Financial Aid Counselor

Shenandoah University•Winchester, VA

21d•Onsite

About The Position

Shenandoah University’s Office of Financial Aid is hiring a full-time, benefited Financial Aid Counselor based on its main campus in Winchester, Virginia. Reporting to the Assistant Vice President of Student Financial Services, the Counselor provides comprehensive financial aid counseling to students and families by phone, email, virtual appointments, and in-person interactions. The position reviews and processes financial aid applications, determines eligibility, and ensures compliance with federal, state, and institutional regulations. The Counselor works with Admissions, Student Accounts, Hornet Central, and other campus partners to support prospective and current students and provide accurate guidance and customer service throughout the financial aid process. The role also contributes to outreach, policy and procedure development, institutional fund administration, and team discussions about special circumstances and professional judgment. Occasional travel for training or conferences may be required, and regular, reliable on-site attendance is expected.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree required.
Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to communicate complex information clearly and compassionately.
Excellent organizational, analytical, and problem-solving abilities.
Ability to interpret and apply complex regulations with attention to detail and accuracy.
Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to explain detailed financial information to individuals and groups.
Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
Commitment to providing equitable service to a diverse student population.
Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, high-volume environment, particularly during peak seasons.
Demonstrated professionalism and discretion.
Must be authorized to work in the United States; the university is not able to sponsor international visas.
A pre-employment background check is required; a satisfactory driving record may be required as a condition of hire.

Nice To Haves

Experience in financial aid, student services, or a related field.
Knowledge of Title IV regulations and financial aid processes.

Responsibilities

Counsel students and families on financial aid processes, eligibility, and federal, state, institutional, and private funding options.
Review and process ISIRs, verification documentation, and other required materials to determine aid eligibility.
Perform need analysis and package financial aid according to applicable regulations and institutional policies.
Administer federal and state aid programs, including Federal Pell Grants and the Virginia Tuition Assistance Grant (VTAG).
Calculate Return to Title IV (R2T4) and institutional fund adjustments for students who withdraw or change enrollment status.
Coordinate with Student Accounts to communicate how enrollment changes affect financial aid awards and student billing.
Monitor submitted documentation for completeness and compliance, and follow up with students as needed.
Interpret and apply federal regulations, tax law guidance, state program rules, and institutional policies.
Participate in professional development and stay current on regulatory updates, including NASFAA and federal guidance.
Contribute to on- and off-campus outreach efforts.
Maintain accurate records and use financial aid systems and reporting tools, including Ellucian, Excel, Word, and Google Workspace.
Assist in developing and maintaining policies and procedures.
Collaborate with campus partners, including Advancement, on administering institutional and endowed funds.
Participate in team discussions concerning special circumstances and professional judgment decisions.
Maintain regular, reliable on-site attendance.
Occasionally travel for training or conferences as required.