Financial Aid Counselor

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

Position Summary

The Financial Aid Counselor is responsible for providing comprehensive
financial aid guidance to students and parents while managing the awarding and monitoring of scholarships, grants, and loans in accordance
with federal, state, and institutional regulations.

Essential Job Duties

• Assist students with Free Application for Federal
Student Aid (FAFSA), loan applications, and entrance/exit counseling.
• Determine student eligibility for grants, loans, and scholarships
based on established criteria.
• Award and monitor various scholarships, tuition waivers, and financial aid packages.
• Maintain
current knowledge of financial aid policies, procedures, and regulations.
• Provide guidance to students and parents regarding financial
aid options and decisions.
• Process and input financial aid data using specialized software systems.
• Coordinate with other
departments to ensure accurate aid disbursement.
• Monitor student completion rates, Grade Point Averages (GPAs), and enrollment
status.
• Respond to student and parent inquiries through multiple communication channels.
• Other duties as assigned by Supervisor or
designee.

Omission of specific statement
of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related or a logical assignment to the position.

Qualifications

• Associates degree with 2 years of experience in financial aid, higher education, or related field
• Bachelor’s
degree with 2 years of experience in financial aid, higher education, or related field (Preferred)
• Experience with financial aid
management systems and federal/state regulations (Preferred)

Licenses/Certifications

• Valid driver’s license

•
Financial aid system certifications

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Strong understanding of federal and state financial aid
regulations and processes
• Excellent customer service skills with ability to communicate complex information clearly to students and
parents
• Proficient in data entry and management with attention to detail and accuracy
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple
cases and priorities simultaneously
• Strong organizational skills with ability to maintain accurate records and meet deadlines
•
Ability to maintain confidentiality when handling sensitive financial information
• Must have a strong work ethic and lead by
example 
• Must be a professional, credible and respected representative of the institution internally and in the community
•
Demonstrated willingness and ability to act ethically and socially responsible
• Ability to communicate in a courteous manner

Physical Demands

The physical demands
described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of the job.

Constantly required to
remain
in a seated position for extended periods
Frequently required to communicate effectively with diverse populations
Regularly
performs
tasks that involve repetitive wrist and finger movement
Regularly operates a computer and other standard office
equipment
Occasionally
required to move about the office and similar spaces

Work Environment

The work environment
characteristics described here are
representative of those an employee encounter while performing the essential functions of this
job. Reasonable accommodations may be
made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. 

The work is performed in a typical office
setting with moderate noise levels from conversations, and standard
office equipment.

Supervisory Responsibility 

None

East Central University, in compliance with all
applicable Federal and State laws and regulations, does not discriminate on
the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, religion,
disability, marital status, genetic information, or status as a veteran in
any of its policies, practices, or procedures. This includes but
is not limited to admission, employment, financial aid, and educational
services. The following person has been designated to handle
inquiries regarding the non-discrimination policies: Employment Services
Director, 1100 E. 14th St., Danley Hall 111, Ada, OK
74820, (580) 559-5260.

Please ensure you have completed the Equal
Opportunity Data Form with your application.

Equal Opportunity Data Form.pdf