Financial Aid Advisor

Position Summary Information

Summary Under general supervision, advises and counsels students and parents regarding the financial aid process and provides information on available programs, procedures, and eligibility in a professional and timely manner.

Will monitor all incoming calls and analyze student data to verify the integrity of documentation (e.g., Tax Return, Social Security, etc.

to determine eligibility for student aid programs Essential Duties and Responsibilities Other duties may be assigned.

• Serve as the first contact for the Financial Aid Department greeting visitors to the office and providing information and materials.
• Advise students and families regarding all Federal, State, and University financial aid programs, including application procedures, budgeting, money and time management, maintaining eligibility, and other general questions via phone and front counter.
• Analyzes student data and checks for completeness and accuracy of the documentation (Tax Return, Verification Worksheet).
• Processes documents for the initial and follow-up evaluation.
• Participates in outreach projects, financial aid seminars, student orientations and workshops held on campus and at off-site locations.
• Creates and maintains database and spreadsheet files.
• Answers and screens Department’s telephone calls.
• Organizes and maintains file system and files correspondence and other records.
• Make copies; send faxes, email correspondence or other printed materials.
• Maintains document tracking log daily as documents are received.
• Assists students and parents in the front office, including, but not limited to, completing financial aid paperwork, submitting online FAFSAs, and answering questions.

Supervisory Responsibilities This job has no supervisory responsibilities. Other Knowledge Skills and Abilities To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily.

The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and / or ability required.

• Excellent interpersonal and oral communication skills with a service-oriented focus using tact, diplomacy, patience, and a high degree of sensitivity and responsiveness to a broad cross-section of students and parents dealing with financial or crisis situations.
• Ability to work with frequent interruptions, changing priorities, and multiple deadlines.
• Knowledge of federal, state, and university regulations governing financial aid programs.
• Working knowledge of CARS CX computer software in order to answer questions for students is desirable.
• General knowledge of departments and offices of the University, their functions, policies, and procedures to make student referrals.
• Skill in the use of personal computers and related software applications.
• Thorough knowledge of Business English and arithmetic; general office methods, procedures, and practices.
• Ability to read and write at a level appropriate to the duties of the position.
• Ability to gather data, compile information, and prepare reports.
• Strong organizational skills and detailed-oriented.
• Excellent telephone courtesy knowledge, and experience.
• Ability to relate positively and effectively with a diverse faculty, staff, and student body.
• Ability to plan, develop, and coordinate multiple projects.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality.
• Ability to interpret, adapt, and apply guidelines and procedures.
• Ability to resolve customer complaints and concerns.
• Education and / or Experience High school diploma or general education degree (GED); or one-year related experience and / or training;

or equivalent combination of education and experience.