Financial Aid Advisor I

Iowa State University•Ames, IA

48d

About The Position

Looking to make a meaningful impact in the Iowa State University community by supporting and educating students on their financial journey? As a Financial Aid Advisor I in the Office of Student Financial Aid, you will play a critical role in helping students and their families understand how to fund their college education and develop essential financial literacy skills. From one-on-one advising to group presentations and outreach events, you will guide students through the financial aid process, promote responsible money management, and help shape their future. This is a rewarding opportunity for someone who enjoys working in a collaborative, student-focused environment and is passionate about making college accessible and affordable for all. The Office of Student Financial Aid at Iowa State University is committed to empowering over 85% of undergraduate students through the administration of more than $400 million in financial assistance annually. As a unit within the Division of Academic Affairs, our team helps students and their families understand, apply for, and manage financial aid throughout their academic journey. We are driven by values of student success, innovation, collaboration, and respect. Our supportive work environment emphasizes personal and professional growth, with opportunities for training, development, and meaningful contributions to the university's mission. This is a one-year term position with the end date one year from the start date, with the opportunity for renewal.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree
Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. on an ongoing basis without sponsorship. Immigration sponsorship is not available for this position.

Nice To Haves

Previous experience in financial aid, student services, higher education advising, or related fields.
Public speaking or presentation experience.
Experience with financial literacy topics, including budgeting, student loans, and responsible borrowing.
Experience with federal, state, and institutional financial aid regulations and policies.
Experience using student information systems (e.g., PeopleSoft, Banner, Workday) or financial aid management systems.

Responsibilities

Advise students and their families on financial aid application procedures, eligibility, and available funding options.
Conduct one-on-one advising sessions and group presentations focused on financial literacy and aid opportunities.
Provide customer service support via email, phone, and in-person meetings to meet the needs of students, families, and other stakeholders.
Apply judgment regarding financial aid eligibility and review student records to adjust financial aid packages as needed.
Resolve financial aid disbursement holds and ensure timely processing of awards.
Utilize institutional financial aid systems to manage applications, awards, and reporting.
Engage with student employees by providing guidance on advising and processing questions.
Partner with off-campus centers, high schools, local agencies, and the public to provide outreach and promote financial literacy.
Present to small and large groups, including classrooms, conferences, and events such as Financial Literacy Month and Student Employee of the Year.
Collaborate with internal departments for outreach initiatives, including Orientation and Experience ISU Visit Days.
Stay current on federal, state, and institutional regulations affecting financial aid.
Attend relevant training sessions, workshops, and professional development opportunities.
Pursue professional credentials as appropriate to further expertise in financial aid.
Assists students and families by making recommendations, interpreting regulations, and reviewing petitions.
Counsels students and families regarding financial aid including eligibility, application procedures, aid programs, costs, indebtedness, money management, and financial planning.
Provides status updates regarding eligibility, scholarships, and applications.
Provides specialized support for a financial aid area.
Analyzes data and applies judgement.
Evaluates individual circumstances and documentation and makes adjustments or exceptions based on judgement.
Prepares and gives presentations related to financial aid and related topics.

Benefits

Iowa State Employees enjoy comprehensive health and work-life benefits, including medical and dental
Retirement benefits including defined benefit and defined contribution plans
Generous vacation, holiday and sick time and leave plans
Onsite childcare (Ames, Iowa)
Life insurance and long-term disability
Flexible Spending Accounts
Various voluntary benefits and discounts
Employee Assistance Program
Wellbeing program
Iowa State offers WorkFlex options for some positions. WorkFlex offers flexibility on when, where, and how you do your work. For more information, please speak with the Hiring Manager.