Financial Aid Advisor - III

South University•Savannah, GA

About The Position

As a Senior Financial Aid Advisor, you will serve as a subject matter expert and mentor, managing complex student portfolios and ensuring strict adherence to Federal and State regulations. You will bridge the gap between student service and administrative compliance, driving the financial success of our students through expert counseling and strategic planning. Assure that the South University philosophy: quality services to clients; development, growth, involvement and recognition of employees; sound economic principles; and an environment which is conducive to innovation, positive thinking and expansion is considered in carrying out the duties and responsibilities of this position.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in a related discipline or Associate’s Degree and 5 years of related experience with federal and student financial aid, or 7+ years of related experience with federal and student aid.
Financial aid or accounting experience required.
Customer service, problem-solving experience required.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
Ability to make small group presentations as well as skill in interacting on a one-on-one basis.
The ability to multi-task, work independently, and make decisions based on guidelines.
Strong basic computer software (MS Office) skills as well as exposure to more concentrated financial aid software (Campus Vue/Campus Nexus preferred)
Willing and able to work on the Saturday prior to each start (once every 5 weeks)
Have a reliable internet connection.

Responsibilities

Assist the Senior Director of Financial Aid with training new Financial Aid Advisors, act as mentor to other advisors on the team, and provide guidance on processes when needed.
Contribute to the continuous improvement of the department by participating in special initiatives and evolving business needs.
Utilize reports to review students, analyze work needed, and ability to prioritize daily workload independently.
Strong Customer Service, ability to calm students and parents, accurately articulate the status of a student’s aid and account.
Work cohesively with Admission Representative in order to facilitate outstanding service to prospective students and their parents.
Efficiently and accurately package assigned students including includes new, continuing, re-entry and transfer students.
Guide students on the financial aid process, including required forms, documents, and process.
Create financial plans for assigned students in compliance with institutional policies and Federal regulations, communicate the plan to students and parents, and effectively explain rights and responsibilities for each aid source.
Assist students and parents with alternative means of financing any remaining balance after awarding eligible federal, state, or institutional aid
Ensure student files are complete and accurate and that aid is paid to students’ accounts in a timely manner.
Review ISIRs, request outstanding documents, and perform all levels of verification and C Code reviews.
Other duties as assigned