Financial Aid Professional - FT

GILA COUNTY COMMUNITY COLLEGE DISTRICT•Payson, AZ

4h•$23 - $30•Onsite

About The Position

The Financial Aid Professional is responsible for administering all federal, state, and institutional financial aid programs, ensuring compliance with applicable regulations, College policies, and FERPA standards. This role involves developing and implementing sound policies and procedures, overseeing the processing of financial aid applications, managing fund distribution, and monitoring student eligibility. The position also requires collaborating with various departments, providing financial aid counseling, coordinating responses to audits, supporting accreditation initiatives, promoting financial literacy, supervising personnel, managing the department budget, and participating in professional development. Additionally, the role involves implementing innovative tools and technologies, serving on committees, and fulfilling responsibilities during non-traditional days and times.

Requirements

Ability to pass a background screening process and obtain a Level 1 fingerprint clearance card.
Bachelor’s degree required.
Minimum of three years’ experience in financial aid administration, student services, or related higher education role.
Demonstrated knowledge of federal and state financial aid regulations, including Title IV, FERPA, and Arizona-specific statutes.
Proven ability to manage sensitive data securely and ethically, with familiarity in cybersecurity best practices.
Experience with student information systems (e.g., Banner, Colleague) and financial aid platforms (e.g., COD, NSLDS, FAFSA).
Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret data, generate reports, and apply metrics to improve student outcomes.
Commitment to equity, access, and inclusive practices in financial aid counseling and outreach.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills; ability to engage diverse audiences including students, families, faculty, and external agencies.
Demonstrated leadership in training, mentoring, and professional development of staff.
Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced, compliance-driven environment.
Familiarity with accreditation standards and ability to contribute financial aid documentation to institutional reviews.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and digital tools that enhance student engagement and operational efficiency.

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree in education, public administration, business, or related field preferred.
Completion of three or more NASFAA Professional Credentials or a willingness to become NASFAA certified.
Strong analytical skills to interpret complex federal and state regulations, professional publications, financial reports, and legal documents.
Excellent problem-resolution skills.
Experience in developing and implementing strategic plans and goals; ability to effectively manage human and capital resources.
Ability to develop and maintain an excellent institutional reputation within the service area through positive interactions with community leaders, students, residents, and other College stakeholders.

Responsibilities

Administer all federal, state, and institutional financial aid programs, ensuring compliance with applicable regulations, College policies, and FERPA standards; maintain current knowledge of changes in financial aid regulations, cybersecurity protocols, and privacy requirements.
Develop and implement sound policies and procedures for all aspects of the financial aid process; analyze and apply financial aid strategies that support student retention, equity, and access.
Oversee processing of financial aid applications for FAFSA, scholarships, waivers, and other aid opportunities; ensure inclusive outreach to underserved and non-traditional student populations.
Manage distribution of funds including Pell Grants, scholarships, state aid, and work-study programs; monitor disbursements for accuracy, timeliness, and compliance.
Monitor enrollment reports and student eligibility, including satisfactory academic progress (SAP), enrollment status, and Title IV compliance; administer academic appeals and reinstatement evaluations.
Track aid distribution and student outcomes using key performance indicators (KPIs); prepare and submit federal and state reports including FISAP, NSC, and applicable IPEDS sections.
Collaborate with Admissions, Registrar, Business Operations, and other departments to ensure seamless student service; provide financial aid counseling to students and families with sensitivity to diverse needs and backgrounds.
Coordinate responses to audits and program reviews; maintain readiness for internal and external evaluations.
Support College accreditation initiatives by contributing financial aid data, documentation, and strategic insights.
Promote financial literacy and aid awareness through workshops, orientation sessions, and community outreach; ensure accessibility of materials and events for all students.
Supervise, train, and evaluate student services personnel involved in financial aid processes; foster a culture of continuous improvement and professional growth.
Develop and manage the Financial Aid department budget in collaboration with appropriate administrators; link resource allocation to strategic planning and data-informed priorities.
Participate in professional development activities, including NASFAA certification and engagement with state/national financial aid associations; lead internal training sessions on regulatory updates and best practices.
Implement and evaluate innovative tools and technologies to improve student access to financial aid services, including mobile platforms, digital forms, and feedback mechanisms.
Serve on committees to support college-wide and campus strategic plans and initiatives; contribute to institutional reputation through positive community engagement.
Fulfill responsibilities during non-traditional days and times, as necessary.
Perform similar duties not specifically listed as directed.