Financial Aid Counselor

The Financial Aid Counselor assists with the implementation of the University’s financial aid programs, including the compliant administration of federal, state, and institutional need- and merit-based funds. The Financial Aid Counselor works directly with students/families to help navigate the financial aid process and provides information to enable students to develop a financial plan to pay for tuition and associated costs of enrollment.

Prepares financial aid packages, performs verifications, and provides counseling regarding financing options for assigned student populations. Works directly with new students concerning available financial assistance to pay for tuition and loan repayment. Counsels’ students concerning loan default prevention initiatives, debt education, and financial literacy programs.

Assist the Director in oversight of the Tuition Exchange program. Imports and exports ISIR files (FAFSA’s). Assists with communicating information concerning external scholarship opportunities. Accurately enters aid-related information and data, tracks document and records, and maintains files in accordance with Office procedures.

Responds to routine requests for information regarding the Office of Student Financial Services, including programs and events sponsored by the Office, and refers complex requests to appropriate staff for follow up. Represents the Office of Student Financial Services at events, including occasional evening and weekend events, such as, but not limited to, recruitment events, information sessions, and career fairs.

Responsible for ensuring an environment of confidentiality surrounding sensitive, private, financial documents and data. Performs other related duties as assigned.

Education and Experience

Bachelor’s degree required. Experience with financial aid and financial aid systems strongly preferred. Knowledge of PowerFAIDS financial aid management system preferred. Knowledge of government and private resources for funding a college education a plus. Experience in higher education a plus. Other Qualifications Well-organized, multi-tasker, effective time-manager, problem-solver, and a creative “people person” who is customer service-oriented, pays attention to details, and works with a sense of urgency.

Ability to function independently while operating effectively within a team in a fast-paced, customer service environment with patience; flexibility; a positive attitude; attention to detail; and strong organizational, interpersonal, diplomatic, negotiation, and customer service skills. Professional, courteous demeanor and appearance; and the ability to work professionally with students, faculty, staff, and administration and to represent the University professionally to the public.

Engaging personality, friendliness, enthusiasm, sense of humor, positive attitude, persistence, and passion for the work. Excellent oral and written communication skills and the ability to communicate and to work comfortably with students, colleagues, and internal and external constituents, including diverse populations.

Proficient computer skills, including working with Windows, MS Office Suite, and the Internet. Familiarity with specific applications used by the University and the Office of Student Financial Services a plus. Demonstrated ability to recognize and appropriately handle matters of a confidential nature. Commitment to the mission of the University of Saint Joseph.

Physical ability to perform the essential functions of the position, with or without reasonable accommodation. Must have a valid driver’s license.