Guide students and families through the financial aid process with clarity, care, and accuracy. As a Financial Aid Advisor I, this role serves as a primary point of contact, providing clear guidance on federal, state, and institutional financial aid programs. The advisor assists students in person, by phone, and virtually with questions related to applications, eligibility, packaging, and general aid options. Responsibilities include reviewing basic eligibility, supporting routine updates to financial aid packages, resolving standard disbursement holds, and escalating complex or sensitive cases to senior staff as needed. All work is completed in accordance with applicable regulations to ensure accuracy, compliance, and a positive student experience.
This role also supports the delivery of a student-focused experience through responsive customer service, participation in outreach events, and presentations to students, families, and campus or community partners. It is well-suited for someone who is detail-oriented, service-driven, and comfortable learning complex regulatory information in a fast-paced environment.
Preferred Qualifications:
Previous experience in financial aid, student services, higher education advising, or related fields.
Public speaking or presentation experience.
Experience with financial literacy topics, including budgeting, student loans, and responsible borrowing.
Experience with federal, state, and institutional financial aid regulations and policies.
Experience using student information systems (e.g., PeopleSoft, Banner, Workday) or financial aid management systems.
About the Department:
The Office of Student Financial Aid at Iowa State University is committed to empowering over 85% of undergraduate students through the administration of more than $400 million in financial assistance annually. As a unit within the Division of Academic Affairs, our team helps students and their families understand, apply for, and manage financial aid throughout their academic journey. We are driven by values of student success, innovation, collaboration, and respect. Our supportive work environment emphasizes personal and professional growth, with opportunities for training, development, and meaningful contributions to the university’s mission. Join us in making college more accessible and affordable for Iowa State students.
This is a term position with an end date of June 30, 2027, with the potential for renewal based on funding availability.
Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. on an ongoing basis without sponsorship. Immigration sponsorship is not available for this position.
Application Instructions:
To apply for this position, please click on “Apply” and complete the Employment Application. Please be prepared to enter or attach the following:
Resume/Curriculum Vitae
Letter of Application/Cover Letter
Why Choose Iowa State University?
Iowa State Employees enjoy comprehensive health and work-life benefits, including medical and dental, as well as:
If you have questions regarding this application process, please email employment@iastate.edu, or call 515-294-4800 or Toll Free: 1-877-477-7485.
Iowa State University does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, age, ethnicity, religion, national origin, pregnancy, sexual orientation, genetic information, sex, marital status, disability, or status as a U.S. Veteran. Inquiries regarding non-discrimination policies may be directed to Office of Equal Opportunity, 2680 Beardshear Hall, 515 Morrill Road, Ames, Iowa 50011, Tel. 515-294-7612, email
eooffice@iastate.edu
.
General ISU compensation information can be found on the University Human Resources website. Please note that this is only a list of ranges and individuals will be paid commensurate with qualifications.