Financial Aid Counselor

Financial Aid CounselorThe financial aid coordinator position within Louisiana State University's office of financial aid & scholarships will play a key collaborative role in advancing the university and meeting the student enrollment objectives. The individual, with general oversight from the Manager, will be responsible for maintaining financial aid communication with current and prospective students and families.Financial Aid Counseling (60%)Counsels and advises prospective and enrolled students in all matters pertaining to federal and state financial aid programs, including but not limited to Federal Pell Grants, Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants, TEACH Grants, Federal Work-Study, and Direct Loan Programs. This interaction may include phone, in-person, or written contacts.The employee must be accurate in describing financial aid policies, criteria and procedures. Individual must be responsive to prospective students' concerns and needs by providing excellent customer service.Performs detailed and personalized outreach to prospective and continuing students such as: phone calling, emailing, and other communications as needed.Responsible for assisting students in resolving problems associated with the application processes for federal and state programs, the electronic loan transmission process and the correction process.Evaluates and processes requests for "special circumstances" and "petitions for independent status" presented by students in determining eligibility for the federal programs.Financial Aid Operations (30%)Resolves over award situations, which involves reducing one or more aid programs because of receipt of additional resources or conflicting financial information. Must inform students, contact appropriate agencies, and return proceeds.Serves as a rotating member of the satisfactory academic progress appeals committee.Reviews daily correspondence and award letters in their respective alphabetical breakdown to ensure accuracy and perform quality assurance.Aid in the retention of students through direct student outreach, providing students with a thorough understanding of resources and polices.Special Projects as Assigned (10%)Including, but not limited to assigned committees and outreach projects.Represent LSU and the Office of Enrollment Management at professional functions and recruiting events. Represent LSU and EMSS at orientation events.Required Experience/Qualifications:Bachelor's Degree.LSU values skills, experience, and expertise. Candidates who have relevant experience in key job responsibilities are encouraged to apply— a degree is not required as long as the candidate meets the required years of experience specified in the job description.Meets eligibility to obtain National Student Loan Database System access and must not be in default on a student loan.Our ideal candidate possesses the following qualities: Knowledge of best practices in financial aid; Strong team orientation, effective interpersonal skills, and superior written and verbal communication skills; Demonstrated commitment to data-driven decision-making, including effective analytical skills and proven results in achieving objectives and goals; and experience working in financial aid or equivalent student service setting.