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 an entry-level position in the BW Financial Aid Office that serves as a primary contact for student and families by: (1) independently assessing and interpreting student inquiries, determining appropriate resolution paths and escalation when necessary; (2) overseeing the intake, review, and coordination of financial aid documentation submitted to the FAO to ensure completeness and compliance, and (3) performing assigned technical processing functions. 

This position works collaboratively with other Financial Aid staff 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 individualized financial aid guidance by interpreting regulations and advising students on eligibility, application processes, and disbursement of aid.
• Advises and guides students and families in navigating institutional and federal student aid systems and processes.
• Collects, reviews, evaluates, and determines completeness and compliance of submitted financial aid documentation.
• Exercises professional judgment in reviewing student records and making determinations on routine financial aid adjustments in accordance with federal, state, and institutional guidelines.
• Resolves complex financial aid processing issues and determine appropriate corrective actions on interpretations of established policies and regulations.
• Escalates cases, such as those requiring policy exception, precedent-setting interpretation, or counselor-level review.
• 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 University and departmental policies. 

Qualifications:

• Associate’s required; Bachelor’s preferred or equivalent professional experience.
• 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 all required trainings.

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: Complete applications include a resume and cover letter. Candidates will be reviewed on a rolling basis with priority given to applications received by Friday, April 30, 2026. Submit documents in 1 PDF or Word doc 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. We provide reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws. 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.