Financial Aid Counselor, Associate

Boise State University, powered by creativity and innovation, stands uniquely positioned in the Northwest as a metropolitan research university of distinction. Learn more about Boise State and the City of Boise at https://www.boisestate.edu/about/

Boise State University is building an inclusive community of faculty and staff whose unique skills, cultural contributions, work history, and perspectives create a rich and rewarding academic experience for our students. Research demonstrates that people thrive when they feel welcome, respected, and inspired. We seek applicants who are committed to helping us achieve our vision of a diverse and inclusive community. Applications from members of historically marginalized groups, including women, BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color), those with disabilities, members of the LGBTQ+ community, those who have served in the military, and members of other underrepresented communities are strongly encouraged.

Provide service to students and families by guiding them through the aid application process, handling professional judgement decisions, and perform job functions related to those services.

The Financial Aid Counselor at Boise State University will work within a collaborative, supportive, team environment to administer various Financial Aid programs within regulatory requirements and counsel students, parents, faculty and staff to support access to various student aid programs.

Entry-level professional with limited or no prior experience to contribute on a project or work team. Incumbent learns to use professional concepts to resolve problems of limited scope and complexity under close supervision while achieving day-to-day objectives. Works on developmental assignments that are initially routine in nature, requiring limited judgment and decision making. This level is typically focused on self-development. Requires theoretical knowledge through specific education and training.

60% of time the Financial Aid Counselor, Associate must perform:

Financial Aid Administration

• Advise and counsel students and families on the Financial Aid application process and special circumstances for individual applicants via walk-in, multi-line phone system, email and online interactions.
• As a member of the Financial Aid and scholarships team, collaborate to successfully administer federal and state student Financial Aid programs (student eligibility, need analysis, verification, awarding, ISIR corrections, disbursement, return to Title IV, etc.) within the guidelines of institutional, private, state, and federal regulations, guidelines and policies. 
• Evaluate unusual/extenuating circumstance documentation or information provided by the student; exercise professional judgment by adjusting cost of attendance, income, dependency status, or satisfactory academic progress based on established policies or guidelines. 
• Advise on student loan application, consolidation and loan repayment options
• Develop and present informational Financial Aid programs and community outreach events to local high school students, families and various other groups.

35% of the Time the Financial Aid Counselor, Associate must perform:

Interaction with Technology

• Understand and use technology systems including but not limited to:   Common Origination and Disbursement (COD), National Student Loan Data System (NSLDS), FAAccess to CPS online, EdConnect, Electronic Loan Management (ELM), PS Campus Solutions, Perceptive Content, etc.
• In collaboration with the Systems team, assist in testing of enterprise resource management systems setup, upgrades and modifications.
• Remain current in knowledge and understanding of regulations and technology changes, as needed.

Programmatic duties: 

• Responsibility for specific programmatic duties, such as: Work Study administration, Satisfactory Academic Progress Appeals, verification of eligible citizenship status, assigned work logs, etc.
• Identify and prioritize issues; perform research, offer solutions, options and strategies. Refer to appropriate person or department as needed, and/or arrange for required assistance.

5% of Time the Financial Aid Counselor, Associate must perform:

Supervision/team management

• Provide training, direction, feedback, and evaluations to direct reports (if assigned) and/or leading a project team in collaboration with supervisor

• Knowledge of institutional, state and federal Financial Aid regulations
• Demonstrated analytical and problem-solving skills
• Ability to handle a large volume of deadline-driven tasks with a moderate level of supervision
• Knowledge of multiple online database systems including COD, NSLDS, CPS, and a Financial Aid enterprise resource management system such as PeopleSoft
• Understanding of University policies and processes, particularly in the areas of Admissions and Registration

Bachelor's degree or relevant experience

Preferred Qualifications:

$46,051.20 annually. Boise State University is committed to offering a benefits package that provides health and financial protection plans as well as resources to promote health and well-being. Our program provides flexibility so you can choose the benefits that are right for you and your family. Learn more about our benefit options at https://www.boisestate.edu/hrs/benefits/.

Cover Letter, Resume, 3 References