Operations Specialist

Financial Aid Operations SpecialistFounded in 1897, Piedmont University is a private, comprehensive liberal arts university with an enrollment of approximately 2,000 students at campuses in Demorest and Athens, Georgia.The Financial Aid Operations Specialist supports the daily operations of the financial aid office at Piedmont University. This position will have the primary responsibility of pulling in federal financial aid data into the university's software program, as well as working on other data processing and additional administrative paperwork within the office.Import in Federal Institutional Student Information Record (ISIRS), state aid applications (GSFApps), and Institutional applications into the financial aid office system Ellucian Colleague. Track students progress as they move through the financial aid awarding process, including notifications of items needed because of C codes or verification flags from the US Department of Education. Coordinate the federal and state financial aid audits including gathering data and assisting with action items. Serve as a back up for the advisors when students are in need of counseling or advisement as well as financial aid options, the application process, and communications through email, phone calls, zoom meetings, and admissions tours. Assists in providing information regarding financial aid and resources available to students. Maintain the files of students who are in the verification process including reviewing and submitting documents. Instruct students in correct procedures for completing applications and forms, submitting supporting documents and special requirements. Collaborates with Admissions by reviewing merit awards for acceptance letters on weekly acceptance lists. Assists staff in processing tuition exchange, tuition remission, and satisfactory academic progress throughout the year. Participate in financial aid outreach presentations, table events, and FAFSA filing workshops both on and off campus. Collects and reviews financial aid forms and documents to determine the completeness and eligibility of financial aid applications. Reviews financial aid awards in batches and checks for errors and updates in federal and state aid programs. Investigates and resolves problems related to transactions. handled by the department; serves as a liaison with other departments or units in resolving day-to-day administrative and operational issues. Other relevant duties as assigned. Regular and predictable attendance is required. On-site work is required.Incumbents must remain relevant in the area of employment and flexible to changes in work related to institutional needs.Education and Experience High school diploma or GED required. Associates or bachelors degree preferred. Previous financial aid office experience is not required but preferred. Bilingual in Spanish preferred but not required. Licenses and Certification Valid Georgia Driver's License (or obtained within 30 days of hire date) and satisfactory MVR. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Knowledge of financial aid processes, procedures, and documentation applicable to a public institution. Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to effectively communicate with a wide range of individuals and constituencies in a diverse community. Ability to maintain high accuracy and work quality standards. Data management and tracking skills. Ability to work independently. Must be able to assign priorities under fast paced environment. Excellent computer, math, verbal and written skills. Ability to provide clear guidance and instruction to students and parents regarding financial aid. Ability to collaboratively and effectively work in a diverse and inclusive environment.Environmental, Physical, and Visual Acuity Factors Essential functions and responsibilities of this position are performed in an inside environmental condition, where there is protection from weather conditions but not necessarily temperature changes. Essential functions and responsibilities require light work: Exerting up to 20 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 10 pounds of force frequently, and/or a negligible amount of force constantly to move objects. If the use of arm and/or leg controls requires exertion of forces greater than that for Sedentary Work and the worker sits most of the time, the job is rated for Light Work. Essential functions and responsibilities require incumbents to: climb or ascend and descend stairs or ramps using feet and legs; stoop by bending the body downward and forward by bending the spine at the waist; kneel by bending legs to come to rest on knee or knees; crouch by bending the body downward and forward by bending leg and spine; reach or extend hands and arms in any direction; stand by remaining upright on the feet; walk or move about on foot to accomplish tasks; lift by raising objects from a lower to a higher position or moving objects horizontally from position-to-position; finger, grasp, or feel objects; talk to exchange and express ideas; and to hear to perceive the nature of sounds at normal speaking levels. Incumbents must have close visual acuity to perform activities such as extensive reading and operate computers and other office equipment.Non-Discrimination Policy Piedmont University has a strong institutional commitment to the achievement of diversity within its faculty, staff, and students.It is the policy of Piedmont University not to discriminate in its educational programs, activities, or employment on the basis of sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, physical or mental disability, pregnancy, race, age, religion, color, national or ethnic origin, veteran status, genetic information, or any other category protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.Benefits We offer a complete benefits package to full-time 12-month employees, including:Health InsuranceVision InsuranceDental InsuranceFlexible Spending AccountsTIAA 403(b) Retirement - with up to 4% employer matchingLife InsuranceLong-Term Disability InsuranceHolidaysVacationMedical Leave (Sick Leave)Educational Assistance Program (Employees and their dependents)On-campus Fitness Center and access to Habersham County's Ruby Fulbright Aquatic Center