Financial Aid Specialist CL

This position is responsible for all aspects of Alternative and PLUS Loan processing including determining loan eligibility, certifying loans, submitting loan related programs, reviewing loan data for accuracy, making all necessary updates & corrections, transmitting & receiving loan records, and alternative loan disbursement. This position also serves as the primary contact within the office for general questions about, and revisions to, alternative and PLUS loans.

This position works with lenders and disbursing agents to ensure the accurate and timely processing and disbursement of loans. Support the Assistant Director with the administration of all Finance Authority of Maine (FAME) programs. In addition, the position participates in direct customer service activities and trains/supervises student employees in the loan area. The position requires the development of specialized program knowledge across multiple areas, excellent written and verbal communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to prioritize multiple tasks in a fast‑paced environment.

Full‑time, regular position, 40 hours per week, 5 days per week. Normal daily work hours are Monday – Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. This position pays $20.39/hour, or applicable transfer rate in accordance with the ACSUM collective bargaining agreement.

• Process alternative loans and Direct PLUS Loans including the origination, transmittal, disbursement & adjustment of loan funds.
• Determine academic year eligibility; decisions around eligibility are typically non‑routine and require a significant understanding of federal regulations and office policy.
• Review prior loan history to determine aggregate amounts borrowed online through the Department of Education website (NSLDS).
• Responsible for loan disbursement processes that post funds to student accounts.
• Responsible for problem resolution when issues arise with certification or disbursement, and recommend procedural changes to the supervisor.
• Responsible for the electronic transmission and receipt of loan data through several web‑based loan delivery systems.
• Work closely with lenders and disbursing agents to ensure accurate and timely processing of loans. Initiate corrections and adjustments to loan records.
• Process all paper checks received from lenders for alternative loans.
• Work with the Assistant Director for Loans to maintain accurate documentation of loan policies and procedures.
• Responsible for all email/letter loan communication to students and parents when loans have been processed.

• Support over award processing to ensure that a student’s aid is appropriate based on either cost of attendance or financial need.
• Perform financial aid award adjustments for December graduates.
• Support the Assistant Director with the administration of all Finance Authority of Maine (FAME) programs, including the State of Maine Grant Program, Foster Care Tuition Waiver, and State of Maine Grant Program for Adults, and Educators for Maine Loan programs. Includes the identification of eligible students and award amounts and electronic transmission of data.
• Advise students and parents both in‑person or via phone and email, on highly sensitive and confidential financial aid and related concerns including interpretation of federal, state and university regulations and policy.
• Perform other reasonably related duties as assigned by the Director or Assistant Director of Student Financial Services.

Required:

• High school diploma or equivalent (G.E.D.) AND two years administrative support experience.
• Detail oriented.
• Comfortable in a fast‑paced, highly computerized environment.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• High degree of experience with Microsoft Office Applications.
• Data Entry Experience.
• Possess the attitude and ability to foster a respectful and productive workplace environment.

Preferred:

• Knowledge of People Soft /Maine Street.
• Previous experience in financial aid.
• Prior supervisory experience.

• Tuition benefits (employee and dependent).
• Comprehensive insurance coverage including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, and short and long…