Financial Aid Administrator

Arkansas Tech University•Russellville, AR

43d•$45,300

About The Position

The Financial Aid Administrator assures that every student is properly funded. Knowledge of federal and state financial aid regulations and excellent organizational skills are required. The Financial Aid Administrator's records must be in perfect order, as they must coordinate their work with the student, the university, and with federal regulations. The Financial Aid Administrator must work closely with the students and their families. Students must be counseled in all possible financial aspects of their situation. Confidential information must be handled with professionalism and integrity as this position has access to many financial documents including the student and their parent's federal tax returns. This Financial Aid Administrator is responsible for providing information regarding all the procedures and requirements of a financial aid program. He/she must be capable of making an accurate assessment and evaluation of a person's financial aid need by reviewing each application to determine eligibility through verifying all the information that is on the FAFSA and documentation provided by the student. The Financial Aid Administrator often has to conduct student interviews and analyze their official documentation. A variety of students and issues may present themselves, so the Financial Aid Administrator must possess the ability to respond effectively and multitask.

Requirements

Knowledge of financial aid programs and requirements.
Ability to work well with individuals of diverse backgrounds.
Ability to analyze data and make sound judgments.
Ability to follow processes, work effectively on a team, and maintain a positive attitude.
Excellent skills in oral and written communication.
Ability to adapt and work accurately and efficiently.
Ability to operate software systems such as Microsoft Office (Excel and Word).
Ability to learn complex financial aid software (Banner).
Operate standard business office equipment (computer, printer, copier, scanner).
Ability to maintain confidentiality; Ability to work independently.
The formal education equivalent of a bachelor's degree with a major in general business or related field, plus two years of experience in financial aid, registrar, educational counseling or student accounts.
Other job-related education and/or experience may be substituted for all or part of these basic requirements.

Nice To Haves

BS degree in accounting or business-related field, plus 3 years industry experience in registrar, financial aid, educational counseling or student accounts.
Any equivalent combination of experience and training that provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities.
Customer service experience, strong interpersonal, communication, and computer skills.
Team-player but able to work independently, detail oriented and well-organized, positive attitude and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment.

Responsibilities

Advise incoming, continuing, and returning students on the availability of Title IV funds and resources to cover the investment in their educational costs.
Answer student questions regarding completion of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid. Ensure quick response to email, web, and telephone inquiries.
Study and evaluate policies, regulations, and applicable laws relating to financial aid programs.
Attend state, regional, and federal meetings to stay informed of all state and federal regulations changes.
Assist with testing in Banner with upcoming patches and releases.
Oversees general packaging.
Review appeals and exercise professional judgement following federal and institutional policies.
Conduct college nights, if needed, on and off campus.
This position supervises one full-time employee and all student employees in the Financial Aid Office.
Other duties as assigned.