Financial Aid Counselor

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

• Counsel students and families on financial aid eligibility, application requirements, cost of attendance, and funding options 
• Review and process financial aid applications (FAFSA/ISIR) and resolve conflicting information 
• Determine student eligibility, including review of C-Flags, C-Codes, and database matches 
• Perform federal verification and ensure compliance with Title IV regulations 
• Package and adjust financial aid awards, including monitoring for over awards
• Manage Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) evaluations and appeals 
• Review and process special circumstance requests using professional judgment 
• Assist with loan processing, including Direct Loans and Parent PLUS Loans 
• Support reconciliation, reporting, and compliance activities as needed 
• Participate in recruitment, outreach, and financial literacy initiatives 
• Provide front-line customer service and support to students, families, and campus partners 
• Collaborate with Admissions, Student Accounts, and other campus departments to support student success 
• Perform other duties as assigned 

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Finance, Accounting, Education, or related field 
• 2 years of experience in financial aid, student accounts, or a related field OR transferable experience (see below)
• 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:

• Banking, lending, or loan processing 
• Accounting, payroll, or finance 
• Admissions, registrar, or enrollment services 
• Social services or case management 
• Insurance, claims, or benefits administration 
• Government or compliance-focused roles

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working in a higher education financial aid office 
• Knowledge of Title IV regulations and federal need analysis 
• Experience with financial aid systems (PowerFAIDS, Jenzabar, Banner, or similar) 
• Strong understanding of SAP, verification, and professional judgment 

Key Transferable Skills

Candidates should demonstrate the ability to:

• Interpret and apply policies, rules, or regulations 
• Review and verify documentation for accuracy and completeness 
• Manage a caseload or high volume of work with competing deadlines 
• Communicate complex information clearly and effectively 
• Maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information 
• Analyze information and make sound, independent decisions 
• 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

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills 
• Ability to interpret and apply complex federal and state regulations 
• Excellent communication and customer service skills 
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities 
• High level of accuracy and attention to detail 
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively 
• Commitment to supporting a diverse student population 

Work Environment

• Full-time, on-campus position 
• Fast-paced, service-oriented office environment 
• Regular interaction with students, families, and campus stakeholders