Financial Aid Counselor

Financial Aid CounselorThe Financial Aid Counselor provides comprehensive financial aid counseling and support to prospective and current students and their families. This position assists students with the financial aid application process, evaluates eligibility for federal, state, institutional, and other financial aid programs, and ensures compliance with applicable regulations and policies. Responsibilities include reviewing and verifying financial aid documentation, awarding aid, advising students and parents on financial aid options and requirements, and monitoring student records to support timely and accurate processing. The Financial Aid Counselor collaborates with campus partners, conducts outreach and educational presentations, and delivers exceptional customer service through a variety of communication channels in a fast-paced, student-centered environment. This position requires adherence to all applicable federal and state regulations, institutional policies, and NCAA, Southland Conference, Lamar University, and Texas State University System rules and regulations.Essential Job FunctionsProvide financial aid counseling and customer service to students and families by advising them on financial aid programs, eligibility requirements, application procedures, funding opportunities, rights and responsibilities associated with financial aid.Review, verify, and evaluate financial aid applications and supporting documentation to determine eligibility for federal, state, and institutional and other aid programs while ensuring compliance with applicable regulations policies and procedures.Process and administer financial aid awards by calculating cost of attendance, packaging financial aid, monitoring student records, and communication award information and outstanding requirements to students.Maintain effective communication and collaboration with students, parents, and university departments, including Admissions, Registrar, Cashiering, and other campus partners.Support student success and departmental outreach initiatives by conducting financial aid presentations, participating in recruitment and orientation events, facilitating financial literacy programs, and ensuring completion of required federal financial aid counseling and compliance activities.Minimum and Desired QualificationsMinimum Qualifications:Bachelor's degree in finance, business administration or a related field.Minimum of 2 years' experience in financial aid counseling or similar role.Knowledge of Financial Aid programs and familiar with federal, state and institutional financial aid programs.Desired Qualifications:Master's degree in finance, business administration or related field.Previous experience in financial aid counseling or a related field.Supplemental Information Key Competencies:Excellent communication and counseling skills (verbal and written).This position involves significant interaction with students and parents.Strong analytical and computer proficiency skills are necessary, along with the ability to multitask effectively.This job requires the ability to perform the four basic arithmetic operations. Physical Requirements:Ability to sit for extended periods while working at a desk.Proficiency in typing, handling documents and operating office equipment.Ability to move around the office, including walking, reaching, bending and occasionally stooping or kneeling. Job Conditions: Generally, a standard 40-hour workweek with occasional extended hours during peak periods. Extended computer usage, telephone communications and document handling. Special Note: We are unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position. Candidates must be authorized to work in the United States without the need for sponsorship now or in the future. Who We Are:Home to more than 18,000 students, Lamar University is among the fastest growing Texas colleges and universities. LU is a member of The Texas State University System, which is the first higher education system of Texas and maintains the lowest average tuition and fees of any university system in Texas. With more than 120-degree options and a community that cares, Lamar students are always proud to be Cardinals. Lamar University strives to educate leaders, demonstrate excellence in student learning and career readiness, and pursue research with relevance.Lamar University is committed to fostering an environment of teamwork where all students, faculty, and staff can learn, work, and become a part of our community. Benefits:Health, dental & vision insurance?Life insuranceState of Texas Retirement plansTuition covered at 100% for employees, spouses and/or eligible dependents.Paid time off – vacation, sick, and holidays.To see more information about the available benefits, please visit: Benefits - Lamar UniversityLamar University is An Equal Opportunity EmployerLamar University is proud to provide employment preference to veteran applicants in accordance with Texas 805 Government Code, Section 657.003.This position is security-sensitive and thereby subject to the provisions of the Texas Education Code §51.215, which authorizes the employer to obtain criminal history record information.