Financial Aid Counselor

Location: Olivet

Position Summary

The Financial Aid Counselor is responsible for supporting the administration of federal, state, and institutional financial aid programs while delivering high-quality service to students and families. This role manages a caseload of students and ensures compliance with all applicable regulations while contributing to a student-centered, efficient financial aid operation.

Key Responsibilities

* Counsel students and families on financial aid eligibility, application requirements, cost of attendance, and funding options

* Review and process financial aid applications (FAFSA/ISIR) and resolve conflicting information

* Determine student eligibility, including review of C-Flags, C-Codes, and database matches

* Perform federal verification and ensure compliance with Title IV regulations

* Package and adjust financial aid awards, including monitoring for over awards

* Manage Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) evaluations and appeals

* Review and process special circumstance requests using professional judgment

* Assist with loan processing, including Direct Loans and Parent PLUS Loans

* Support reconciliation, reporting, and compliance activities as needed

* Participate in recruitment, outreach, and financial literacy initiatives

* Provide front-line customer service and support to students, families, and campus partners

* Collaborate with Admissions, Student Accounts, and other campus departments to support student success

* Perform other duties as assigned

Minimum Qualifications

* Bachelor's degree in Business, Finance, Accounting, Education, or related field

* 2+ years of experience in financial aid, student accounts, or a related field OR transferable experience (see below)

* Equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered

Transferable Experience & Skills (Financial Aid Experience Not Required)

Candidates do not need direct financial aid experience to be successful in this role. We strongly encourage applicants with transferable experience in compliance-based, detail-oriented, and student/client-facing roles to apply.

Relevant backgrounds may include:

* Banking, lending, or loan processing

* Accounting, payroll, or finance

* Admissions, registrar, or enrollment services

* Social services or case management

* Insurance, claims, or benefits administration

* Government or compliance-focused roles

Preferred Qualifications

* Experience working in a higher education financial aid office

* Knowledge of Title IV regulations and federal need analysis

* Experience with financial aid systems (Power

FAIDS, Jenzabar, Banner, or similar)

* Strong understanding of SAP, verification, and professional judgment

Key Transferable Skills

Candidates should demonstrate the ability to:

* Interpret and apply policies, rules, or regulations

* Review and verify documentation for accuracy and completeness

* Manage a caseload or high volume of work with competing deadlines

* Communicate complex information clearly and effectively

* Maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information

* Analyze information and make sound, independent decisions

* Provide strong customer service in a fast-paced environment

Training Commitment

We are willing to train the right candidate who demonstrates strong analytical ability, attention to detail, and a commitment to student service.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

* Strong analytical and problem-solving skills

* Ability to interpret and apply complex federal and state regulations

* Excellent communication and customer service skills

* Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities

* High level of accuracy and attention to detail

* Ability to work both independently and collaboratively

* Commitment to supporting a diverse student population

Work Environment

* Full-time, on-campus position

* Fast-paced, service-oriented office environment

* Regular interaction with students, families, and campus stakeholders