Financial Aid Counselor

Financial Aid Counselor

McMinnville Campus - McMinnville, OR 97128

Position Summary

Linfield University is seeking a detail-oriented, student-focused Financial Aid Counselor to join our Financial Aid Office. This position plays an important role in helping students and families navigate the financial aid process by providing knowledgeable guidance, exceptional customer service, and support in understanding available financial aid opportunities.

The Financial Aid Counselor is responsible for evaluating financial aid applications, determining student eligibility, administering federal, state, and institutional aid programs, and ensuring compliance with applicable regulations. The successful candidate will demonstrate strong analytical and problem-solving skills, sound judgment, and a commitment to supporting students from diverse backgrounds in achieving their educational goals.

Key Responsibilities

Financial Aid Advising and Student Support

• Advise prospective, incoming, and current students and their families on financial aid programs, scholarships, eligibility requirements, and application procedures.
• Provide clear, accurate information and assist students and families in resolving financial aid concerns with professionalism, empathy, and sound judgment.
• Represent the Financial Aid Office at campus events, including orientations, admitted student programs, and FAFSA/ORSAA completion workshops.
• Communicate with students regarding missing documentation, eligibility requirements, award adjustments, and other financial aid matters.
• Ensure students receive required exit counseling information upon graduation, withdrawal, or enrollment below half-time.

Financial Aid Processing and Compliance

• Review and evaluate FAFSA applications and supporting financial documentation to determine student eligibility for federal, state, and institutional financial aid.
• Complete verification reviews, including analysis of income, household information, and other required documentation, while ensuring accuracy and regulatory compliance.
• Apply professional judgment when appropriate, maintaining thorough documentation and justification for decisions.
• Monitor and conduct initial reviews of Return to Title IV (R2T4), Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP), and course withdrawal notifications.
• Maintain accurate student records and protect confidential information in accordance with FERPA and applicable regulations.
• Exercise independent judgment and attention to detail to ensure accurate awarding, prevent funding errors, and maintain institutional compliance.

Financial Aid Program Administration

• Reconcile Federal Work-Study, Federal Pell Grant, and Oregon state financial aid programs, including the Oregon Opportunity Grant.
• Administer and award OSAC scholarships, Ford Family scholarships, and other applicable last-dollar scholarship programs.
• Coordinate the awarding of endowed and donated scholarships, partnering with University Advancement on donor notifications and the establishment of new scholarship funds.
• Monitor TEACH Grant eligibility, including academic requirements, documentation, and exit counseling notifications.
• Administer federal and private education loan processes, including Parent PLUS, Graduate PLUS, and private loan certifications, and resolve discrepancies between university and federal systems.

Collaboration and Professional Development

• Collaborate with campus partners, including Admissions, Academic Affairs, Athletics, the Business Office, the Registrar's Office, and University Advancement, to support student success and efficient financial aid operations.
• Stay current on federal and state financial aid regulations, policies, and best practices through ongoing professional development and participation in relevant training opportunities.
• Contribute to a collaborative, service-oriented team environment and assist with additional responsibilities as assigned.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications

• Experience working with financial documents, data management, or administrative processes requiring a high degree of accuracy and attention to detail.
• Strong computer skills, including proficiency with Microsoft Office applications such as Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, and the ability to learn specialized financial aid systems.
• Ability to interpret and apply complex policies, procedures, and regulations.
• Excellent interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills, with the ability to explain complex information clearly and effectively.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills, with the ability to exercise sound judgment and manage competing priorities.
• Demonstrated ability to provide excellent customer service, resolve concerns professionally, and work effectively with individuals from diverse backgrounds.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
• Commitment to maintaining confidentiality and handling sensitive student and financial information appropriately.
• Willingness and ability to work occasional evenings and weekends to support university events and activities.

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution.
• Experience working in higher education, financial aid administration, or a related student services environment.
• Knowledge of federal and state financial aid programs, eligibility requirements, and compliance regulations.
• Experience with financial aid management systems and federal platforms, including Ellucian Colleague, NSLDS, COD, and CPS or their successor systems.
• Bilingual and bicultural skills that support effective communication with students and families from diverse backgrounds.

Why Join Linfield University?

At Linfield University, you'll be part of a welcoming, collaborative community dedicated to student success and lifelong learning. Our Financial Aid Office plays a vital role in making higher education accessible and helping students pursue their academic and personal goals. As a Financial Aid Counselor, you'll have the opportunity to make a meaningful difference by guiding students and families through important financial decisions while contributing to Linfield's mission of connecting learning, life, and community.

About Linfield University

Founded in 1858, Linfield University is an independent, comprehensive institution of higher education with campuses in McMinnville and Portland, Oregon, as well as online programs. Known for its commitment to academic excellence, personalized education, and experiential learning, Linfield prepares students to lead lives of purpose and impact.

Linfield University values diversity and strives to create an inclusive environment that honors different perspectives, backgrounds, and experiences. We welcome applicants who share our commitment to fostering a respectful, supportive, and engaged campus community.

PLEASE NOTE: We are hiring for EITHER a Senior Financial Aid Counselor OR a Financial Aid Counselor. If you meet the qualifications for both positions, please APPLY TO BOTH POSITIONS