Outreach and Retention Specialist - Student Financial Services

Outreach and Retention Specialist - Student Financial Services

Salary

Depends on Qualifications

Location

Cape Girardeau, MO

Job Type

Full-Time

Job Number

202600295

Division

Enrollment Management and Student Success

Department

Student Financial Services

Opening Date

08/25/2026

• Description
• Benefits

Position Summary

Outreach and Retention Specialist

Student Financial Services

Full-Time

Southeast Missouri State University is seeking an Outreach and Retention Specialist to join the Student Financial Services team. This position plays an important role in helping prospective and current students understand and navigate the financial aid process while supporting enrollment and student retention efforts.

The Outreach and Retention Specialist serves as a primary point of contact for incoming and first-year students and their families regarding financial aid opportunities. The position provides individualized financial aid counseling, supports scholarship processing, participates in outreach and recruitment activities, and proactively works with students to identify and address financial barriers that may affect their ability to enroll and persist at Southeast.

This position is ideal for an individual who enjoys working directly with students and families, explaining complex information in an understandable way, building relationships, and collaborating with campus partners to help students achieve their educational goals.

Primary Responsibilities

• Serve as a primary financial aid resource for incoming, first-year, and prospective students and their families
• Provide individualized counseling and guidance regarding federal, state, institutional, and private financial aid opportunities, including grants, scholarships, loans, and work-study
• Explain financial aid eligibility requirements, application procedures, deadlines, and award information to students and families
• Develop and maintain knowledge of federal Title IV regulations, financial aid methodology, application requirements, and financial aid packaging procedures
• Lead policy research, implementation, documentation, and training related to processes affecting incoming and first-year students
• Assist with the review and processing of financial aid applications and ensure awards are administered accurately and in accordance with applicable regulations and University policies
• Respond to inquiries related to scholarships
• Maintain proactive communication with incoming and first-year students and identify potential financial or administrative barriers that could affect enrollment or retention
• Work collaboratively with campus departments and other University partners to develop solutions to student concerns and connect students with appropriate resources
• Participate in student retention initiatives and contribute to strategies designed to support student persistence
• Represent Student Financial Services at student orientations, Paying for College Nights, FAFSA completion events, recruitment activities, high school visits, community events, and other outreach programs
• Present financial aid information to students, families, schools, community organizations, and other groups
• Participate in the development, implementation, documentation, and training of departmental procedures
• Stay current with changes in federal, state, and institutional financial aid policies and communicate relevant changes to appropriate staff and stakeholders
• Provide excellent customer service through in-person, telephone, email, and other communication channels
• Maintain confidentiality and protect sensitive student information in accordance with FERPA and University policies

Required Qualifications

• Bachelors degree from an accredited institution
• Experience in financial aid, higher education, student services, admissions, advising, or a customer service related field; two or more years of experience working in student financial aid or a related higher education environment is a plus
• Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively and establish trust relationships with students, families, and diverse audiences
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
• Strong problem-solving and critical-thinking skills
• Ability to interpret policies and regulations and explain complex information in a clear and understandable manner
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively as a team and independently
• Ability to interpret and apply federal, state, and institutional regulations
• Strong written, verbal, interpersonal, and presentation skills
• Demonstrated attention to accuracy and detail while managing multiple priorities and meeting established deadlines
• Demonstrated commitment to confidentiality and sensitive information
• Ability to work effectively in a high-volume environment

Required Information & Deadline

Application Deadline: To ensure full consideration, applications must be received by September 8, 2026. The position is available immediately and will remain open until filled.

To Apply: Complete the application by clicking on the APPLY button at the top of the page. You will need to submit the following in order for your application materials to be complete.

• Cover letter
• Current resume
• Names and contact information of three professional references may be asked for later, if not previously submitted

Additional Information

About Southeast Missouri State University (SEMO): Founded in 1873 and accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, Southeast Missouri State University provides student-centered education and experiential learning with a foundation of liberal arts and sciences, embracing a tradition of access, exceptional teaching, and commitment to student success that significantly contributes to the development of the region and beyond. SEMO values access to high-quality, affordable education with a broadly representative student body, faculty, and staff that respects and celebrates a diverse learning community in a global society.

SEMO Fast Facts

SEMO Strategic Action Plan

Southeast Missouri State University provides an excellent benefits package. For complete benefit details visit our website at https://semo.edu/hr.

Employer Southeast Missouri State University

Address 1 University Plaza

Cape Girardeau, Missouri, 63701

Phone (573) 651-2206

Website http://www.semo.edu