Financial Aid Advisor

Financial Aid AdvisorThe Financial Aid Advisor is responsible for providing guidance and assistance to students and families in navigating the financial aid process. This role involves evaluating student eligibility for financial aid, advising on funding options, and ensuring compliance with federal, state, and institutional regulations. The Financial Aid Advisor plays a critical role in helping students access the resources they need to achieve their educational goals.Pay Range: $24.00 - $27.00 per hourHours: 10 am - 7 pm & one Saturday per month 9am - 1 pm.Location: Tampa, FLWhat We Offer:Competitive Insurance: Health, vision, and dental coverage for you and your dependentsHealth Plan Enrollment: Eligibility starts first of the month following completing one full month of employmentPaid Time Off: Competitive paid time off programs for employees (Vacation, Sick, Flexible)Retirement Matching: 50% match on the first 6% of your contributions after 90 daysPaid Parental Leave: 4 weeks of paid leave for both birthing and non-birthing parents to bond with a new babyPet Insurance: Competitive coverage for your furry family members through ASPCATuition Waiver: Enjoy a tuition waiver after 6 months of employment for you AND your immediate family offeredResponsibilitiesProvide one-on-one counseling to students and families regarding financial aid options, application processes, and eligibility requirementsAssist in the completion of financial aid forms, including the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), the Master Promissory Note, and other institutional documentationOffer guidance on budgeting, financial literacy, and loan repayment strategiesEvaluate and process financial aid applications in accordance with federal, state, and institutional policiesDetermine student eligibility and award financial aid packages, including grants, scholarships, loans, and work-study programsMonitor and verify documentation for accuracy and complianceStay informed about changes in federal, state, and institutional financial aid regulationsFacilitate financial aid practices that meet compliance standards and maintain accurate recordsPrepare and submit required reports to governing agenciesUnderstand and comply with all applicable Federal regulations/procedures per the annual Federal HandbookCollaborate with other departments to support student success and resolve financial aid-related issuesConduct workshops, presentations, and outreach activities to educate students and families about financial aid opportunitiesConduct entrance interviews and exit interviews as required by Federal regulationMaintain accurate records of student interactions and financial aid determinations using appropriate software systemsGenerate reports and analyze data to identify trends and improve processesOther duties as assignedQualificationsEducation / ExperienceHigh School diploma (or GED) (required)Associate's degree in relevant field (preferred)Two (2) years of experience working in financial aid (preferred)Minimum three (3) years of customer service or sales experience (preferred)Minimum one (1) year performing data entry and professional customer service experience (required)One (1) year of experience in a proprietary online higher education environment (preferred)Must not currently be in default on any Federal Student Loans or go into default on any Federal Student Loans while employedSkillsApply knowledge and skills to complete tasks with minimal supervisionIdentify straightforward problems and recommend potential solutionsCommunicate clearly and effectively with peers and stakeholdersDemonstrate active listening and empathy in interactionsParticipate in presentations or facilitate small group discussionsManage multiple tasks in a dynamic environmentUse productivity software and collaboration tools with confidenceShow initiative and accountability for assigned outcomesPerform routine tasks and seek guidance for new situationsMake timely decisions that keep the organization moving forwardApply effective and efficient processes with a focus on continuous improvementBuild open and comfortable relationships with diverse groupsLearn actively from both successes and failures while solving new problemsStandard AbilitiesAble and willing to:Communicate, think, learn, and reasonUse computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to process transactions, store documents, enter data, or perform assigned tasksSafely ambulate and/or maneuver when on-site at Company locationsDemonstrate and utilize active listening, inductive reasoning, information ordering and category flexibilityAbility to use good judgment, problem-solving and decision-making skillsAbility to maintain confidentiality and manage sensitive information with discretionAbility to work in a fast-paced environment where deadlines are essential and multiple projects are worked simultaneouslyAbility to gain, understand and apply information and data as it relates essential functions of the positionAbility to foster long-term relationships with stakeholdersWork EnvironmentWork is performed indoors in a climate-controlled environment when on site at assigned company location. Employees must be able to safely ambulate when on company premises.This position is designated as Variable. Employees must be able to follow all safety precautions including the use of personal-protective equipment. Employees must also be able to adhere to site-specific safety procedures. Work environments may include exposure to student learning environments with a variety of conditions. Employees must meet minimum technical standards for eligibility and participation.Travel RequirementsNo travel required