Financial Aid Specialist I, Financial Aid Office

University of Montana•Missoula Mountain Campus, MT

About The Position

The Financial Aid Specialist I is a member of the Student Financial Services team and helps students and families understand financial aid options, eligibility requirements, borrowing decisions, and payment responsibilities. The position combines student advising, customer service, and financial aid processing, serving as a front-line resource through in-person interactions, phone, and email. The role evaluates financial aid applications and supporting documentation, determines eligibility, and awards or adjusts aid while maintaining compliance with federal, state, and institutional regulations. It also maintains accurate records, handles confidential information, and supports student employees who assist with front-counter and administrative operations. The successful candidate will work in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment and contribute to consistent, high-quality service and student success.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent and two years of closely related experience, or a combination of education and experience that provides the competencies needed to perform the duties.
Experience providing customer service and explaining policies, procedures, financial information, or other complex topics to varied audiences.
Experience maintaining accurate records, reviewing information for completeness, and identifying discrepancies.
Experience managing multiple priorities, meeting deadlines, and adapting to changing workloads in a fast-paced environment.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications and electronic document management systems.
Must be eligible for access to federal financial aid databases, including not being in default on any federal student loans.
Must be eligible to work in the United States upon hire; sponsorship is not available.

Nice To Haves

Postsecondary education in business, accounting, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience.
Experience administering financial aid programs or working with financial aid regulations and processes.
Experience using Ellucian Banner or similar student information systems.
Experience advising, assisting, or guiding students, families, customers, or clients regarding financial, educational, benefit, or service-related programs.
Experience training, scheduling, or providing day-to-day direction to student employees or other front-line staff.

Responsibilities

Advise students and families about financial aid eligibility, application requirements, award packages, borrowing decisions, and payment options.
Serve as a primary Student Financial Services contact, assisting people in person, by phone, and by email.
Explain financial aid policies and student account information clearly and support a positive student experience.
Review, evaluate, and process financial aid applications and supporting documentation to determine eligibility for federal, state, and institutional aid programs.
Award, revise, and adjust financial aid according to applicable regulations, policies, and guidelines.
Maintain accurate records, identify discrepancies, and handle confidential information professionally and discreetly.
Train, assign, schedule, and provide day-to-day direction to student employees supporting front-counter operations and administrative functions.
Collaborate with Student Financial Services colleagues to provide consistent, high-quality service.
Support cross-training, continuous improvement, and other departmental initiatives as needed.