Financial Aid Processing Coordinator & Advisor

The primary purpose of this position is to work alongside the Director of Financial Aid to manage the financial aid programs at Ridgewater College. The position leads the process of awarding financial aid to students of Ridgewater College and leads in the processing of student loans. It is responsible for the reporting of all federal aid payments made to the students to the Department of Education for reimbursement to the college.

The position also exists to assist students and families in the financial aid process. The position requires a high level of knowledge of Federal and State regulations that are needed to ensure compliance of the financial aid programs and a high level of knowledge of the software used and knowledge of the Department of Education websites. A high level of customer services and confidentiality is required in performing the duties in this position.

Strong organizational skills are essential due to the high volume of record keeping and data collection.

• Provides administrative and advising functions to support the student financial aid process
• Student Loan Coordinator (Federal Direct loans, Private Education Loans)
• Manage and coordinate Pell Grant Program
• Manage small aid programs as assigned including Alliss Grant and MN Indian Scholarship
• Process return of Title IV (R2T4) calculations
• Perform other duties as assigned to ensure the smooth functioning of the department and maintain the reputation of the organization as a viable business partner

Monday - Friday, 8:00AM-4:30PM

04-07-2026

03-05-2026

$28.26 - $41.43 per hour: $59,007 - $86,506 annually

• Two years of relevant experience (ex: professional-level experience with detailed knowledge of financial aid rules and regulations, project management, and the ability to interpret and understand new rules, regulations, and statutes. A bachelor's degree can qualify for 1 year of experience and an associate's degree can qualify for 6 months of experience.)
• Excellent oral and written communication skills to communicate complex concepts and guidance to students. The ability to fluently speak, read, write, understand and respond to a variety of spoken and written communications as well as effectively communicate policies, procedures and information in a positive, professional and courteous manner.
• Ability to collect, analyze and assess data with record management and/or U.S. government reporting tools, and make effective recommendations to enhance continuous improvement and efficiency.
• Technical computer skills are sufficient to create word processing documents, spreadsheets, data collection, and create reports.

• Bachelor's degree
• A working knowledge of complicated and ever changing Federal and State regulations governing financial aid programs along with the goals and objectives of the Financial Aid Office.
• Experience using Minn State Integrated Student Record System and Image Now
• Knowledge of all Ridgewater College academic programs
• Maintain a working knowledge of the rules, regulations and policies as established by Minn State and Ridgewater College
• Ability to maintain the confidentiality of private information according to law, rules, policies and procedures is essential.
• Knowledge and experience using U.S. Department of Education software and websites, including NSLDS, COD, FAA Access
• Five or more years of experience within higher education financial aid/student services, preferably in the Minnesota State College and Universities system
• Proven knowledge of Title IV regulations and programs
• Self-starter and an ability to function with minimal direction. Ability to collaborate with team members between departments to execute initiatives.

• Online Employment Application
• Resume
• Letter of Interest / Cover Letter addressing the position qualifications

In accordance with the Minnesota State Colleges & Universities (MnSCU) Vehicle Fleet Safety Program, employees driving on college/university business who use a rental or state vehicle shall be required to conform to MnSCU's vehicle use criteria and consent to a Motor Vehicle Records check.

• 11 paid holidays each year
• Medical Insurance (single coverage $48.94 per month and family coverage is $333.91 per month)
• Dental Insurance (low deductibles; single coverage $14.50 per month and family coverage is $61.86 per month)
• Paid Parental Leave (six weeks)
• Employer paid life insurance
• Short and Long Term Disability
• Pre-tax Flexible Spending Accounts (Medical and Dependent Care)
• Retirement Plan
• Tax-deferred Compensation
• Generous vacation and sick leave
• 457(b) and 403(b) retirement plans and other retirement investment options
• Pre-tax medical and dental expense (roll-over option)
• Dependent care accounts
• Professional development and tuition waiver program for employees and their dependents

Minnesota State Colleges and Universities is an Equal Opportunity…