Financial Aid Counselor (Professional Service Specialist 4)

Thank you for your interest in working at William Paterson University.

Job Summary

Reporting to the Director of Financial Aid , the Financial Aid Counselor works closely with the Senior Associate Director of Financial Aid and the Financial Aid Office team in supporting and guiding students and families through the financial aid processes. The position assists students in navigating the financial aid process and ensuring they have access to the resources necessary to pursue their educational goals. The Financial Aid Counselor will provide guidance, evaluate applications, and administer financial aid programs in compliance with institutional policies and federal regulations. Overall, the Financial Aid Counselor provides cohesive services to support students, with respect to student finances and is committed to working collaboratively in a diverse, inclusive, and student-centered learning environment.

Principal Responsibilities

• Financial Aid Advising: Provide personalized counseling to students and families on financial aid programs, policies, and application procedures. Assist in understanding eligibility criteria, award packages, and available resources.

• Application Processing: Review and evaluate financial aid applications, including Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), institutional forms, and relevant documentation.

• Award Administration: Determine eligibility for various aid programs and calculate financial need based on established guidelines and institutional policies. Assist in the packaging and award aid to eligible students, ensuring compliance with federal, state, and institutional regulations.

• Verification and Data Management: Conduct verification of student information as required by federal guidelines. Ensure accuracy and completeness of student records and financial aid data. Maintain confidentiality of sensitive information.

• Financial Aid Sessions: Meet one-on-one with students regarding application procedures, eligibility requirements, cost of attendance, management of available financial aid opportunities - loans, grants, etc., eligibility requirements, and the application process - assure accurate and complete information.

• Compliance and Reporting: Stay informed about federal, state, and institutional regulations related to financial aid. Ensure compliance with all reporting requirements and maintain accurate records.

• Customer Service: Provide exceptional customer service to students, parents, and other stakeholders at the University. Address inquiries, concerns, and complaints promptly and professionally.

• Collaborative Relationships: Work closely with key University offices to connect and facilitate students' smooth and seamless matriculation as well as acclimation to the virtual campus---Financial Aid; Registrar; Student Accounts; Student Enrollment Services; Undergraduate Admissions.

• Professional Development: Stay updated on best practices, regulations, and emerging trends in financial aid through professional development (associations) activities, conferences, and training sessions.

• Perform other duties as assigned that are appropriate for the position.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university required.

• Knowledge of federal, state, and institutional financial aid programs and regulations.

• 1-2 years of financial aid related experience.

• Proficient understanding of student financial need analysis and awarding methodologies.

• Excellent interpersonal, communication, and customer service skills.

• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced environment.

• Attention to detail and ability to handle sensitive and confidential information.

• Proficiency in using financial aid management systems, databases, and software - i.e. Banner Student Information System, needs analysis, and federal/state financial aid programs and MS Office (Word, Excel, Access, and PowerPoint), Campus Logic.

• Ability to work well with a diverse community and group.

• Must be able to work flexible hours, to include evenings and weekends, during peak registration times and/or to meet the needs of the Enrollment Management Division.

Invitation to apply:

Interested candidates will be prompted to complete an application and submit a cover letter and resume to Career Opportunities (myworkdayjobs.com). General questions related to this application process, please contact talent@wpunj.edu.

WP's Employee Benefits and Perks:

We support flexible work arrangements and operate with a well-loved summer schedule. From late May through mid-August, our work week is adapted to a four-day schedule with most offices closed on Fridays, affording you more time to do what you love.

To support employees' continued growth and success, we offer free tuition for you and your dependents to pursue a bachelor's or master's degree at William Paterson. We also offer a summer learning and development program that has been nationally recognized for its innovation.

When we think about employee success and financial security, we think long-term. The University provides robust retirement savings plans, as well as an employee assistance program that provides financial counseling among its support services. Generous state sponsored healthcare benefit plans also support your well-being needs. Visit our website to read more about our employee benefits and perks Total Rewards | William Paterson University (wpunj.edu). We hope you will join us and Power your way to personal and professional growth and enrichment.

William Paterson University's commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion:

William Paterson University celebrates the diversity of our campus and our commitment to learn from each other, and about each other. A commitment to diversity is one of the University's core values. We work to help create a more inclusive environment and university experience for faculty, students and staff at William Paterson University.

Since 2015, the University has been designated as a Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI), with more than 30 percent of current students claiming Hispanic heritage.

We are strong proponents of employees growing their careers at William Paterson. More than fifty percent of our roles on campus are filled by promotions from within. We're not only committed to social mobility for our students, but also for our employees.

We offer a wide range of resources and programs that support diversity and inclusion at William Paterson University, as well as affinity groups, associations and centers including Advancing Women in Education, LGBTQIA+ Mentorship, Center for Latinidad and The Black Cultural Center.

Total Rewards:

Click here to view the total rewards of working at WP

William Paterson University is committed to protecting your privacy and will not sell your personal information.

EEO Statement

William Paterson University is dedicated to providing equal opportunities and equal access to all individuals regardless of race or ethnicity, sex/gender (including pregnancy), gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, civil union status, familial status, religion, national origin or citizenship, military service status, or any other category protected by law. William Paterson University does not discriminate on the basis of any category stated above or as prohibited by applicable law. Individuals from historically underrepresented backgrounds are encouraged to apply.

For more information, visit University Facts