Student Financial Services Counselor

Counselor, Student Financial Services Manchester University | North Manchester, Indiana Full-Time, Exempt | $16.73-$25.09 per hour The Opportunity Manchester University is seeking a student-focused Counselor, Student Financial Services to help students and families navigate the financial aid process and make informed decisions about financing their education.

Reporting to the Director of Student Financial Services, this position plays an important role in the administration of federal, state, institutional, and private financial aid programs. The Counselor serves as a trusted resource for students and families, collaborates with colleagues across the University, and helps ensure financial aid processes are accurate, compliant, and student-centered.

This position is ideal for someone who enjoys helping others, building relationships, solving problems, and supporting students as they pursue their educational goals.

What You'll Do

Partner with the Assistant Director and Director of Student Financial Services to administer and award financial aid in accordance with federal, state, institutional, and industry regulations. Counsel students and families regarding financial aid eligibility, award packages, payment options, funding opportunities, and special circumstances.

Support federal and institutional verification processes, including documentation review and student communications. Assist with data exchanges with federal agencies through Common Origination and Disbursement (COD) and Ed. Connect. Support administration of federal and private loan programs, including certifications, master promissory notes, and entrance and exit counseling requirements.

Administer Indiana state financial aid programs, including awarding and claims processing. Serve as the primary contact for outside scholarship providers and resource funding organizations. Collaborate with Admissions and other University offices to support enrollment and student success initiatives. Assist in training Admissions and Success Advising staff on financial aid programs, policies, and regulations.

Represent Student Financial Services through campus events, visit programs, FAFSA assistance efforts, community outreach, and cross-functional initiatives. Provide support for core Student Financial Services operations during peak periods and assist with other duties as assigned.

What You'll Bring

Bachelor's degree required. Minimum of one year of financial aid experience. Strong customer service skills and a commitment to supporting students and families. Excellent written, verbal, technical, and interpersonal communication skills. Ability to work independently as a self-starter while collaborating effectively within a team environment.

Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment while maintaining accuracy and attention to detail. Proficiency with Ellucian Colleague, Insights, Microsoft Office Suite, web-based applications, email, and related technology tools. Commitment to fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment for students, faculty, and staff.

Who Will Thrive in This Role Professionals who provide exceptional service and support to students and families. Individuals who build positive working relationships and communicate effectively with students, families, faculty, staff, and University leadership. Self-starters who take initiative and follow through on commitments.

Individuals who effectively prioritize competing responsibilities and deadlines. Resourceful problem-solvers who use available information and ask thoughtful questions when needed. Team members who combine sound judgment with curiosity, adaptability, and a commitment to continuous improvement. Individuals who maintain professionalism, accuracy, and attention to detail while supporting a wide variety of constituents.

Why Manchester? Join a collaborative team dedicated to helping students achieve their educational goals. In this role, you'll have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the student experience while contributing to enrollment, retention, and student success initiatives across the University. Our benefits for eligible employees include: Five weeks of paid time off Tuition remission for eligible employees and dependents Medical coverage through an ICHRA Dental and vision insurance Life and disability insurance options 403(b) retirement plan Paid holidays Employee Assistance Program and professional development opportunities Join Us If you're passionate about supporting students, enjoy solving complex challenges, and want to be part of a collaborative, student-centered team, we encourage you to apply.

Manchester University is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to any status protected by applicable law.