Financial Aid Specialist

Financial Aid Specialist

Department: Financial Aid


Location: Columbia, MO
Work Format : On Campus


Type: Staff; Full-time
Pay: $19 per hour (Pay range may vary based on geographic location)


Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States; visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

Job Summary:

We are seeking a Financial Aid Specialist to join our team in Columbia, MO. The ideal candidate will have experience in financial aid administration and a strong understanding of federal and state financial aid programs. The Financial Aid Specialist will be responsible for assisting students with the financial aid application process, determining eligibility for aid, and awarding financial aid packages. Additionally, the specialist will provide guidance and support to students and families regarding financial aid options and resources. Strong communication and organizational skills are essential for success in this role.


Essential Functions:

Perform job duties in accordance with Columbia College's vision, mission and values, and contributes to the development of the Financial Aid Department.


Review and award financial aid while complying with federal, state and institutional policy.


Understands the compliance requirements of aid processing and ensures compliance and accuracy in work performed.

Analyze student and parent circumstances and determines aid eligibility within the confines of federal, state and local regulations.


Correspond with students through various methods of communication including but not limited to email, phone and in person. Must be able to explain problem and provide resolution and eligibility status.


Makes decisions to award funds to students eligible for scholarships, grants and college work study. Determines amount of borrowing eligibility, evaluates academic progress, student budgets, grade level eligibility, length of program, family contribution to certify aid. Performs need analysis, determines tolerance level, student budget, and family contribution to determine financial need.


Responsible for auditing and reconciling financial aid accounts and packaging financial aid awards.


Manages conflicting information reviews.

Assists in the administration of the financial aid programs.


Interprets and implements current regulations.

Assist in documenting policies and procedures pertaining to financial aid.


Participate in financial aid events on and off campus.


Processing volume must consistently meet accuracy and quantity expectations.


Prioritize tasks based on an understanding of critical enrollment dates, daily priorities, student needs, and institutional initiatives.


Provide support in projects, such as testing and development of improvement projects within the office.


Provides training support on areas of staff person's expertise.


Understand and respond to escalated student situations regarding complex financial aid situations.


Provides support for cross-departmental/divisional activities such as phone and IM support.


Practice superior customer service.


Fulfill additional responsibilities as assigned.


Display respect and civility to all constituencies in all communications.


Attend work timely and on a regular basis during the established hours of operation; work additional hours as business necessitates.


Position reports to : Assistant Director or Associate Director


Required Core Competencies and Professional Experience:


Ability to fluently read, write, and understand the English language.


Proficiency with the following, but not limited to: active listening; speaking; writing; critical thinking; judgment and decision making; monitoring; reading comprehension; time management; coordination; and management of personnel resources.


Proficiency for using a variety of computer and technology-related software and equipment, including Microsoft Office products and database systems.


Proficiency in using web-based technologies, including database systems.


Ability to work independently and in a team environment, with or without direct supervision.


Excellent communication, interpersonal, customer service, and organizational skills.


Ability to maintain confidentiality and effectively work in a multi-tasked environment with a variety of individuals.


Ability to meet deadlines and manages details efficiently.


Ability to adapt to a changing and growing environment.


Ability to work in fast-paced environment.


Preferred Core Competencies and Professional Experience:

One to three years financial aid experience in higher education.


Knowledge of Title IV regulations for federal student aid.


Special Requirements (if any):

• Valid Driver's License and ability to pass the Driver's background check.

Physical Requirements: The physical requirements described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions. Individuals seeking accommodation should contact the Human Resources Department without delay. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit for long periods of time, talk, and hear. The employee is required to use hands and fingers to handle or feel, reach with hands and arms, climb or balance, and stoop, kneel, or crawl. Employees must be able to type on a computer keyboard and use a computer monitor on a regular basis.

Work Conditions: The work environment conditions described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is rarely exposed to outside weather conditions; however, possible exposure to hazards and physical risks to personal safety may occur while operating certain equipment. The noise level in the work environment is usually mild.

Interested applicants may apply online at Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. Columbia College is an equal opportunity employer.

This job description is not meant to be all-inclusive of every duty and responsibility required by the employee in the position.

Eligibility for employee benefits and perks is determined by employment status. For more information please see

The offer of employment and assignment to duties is contingent upon a satisfactory criminal background check. The information may include, but is not limited to, academic, residential, achievement, performance, attendance, disciplinary, employment history, credit history, driving history, and criminal history of public record.

Columbia College is committed to creating an inclusive employee experience for all regardless of race, color, national origin, gender, religion, sexual orientation, age or disability. The college maintains a safe place for open discourse and overall, fosters a sense of community that welcomes everyone.

In compliance with the Higher Education Opportunity Act (HEOA) and the Jeanne Clery Campus Safety Act (Clery Act), the Department of Campus Safety for Columbia College has provided the Annual Security and Fire Safety Report and crime statistics for the main campus and venues nationwide.

Columbia College is required to distribute this information to all current and prospective employees and students. Please follow the link below for the full report or contact Human Resources at View phone number on click.appcast.io for a printed copy.