Financial Aid Counselor (Full-time, Onsite)

Wilson College is seeking a detail-oriented and student-centered professional to join our community as a Financial Aid Counselor. This is an excellent opportunity for someone who is passionate about supporting students, values meaningful service, and enjoys working in a collaborative higher education environment.

As a key member of the Financial Aid team, the Counselor serves as an important resource for students and families throughout the financial aid process—providing clear guidance related to aid programs, application requirements, eligibility, and funding options. This role helps ensure students can successfully navigate the financial aid process while receiving timely, accurate, and compassionate support.

Reporting to the leadership of the Financial Aid Office, the Counselor works closely with colleagues in Student Financial Services, Admissions, and other campus departments to promote student success and advance the mission of Wilson College. A strong commitment to service, collaboration, and attention to detail is essential, as this role directly supports access, retention, and the overall student experience.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Provide personalized financial aid counseling to prospective and current students, families, and members of the campus community.
• Process financial aid applications and supporting documentation, including verification and file review, ensuring accuracy and compliance.
• Prepare student files for awarding and packaging in accordance with institutional and federal guidelines.
• Coordinate student employment programs and assist with related student aid processes.
• Manage state grant programs, including processing, reconciliation, and communication with students and external agencies such as Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency.
• Support student financial wellness initiatives and assist with annual financial aid outreach and advocacy programming.
• Monitor and respond promptly to communications sent to the office’s general financial aid email account.
• Provide front-office support including answering phones, assisting walk-in visitors, scheduling appointments, and maintaining office records.
• Collaborate closely with Student Financial Services to support billing coordination and aid-related student account matters.
• Partner with Admissions and other campus offices to support enrollment and retention efforts.
• Participate in recruitment activities including open houses, orientation programs, and other student-focused events on and off campus.
• Complete other duties as assigned by the Director or Assistant Director of Financial Aid.

DESIRED SKILLS & COMPETENCIES:

We are seeking candidates who bring:

• Strong organizational skills with exceptional attention to detail and accuracy.
• The ability to manage multiple priorities while maintaining a high level of service.
• Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
• A demonstrated commitment to supporting students and families from diverse backgrounds with care and professionalism.
• Strong customer service skills and the ability to navigate sensitive conversations with empathy.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a team-oriented environment.
• Sound judgment, discretion, and the ability to maintain confidentiality when handling sensitive student information.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications; experience with Excel and SharePoint is preferred.
• Comfort learning and utilizing student information systems and financial aid platforms.
• Knowledge of federal, state, and institutional financial aid processes is preferred.

POSITION TYPE AND EXPECTED HOURS OF WORK:

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE:

• Associate degree or at least two years of college coursework is required; bachelor’s degree in business, accounting, finance, education, or a related field is preferred.
• One to three years of experience in financial aid, higher education, finance, or student support services is preferred.
• Experience working in a post-secondary institution and familiarity with student financial aid processes is highly desirable.
• Experience with student information systems such as Ellucian Colleague, Banner, or comparable enterprise systems is preferred.
• Familiarity with federal aid regulations, compliance standards, and related reporting processes is a plus.

An equivalent combination of education and experience will be considered.

At Wilson College, we value our employees and are proud to offer a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your health, well-being, and professional growth. Full-time, on-site employees enjoy:

• Robust Health Benefits: Including medical, dental, and vision coverage, plus college-paid basic life and long-term disability insurance.

• Spending Account Options: Access to employee-funded Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) for both healthcare and dependent care needs.

• Retirement Planning: A Defined Contribution Retirement Plan with TIAA to help you plan for the future.

• Educational Benefits: Tuition remission for employees and their families for undergraduate, graduate, and certificate programs, as well as access to Tuition Exchange scholarships through a national consortium of colleges.

Wilson fosters a supportive, collegial work environment that prioritizes work-life balance. Employees benefit from:

• Flexible dining options and free access to our on-campus fitness center.

• An Employee Assistance Program (EAP) offering confidential support and resources.

As a qualified 501(c)(3) nonprofit employer, Wilson College employees may also be eligible for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program.