Military Benefits Advisor, Military Programs and Services - Hybrid

Point Loma Nazarene University•San Diego, CA

3d•Hybrid

About The Position

Point Loma Nazarene University (PLNU) is seeking a detail-oriented, customer service-driven individual to serve as a key advocate and advisor for its military-connected student population. This role involves supporting students in navigating the complexities of VA education benefits. The position is eligible for a hybrid work arrangement, allowing for both in-person and remote work. PLNU is a Christian liberal arts university committed to reflecting the diversity of God's kingdom and encouraging applications from culturally diverse candidates.

Requirements

Familiarity or demonstrates the willingness to learn VA and DoD Education Benefits.
Knowledge and respect for military and veteran culture, as well as the unique and often challenging circumstances related to military-connected students.
Knowledgeable in Google, MS Suite; and demonstrates a willingness to learn Workday and Salesforce.
Familiarity with higher education processes, namely the student account process, financial aid, and academic needs.
Demonstrates a willingness to learn VA and DoD Compliance requirements, including adherence to the VA’s Principles of Excellence and the Department of Defense Memorandum of Understanding.
Demonstrates a willingness to learn the yearly SAA renewal process to ensure timely submission of our education programs for approval, and meets all federal and state regulations.
Strong verbal and written communication to effectively engage students and collaborate with both internal and external stakeholders.
Critical thinking to identify challenges, develop solutions, and implement improvements.
Ability to prioritize multiple responsibilities in a fast-paced environment.
Adjusts effectively to evolving VA and DoD regulations, university policies, and the dynamic needs of military students (e.g., deployment changes, benefit eligibility updates).
Ability to counsel and advise military-connected students regarding the proper utilization of their benefits, and any administrative needs as they pertain to financial aid, student accounts, and academic credits.
Provide excellent customer service to military-connected students to encourage communication, retention, and degree completion.
A flexible working style and strong work ethic are essential given the collaborative, dedicated, and creative spirit of the department.
Maintains confidentiality.
Evidence of Christian commitment and active church involvement.
Staff agree to live in agreement with PLNU’s Community Covenant.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor's Degree preferred.
Previous experience as a School Certifying Official preferred.
Familiarity with Tungsten and AI Portal preferred.

Responsibilities

Serve as School Certifying Official (SCO), accurately certifying enrollment via Enrollment Manager.
Provide guidance on VA applications and ensure proper documentation for student files.
Collaborate with Veterans Readiness and Employment Counselors (Chapter 31) for appropriate authorization documentation.
Cross-check student billing and tuition prior to certification in compliance with VA regulations.
Process enrollment changes, graduation dates, and academic probation updates within 30 days as per VA requirements.
Manage requests and corrections for overpayments and refunds due to enrollment changes.
Provide 1:1 advising to students on education benefits, billing, and entitlement updates.
Participate in annual VA application updates for accredited institutions.
Represent military-connected students across the university and support student organizations.
Willingness to participate in university-wide initiatives and task forces.
Driven to provide high-quality service and build a sense of belonging among veteran and military students.