Financial Aid Specialist

California Miramar University is a DEAC-accredited, career-focused university serving a diverse community of domestic and international students through undergraduate, graduate, and certificate programs. As our university continues to grow, we are building a talented and collaborative team committed to helping students succeed. Team members have the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in students' academic journeys while developing their own skills, expanding their careers, and contributing to a supportive and student-centered community. About the Role California Miramar University is seeking a full-time Financial Aid Specialist to guide students through the financial aid process, from FAFSA completion through disbursement. Working closely with the Financial Aid Director and the Finance Department, this role serves as a primary point of contact for student financial aid inquiries, maintains accurate and compliant financial aid records, and helps ensure student funding is processed accurately and on time. The ideal candidate brings working knowledge of Federal Student Aid (Title IV) programs, a high level of accuracy, and a student-first approach to communication and follow-up. Pay: $26.00 to $33.00 per hour Job type: Full-time, fully on-site Schedule: 10:00 AM to 6:30 PM Key Responsibilities The responsibilities of this role include, but are not limited to: Student Support and Communication Serve as a primary point of contact for student financial aid inquiries by email, phone, and in person. Guide students through the FAFSA, eligibility requirements, required documentation, entrance counseling, and Master Promissory Note (MPN) requirements. Follow up promptly and consistently with students regarding missing or incomplete documentation. Monitor outstanding student requests and proactively resolve issues that could delay financial aid processing or disbursement. Financial Aid Processing and Compliance Review student financial aid files for completeness, accuracy, and compliance. Assist with processing and monitoring financial aid applications, verification, and related requirements. Maintain accurate and organized financial aid records and student information. Ensure assigned activities comply with federal, state, and university financial aid regulations and policies. Prepare financial aid reports, correspondence, and other documentation as needed. Stay current on changes to financial aid regulations, policies, and procedures. Finance Coordination and Department Support Work closely with the Finance Department to coordinate financial aid disbursements, student account balances, refunds, credit balances, and reconciliation of financial aid activity. Research and resolve discrepancies between financial aid records and student accounts in partnership with the Financial Aid Director and Finance. Support audit, compliance, and reconciliation activities by gathering documentation and ensuring financial aid records are complete and accurate. Provide operational and administrative support to the Financial Aid Director, including file reviews, reporting, and assigned projects, with additional support during peak processing periods, regulatory reporting, and audits. Collaborate with the Registrar, Admissions, Student Services, and other departments to support students and meet institutional deadlines. Required Qualifications Bachelor's degree in business administration, finance, education, accounting, or a related field. One or more years of experience in financial aid administration, including administering or supporting Title IV programs. Working knowledge of Federal Student Aid (Title IV) regulations and programs, including the FAFSA, Pell Grants, Direct Loans, verification, entrance counseling, and MPNs. Familiarity with Federal Student Aid systems such as COD, NSLDS, and StudentAid.gov. Experience with a student information or financial aid management system, such as Populi or Anthology CampusVue. Proficiency in Microsoft Office, particularly Excel, Outlook, and Word. Strong written and verbal communication skills with a student-service orientation. High level of accuracy, organization, and attention to detail. Ability to work fully on-site in San Diego. Preferred Qualifications Experience with Populi. Experience coordinating with Finance or Student Accounts on disbursements, refunds, credit balances, and reconciliations. Experience supporting financial aid audits, compliance reviews, or regulatory reporting. Key Skills for Success Clear, timely, and professional communication with students by phone, email, and in person. Consistent follow-through on student inquiries and documentation requests. Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet regulatory deadlines. Analytical and problem-solving skills to identify and resolve discrepancies in student records. Collaboration with the Financial Aid Director, Finance, and other departments. Adaptability and willingness to learn new systems, processes, and regulatory requirements. Discretion in handling confidential student and financial information. Health, dental, and vision insurance Paid time off Employee assistance program California Miramar University is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to any characteristic protected by applicable law. #J-18808-Ljbffr