Financial Aid Counselor

Position Information Financial Aid Counselor – Student Services, Sheridan College. Annual salary range: $18,440 – $27,670. Hourly rate: $18.44 – $23.06. Job Summary The Financial Aid Counselor provides guidance and support to current and prospective students regarding financial aid programs, application processes, eligibility requirements, and funding options. This position helps students navigate federal, state, institutional, and scholarship aid programs while ensuring compliance with applicable regulations and college policies. The Financial Aid Counselor plays a key role in promoting student access, retention, and success. Responsibilities Advise students and families on financial aid options, including grants, scholarships, loans, work‑study, and payment plans. Assist students with completing and understanding the FAFSA and related financial aid documentation. Counsel students regarding satisfactory academic progress, verification requirements, special circumstances, and appeals processes. Communicate financial aid information clearly through in‑person meetings, phone calls, email, workshops, and outreach events. Review financial aid applications and supporting documentation for accuracy and completeness. Determine student eligibility for financial aid programs in accordance with federal, state, and institutional regulations. Maintain accurate student records in the college’s student information system. Collaborate with admissions, registrar, business office, advising, and other campus departments to support student success. Participate in outreach and recruitment activities, including orientation sessions, financial literacy workshops, and community events. Stay current on changes to financial aid regulations, policies, and best practices. Ensure confidentiality and compliance with FERPA and federal financial aid regulations. Perform other related duties as assigned. Qualifications Associate’s degree required; bachelor’s degree preferred, from an accredited college or university. Computer database and records maintenance experience. Basic accounting skills related to budgeting and reconciliation. Evidence of excellent customer service in a diverse environment. Strong problem‑solving and conflict‑resolution skills. High level of processing with documented attention to detail. Knowledge, Skills & Abilities Numbers‑oriented and strong understanding of budgeting principles. Strong interpersonal, communication, and customer service skills. Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail. Proficiency with Microsoft Office and student information systems/databases. Ability to plan and present informational programs to individuals and groups. Work independently and multitask. Understanding of integrated database systems. Ability to explain complex information clearly and compassionately to diverse populations. Collaboration with teams and independence. Maintain confidentiality and exercise sound judgment. Familiarity with Colleague or other financial aid management systems preferred. Experience Experience in higher education financial aid programs preferred. Minimum of one academic year of experience in a financial aid office preferred. Benefits Employer‑paid retirement plan (17.62% employer paid; 1.50% employee paid). Group Health, Dental and Life Insurance, including Flex Benefits. 20 days paid annual leave. Four days per year paid personal leave. 16 paid holidays per year. Paid medical, emergency and bereavement leave. Choice of free meals swipes each semester in modern campus dining facility. Employee and family tuition waivers. Collaborative work environment. Onsite fitness center and walking track. Verizon, Microsoft, Dell and HP employee discounts. Professional development opportunities. Working Conditions Office environment with occasional heavy lifting. Frequent interaction with students, faculty, staff, and community members. Occasional evenings and weekends. Must possess a valid driver’s license and an acceptable driving record. Mobility to move around campus required. #J-18808-Ljbffr