Financial Aid Advisor

Financial Aid Advisor

Founded in 1965, UC Irvine is a member of the prestigious Association of American Universities and is ranked among the nation's top 10 public universities by U.S. News & World Report. The campus has produced five Nobel laureates and is known for its academic achievement, premier research, innovation and anteater mascot. Led by Chancellor Howard Gillman, UC Irvine has more than 36,000 students and offers 224 degree programs. It's located in one of the world's safest and most economically vibrant communities and is Orange County's second-largest employer, contributing $7 billion annually to the local economy and $8 billion statewide.

The Division of Enrollment Management is a key campus thought partner that provides collaborative leadership in university-wide efforts, utilizing systematic, innovative, and synergistic approaches to leverage a data-informed enrollment strategy to improve market distinctiveness, and execute the campus strategic plan. The division comprises the offices of Enrollment Management, Financial Aid & Scholarships, University Registrar, and Undergraduate Admissions. The Office of Financial Aid & Scholarships is a key contributor to student success and student access in higher education, administering all types of financial assistance for eligible students demonstrating financial need, academic merit, and/or other merit factor(s). This includes, but is not limited to scholarships, grants, loans, and/or work-study awards.

Your Role on the Team The Financial Aid Advisor uses professional financial aid concepts applied to a limited number of financial aid functions. Provides information and interpretation of standard policies, procedures and regulations. Works independently under general supervision, interpreting a variety of financial aid policies and procedures as well as agency regulations. Advises students and parents regarding all aspects of financial aid, including various University, Federal, and State financial aid programs, student budgets and fee payments. Analyzes student data and verifies the integrity of documentation (e.g., IRS, DHS, Social Security, etc.) to determine eligibility for student aid programs. Processes documents for the initial and follow-up evaluation of student files.

What It Takes to be Successful Required: Basic knowledge of policies, regulations, and practices for awarding financial aid. Basic knowledge of student loan programs, funding processes, Federal regulations, and Federal loan processing system. Basic knowledge of University policies, processes, and procedures. Basic knowledge of advising and counseling techniques. Ability to apply knowledge of policies to individual situations. Problem identification and critical thinking skills. Ability to calculate financial aid with attention to detail and accuracy. Organizational skills and ability to prioritize work and meet deadlines. Demonstrates written and verbal communication skills. Active listening skills. Possesses customer service orientation skills. Ability to assess processes and recommend improvements. Good interpersonal skills. Bachelor's degree in related area and / or equivalent experience / training 1-3 years related experience Preferred: Proficiency with standard office software, internet, and email applications. Basic knowledge of common University-specific computer application programs. Experience using complex databases. Experience using student financial planning/student billing systems. Experience using content management software. Special Conditions: Occasional/seasonal nights and weekends. Must complete and pass a US Department of Justice background check. Hybrid position. On-site availability is required. On-site days TBD.