Financial Aid Advisor

Division/Department:           Enrollment Services – Financial Aid

Title:                                       Financial Aid Advisor

Job Classification:                

Status:                                    Full-time, exempt

Work Schedule:                    8:30 am to 5 pm (M-F), includes some evenings and weekends

Job Summary: The Financial Aid Advisor is tasked with the day-to-day operations associated with frontline student service within the BW Financial Aid Office, which includes: (1) assisting walk-ins, triaging, and responding to FAO emails and phone calls; (2) overseeing the intake and coordination of documents submitted to the FAO, and (3) handling assigned technical processing functions. This individual works with other Financial Aid employees and work-study students and reports directly to the Director of Financial Aid.

Essential Duties, Tasks and Responsibilities: The following duties are not to be considered a complete list of duties and responsibilities assigned to this position. 

• Provides advice and counsel to students regarding financial aid opportunities, eligibility requirements, the application process, and the disbursement of student aid.
• Counsels and assists students and families with navigation and completion of tasks found on the portals and websites for BW and the U.S. Department of Education (ED).
• Supports the collection, review, and categorization of required documentation submitted to the financial aid office. 
• Oversees one or more specific program areas in the operation of the financial aid system, as assigned.
• Participates in both University recruitment and retention efforts, including high school programs and University admission functions, by providing financial aid information.
• Participates in the development and implementation of improved student aid delivery services and in the preparation of materials for dissemination to students.
• Works collaboratively with various campus departments involving the coordination of student aid delivery and customer service. 
• Helps to develop and refine existing financial aid procedures and practices in improving student services and aid awarding efficiencies in the delivery of student aid. 
• Participates in professional financial aid programs and conferences (professional development);
• Performs miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned.
• Provides the highest level of customer service.
• Adheres to all college and departmental policies. 

Qualifications:   

• Bachelor’s degree preferred, associate’s degree or equivalent required. 
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, including math and logic.
• Strong customer service skills and the ability to interact well in understanding questions and concerns that students and families may have about the financial aid process.
• A working knowledge of computer and software programs that support the student aid delivery system (Ellucian Colleague experience preferred).
• An ability to manage and organize work activities in an effective manner and in compliance with student aid regulations. 
• An ability to work in a team environment in the recruitment and retention of students. 
• A commitment to the value and mission of comprehensive education.
• Must pass the University’s background check and student/employee sensitivity training modules.

 Preference will be given to applicants with financial aid experience, working knowledge and understanding of federal and state student aid regulations.

Working Conditions and Physical Effort: The position works primarily in a standard office environment, interacting frequently with students, families, and staff in person, by phone, and through email. The position requires extended periods of computer use, effective communication, and the ability to manage multiple tasks in a busy setting, especially during peak aid processing times. Some evening or weekend hours and occasional lifting of materials up to 15 pounds may be required.

How to Apply: Review of complete applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled. Candidates should submit a resume, cover letter, and three professional references in 1 PDF or Word Document via the To Apply link on BW’s Employment & Careers’ webpage: http://www.bw.edu/employment.

Baldwin Wallace University is an EEO employer and educator. At BW, we support and encourage diversity in a variety of forms. We value and appreciate inclusive excellence in the classroom, within extracurricular activities and as we engage our community partners. Learn more at Diversity Affairs – https://www.bw.edu/about/diversity/.