Student Financial Aid Officer III

Job Summary Are you interested in helping students achieve their educational and professional goals? Are you looking for a rewarding opportunity in higher education that provides a hybrid remote work schedule and a comprehensive benefits package including employee tuition assistance? The Office of Financial Aid is looking for an individual with financial aid or other higher education experience to fill our Student Financial Aid Officer III position. Apply now to join our team! The Student Financial Aid Officer III performs a variety of job duties associated with the coordination, awarding, disbursement, and returning of state, federal, and institutional financial aid assistance programs as part of the Office of Financial Aid Counseling Team. This position advises students and families about financial aid processes and requirements, collaborates with other University departments to promote a holistically positive student experience, and works with other Office of Financial Aid teams to ensure efficient and accurate processing of financial aid. Minimum Education and Experience Bachelor’s degree. Two years previous Financial Aid or related experience. An equivalent combination of relevant education and experience may be considered. Excellent organizational skills; proficient in MS Office products and ability to learn other software programs; detail oriented, accurate with ability to prioritize information in a timely manner; strong communication skills; written, oral, active listening and interpersonal skills; work effectively in team situations; proactive in identifying potential issues; demonstrate computational ability; ability to investigate, analyze and interpret data or information for accuracy and completeness in order to make informed decisions; ability to work on several tasks at one time; ability to make quality decisions based on available information; ability to respond effectively in a variety of situations; ability to improve performance by doing new things; ability to plan, coordinate, schedule, direct and monitor tasks, activities and assignments to effectively complete a project; knowledge of different work styles and personality types; understanding of conflict resolution techniques and demonstrated ability to confront employees in a positive manner; understand cross‑cultural communication needs and respond accordingly; understanding of UTD’s strategic plan and goals and ability to communicate them in a motivational way to staff. Must be eligible to administer Title IV aid. Other Qualifications To the extent this position requires the holder to research, work on, or have access to critical infrastructure as defined in Section 117.001(2) of the Texas Business and Commerce Code, the ability to maintain the security or integrity of the critical infrastructure is a minimum qualification to be hired and to continue to be employed in the position. Essential Duties and Responsibilities Provide information to current and prospective students regarding financial aid program requirements and procedures. Serve as the primary point of contact for current and prospective students within a specific caseload. Facilitate the application for financial aid process by assisting students with completing appropriate and required forms; by advising them of their rights and responsibilities concerning financial aid; and, by providing them with the status of their applications. Counsel and advise students about financial aid eligibility, aid programs, and costs. Assist students with estimating educational expenses in order to calculate needs for the aid year and to prepare a financial plan. Counsel students on federal, state, and private education loan requirements such as entrance and exit counseling, repayment options, and overall debt management. Participate in the review of student financial aid eligibility, verification, student academic progress, and unusual circumstances pertaining to financial aid. Ensure compliance with all financial aid policies, procedures, and regulations in the review of financial aid applications; exercise sound judgment when interpreting federal and state regulations for specific student situations. Maintain competency and professional growth through self‑directed professional reading, attending professional development courses, and attending trainings as required. Serve as point of contact for other UT Dallas departments (Admissions, Bursar, Advising, Military and Veteran Center) regarding financial aid questions and concerns. Conduct internal and external financial aid presentations at open houses, orientations, financial aid workshops, etc., occasionally requiring weekend or evening work hours. Demonstrate integrity and ethical behavior in working with confidential information and maintain a high level of confidentiality. Physical Demands and Working Conditions Requires the ability to sit or stand at will for extended periods of time throughout the workday. Requires the ability to perform frequent to constant repetitive keyboarding activities to complete work tasks. Additional Information The successful candidate must be eligible to administer Title IV student aid. Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Excellent written and verbal communication skills, active listening skills, and interpersonal skills. Ability to plan, coordinate, schedule, and monitor tasks and activities to complete work assignments timely and efficiently. Ability to interpret, apply, and comply with policies and regulations. Remote Work Notice Following successful completion of an initial training period, a hybrid work schedule may be available, subject to business needs and departmental approval. Employee must be located within the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex area and have the ability to be on campus for work activities as scheduled and/or with 24‑hour notice. Completion and approval of a UT Dallas Remote Work Agreement will be required, and use of personal computer, internet, and other standard equipment may be required. Remote work arrangements are subject to regular review and re‑approval and may be cancelled. What We Offer Medical with prescription drug coverage (100% paid for full‑time employees), dental, and vision insurance plans. Life, AD&D, and disability insurance plans. Flexible Spending Accounts. Paid time off and holidays. Employee tuition assistance. Professional development and training opportunities. Employee wellness and employee assistance programs. 1) All employees serve as a representative of the University and are expected to display respect, civility, professional courtesy, consideration of others and discretion in all interactions with members of the UT Dallas community and the general public. 2) The University of Texas at Dallas is committed to providing an educational, living, and working environment that is welcoming, respectful, and inclusive of all members of the university community. UT Dallas does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, national origin, disability, genetic information, or veteran status in its services, programs, activities, employment, and education, including in admission and enrollment. The University is committed to providing access, equal opportunity, and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities. To request reasonable accommodation in the employment application and interview process, contact the ADA Coordinator. For inquiries regarding nondiscrimination policies, contact the Title IX Coordinator. #J-18808-Ljbffr