Financial Aid Specialist Job Senatobia area,Mississippi USA,Finance & Banking

Job Title:
Financial Aid Specialist

The Financial Aid Specialist supports students in understanding and accessing federal financial aid programs, including Pell Grants and Direct Loans. This role guides students through the full financial aid process—from application to disbursement—while ensuring aid is processed accurately and in compliance with federal regulations. The Specialist provides clear communication, timely support, and a student‑centered experience to help students navigate funding options and maintain eligibility for financial assistance.

Required Qualifications

Associate’s degree
Basic knowledge of financial aid programs or willingness to learn
Strong attention to detail and ability to manage multiple tasks effectively
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills with a passion for helping students

Preferred

Bachelor’s degree
Experience in financial aid, higher education, or customer service
Familiarity with financial aid systems such as COD, NSLDS, and FPP
Ability to interpret and apply federal financial aid regulations and policies

Duties and Responsibilities

Guide students and families through the financial aid process, including FAFSA completion and understanding financial aid awards

Answer questions related to Pell Grants, Direct Loans, eligibility requirements, and financial aid policies

Promote financial literacy by educating students on borrowing limits, loan repayment, and responsible financial planning

Review student financial aid applications (ISIRs) and determine eligibility for federal aid programs

Complete verification processes and resolve missing, incomplete, or conflicting information

Package and award federal financial aid based on student eligibility and institutional guidelines

Ensure compliance with all federal Title IV regulations and institutional financial aid policies

Maintain accurate and organized student financial aid records to support audits and program reviews

Monitor and apply updates to federal financial aid regulations and procedures

Assist with the disbursement of Pell Grants and Direct Loans

Identify, research, and resolve discrepancies between financial aid systems and student records

Support reconciliation processes to ensure accurate accounting of financial aid funds

Collaborate with Admissions, Registrar, Business Office, and other departments to support student success

Contribute to a positive, welcoming, and student‑focused Financial Aid Office environment

Provide timely, professional, and student‑centered customer service while managing multiple priorities effectively

Perform other duties as assigned by the District Director of Financial Aid

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Ability to take initiative and solve problems effectively
Strong organizational skills with exceptional attention to detail
Proficiency in technology, including email, word processing, spreadsheets, databases, presentation software, and internet applications
Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to interact tactfully and courteously with students, faculty, staff, and the public
Ability to collaborate effectively and work as part of a team‑oriented environment
Ability to quickly learn, understand, and retain policies and procedures related to student services and financial aid operations
Excellent oral and written communication skills with the ability to engage diverse populations
Clear, compassionate, and student‑centered communication skills
Strong problem‑solving, critical thinking, and analytical abilities
Effective organization, multitasking, and time‑management skills
Demonstrated commitment to student success and providing high‑quality customer service
Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and extended hours as needed to meet departmental needs

Physical Demands and Work Environment

Stand for extended periods of time
Communicate effectively in person, by telephone, through Zoom, and via live chat
Talk, hear, observe, and assist students and staff
Sit and use hands to handle, feel, or operate office equipment
Reach with hands and arms
Stand, walk, stoop, or kneel as needed
Occasionally lift and/or move items weighing up to 15–20 pounds

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