Financial Aid Advisor

The University of Arkansas - Fort Smith is a dynamic, mid-sized public university that’s redefining higher education. We’re on a mission to provide transformative, hands-on learning experiences for students of all backgrounds and aspirations. Our multi-faceted approach to education offers a wealth of opportunities, with over 70 academic programs, including certificates, associate, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees. We’re committed to building a diverse community that mirrors Arkansas’s rich tapestry, reflecting our dedication to serving the state’s varied population while enhancing the quality of our institution.

As an employer, the University of Arkansas offers a vibrant work environment and a workplace culture that promotes a healthy work-life balance. The benefits package includes university contributions to health, dental, life, and disability insurance, tuition waivers for employees and their families, 12 official holidays, immediate leave accrual, and a choice of retirement programs with university contributions ranging from 5 to 10 percent of employee salary.
 

Nestled along the Arkansas River, this vibrant city offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Immerse yourself in the rich heritage of the Old West at the Fort Smith National Historic Site, explore the eclectic local art scene, or take a scenic stroll along the picturesque riverfront trails. With a welcoming community, diverse dining options, and a thriving downtown, Fort Smith is the ideal destination for history enthusiasts and those seeking modern amenities.

Thank you for your interest in joining our university. Below you will find details for the position including any supplementary documentation and/or questions you should review before submitting your application. For general application assistance or if you have questions about a job posting, please contact Human Resources at (479) 788-7080.

If you have a disability and need assistance with the hiring process please contact Human Resources at 479-788-7080. Applicants are required to submit a request for each position to which they have applied.

• 25% – Student Counseling and Financial Aid Advising: Provide individualized financial aid counseling to prospective and current students and their families. Explain financial aid options, eligibility requirements, award offers, cost of attendance, student account charges, and available resources. Assist students in understanding how enrollment decisions may affect their financial aid and help identify solutions to financial aid-related barriers. Provide accurate, compassionate, and student-centered guidance while maintaining confidentiality and professional boundaries.
• 30% – Financial Aid Eligibility, Compliance, and Processing: Assist students with the financial aid application process and electronic financial aid procedures. Review applications and supporting documentation, determine financial aid eligibility, and process federal, state, institutional, and scholarship awards in accordance with applicable regulations and institutional policies. Complete verification, resolve eligibility requirements, monitor overawards, and make necessary adjustments to financial aid. Monitor student financial aid action items and take appropriate action to maintain compliance with federal, state, and institutional requirements. Identify and resolve issues that may affect a student's eligibility or receipt of financial aid and refer complex or unusual circumstances for additional review.
• 10% – Student Assistance, Customer Service Delivery, and Front Counter Support: Provide timely, professional, and responsive assistance to students and families through in-person, telephone, email, virtual, and other communication channels. Serve at the Financial Aid Office front counter as assigned, greet and assist visitors, respond to routine questions, triage student needs, and refer students to the appropriate staff member or campus resource. During peak periods, including registration, financial aid application deadlines, award processing, and the beginning of academic terms, assist with increased front-counter traffic, telephone and email volume, student queues, and other service demands. Communicate complex financial aid information clearly and respectfully, maintain confidentiality, and contribute to an organized, welcoming, and student-centered service environment.
• 15% – Program or Functional Area Responsibility: Serve as the primary staff resource and processor for two or more assigned financial aid programs or functional areas, such as Federal Work-Study, Foundation or institutional scholarships, athletic scholarships, state programs, Parent PLUS Loans, alternative loans, Return of Title IV funds, outside scholarships, or other designated programs. Maintain current knowledge of applicable regulations and procedures, monitor assigned processes, and provide guidance and support to students and staff.
• 10% – Financial Aid Outreach and Education: Participate in financial aid outreach and educational activities, including presentations, workshops, orientation programs, recruitment events, and visits to area high schools or community organizations. Educate students, families, and campus partners about financial aid programs, eligibility requirements, application processes, and strategies for paying for college.
• 5% – Collaboration and Professional Accountability: Work collaboratively with campus stakeholders and department colleagues to support a positive, student-centered work environment. Demonstrate professionalism in communication and conduct, foster teamwork, and provide support to colleagues and students. Maintain a consistent, service-oriented approach in all institutional interactions while contributing to a culture of accountability, responsiveness, and continuous improvement. Demonstrate reliability through consistent, regular, and punctual attendance.
• 5% – Other Duties and Responsibilities: Perform other duties as assigned in support of the Financial Aid Office and University mission.

This position may be subject to a pre-employment criminal background check, sex offender registry check, financial history background check, and/or drug screening. A criminal conviction or arrest pending adjudication and/or adverse financial history alone shall not disqualify an applicant in the absence of a relationship to the requirements of the position. Background checks and drug screening information will be used in a confidential, non-discriminatory manner consistent with state and federal law.

Persons must have proof of legal authority to work in the United States on the first day of employment.

All application information is subject to public disclosure under the Arkansas Freedom of Information Act.

All application materials must be uploaded to the University of Arkansas System Career Site https://uasys.wd5.myworkdayjobs.com/UASYS  

Please do not send to listed recruitment contact.