Financial Aid Counselor - Financial Aid Office

Job Description

The main functions of the Financial Aid Office are to effectively and comprehensively assist students and parents through the financial aid process and efficiently manage federal, state, and institutional financial aid programs. The Financial Aid Counselor provides financial aid services to undergraduate and graduate students as well as correctional education students across the country. The Financial Aid Counselor will be responsible for, but not limited to, conducting student needs analysis and preparing financial aid packages, reviewing verifications, determining eligibility, resolving conflicting information, resolving over-awards, performing professional judgement regarding eligibility, and facilitating problem solving with students, families, and other Ashland University employees.

• Conducts needs analysis in compliance with federal, state, and institutional regulations and policies to determine relative eligibility of each financial aid applicant.
• Determines the types and amounts of financial aid to be awarded to the student through the packaging process according to federal, state, and institutional requirements.
• Counsels current and prospective undergraduate/graduate students and their parents through the application process in regards to financial aid programs, personal financial planning, and money management. Responsible for a section of undergraduate and graduate students based on the alphabet.
• Resolves conflicting information, SARC codes, and over-awards.
• Utilizes professional judgement to adjust a student's eligibility based on documented mitigating circumstances in accordance with federal regulation.
• Reviews completed verification for accuracy in compliance with federal regulations.
• Completes return of Title IV Funds calculations.
• Participates in the development of policies and procedures.
• Participates in annual training and professional development.
• Create, maintain, and present educational financial aid materials.
• Complete other tasks as requested.

• Bachelor of Science or Arts from an accredited four‑year college or university.
• Demonstrated experience in student financial aid, or a field directly related to financial aid counseling.
• Proficient with the Microsoft Office Suite software.
• Demonstrated knowledge, understanding, and research abilities regarding federal and state rules and regulations.
• Excellent verbal and written communication, judgement, analytical, problem‑solving, critical thinking and interpersonal skills.
• Effective organization and planning abilities.
• Ability to perform assigned tasks with increasing independence and an understanding of priorities and deadlines.
• Ability to defuse difficult situations with other individuals.
• Ability to prioritize and manage a significant caseload.
• Ability to adhere to data confidentiality regulations, such as FERPA, and adhere to data security policies.
• Applicant must be currently authorized to work in the United States. Ashland University will not sponsor or take over sponsorship for an employment visa.