Student Account Counselor

Student Account Counselor

SUMMARY OF RESPONSIBILITIES

The Student Accounts Counselor provides exceptional customer service and guidance to prospective and current students and their families regarding student account matters throughout the enrollment process. This position serves as a primary point of contact for billing, payment options, account balances, payment plans, and other account-related inquiries, ensuring timely communication and support. Responsibilities include maintaining accurate student account records, processing and reconciling cash and check transactions, administering institutional payment plans, assisting with account resolution and collection efforts, and supporting enrollment initiatives while ensuring compliance with institutional policies and procedures.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Counsel students and their families regarding student account policies, billing procedures, payment options, payment plans, and account balances.
• Serve as a primary point of contact for students and families regarding account-related inquiries and provide timely, accurate customer service.
• Assist students with enrollment and participation in institutional payment plan programs.
• Process cash, check, and electronic payment transactions and ensure accurate posting to student, faculty, and staff accounts.
• Reconcile daily cash and check transactions against receipt reports and maintain accurate records in accordance with university procedures.
• Prepare and process daily bank deposits using approved banking systems and procedures.
• Monitor student accounts and communicate with students regarding outstanding balances, payment deadlines, and account resolution options.
• Assist with collection activities, including phone calls, emails, notices, and payment arrangements, in accordance with institutional policies.
• Administer and maintain student account records, ensuring accuracy and confidentiality of financial information.
• Assist with the preparation, distribution, and maintenance of IRS Form 1098-T reporting and related student communications.
• Collaborate with Financial Aid, Admissions, and other campus departments to ensure accurate account processing and support student enrollment and retention efforts.
• Maintain knowledge of applicable federal, state, and institutional regulations governing student accounts, billing, payment processing, collections, and tax reporting.
• Assist in the development and distribution of student account publications, billing information, payment plan materials, and related communications.

OTHER FUNCTIONS

• Other duties as assigned.
• Serves to facilitate good communication between employees, clients, and management through interpersonal and professional communication techniques.
• Maintain University safety rules.
• Maintain knowledge of computer programs as relates to job.
• Assist with office planning and problem solving.

EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE AND SKILLS REQUIRED

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution or three years of progressive customer service experience.
• Must have excellent written and verbal communication and organizational skills.
• Must have the ability to work both individually and in a team environment.
• Some evening and weekend work and out of town work may be required.
• Possess a thorough knowledge and understanding of Schreiner University.

ADDITIONAL QUALIFICATIONS

• A minimum of two years of experience in student accounts, bursar operations, cashiering, billing, collections, or a related higher education business office function preferred.
• Ability to perform several tasks concurrently with ease and professionalism.
• Strong customer service, communication and interpersonal skills.
• Familiarity and experience with general office equipment.