Financial Aid Counselor

The Financial Aid Counselor shall have the primary responsibilities to oversee and manage the federal work-study program and evaluate, approve, and award financial aid to students in accordance with federal, state, and university regulations, policies, and operating guidelines. This position assesses the financial needs of students and advises students and parents regarding financial aid options, processes, and related requirements. Participates as appropriate in systems/procedures planning, management, and coordinates specific individual assignments in accordance with the overall objectives of the office. This role reports directly to the Assistant Director of Financial Aid.

Essential Functions:

• Provides regular outreach and follow-up to students on outstanding items such as incomplete or missing documents as well as instructions for completing and submission.

• Reviews/evaluates student data and supporting documentation to confirm the accuracy of data and determines eligibility for a variety of federal and state programs as well as scholarships and other financial assistance programs.

• Resolves conflicts between application for aid and supporting documentation.

• Evaluate and determine financial aid eligibility based on institutional, state, and federal regulations.

• Exercises discretion and demonstrates strong professional judgment when making decisions in special or complex circumstances; seeks assistance from the Director and, when appropriate, provides recommendations to best resolve these cases.

• Coordinates and oversees the Federal Work-Study program; serves as the primary point of contact.

• Reviews pertinent internal and external data and reports to ensure aid is being processed timely and accurately.

• Remains current on institutional guidelines as well as state, and federal regulations; participates in regular training and professional development on best practices to ensure compliance.

• Serves on various institutional committees.

• Delivers financial aid workshops, training sessions, and other activities on or off campus to students/parents

• Applies and monitors the student financial assistance academic progress policy to determine continued student eligibility.

• Trains/provides work direction to student workers and other personnel as assigned.

• Assists the Director in the development and improvement of various program policies.

• Participates in college fairs, open houses, and new student orientation as well as registration.

• The omission of specific duties does not preclude the supervisor from assigning duties that logically relate to the position.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Ability to handle information of sensitive and confidential nature in the utmost professional manner. Demonstrate a high level of professionalism, initiative, resourcefulness, and personal accountability.

• Effective analytical and decision-making skills. Excellent communication (oral and written), organizational, and time management skills. Effective interpersonal skills and ability to work with diverse constituents.

• Knowledge of financial aid management systems and/or student information systems.

• Ability to work under pressure and in fast-paced environments.

• Must have the ability to hold information in confidence, be able to communicate to all levels of staff, and make unbiased decisions and recommendations.

• Attention to detail and adaptability to a changing environment is extremely important as well as dependability.

• Proficiency in MS Office Suite, as well as knowledge and understanding of the organizational structure, workflow, and operating procedures.

• Attention to detail and adaptability to a changing environment is extremely important as well as dependability.

• Moderate physical activity. Requires handling objects of average weight up to fifty (50) pounds or standing and/or walking for more than four (4) hours per day.

Minimum Requirements:

• The position requires a bachelor's degree and at least two (2) years of related experience. Master's degree preferred.

• Preferred systems: PowerFAIDS, PowerCampus, and Jenzabar.

• Flexibility to work outside of normal business hours.

Pre-Employment Requirements:

• Criminal background check

Florida Memorial University is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. In compliance with the American Disabilities Act (ADA), those functions of the job that are identified essential are required to be performed with or without reasonable accommodations. Requests to facilitate the performance of essential functions will be given careful consideration.