Financial Aid Counselor

**Position Summary** 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