Financial Aid Technician - Part-Time

Job Summary

The Financial Aid Technician performs a variety of complex and technical duties involved in providing financial assistance for students, including the verification of eligibility and the awarding of aid.  The Technician also serves as a comprehensive point of contact in Financial Aid - providing accurate direction and guidance to students, their families and staff in all aspects of the financial aid process - identifying those who need to meet with a financial aid counselor or administrator to resolve more complex issues.

Furthermore, the incumbent provides services that are equitable, inclusive, and culturally sensitive to enhance the quality of campus life. This position uses a student-centered and equity-minded approach in all communication and service efforts.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide advising and general customer service to prospective, newly admitted, and current students and parents regarding various aspects of the financial aid process, including application steps, student eligibility, educational costs, types of financial aid available, and loan activities, while tailoring the information to the needs, situation, and level of background of each customer.
• Assist in determining and evaluating student financial aid eligibility by performing verification of individual student application data, reviewing and confirming general student eligibility criteria (i.e., citizenship, selective service, NSLDS, etc. database matches), and performing/calculating need analysis.
• Provide specialized processing and customer support specific to assigned financial aid program(s), assist with information dissemination and training of students and staff on various aspects of assigned program – under direction of the program lead.
• Provide processing and technical assistance to support the administration of general financial aid programs and functions, which includes monitoring and re-evaluating continued student eligibility, making and revising financial aid awards, processing reports, and other activities during various stages of the financial aid cycle.

Knowledge Skills and Abilities

The Financial Aid Technician role demands a high level of technical proficiency, analytical ability, and attention to detail. Technicians must be adept with various technologies, including student information systems and Microsoft Office, and be capable of learning and implementing new software tools. Their responsibilities include processing large volumes of financial aid records, analyzing complex documentation for accuracy and compliance, and maintaining precise records. These tasks require strong numerical skills, sound judgment, and a commitment to confidentiality. The role also involves staying current with frequently changing federal, state, and institutional regulations, necessitating ongoing training and adaptability.

In addition to technical and analytical skills, the Technician must excel in customer service and communication. They serve as the first point of contact for students navigating the financial aid process, often handling sensitive or emotionally charged situations with professionalism and empathy. Effective time management and organizational skills are essential, as the role involves juggling multiple priorities under tight deadlines. Technicians must also collaborate well within a team, contribute to a supportive service culture, and ensure data integrity through meticulous documentation and adherence to established procedures. Their ability to clearly explain policies and decisions, even when delivering unfavorable news, is crucial to maintaining trust and supporting student success.

Ability to communicate with an ethnically and culturally diverse campus community.  Ability to follow all university policies, procedures, and guidelines including but not limited to safety, civility, information security, and non-discrimination policies and procedures.  Ability to contribute to a positive university experience for each and every student and assist in achieving the university's commitment to a "vision of excellence."

Education and Experience

• Equivalent to two years of responsible general clerical experience in a college or university financial aid office required.

• Bachelor's Degree preferred.

Physical Summary

• Sedentary work - Involves mainly sitting. Walking and standing are minimal. Lifting is limited to lightweight objects. (10 pounds or less).

Department

ES Financial Aid

Classification

Student Personnel Technician, Financial Aid

Compensation

Salary placement is determined by the education, experience, and qualifications the candidate brings to the position,