Financial Aid Counselor

Financial Aid CounselorThe Financial Aid Counselor provides a variety of professional and administrative duties in support of the day to day operations of Financial Aid in compliance with all policies related to internal and external financial aid requirements.Essential Functions:Exercise discretion and independent judgment through interpretation, implementation, and research of federal and institutional policies and regulations in response to customer needs and departmental practicesProvide one-on-one financial counseling and eligibility information to students and/or parents according to individual needReview documents, perform need analysis, make determinations, and award financial aid packages to eligible students implementing established guidelines and proceduresVerify student FAFSA information; prepare individual student aid reports for packaging, analyzing information reported for consistencyPresent at prospective and new student events and by request from staff, faculty, and studentsCounsel students on issues related to borrowing including aggregate limit issues, maximum time frame processes and graduation exit requirementsWork collaboratively with individuals from various departmentsAssist in the management of outstanding account balances and student account payment plansAssist with the Loan Entrance and Exit Counseling processes, providing regulatory advice as it pertains to Direct LendingServe as a resource for students seeking outside scholarship opportunitiesRespond in a timely fashion to correspondence related to student financial aid including eligibility information, verification information, and other questionsBe up to date on prevailing State and Federal regulations and WPU policies and procedures by attending training and conferences as opportunities ariseAbide by NASFAA Principles of Good PracticeContribute to the support and implementation of the University Strategic PlanParticipate in Warner Pacific University professional development opportunitiesAdhere to University policies and procedures regarding financial aid and student financial servicesDemonstrate commitment to a Christian liberal arts education by upholding to the mission of the University and abiding by the Employment Standards and Lifestyle AgreementBe present in the office on a daily basis unless arrangements are made with the employee's direct supervisorPerform other duties as assignedMinimum Qualifications:Minimum of three years of experience working in a professional office environmentBachelor Degree from an accredited institution or equivalent experience in a higher education environmentDemonstrated ability to solve problems and initiate and implement projects independentlyAbility to multi-task with accuracy and work effectively in order to adapt to and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environmentExcellent self-motivation, oral and written communication skills, and the ability to work well with customers, students, faculty, and staffSkill in presenting information to groups of various sizesAbility to work outside of normal business hours, as necessary (campus events, orientations, etc.)Proficient in computer programs including Windows, Outlook, Word and Excel, and the InternetExhibit commitment to inclusiveness and sensitivity to areas of national origin, ethnicity, culture, gender, and disabilitiesPreferred Qualifications:Experience in a higher education environmentBilingual – Spanish speaker preferredExperience using the Ellucian Colleague student information systemExperience in financial aid including standard and nonstandard term delivery methodsExperience working with adult learnersPhysical Demands – Work Environment:The position is located in a typical office environment. Professional/business casual attire is required. There is not a remote work option for this position. Warner Pacific University