Student Services Specialist

Position Details

Classification Information

Position Classification Title

Student Services Specialist II

FLSA

Exempt

Position Class

3150Y

Position Overview

Position Summary

Under the general supervision of the Financial Aid Director of Financial Aid, the position will assist with the overall operation of the Office of Financial Aid monitoring compliance issues as they pertain to various programs including Pell Grant, William D. Ford Direct Student Loan Program, Federal Work-Study, and scholarship programs. Additionally, the incumbent will assist with formulating, reviewing and evaluating policies to ensure departmental compliance with financial aid guidelines and objectives. Demonstrate a thorough understanding of laws and regulations regarding student financial aid information, including FERPA . Evaluate professional judgment, requests for reconsideration, dependency overrides and cost of attendance adjustments. Work with other appropriate institutional departments and offices to coordinate programs.

The position exercises substantial independence of administrative authority and discretion and is authorized to independently commit the institution to financial aid decisions. This includes the awarding of federal funds as provided under wide latitude of professional judgment allowed by federal law. The position assists in the determining of and interpretation of policies and procedures used in the financial counseling of students, and in providing information to students, prospective students, and parents through telephone, email, mail, and in-office visits.

Managing Work Processes: This position involves direct contact with clients (primarily students and parents) through appointments, walk-ins, and phone inquiries. The role provides detailed information about all student financial aid programs, including key program characteristics such as the type of aid, funding source, award amounts, interest rates, and repayment requirements (e.g., academic, financial, citizenship, and enrollment criteria). Additionally, the position involves discussing confidential financial data and other family circumstances with clients, advising them on the impact and their eligibility for various aid programs.

Decision Making: The position exercises “professional judgment” in individual student situations. IN financial aid administration, this means that the position determines, after reviewing the student’s situation, that the student does not fall into the standard categories outlined in program regulation and that the student should be an “exception to the rule.” The position although not an academic advisor, is often in a situation of suggesting various academic strategies to help a student meet the financial aid satisfactory academic progress requirements for the retention of aid. The position makes decisions to award financial aid, or to approve a client as an “exception” can mean access to higher education for that individual.
This position will evaluate and determine scholarship awards utilizing our scholarship portal, Scholarship Universe and will participate in yearly Scholars Day committee.

Program Management: This position requires a thorough understanding of federal and state student financial aid programs, policies, and procedures, with the ability to communicate this information clearly. The role involves advising and counseling students and parents on financial aid programs, eligibility requirements, financing options, and the university’s policies and procedures. The individual must possess comprehensive knowledge of all financial aid programs, not just those they administer.
Additionally, this position is responsible for assisting special populations, including graduate students and new first-time freshmen, with scholarship searches, as well as providing a general understanding of the financial aid process.

Information and Record Administration: Position will review documents (example-not all inclusive, IRS forms, Social Security Administration documents. Federal Student Aid Reports, Parent Loan application/promissory notes) that pertain to a student’s financial aid application. Position will review for completeness and compare it with information already contained on the student’s financial aid Banner record.

Client Customer Service: in addition to providing accurate information, explanations of federal, state and institutional policies and procedures, and guidance to the student, the employee in this position must project a sensitive and caring attitude.

Position Information

Position Number

060123

Working Position Title

Student Services Specialist

Building and Room No.

201 Thompson Center
Office of Scholarships and Financial Aid

Appointment Type

Permanent Full-Time

If Time Limited.

No

Appointment Length.

12 months

Requirements and Preferences

Position required to work during periods of adverse weather or other emergencies

Not Mandatory

Normal Work Schedule

Monday – Friday, 8:00am – 5:00pm, 40 hours a week
May require some weekend and or working late

Department Required Skills

Education Requirement

• Bachelor’s Degree in education, finance, counseling or a related field

Skills

• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, both verbal and written.
• Ability to provide clear, accurate, and empathetic guidance to students and families.
• Strong organizational skills with attention to detail in managing multiple tasks.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and financial aid software (Ellucian/Banner, etc.).

Preferred Years Experience, Skills, Training, Education

Preferred Skills

• Experience with scholarship program management and donor relations.
• Ability to work effectively with a diverse student population.
• Public speaking or presentation experience for outreach efforts.

Preferred Qualifications:

• 1 – 2 years of experience in financial aid, student services, or scholarship administration
• Familiarity with federal and state financial aid programs ( FAFSA, Pell Grant, etc.) and scholarship program management.

Required License or Certification

No

Valid US Driver's License

Yes

Commercial Driver's License Required

No

Physical Required

No

List any other medical/drug tests required

Posting Details

Posting Details

Internal Posting Only

No

Time Limited Position

No

Appointment Length

12 months

Salary

Commensurate with education and experience

Open Date

12/12/2024

Close Date

01/03/2025

Open Until Filled

No

Special Instructions Summary

Please Note: A criminal background check will be conducted on candidate finalist prior to the offer of employment.

If no applicants apply who meet the required competency and T&E requirements, then management may consider other applicants. Salary would be determined based on competencies, equity, budget, and market considerations.

Resumes will not be accepted in lieu of completing an electronic application. The application must be competed in full detail (including work history) for your qualifications to be considered.

Failure to complete the application completely may result in you not being considered for the vacant position.

Your application for the position will not be complete until you receive an online confirmation number at the end of the process of applying for a position.

Winston Salem State University is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, gender identity, age, sexual orientation, genetic information, status as an individual with a disability, or status as a protected veteran and National Guard.

If you have general questions about the application process, you may contact Human Resources at OHR@wssu.edu. Individuals with disabilities requiring disability-related accommodation in the application and interview process, please call 336-750-2834

Supplemental Questions

Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).

1. * How did you hear about this employment opportunity?
   • Public Job Posting
   • Internal Job Posting
   • Agency Referral
   • Advertisement/Publication
   • Personal Referral
   • Website
   • Other

Applicant Document
Required Documents

1. Resume
2. Cover Letter
3. References List

Optional Documents

1. Unofficial Transcripts
2. Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty (DD-214)
3. Unofficial Transcript