll have the opportunity to inspire the next generation while contributing to the cultural and academic life of our campus and region as we prepare students to make meaningful contributions to the world.

At Bethany, you'll have the opportunity to inspire the next generation while contributing to the cultural and academic life of our campus and region as we prepare students to make meaningful contributions to the world.

About Bethany College:

Founded in 1881, Bethany College is a dynamic liberal arts institution located in Lindsborg, Kansas—known as “Little Sweden U.S.A.” Bethany provides a transformative educational experience grounded in faith, learning, and community. The College is dedicated to cultivating leaders who serve and inspire through integrity, creativity, and purpose.

Position Overview:

The Student Aid Operations Assistant plays a key role in supporting the administration and delivery of federal, state, and institutional financial aid programs at Bethany College. This position assists students and families throughout the financial aid process by reviewing applications, resolving discrepancies, maintaining compliance with financial aid regulations, and providing accurate and timely guidance regarding funding options and eligibility requirements. The role also supports operational efficiency within the Financial Aid Office through data management, process improvement, and collaboration with campus partners to promote student success and exceptional service.

Essential Functions:

• Maintain working knowledge of the Federal Student Aid Handbook, as well as federal, state, and local regulations for administering financial aid.
• Counsel students and parents on financial aid opportunities and processes, including budgeting and debt management.
• Request additional information for incomplete or inconsistent applications needed for accurate awarding of financial aid.
• Utilize Jenzabar J1 system, COGNOS, Department of Education systems, and other federal systems to process and disburse aid.
• Maintain financial aid records and student files in accordance with federal, state, and institutional requirements.
• Interact effectively with students, parents, campus departments, lenders, and funding sources.
• Provide continual evaluation of processes and procedures to improve operations, efficiency, and customer service.
• Participate in team meetings, conferences, and training sessions.
• Conduct preliminary reviews of financial aid applications and supporting documents.
• Assess student compliance with federal and state financial aid requirements.
• Enter, access, and maintain data integrity within database systems.
• Disseminate information on complex financial aid programs verbally and in writing.

The statements contained herein describe the scope of responsibility and essential functions of this position, but should not be considered an all-inclusive listing of work requirements. Individuals may perform other duties as assigned, including work in other areas to cover absences or provide relief to equalize peak work periods or otherwise balance the workload.

Qualifications:

Required:

• Associate’s Degree
• Experience in computerized systems and knowledge of office equipment)
• Ability to maintain confidentiality
• Strong work ethic-dedicated to completing the job
• Ability to communicate effectively to a variety of audiences, including students, parents, faculty, staff, alumni, administration, and the community at large
• Excellent organizational skills
• Ability to handle multiple projects/assignments concurrently and be very results-oriented
• Willingness to adapt to a changing technology environment (i.e. updates, security, and new versions),
• Ability to use multiple internet browsers, competent in email and document management
• Excellent grammar, spelling, and writing abilities
• Highly motivated and works well both independently and in a team environment

Preferred:

• Bachelor's Degree
• Previous Higher Education experience
• Experience in computerized systems (Microsoft Office, Outlook, and knowledge of office equipment)
• Bilingual in Spanish is a plus, or some knowledge of the Spanish language is a plus

Working Conditions:

On-site work is generally performed indoors under ambient room temperatures and lighting, with traditional office equipment as found in a typical office environment. May periodically travel to assigned locations.

Evenings and weekends may be needed during special enrollment periods, the first days of check-in at the beginning of semesters, and at the end of semesters to prepare for the next semester/academic year.

PHYSICAL SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

This position requires the ability to sit, stand, walk, reach, lift, and perform routine office tasks throughout the workday. Employees must have adequate hand-eye coordination, manual dexterity, and visual ability to operate office equipment, use a computer, and handle documents. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions.

Compensation & Benefits:

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience
• Comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, vision, and retirement plans
• Generous vacation, sick leave, and holidays
• Tuition remission benefits
• Professional Development Funds
• Possible Relocation Assistance
• Opportunities for professional development and leadership growth
• Supportive, mission-driven community and a beautiful campus environment

How to Apply:

• Apply online at Employment
• Submit resume and cover letter

EEO:

Bethany College, an institution of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA), provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, sex, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, marital status, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.

This policy reflects Bethany College's mission to educate, develop, and challenge individuals to reach for truth and excellence as they lead lives of faith, learning, and service. This commitment to equal employment opportunities strengthens our community and enhances our ability to fulfill our educational mission.