Financial Aid Counselor

GENERAL OBJECTIVES:

The primary objectives of a financial aid counselor are to enhance student understanding of available financial aid options and ensure compliance with all relevant regulations. This involves educating and empowering students and their families by providing clear, accurate information about financial aid options, application processes, and eligibility requirements, helping them make informed decisions about funding their education. Additionally, the counselor is responsible for maintaining strict adherence to federal, state, and institutional guidelines by overseeing the accurate processing of financial aid awards, ensuring timely disbursements, and addressing any discrepancies or issues. This ensures that students receive the financial support they need without delays, while also maintaining compliance with all necessary regulations.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Must enjoy working with people and providing excellent customer service.
• Must have strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Must maintain absolute confidentiality of all student and family information.
• Must be detail-oriented, organized, and able to follow through with tasks.
• Must be flexible, adaptable, and willing to learn new processes and technologies.
• Bachelor's degree preferred.
• Knowledge of financial aid regulations and processes preferred.
• Proficiency in computer programs such as Colleague, Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook, plus other software as required.

SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Counsel students and families in person, by phone, and via email, providing accurate and timely financial aid information.
• Assist students with completing financial aid applications and understanding award notifications.
• Oversee the administration of institutional aid and scholarships, ensuring eligibility requirements are met and accurate records are maintained for reporting and compliance.
• Manage an assigned area of specialty, maintaining up-to-date knowledge of related regulations and serving as the primary resource for that area.
• Process financial aid documents, verify data accuracy, and resolve discrepancies in accordance with institutional, state, and federal guidelines.
• Prepare and maintain accurate reports and documentation required for audits, compliance reviews, and internal reporting.
• Participate in professional development and training activities to stay informed about changes in financial aid regulations and best practices.
• Volunteer for campus events (e.g., orientation, registration, preview days, and other outreach events) as required, which may include occasional Saturday commitments.
• Assist with other responsibilities as assigned by the Director or Associate Director of Financial Aid.

WORK SCHEDULE:

This position is based on campus in the Financial Aid Office, with regular hours from Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Occasional extended hours outside of the regular workweek may be required.

WORK LOCATION:

This position will work on the main campus, located at 3000 Mountain Creek Parkway, Dallas, TX 75211