Student Account Specialist

Job Description

POSITION PURPOSE:


The Student Account Specialist reports to and assists the Bursar and Student Accounts Auditor. The Student Account Specialist serves as a primary point of contact for students to facilitate student financial success. This position provides front-line student customer service while supporting the accuracy, compliance, and day-to-day operations of student accounts.

In alignment with Navarro College's mission and core values, the Student Account Specialist promotes student success by helping students understand their financial obligations, resolving account issues, and ensuring accurate and timely processing of student account transactions in accordance with College policy and applicable regulations.

GENERAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Advise students with financial decisions regarding their student accounts, including payment plans and options, financial aid, and collection avoidance.
• Serve as a primary contact for students, parents, and sponsors regarding student account balances, billing, payments, refunds, installment plans, and account holds.
• Explain tuition and fee assessments, payment options, deadlines, and College policies in a clear, professional, and student-centered manner.
• Assist students with questions related to financial aid disbursements, third-party sponsorships, and payment plan arrangements, referring complex issues to the Student Accounts Auditor or Bursar as appropriate.
• Respond to inquiries via in-person visits, phone calls, email, and other communication channels in a timely and courteous manner.
• Review and maintain student accounts for accuracy, including posting payments, adjustments, sponsorships, and account notes.
• Process refunds, installment plans, and payment arrangements under the direction of the Student Accounts Auditor and Bursar.
• Verify student enrollment, eligibility, and documentation related to billing or account adjustments.
• Actively work student accounts that are delinquent to prevent collection agencies involvement.
• Assist with maintaining accurate student account records in the College's enterprise systems.
• Perform student account duties as assigned, including receipting payments, balancing cash drawers, and following internal control procedures.
• Assist with daily operational tasks such as preparing documentation, reports, and correspondence related to student accounts.
• Work collaboratively with Admissions and Records, Financial Aid, Continuing Education, and other College departments to resolve student account issues and ensure data accuracy.
• Follow College policies, internal controls, and applicable federal and state regulations related to student accounts and financial transactions.
• Identify recurring student concerns or process issues and communicate observations to the Student Accounts Auditor and Bursar.
• Perform other duties as assigned in support of Business Office operations and student financial services.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

• Proficiency with computer applications, including word processing, spreadsheets, and data entry systems.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive financial information with integrity.
• Strong customer service orientation with the ability to remain professional in challenging situations.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks, meet deadlines, and work effectively in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to work independently while supporting a collaborative team structure.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to explain financial information clearly and professionally.
• Demonstrated attention to detail and accuracy in handling financial data.

POSITION QUALIFICATIONS:

Required:

• Bachelor's degree.
• Minimum of two (2) years of experience in customer service, cashiering, student accounts, or financial operations.

Preferred:

• Bachelor's degree with coursework in business, accounting, finance, or a related field.
• Experience in a higher education or public-sector environment.
• Experience with Oracle Cloud, Colleague or similar enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems.
• Experience handling cash, electronic payments, or student information systems.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

• Variances from regular working hours may be necessary to fulfill the responsibilities of the position, including peak registration periods or extended service hours.
• Busy working environment with numerous interruptions.

SALARY: $31,017. annually (This is a 12 month position to be paid over 12 months)