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SalaryColumbia Southern University
Job Description
Job Title: Financial Aid Specialist I
Department: Financial Aid
Reports to: Supervisor
FLSA: Non-exempt
Hours: Monday through Thursday 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM and Friday 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM (extended hours when requested)
Department: Financial Aid
Reports to: Supervisor
FLSA: Non-exempt
Hours: Monday through Thursday 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM and Friday 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM (extended hours when requested)
Location: Hybrid/ Orange Beach, AL
Compensation: $17.26 hourly
Job Summary
Financial Aid Specialist I is responsible for collecting Financial Aid data and performing specialized duties in the formulation and calculation of Financial Aid award packages for eligible students in compliance with Federal and State regulations.
Essential Job Tasks Additional duties may be assigned.
- Verify any data deemed conflicting or discrepant in nature to include federal tax filing status per IRS guidelines.
- Screen aid applications and supporting documentation submitted by students for accuracy and consistency and meet impending deadlines.
- Determine Financial Aid eligibility, appropriate aid amounts, needs analysis and award each student based on calculated need not to exceed cost of attendance and individual eligibility.
- Provide information on aid programs to current and prospective students and advise students appropriately of the rights and responsibilities associated with receipt of Title IV funds.
- Recommend policy and procedure modifications relative to the delivery of student Financial Aid for the University.
- Maintain and prepare accurate reports and student Financial Aid records.
- Promotes, maintains, and enhances workplace culture within the Office of Financial Aid.
- Provides excellent customer service to internal and external parties via phone, chat, and emails.
Qualifications
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities
Knowledge
- English Language - Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
- Academic Processes - Knowledge of university guidelines, course descriptions, and academic terminology
- Clerical - Knowledge of office administrative procedures including word processing, managing files and records, typing, and other office procedures
- Computer - Knowledge of basic computer processes including word processing, web browsing, and Microsoft Office including Basic Microsoft Excel
- Mathematics - Knowledge of basic mathematics
Skills
- Critical Thinking - Uses logic and reasoning to look at different types of information in order to make conclusions and work through problems
- Reading Comprehension - Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents
- Interpersonal Skills - Communicates and interacts with people effectively while being aware of social perceptions
- Time Management - Manages one’s own time to accomplish assigned tasks
- Attention to Detail - Thoroughness and accuracy when accomplishing a task ensuring all aspects are reviewed
Abilities
- Written Comprehension - The ability to read and understand information and ideas presented in writing
- Written Expression - The ability to communicate information and ideas in writing so others will understand
- Oral Comprehension - The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences
- Oral Expression - The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will understand
- Selective Attention (Vigilance) - The ability to concentrate on a task over a period of time without being distracted
Education & Experience
High School Diploma or GED required. Associate degree from four-year college or university, with a minimum of at least three years related experience is strongly preferred; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
Equipment Used
- Office equipment including computers, multiple monitors, telephones, headset, keyboard, mouse, printers, faxes, and copiers.
- Software used includes Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, internal database software, and programs related to Financial Aid, including but not limited to NSLDS, COD, EdExpress, CPS, and CampusVue/Anthology.
- Secure and reliable internet is required for this position.
Work Environment
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. The position is remote and should have an established office with secure and reliable internet. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
When on campus, the work environment would be within a climate-controlled office setting mostly sedentary with frequent sitting, occasional walking and lifting, and frequent near vision use for reading and computer use. The noise level is generally moderate.
Supervisory Responsibilities
There are no supervisory responsibilities for this position.
