What are the responsibilities and job description for the Financial Aid Specialist I position at Montana State University?
The Office of Financial Aid Services (OFAS) assists students in financing their education through a variety of federal, state, and institutional aid including grants, scholarships, tuition waivers, work programs, and
loans. In administering these programs, our staff works directly with applicants for student aid, their parents or sponsors, and with secondary school personnel. Because the financial aid system impacts, in one way or another, every department at Montana State University, we also work with university faculty & staff, donors, private financial institutions, and state and federal government agencies.
Financial Aid Specialist I are critical in assisting the Office of Financial Aid Services meet its mission by providing direct customer service, processing institutional forms and customer requests, and maintaining compliance with federal, state, and institutional policies and regulations.
OFAS has an extensive training and development program designed to help new employees be successful and grow in this position.
loans. In administering these programs, our staff works directly with applicants for student aid, their parents or sponsors, and with secondary school personnel. Because the financial aid system impacts, in one way or another, every department at Montana State University, we also work with university faculty & staff, donors, private financial institutions, and state and federal government agencies.
Financial Aid Specialist I are critical in assisting the Office of Financial Aid Services meet its mission by providing direct customer service, processing institutional forms and customer requests, and maintaining compliance with federal, state, and institutional policies and regulations.
OFAS has an extensive training and development program designed to help new employees be successful and grow in this position.
Duties and Responsibilities
Under the general supervision of the Assistant Directors, this position assists in the administration of student aid programs and activities. The person in will apply federal, state, and institutional policies and procedures to determine aid eligibility and to ensure correct and timely aid processing. In addition, this position acts as the primary customer service contact for phone, email, and front desk interactions with students and families.
- Communicate clearly and professionally with students, parents, and campus partners to explain financial aid processes, requirements, and policies, ensuring a positive and supportive experience.
- Administer federal, state, and institutional financial aid programs, including budgeting, awarding, and verifying eligibility, while maintaining compliance with all applicable regulations.
- Manage and maintain accurate student aid and scholarship records within financial aid systems, ensuring timely updates and precise documentation.
- Review student files and collaborate with university departments to resolve issues, support compliance, and promote student success.
- Stay current with financial aid laws, regulations, and best practices through ongoing training and professional development.
Required Qualifications – Experience, Education, Knowledge & Skills
- One to two years of full or part-time experience that required a high level of customer service and analytical skill and attention to detail or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Post-secondary education a plus.
- Demonstrated skill in analyzing, explaining, and applying rules, policies, and procedures.
- Experience using word processing, spreadsheets, and e-mail.
- Demonstrated skill organizing and prioritizing large volumes of work with a high degree of accuracy.
- Demonstrated strong written and customer service skills, and competence communicating information, and procedures in person, by phone, and e-mail while handling sensitive and confidential information.
- Experience working with customers, conflict resolution, and problem solving while exercising good judgement
Preferred Qualifications – Experience, Education, Knowledge & Skills
- Experience working with SGT Banner.
- Experience with Microsoft Office Suite.
- Experience working in a higher education environment.
- Knowledge of the principles and purposes of financial aid programs.
- Bachelor’s Degree in Business or related subject.
The Successful Candidate Will
- Effectively operate work-related equipment
- Work effectively in a team-oriented environment
- Communicate effectively with employees and the public both in person and over the phone
- Establish and maintain effective working relations with co-workers, stakeholders, and the public
- Represent Financial Aid Services and its programs to others in a professional and courteous manner.
Position Special Requirements/Additional Information
This job description should not be construed as an exhaustive statement of duties, responsibilities or requirements, but a general description of the job. Nothing contained herein restricts Montana State University’s rights to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time.
Physical Demands
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily with or without reasonable accommodations. The requirements listed above are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.
This position has supervisory duties?
No
Posting Detail Information
Number of Vacancies
2
Desired Start Date
Upon completion of a successful search.
Position End Date (if temporary)
Open Date
Close Date
Applications will be:
Screening of applications will begin on November 24th 2025; however, applications will continue to be accepted until an adequate applicant pool has been established.
Special Instructions
This position is not eligible for sponsorship.
EEO Statement
Montana State University is an equal opportunity employer. MSU does not discriminate against any applicant on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, political ideas, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, marital status, national origin, physical or mental disability, or any other protected class status in violation of any applicable law.
In compliance with the Montana Veteran’s Employment Preference Act, MSU provides preference in employment to veterans, disabled veterans, and certain eligible relatives of veterans. To claim veteran’s preference, please complete the veteran’s preference information located in the Demographics section of your profile.
In compliance with the Montana Veteran’s Employment Preference Act, MSU provides preference in employment to veterans, disabled veterans, and certain eligible relatives of veterans. To claim veteran’s preference, please complete the veteran’s preference information located in the Demographics section of your profile.
