Student Financial Aid Officer

Student Financial Aid OfficerLocation: Houston, TX (Houston Campus) | On-SiteType: Full-TimeCompensation: $20.80 – $24.96 per hourPosition SummaryThe Student Finance Officer plays a pivotal role at our Houston campus, serving as a dedicated resource for students navigating the complexities of financial assistance. In this role, you will empower adult learners to achieve their educational goals by providing transparent financial counseling, facilitating Title IV aid packaging, and ensuring compliance with federal, state, and institutional guidelines.Key ResponsibilitiesFinancial Aid Counseling & Packaging:Student Assessment: Interview prospective, current, and re-enrolling students to assess financial needs and determine eligibility for federal, state, and institutional aid programs.Forms & Application Guidance: Assist students and families in completing financial aid applications (FAFSA), verification worksheets, loan documents, and agency funding forms.Payment Planning: Establish and manage structured private-pay plans for students with out-of-pocket tuition balances, documenting institutional financial arrangements accurately.Veterans Benefits: Counsel veteran students and ensure complete compliance with Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and State Approving Agency (SAA) guidelines.Verification, Auditing & Data Management:ISIR Management & Verification: Track Institutional Student Information Records (ISIRs) for current and prospective students, completing full file verification on all selected records.File Auditing: Audit packaged student files prior to start dates to ensure all award letters, verification documents, proof of eligibility, and audit forms are complete and compliant.System Data Entry: Accurately enter and update financial aid data in the student information system, including packaging dates, Pell/SEOG disbursements, loan statuses, and agency funding approvals.Eligibility Documentation: Verify and collect required documentation for eligible non-citizenship status, default resolution, and Pell overpayment clearances.Student Accounts & Campus Collaboration:Repayment Outreach: Contact former students with outstanding balances to set up manageable repayment plans.Admissions Partnering: Coordinate daily with Admissions teams regarding financial aid appointment schedules, no-shows, and rescheduled appointments.Minimum QualificationsExperience: Minimum of 1–3 years of experience in financial aid, student accounts, banking, or customer service-intensive operations.System Access: Must be eligible to maintain unencumbered access to U.S. Department of Education (DOE) systems (NSLDS, COD, FSA).Technical Proficiency: Functional knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite, Google Workspace, video-conferencing tools, and database management applications.Communication: Strong verbal and written communication skills with a student-focused service mindset.Equivalency: Any equivalent combination of training, education, or relevant experience that meets the position requirements will be considered.Preferred Qualifications:Associate or Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution.Three (3) or more years of direct Title IV higher education financial aid packaging and verification experience.Compensation & Employee-Owner BenefitsHiring Range: $20.80 to $24.96 per hour.Ownership: Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)—become a stakeholder in our 100% employee-owned company.Retirement: 401(k) Plan with employer matching options.Health & Wellness: Comprehensive Medical, Dental, and Vision coverage, plus a Health & Wellness Program and EAP.Time Off & Growth: Paid Time Off (PTO), Paid Holidays, and Tuition Reimbursement opportunities.Equal Opportunity Employer This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.