Position Summary
The Financial Aid Counselor is responsible for supporting the administration of federal, state, and institutional financial aid programs while delivering high-quality service to students and families. This role manages a caseload of students and ensures compliance with all applicable regulations while contributing to a student-centered, efficient financial aid operation.
Key Responsibilities
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Counsel students and families on financial aid eligibility, application requirements, cost of attendance, and funding options
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Review and process financial aid applications (FAFSA/ISIR) and resolve conflicting information
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Determine student eligibility, including review of C-Flags, C-Codes, and database matches
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Perform federal verification and ensure compliance with Title IV regulations
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Package and adjust financial aid awards, including monitoring for over awards
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Manage Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) evaluations and appeals
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Review and process special circumstance requests using professional judgment
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Assist with loan processing, including Direct Loans and Parent PLUS Loans
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Support reconciliation, reporting, and compliance activities as needed
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Participate in recruitment, outreach, and financial literacy initiatives
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Provide front-line customer service and support to students, families, and campus partners
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Collaborate with Admissions, Student Accounts, and other campus departments to support student success
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Perform other duties as assigned
Minimum Qualifications
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Bachelor’s degree in Business, Finance, Accounting, Education, or related field
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2+ years of experience in financial aid, student accounts, or a related field OR transferable experience (see below)
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Equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered
Transferable Experience & Skills (Financial Aid Experience Not Required)
Candidates do not need direct financial aid experience to be successful in this role. We strongly encourage applicants with transferable experience in compliance-based, detail-oriented, and student/client-facing roles to apply.
Relevant backgrounds may include:
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Banking, lending, or loan processing
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Accounting, payroll, or finance
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Admissions, registrar, or enrollment services
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Social services or case management
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Insurance, claims, or benefits administration
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Government or compliance-focused roles
Preferred Qualifications
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Experience working in a higher education financial aid office
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Knowledge of Title IV regulations and federal need analysis
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Experience with financial aid systems (PowerFAIDS, Jenzabar, Banner, or similar)
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Strong understanding of SAP, verification, and professional judgment
Key Transferable Skills
Candidates should demonstrate the ability to:
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Interpret and apply policies, rules, or regulations
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Review and verify documentation for accuracy and completeness
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Manage a caseload or high volume of work with competing deadlines
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Communicate complex information clearly and effectively
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Maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information
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Analyze information and make sound, independent decisions
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Provide strong customer service in a fast-paced environment
Training Commitment
We are willing to train the right candidate who demonstrates strong analytical ability, attention to detail, and a commitment to student service.
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
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Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
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Ability to interpret and apply complex federal and state regulations
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Excellent communication and customer service skills
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Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities
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High level of accuracy and attention to detail
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Ability to work both independently and collaboratively
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Commitment to supporting a diverse student population
Work Environment
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Full-time, on-campus position
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Fast-paced, service-oriented office environment
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Regular interaction with students, families, and campus stakeholders
