Financial Aid Advisor - II

POSITION SUMMARY:               Responsible for providing general financial aid knowledge and overviews to new, continuing, and returning students.  Develop, negotiate and finalize student financial plans consistent with financial planning policies and procedures and with Federal/State regulations for awarding aid. Explain and guide students and parents through the application process, including verification, conflicting information, and C Code Resolution.  Counsel students on all acceptances and other matters related directly to the student financial plan.   ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: Work cohesively with Admission Representative in order to facilitate outstanding service to prospective students and their parents.  Efficiently and accurately package assigned students including includes new, continuing, re-entry and transfer students. Guide students on the financial aid process, including required forms, documents, and process.   Create financial plans for assigned students in compliance with institutional policies and Federal regulations, communicate the plan to students and parents, and effectively explain rights and responsibilities for each aid source. Assist students and parents with alternative means of financing any remaining balance after awarding eligible federal, state, or institutional aid Ensure student files are complete and accurate and that aid is paid to students’ accounts in a timely manner. Review ISIRs, request outstanding documents, and perform all levels of verification and C Code reviews.  Utilize reports to review students, analyze work needed, ability to prioritize daily workload independently prioritize workload.   Strong Customer Service, ability to calm students and parents, accurately articulate the status of a student’s aid and account. Complete the appropriate training modules within 30 days of the new or revised module becoming available. Assist with or perform special projects as assigned. Other duties as assigned    REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS: Bachelor’s degree in a related discipline or Associate’s Degree and 3 years of related experience with federal and student financial aid, or 5 years of related experience with federal and student aid.  Financial aid or accounting experience required. Customer service, problem-solving experience required.  Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.  Ability to make small group presentations as well as skill in interacting on a one on one basis. The ability to multi-task, work independently, and make decisions based on guidelines. Strong basic computer software (MS Office) skills as well as exposure to more concentrated financial aid software (Campus Vue/Campus Nexus preferred)   WORK ENVIRONMENT: The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those encountered while performing the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position.   South University is an Equal Opportunity Employer and embraces diversity as a critical step in ensuring employee, student and graduate success. We are committed to building and developing a diverse environment where a variety of ideas, cultures, and perspectives can thrive.