Student Accounts Specialist

Reporting directly to the Director of the Bursar Office, the Student Accounts Specialist is responsible for providing comprehensive support for student account operations, including account analysis, billing, cashiering, and customer service. This position serves as a primary point of contact for students, faculty, staff, and external partners regarding student account inquiries, payment processing, and workforce or third‑party billing. The role ensures accuracy, compliance, and timely resolution of account‑related matters across assigned campuses.

Hourly Rate: $19.00

Location:

Valparaiso

• Student Account Management & Customer Service Serve as a primary contact for student account inquiries, providing detailed guidance to students, faculty, staff, and external partners via phone, email, and in‑person communication. Research, analyze, and resolve complex student account issues, including tuition, financial aid, and billing discrepancies. Explain billing statements, account activity, and financial aid impacts to students and families. Assist students with completing online processes related to payments, refunds, and account management.
• Account Maintenance & Transactions Review and manage student account holds, including placing or releasing holds as appropriate. Create, monitor, and follow up on payment plans to ensure timely payments. Research and resolve returned refunds, stale‑dated checks, and missing payments. Process account adjustments, refunds, and ensure proper reconciliation of accounts. Maintain accurate records and ensure compliance with institutional policies and procedures.
• Cashiering & Reconciliation Perform daily cashiering functions, including payment processing and transcript payments. Reconcile daily cash drawers and prepare deposits with required documentation. Ensure all transactions are balanced and discrepancies are resolved promptly.
• Billing, Invoicing & Third‑Party Accounts Manage third‑party and workforce billing, including contract setup, invoicing, and payment tracking. Review sponsor accounts for accuracy and follow up on outstanding balances. Process non‑credit and workforce‑related billing, vouchers, and claims. Ensure proper coding of revenue and cost centers within financial systems.
• Account Analysis & Reporting Review credit balance reports and initiate refunds where appropriate. Reconcile student, agency, and program accounts to ensure accuracy and completeness. Monitor outstanding balances and communicate with students regarding payment obligations.
• Compliance & Administrative Support Assist with audit preparation and ensure compliance with federal, state, and institutional regulations. Maintain organized and accurate electronic and physical filing systems. Support operational needs of the Bursar Office, including special programs and initiatives. Perform other duties as assigned consistent with commonly accepted practices.

• Associate’s degree in business, accounting, finance, or related field; or equivalent work experience.
• Experience with cash handling, account reconciliation, or financial transactions.
• Strong customer service, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• High level of accuracy, attention to detail, and organizational ability.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook) and general computer systems.
• Official college transcripts required upon hiring, and employment contingent on acceptable criminal background checks.

• Experience with student information or financial systems (e.g., Banner, Workday, Touchnet).
• Experience with third‑party billing, workforce programs, or higher…