Job Title: Financial Aid Counselor
Location: Savannah State Recruiting Loc
Regular/Temporary: Regular
Full/Part Time: Full-Time
Job ID: 223095
Job Summary This position counsels and advises students about financial aid eligibility, application procedures, aid programs, costs, indebtedness, money management and financial planning, and individualizes information to the particular needs and situation of the student. Collects and/or analyzes financial data on students to determine aid eligibility and make awards within federal, state and/or institutional guidelines. May be directed to perform job related tasks other than those specifically delineated in this description.

Responsibilities

Counsel and advise students (in-person, virtual email or phone) about financial aid eligibility, application procedures, aid programs, costs, indebtedness, money management and financial planning and individualizes information to the particular needs and situations of the students. Present financial aid information to students, parents, high school guidance counselors and university constituents.Provide good customer service by responding to students' and parents' inquiries accurately and in a timely manner and provide clarification on questions and documents needed.Maintain a working knowledge of all federal, state, and University programs administered by the Financial Aid Office. Keep abreast of all changes in federal, state, and University laws, rules and regulations by reading aid literature and attending various training sessions.Represent the department at special events such as high school college nights, orientations, financial aid workshops, financial literacy workshops, open campus days, etc.Perform role of coordinator of the Federal Work Study Program. Serve as the liaison between departments that employ student workers and the Financial Aid Office, evaluate students awards to determine eligibility for FWS, develop training materials for students and supervisors on FWS rules and processes, maintain accurate records and contracts, reconcile after each pay period and monitor students continued eligiblity.Process reinstatement forms and serve as the secondary liaison to communicate accordingly with Student Financial Services.Answer emails on behalf of the office from faculty, students and others.Counsel students on Satisfactory Academic Progress and the appeal process. Assist with running the SAP processes in BANNER after each semester, getting the appeals uploaded to Campuslogic, and reviewing appeals timely.Attend workshops and conferences requiring out of town travelFollow NASFAA'S Statement of Ethical Principles and Code of ConductPerform other duties (as assigned by Associate Director or Director) as necessary for the effectiveness of the organization.Perform assigned responsibilities, duties, and tasks according to established practices, procedures, techniques, and standards in a safe manner and with minimal supervision.

Required Qualifications

Bachelor's degree required and one year of experience at an institution of higher education focusing on financial aid and/or student counseling OR Associate degree with five years of experience at an institution of higher education focusing on financial aid and/or student counseling. Excellent communication and counseling skills (verbal and written). Must be able to engage in efficient interaction with students and parents. Ability to counsel, advise, disseminate financial aid information, educate staff and administration, make referrals for students and staff over a wide range of subjects relating to the financial aid process, eligibility requirements, navigating through university-wide administration, with good communication skills while utilizing professionalism and confidentiality. Strong analytical and computer proficiency skills are necessary, along with the ability to multitask effectively. Strong motivational skills to create a positive and engaging work environment with a focus on customer service. Ability to counsel and handle difficult situations with sensitivity and responsiveness to student needs. Strong ability to take initiative and follow through to completion all assignments and projects in a timely manner with demonstrated ability to prioritize, organize and collaborate among staff and management.