Financial Aid Counselor

General Summary:

Assist in the administration of federal, state, and institutional student aid programs for a diverse population of students. The individual will provide financial aid counseling and processing services.

Essential Job Functions:

• Serves as initial contact for inquiries and information request from applicants
• Must be able to provide accurate and relevant information
• Assists and conducts financial aid workshops and loan entrance and exit counseling
• Disseminates policy and procedure information to students and staff
• Advises students on financial aid options and financial planning
• Understands accreditation standards and expectations specific to the department and adheres to policies and procedures to meet or exceed such standards
• Conducts self appropriately and consistently in accordance with the philosophy and mission of PNWU
• Other duties as assigned 

Data Maintenance:

• Maintains and reviews financial aid files for completeness
• Process financial aid packages and performs verification as necessary
• Will initiate follow-up of items requiring clarification
• Processes and adjusts aid eligibility based on enrollment, Satisfactory Academic Progress, and professional judgment decisions

Education:

• Required:  Bachelor’s degree in an appropriate area of specialization 

Experience:

• Three years of appropriate experience

• Experience in financial aid a plus 

• Familiarity with federal policies and procedures; able to document and implement policies and procedures

• Computer proficiency a must

Desired Skills, Knowledge and Abilities:

Strong organization, interpersonal, and planning skills; strong verbal and written communication skills; ability to work in a team and flexibility to work with others in a variety of circumstances; ability to problem solve by analyzing issues and creating action plans; ability to manage projects and people and prioritize and self-direct workflow; ability to work with and manage different computer programs and databases; and ability to schedule activities and/or meetings.