Financial Aid Counselor

A successful candidate will play an active role in FMU's existing academic success. The Financial Aid Counselor shall have the primary responsibilities to oversee and manage the federal work study program and evaluate, approve, and award financial aid to students in accordance with federal, state, and university regulations, policies and operating guidelines. This position assesses financial needs of students, advises students and parents regarding financial aid options, processes, and related requirements. Participates as appropriate in systems/procedures planning and management; implements and coordinates specific individual programs or assignments in accordance with the overall objectives of the office, within the division of Enrollment Management.

Essential Functions:

Provides students and their families with individualized counseling in all aspects of the financial aid application process, types of financial aid and eligibility requirements.

• Provides regular outreach and follow-up to students on outstanding items such as incomplete or missing documents as well as instructions for completing and submission.
• Reviews/evaluates student data and supporting documentation to confirm accuracy of data and determines eligibility for a variety of federal and state programs as well as scholarships and other financial assistance programs.
• Resolves conflicts between application for aid and supporting documentation
• Evaluates and determines financial aid eligibility based on institutional, state, and federal regulations.
• Exercises discretion and demonstrates strong professional judgment when making decisions in special or complex circumstances; seek assistance from the Director and, when appropriate, provide recommendations to best resolve these cases.
• Coordinates and oversees the Federal Work-Study program; serves as primary point of contact.
• Reviews pertinent internal and external data and reports to ensure aid is being processed timely and accurately.
• Remains current on institutional guidelines as well as state, and federal regulations; participates in regular training and professional development on best practices to ensure compliance.
• Serves on various institutional committees.
• Delivers financial aid workshops, training sessions and other activities on or off campus to students/parents
• Applies and monitors the student financial assistance academic progress policy to determine continued student eligibility
• Trains/provides work direction to student workers and other personnel as assigned.
• Assists the Director in the development and improvement of various program policies.
• Participates in college fairs, open house, and new student orientation as well as registration.
• The omission of specific duties does not preclude the supervisor from assigning duties that logically relates to the position.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Ability to handle information of sensitive and confidential nature in the utmost professional manner. Demonstrate a high level of professionalism, initiative, resourcefulness, and personal accountability.
• Effective analytical and decision-making skills. Excellent communication (oral and written), organizational, and time management skills. Effective interpersonal skills and ability to work with diverse constituents.
• Attention to detail and adaptability to a changing environment is extremely important as well as dependability.
• Moderate physical activity. Requires handling objects of average-weight up to fifty (50) pounds or standing and/or walking for more than four (4) hours per day.
• Note: In compliance with the American Disabilities Act (ADA), those functions of the job which are identified essential are required to be performed with or without reasonable accommodations. Requests to facilitate the performance of essential functions will be given careful consideration.

Qualifications:

• The position requires a bachelor’s degree and at least two (2) years of related experience. Master’s degree preferred.
• Preferred systems: PowerFAIDS, PowerCampus and Jenzabar.
• Knowledge of financial aid management systems and/or student information systems.
• Ability to work under pressure and in fast paced environments.
• Must have the ability to hold information in confidence, be able to communicate to all levels of staff, make unbiased decisions and recommendations.
• Attention to detail and adaptability to a changing environment is extremely important as well as dependability.
• Proficiency in MS Office Suite, as well as knowledge and understanding of the organizational structure, workflow, and operating procedures.
• Flexibility to work outside of normal business hours.
• Pre-Employment screening is required: criminal background check and drug testing.

Qualified applicants are asked to upload a cover letter of interest, resume/curriculum vitae, and/or certifications, if applicable.

Supplemental Information

In addition to the completed application, candidates must submit a list of three professional references (at least one from a previous employer) that includes names and contact information. Review of application materials will begin ASAP and will continue until the position is filled. No phone calls please.

Florida Memorial University is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer.