Financial Aid Advisor II

: What's next for you is the first priority for us! With over 45 programs from associate to doctoral degrees, South University is a private institution dedicated to providing educational opportunities that spark the intellectual, social and professional development of a diverse student population. Our 120-year story—past, present and future—is a history formed by the many individuals who have developed the education and spirit of community that have become our pledge to the students, faculty, staff, alumni and supporters of South University. Online and at our 8 locations and 2 learning sites, we take pride in our welcoming environment; one-on-one support and personalized attention that helps students define goals and identify the means to pursue them. Our small classes feature hands-on experiences that not only shape students' skills and excellence in their chosen fields but also shape their characters through encouraging community involvement, volunteerism and the pursuit of life-long learning. Visit today to learn more about what makes us stand apart as a place to Belong, Believe and Become, a place where you can make a difference in the lives of students eager to learn and grow. South University, the right direction for a brighter future. Benefits:

• Medical
• Dental
• Vision

FSA/HSA Tuition Assistant Program Long/Short Term Disability Life Insurance Employee Assistance Program 401K Match Generous Paid Time Off 12 Paid Holidays

• includes domestic partner coverage

POSITION SUMMARY: Responsible for providing general financial aid knowledge and overviews to new, continuing, and returning students. Develop, negotiate, and finalize student financial plans consistent with financial planning policies and procedures and Federal/State regulations for awarding aid. Explain and guide students and parents through the application process, including verification, conflicting information, and C Code Resolution. Counsel students on all acceptances and other matters related directly to the student's financial plan. Assure that the South University philosophy of quality services to clients, development, growth, involvement, and recognition of employees, sound economic principles, and an environment that is conducive to innovation, positive thinking, and expansion is considered in carrying out the duties and responsibilities of this position. KEY JOB ELEMENTS:

• Work cohesively with the Admission Representative in order to facilitate outstanding service to prospective students and their parents.
• Efficiently and accurately package assigned students, including includes new, continuing, re-entry, and transfer students.
• Guide students on the financial aid process, including required forms, documents, and processes.
• Create financial plans for assigned students in compliance with institutional policies and Federal regulations, communicate the plan to students and parents, and effectively explain the rights and responsibilities of each aid source.
• Assist students and parents with an alternative means of financing any remaining balance after awarding eligible federal, state, or institutional aid
• Ensure student files are complete and accurate and that aid is paid to students' accounts in a timely manner.
• Review ISIRs, request outstanding documents, and perform all levels of verification and C Code reviews.
• Utilize reports to review students, analyze work needed, ability to prioritize daily workload, and independently prioritize workload.
• Strong Customer Service, ability to calm students and parents, accurately articulates the status of a student's aid and account.
• Complete the appropriate training modules within 30 days of the new or revised module becoming available.
• Assist with or perform special projects as assigned. Other duties as assigned.

JOB REQUIREMENTS:

• Bachelor's degree in a related discipline or Associate's Degree and 3 years of related experience with federal and student financial aid, or 5 years of related experience with federal and student aid.
• Financial aid or accounting experience is required.
• Customer service and problem-solving experience are required.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to make small group presentations and skill in interacting on a one-on-one basis.
• The ability to multi-task, work independently, and make decisions based on guidelines.
• Strong basic computer software (MS Office) skills and exposure to more concentrated financial aid software (Campus Vue/Campus Nexus preferred)

ENVIRONMENT: The environment is dynamic and goal-oriented, requiring multi-tasking of responsibilities at all times. This position requires the ability to work effectively with a variety of personalities, both within the school and with the public. A caring and self-directed nature is essential. Must possess a desire and ability to study, practice, and obtain additional knowledge and skills on an ongoing basis to remain well-versed in financial aid program offerings, policies, and procedures. The operating environment requires strict adherence to all regulatory requirements and internal policies. The position works extensively with the financial aid staff and the admissions department personnel. Outside contacts include prospective students and applicants, their families and guests, and others such as government agencies, public school systems, and private businesses. The duties and characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. The term "qualified individual with a disability" means an individual with a disability who, with or without reasonable accommodation, can perform the essential functions of the position. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to communicate professionally in person, over the telephone, through email and other electronic means, move about the office or school, handle various types of media and equipment, and visually or otherwise identify, observe, and assess. The employee is occasionally required to lift up to 10 pounds unless otherwise specified in the . South University is an Equal Opportunity Employer and embraces diversity as a critical step in ensuring employee, student, and graduate success. We are committed to building and developing a diverse environment where a variety of ideas, cultures, and perspectives can thrive.