Financial Aid Counselor/Program Coordinator

The Beach • Long Beach, CA

18h • Onsite

About The Position

The Financial Aid Counselor/Program Coordinator performs a variety of processing and specialized financial aid functions to facilitate administration of financial aid programs and delivery of funds to students in support of access and student success. Activities include determining eligibility; awarding aid; facilitating problem solving with students and parents; and making professional judgment decisions regarding student aid eligibility. The counselor provides leadership and program oversight over an assigned area of specialty; adjudicates appeals; and provides training to other staff. Furthermore, this position provides services that are equitable, inclusive, and culturally sensitive to enhance the quality of campus life. This position uses a student-centered and equity-minded approach in all communication and service efforts, whether in-person, via phone or through written correspondence.

Requirements

• Equivalent to a bachelor's degree in one of the behavioral sciences, public or business administration, or a job-related field and two years of professional experience in one of the student services program areas required.
• Ability to communicate with an ethnically and culturally diverse campus community.
• Ability to follow all university policies, procedures, and guidelines including but not limited to safety, civility, information security, and non-discrimination policies and procedures.
• Ability to contribute to a positive university experience for each and every student and assist in achieving the university's commitment to a "vision of excellence."

Nice To Haves

• Student-focused financial aid professional who provides exceptional counseling, outreach, and support to students and families.
• Effectively communicate financial aid options, eligibility requirements, and application processes through individual appointments, workshops, presentations, and other outreach activities.
• Strong interpersonal skills and a commitment to service excellence.
• Guide prospective, continuing, and returning students through complex financial aid situations, including personal, family, or financial hardships, while connecting them with appropriate campus and community resources.
• Strong analytical and program management skills, with experience evaluating financial aid applications, determining eligibility, administering aid programs, and ensuring compliance with federal, state, and institutional regulations.
• Exercise sound professional judgment when reviewing special circumstances, resolving complex eligibility issues, monitoring academic progress, adjusting awards, and responding to appeals or escalated student concerns.
• Serve as a resource to colleagues, contribute to program oversight and process improvements, analyze data to support decision-making, and collaborate with campus partners to promote student success.
• Committed to continuous learning, stay current on evolving financial aid regulations, industry trends, and best practices.
• Actively participate in training and professional development, support departmental initiatives, and contribute to the overall success of the Financial Aid Office and Enrollment Services through collaboration, adaptability, and a strong dedication to student success.

Responsibilities

• Promote an environment of collaboration and service excellence by providing a broad range of student and family-facing financial aid services, including counseling and outreach activities.
• Provide leadership; program management; and serve as liaison for a programmatic area of specialization.
• Facilitate access and student success through a multitude of processing activities; providing decision-making support in complex situations; evaluating special circumstances; and exercising professional judgment.
• Remain current with constantly evolving financial aid regulations (federal, state, institutional) and emerging trends and best practices in delivering service excellence.
• Contribute to the overall success of the Financial Aid Office and Enrollment Services through ad-hoc assignments.

Benefits

• Up to 24 vacation days per year (based on employee group and/or length of service)
• 14 paid holidays
• 12 sick days annually with unlimited accrual
• A variety of medical, dental, and vision plans
• Participation in the CalPERS defined benefit plan
• Voluntary savings options such as 403(b), 401(k), and 457 plans
• Tuition fee waiver programs for eligible employees; dependent eligibility varies by employee group and bargaining unit
• Confidential counseling and support services for employees and their families
• Wellness programs
• Professional development opportunities
• Insurance options including life, disability, and pet insurance

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level