Financial Aid Counselor - Student Services

University of Northern Colorado • Greeley, CO

71d • $51,000 - $53,045

About The Position

This position serves as a primary point of contact for students and families seeking financial aid support through Bear Central. The Financial Aid Counselor - Student Services provides direct counseling on eligibility, application processes, and award management for federal, state, and institutional aid programs. The Counselor ensures the accurate interpretation and application of financial aid regulations while maintaining a student-centered, service-oriented approach that promotes access, retention, and overall student success. In addition to front-line service, the position is responsible for processing assigned aid functions such as Study Abroad, Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) appeals, and student aid eligibility for students who enroll mid-term or transfer from other institutions. As part of the Office of Financial Aid's outreach team, the Counselor participates in on- and off-campus events, presentations, and community activities designed to increase financial aid awareness and support recruitment and retention goals

Requirements

• BA Required
• The ideal candidate will bring at least one year of professional experience in financial aid administration or an equivalent combination of education and related experience.
• This position requires a strong understanding of financial aid principles and regulations
• The ability to apply policies accurately
• Excellent analytical, organizational, and communication skills.
• The Counselor must demonstrate professionalism, empathy, and discretion when handling confidential information and must be comfortable working in a fast-paced, collaborative, and student-centered environment.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications and student information systems such as Banner or comparable platforms is required.

Nice To Haves

• Experience providing student services in a high-volume setting, conducting aid processing tasks such as SAP appeals, Study Abroad adjustments, or loan eligibility reviews, and delivering direct student support is preferred.
• NASFAA credentials preferred but not required
• Bilingual communication skills (Spanish/English preferred) are highly valued to effectively serve UNC's diverse student population and promote equitable access to financial aid resources.

Responsibilities

• The Counselor provides individualized assistance to students and families in Bear Central regarding financial aid eligibility, applications, verification, and award adjustments.
• The Counselor is responsible for assigned financial aid processing functions that contribute to the overall compliance and efficiency of the Office of Financial Aid.
• As part of the financial aid outreach team, the Counselor participates in presentations, workshops, and events that promote financial literacy and access to aid.
• The Counselor assists with the review and documentation of office procedures and policies.

Benefits

• Benefits available include health, dental, vision, life and long-term disability insurance, as well as a selection of several defined contribution retirement plans for all full-time positions.
• Employees at UNC receive sick leave, and other leave options may be available based on position.
• Full-time employees are eligible to receive tuition waiver benefits, as well as dependents and spouses of UNC Employees who are employed at 0.5 FTE or above are eligible for undergraduate dependent tuition grants of up to 50%.
• These tuition grants will cover in-state tuition charges.
• Further requirements may exist.
• Other benefits may be available based on position.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Industry: Educational Services
• Number of Employees: 1,001-5,000 employees