Financial Aid Counselor- On-site North Carolina

Position Summary

We are seeking a dedicated and detail-oriented Financial Aid Counselor to join our Student Financial Services team. In this role, you will work directly with current and prospective students and their families to guide them through the financial aid process, evaluate eligibility, and help create viable plans to finance their education.

The ideal candidate brings exemplary customer service skills, clear communication, and a strong understanding of financial aid programs. Prior experience with Ellucian Colleague is strongly preferred.

Key Responsibilities

• Student Counseling & Customer Service: Conduct one-on-one appointments (in-person, phone, or virtual) with students and families to discuss aid options, answer questions regarding student billing, and explain application procedures (FAFSA, loan applications, verification, and appeals).

• Application Processing & Verification: Review financial aid applications, collect required documentation, and complete federal/state verification to determine aid eligibility in accordance with institutional, state, and federal regulations.

• Inquiry Resolution: Manage incoming phone calls, emails, and walk-in requests regarding financial aid and student accounts with high empathy, efficiency, and professionalism.

• Awarding & File Maintenance: Assist in awarding federal, state, and institutional grants, scholarships, and loans. Maintain accurate student records in compliance with privacy guidelines (FERPA).

• Financial Literacy & Outreach: Deliver clear information about private/federal loan programs, payment plans, and debt management strategies to support student retention and financial wellness.

Requirements & Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution.

• Customer Service: Proven track record of exceptional customer service and interpersonal communication skills, with the ability to navigate sensitive financial conversations with patience and empathy.

• Financial Aid Knowledge: Demonstrable understanding of federal and private loan programs, grant programs, and financial aid application processes (processing or counseling background).

• Communication Skills: Strong verbal and written communication skills to effectively translate complex regulations into clear guidance for students.

• Organization: Excellent organizational, analytical, and time-management skills with high attention to detail.

Preferred Qualifications

• ERP Systems: Hands-on experience using Ellucian Colleague (Financial Aid module) is a strong plus.

• Document Management & CRM: Experience with document processing platforms (e.g., OnBase) or CRM systems (e.g., Salesforce).