Financial Aid Counselor

Pennsylvania State University • Abington, PA

454d • $46,400 - $67,300

About The Position

The Financial Aid Counselor at Penn State Abington is responsible for providing personal and financial aid application counseling to students and families. This role involves assisting in the administration of the financial aid program, making decisions to award funds, auditing and reconciling financial aid accounts, and disseminating information regarding student financial assistance through various communication methods.

Requirements

• Typically requires a Bachelor's degree in a related field and 3+ years of relevant experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience
• Proficient and comprehensive knowledge of all federal, state and University student aid regulations, policies, and procedures
• Dedication to excellent customer service and the motivation to help students succeed
• Ability to communicate in an effective and professional manner with detailed and sensitive information
• Strong work ethic and attention to detail
• Critical thinking and creative problem-solving skills
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively
• Demonstrated commitment to access, diversity, and inclusion
• Excellent writing, presentation, and organizational skills
• Proficiency in student information systems and Microsoft Office is preferred

Nice To Haves

• Willingness to work some evenings and weekends as needed

Responsibilities

• Advise and counsel students and parents regarding the financial aid process
• Provide in-take services, taking student/parent phone calls, responding to email, assisting visitors within the office
• Analyze and evaluate student financial needs, and advise on availability of financial assistance
• Monitor and coordinate the processing of verification and certification changes needed due to eligibility changes resulting from FAFSA data changes
• Develop and maintain strong working knowledge of all federal, state, and University student aid regulations, policies, and procedures
• Responsible for awarding, monitoring, and oversight of federal, state and university student aid
• Work with the Office of Student Aid's Application and Eligibility Services staff to monitor both eligibility and review aid processes
• Collaborate with other campus aid representatives, University personnel and outside agencies in the administration of aid applicants' verification and certification eligibility reviews programs
• Coordinates the financial aid communication strategies
• Works some evening and weekends representing the Office of Financial Aid at admission and financial aid events
• Presents financial aid information to small and large audiences

Benefits

• Health insurance, dental and vision coverage
• Retirement plans
• 75% tuition discount for employees, eligible spouses, and dependent children to attend Penn State
• Paid time off including holidays, vacation, sick days, and paid parental leave

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Industry: Educational Services
• Education Level: High school or GED