Financial Aid Advisor

Springfield Public Schools•Springfield, MA

About The Position

The Financial Aid Advisor (FAA), under the direction of the Office for Student Services, provides financial aid services to students across the district. The advisor supports students and parents through the financial aid and scholarship process, helps them understand student needs analysis, and facilitates problem solving. School assignments will be determined and may include the schools listed in the posting. The position works 7.5 hours per day, 52 weeks per year, including two weeks of paid vacation. Evenings and weekends are required according to the Springfield Promise Program Calendar of Events. The role is effective immediately.

Requirements

Associate degree required.
Experience in financial aid.
Proficiency with computers and Microsoft Office.
Experience using a youth development model and working with diverse populations.
Strong group facilitation skills.
Initiative, judgment, ability to handle confidential matters, and strong problem-solving skills.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Ability to work with collaborative teams.
Strong interpersonal skills for working effectively with students, parents, administrators, and staff.
Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and some weekends.
Ability to communicate goals and financial aid philosophy to a wide variety of individuals.
Positive attitude and desire to help students and the college achieve their goals.
Valid driver’s license.
Reliable transportation other than public transportation to travel between schools in a timely fashion.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree preferred.
Knowledge of the Springfield community is highly desired.

Responsibilities

Ensure students complete the FAFSA, Post Secondary Plan surveys, CSS/Financial Aid Profile, verification, and school-specific or institutional financial aid applications; counsel them on evaluating award letters and appeals.
Research scholarships and help students apply.
Verify student and parent application data in compliance with federal criteria.
Provide students and parents with financial aid counseling on all aspects of the financial aid process.
Make necessary referrals and work with partner organizations to support the FAFSA process.
Support students experiencing financial crises that may affect school performance and college attainment.
Work with special-needs populations to identify unique needs and coordinate appropriate services, including questions regarding citizenship.
Interact with outside entities to facilitate student eligibility or carry out duties in an assigned area of specialization.
Maintain appropriate database systems and generate reports.
Participate in annual training and professional organizations to keep current with new information and program changes.
Support students and parents over the summer to improve fall matriculation.
Perform other related duties as assigned.

Benefits

Two weeks of paid vacation time.
Competitive salaries and benefits.
Professional development opportunities for all staff.
Career advancement opportunities.
Programs to help staff achieve a college degree or pursue certification pathways.

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