Financial Aid Specialist

Responsibilities

• Assist with the annual setting up of Financial Aid processes.
• Process Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) submissions.
• Conduct interviews with students seeking financial assistance.
• Perform needs analysis and assist in packaging financial aid awards, including completing applications for federal, state, and private scholarships.
• Accept and review financial aid applications for completeness and accuracy; verify reported information to determine eligibility for various awards.
• Monitor and manage budgets for federal work-study students; ensure financial aid recipients maintain satisfactory academic progress.
• Utilize financial aid software to update student records, generate award notifications, and prepare reports.
• Apply financial aid policies to identify students exceeding funding limits and assist with the financial aid appeal process.
• Maintain confidentiality of student records and financial aid matters in compliance with FERPA.
• Interpret and adhere to federal and state regulations governing student financial aid.
• Stay updated on changes in financial aid guidelines and regulations.
• Provide technical assistance and financial aid eligibility information to students, staff, and the public.
• Collaborate with Admissions, Records, Counseling, Student Support Services, and other campus departments, as well as external colleges and agencies.
• Award scholarships based on financial need and available funding.
• Perform additional duties as assigned by the Director of Financial Aid, Dean, or Vice President.

Strong investment in student support and success. A strong work ethic. Ability to work independently and collaboratively. Adaptability, initiative, and flexibility. Attention to detail and accuracy. Strong technical skills, including the ability to analyze data and set benchmarks for student success. Customer service orientation and interpersonal skills. Excellent time management skills and ability to prioritize work. Supports the objectives, goals, and mission of the college.

Associate degree from a regionally accredited institution. Ability to organize successfully/accurately and prioritize a wide variety of assignments, with emphasis on processing skills. Excellent interpersonal communication skills. Ability to work under deadline requirements. Computer literacy in the use of personal computers is required. Ability and a functional knowledge of word processing, spreadsheets, data entry, or database management. Maintain complex filing systems and records.

Excellent analytical problem solving and customer service skills. Ability to read and understand federal and state regulations and guidelines. Ability to work with a diverse student body. Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. Ability to work well with the public in high pressure situations. Ability to multitask and to perform detailed tasks accurately. Strong computer skills with a focus on office applications.

Two years' Community College experience in Student Services and/or an office setting at an educational institution.