Financial Aid Counselor

Financial Aid Counselor

The Financial Aid Counselor is responsible for supporting the administration of federal, state, and institutional financial aid programs while delivering high-quality service to students and families. This role manages a caseload of students and ensures compliance with all applicable regulations while contributing to a student-centered, efficient financial aid operation.

Key Responsibilities

• Counsel students and families on financial aid eligibility, application requirements, cost of attendance, and funding options
• Review and process financial aid applications (FAFSA/ISIR) and resolve conflicting information
• Determine student eligibility, including review of C-Flags, C-Codes, and database matches
• Perform federal verification and ensure compliance with Title IV regulations
• Package and adjust financial aid awards, including monitoring for over awards
• Manage Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) evaluations and appeals
• Review and process special circumstance requests using professional judgment
• Assist with loan processing, including Direct Loans and Parent PLUS Loans
• Support reconciliation, reporting, and compliance activities as needed
• Participate in recruitment, outreach, and financial literacy initiatives
• Provide front-line customer service and support to students, families, and campus partners
• Collaborate with Admissions, Student Accounts, and other campus departments to support student success
• Perform other duties as assigned

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Business, Finance, Accounting, Education, or related field
• 2+ years of experience in financial aid, student accounts, or a related field OR transferable experience (see below)
• Equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered

Transferable Experience & Skills (Financial Aid Experience Not Required)

Candidates do not need direct financial aid experience to be successful in this role. We strongly encourage applicants with transferable experience in compliance-based, detail-oriented, and student/client-facing roles to apply.

Relevant backgrounds may include:

• Banking, lending, or loan processing
• Accounting, payroll, or finance
• Admissions, registrar, or enrollment services
• Social services or case management
• Insurance, claims, or benefits administration
• Government or compliance-focused roles

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working in a higher education financial aid office
• Knowledge of Title IV regulations and federal need analysis
• Experience with financial aid systems (PowerFAIDS, Jenzabar, Banner, or similar)
• Strong understanding of SAP, verification, and professional judgment

Key Transferable Skills

Candidates should demonstrate the ability to:

• Interpret and apply policies, rules, or regulations
• Review and verify documentation for accuracy and completeness
• Manage a caseload or high volume of work with competing deadlines
• Communicate complex information clearly and effectively
• Maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information
• Analyze information and make sound, independent decisions
• Provide strong customer service in a fast-paced environment

Training Commitment

We are willing to train the right candidate who demonstrates strong analytical ability, attention to detail, and a commitment to student service.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Ability to interpret and apply complex federal and state regulations
• Excellent communication and customer service skills
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities
• High level of accuracy and attention to detail
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively
• Commitment to supporting a diverse student population

Work Environment

• Full-time, on-campus position
• Fast-paced, service-oriented office environment
• Regular interaction with students, families, and campus stakeholders