Financial Aid Specialist

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 RESPONSIBLITIES

• 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

While performing the duties of this position, the employee is regularly required to:

• 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

APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS:

Interested applicants should attach and submit the following:

• Application at www.northwestms.edu
• Resume
• Transcripts
• Three (3) Professional References (Name, Phone Number, and Email)
• Deadline to Apply: Open until filled