What are the responsibilities and job description for the Financial Aid Advisor position at North American Trade Schools?
Position Summary
The Financial Aid Advisor administers federal, state, and institutional financial aid programs in accordance with Title IV regulations and accreditation standards. The role partners with Admissions, Student Services, and Campus Leadership to ensure students are accurately packaged, verified, and funded in a timely and compliant manner.
Key Responsibilities
Student Advising & Financial Counseling
- Counsel students and families on financial aid options, eligibility, and obligations using clear, compliant language.
- Explain FAFSA results, Cost of Attendance, SAI/EFC, and award letters.
- Support verification, professional judgment, and special circumstance reviews.
- Maintain consistent, compassionate communication throughout the aid lifecycle.
Title IV Processing & Compliance
- Process/package federal, state, and institutional aid in full compliance with Title IV and accreditor policies.
- Ensure accurate documentation, file completion, and on‑time disbursement.
- Monitor Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP); counsel on appeals and eligibility restoration.
- Participate in audits and program/compliance reviews as required.
Operational Excellence & Collaboration
- Maintain accurate records in SIS/financial aid systems; meet processing deadlines aligned to start schedules.
- Collaborate with Admissions, Registrar, Student Services, and Education to reduce melt and improve readiness.
- Contribute to continuous improvement of financial aid processes and student experience.
Professional Standards
- Adhere to ethical standards and regulated communication; inform—do not influence—financial decisions.
- Represent the institution with professionalism in all interactions.
What We Look For
· 1–3 years of financial aid experience at a Title IV‑eligible institution
· Working knowledge of FAFSA, verification, Pell and Direct Loans, SAP, and disbursement workflows.
· Strong written and verbal communication skills; ability to explain complex topics simply.
· High attention to detail; ability to manage multiple priorities under deadlines.
· Proficiency with financial aid systems, SIS/CRM, and document management tools.
· Team‑oriented mindset with a service‑driven approach.
· Calm, ethical decision‑making under pressure; high personal accountability.