Financial Aid Counselor

Compensation and Benefits: Compensation: $44,191.00 to $57,448.00 annually. Additional benefits and total compensation package will be determined based on experience, fit, and equity. Position Summary: The Financial Aid Counselor provides essential support to students and families in navigating the financial aid process. This role includes assisting with the Free Application for Financial Aid (FAFSA) application procedures, interpreting federal, state, and institutional policies, and advising students on financial aid programs such as scholarships, grants, loans, and work‑study. The Counselor will ensure students are informed about available financial resources and provide outstanding service to make their educational journey financially feasible. Key Responsibilities: Offer personalized financial aid guidance to prospective and current students and their families. Assist students in understanding their financial aid packages and guide them on budgeting and managing finances during their academic career. Review and assess financial aid applications, including the FAFSA, institutional forms, and other necessary documentation. Ensure compliance with federal, state, and institutional regulations when awarding financial aid. Identify and resolve discrepancies in submitted financial aid applications. Help manage financial aid programs such as federal grants and student loans. Administer institutional scholarships and grants, ensuring eligibility and accurate disbursement. Assist in creating and updating financial aid policies and procedures. Design and lead financial aid workshops, presentations, and outreach activities for students, families, and staff. Maintain clear communication with students regarding the status of their financial aid applications, award updates, and any additional required documentation. Address complex financial aid inquiries or issues promptly and professionally. Offer support to students facing financial challenges by providing suggestions for additional resources or alternative payment options. Stay up‑to‑date on federal and state financial aid regulations to ensure activities comply with relevant laws and institutional policies. Assist in preparing reports and audits related to financial aid disbursements and student eligibility. Qualifications: Education and Experience: Two (2) years of experience in academic, financial, or customer service operations support, or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Knowledge of college enrollment management processes, including admissions, registration, financial aid, and student services. Skills & Abilities: Commitment to providing exceptional customer service to students, parents, and colleagues; excellent communication skills (active listening, professional written communication, public speaking); proficiency with computer applications (student information systems, financial aid management systems, CRM tools, office software); ability to perform and document financial aid calculations accurately; experience in creating and revising financial aid award notifications; discretion and independent judgment; problem‑solving skills; strong leadership; collaboration; cultural competence. Other Requirements: Availability to work occasional evenings and weekends for special events and peak times. Preferred Qualifications: Experience working in a Financial Aid Office. Familiarity with Ellucian (BANNER), Workday or similar student information system. Experience with Salesforce or a similar CRM system. Knowledge of and experience with automated financial aid systems, such as COD, NSLDS, FAA Access, and CPS. Experience with document imaging software. Familiarity with the Google suite of office products (Docs, Sheets, Drive, Gmail, Calendar). #J-18808-Ljbffr