NCAA Financial Aid & Scholarship Counselor - Office of Financial Aid & Scholarships - UTK

The Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville (UTK) invites applications and nominations for our NCAA Financial Aid & Scholarship Counselor position. We are seeking candidates who can contribute in meaningful ways to enhance the accessibility of higher education, fostering a diverse and inclusive academic environment, and improving the recruitment and graduation of our students. The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, has been ranked by Forbes as one of America’s best large employers, as recognized on the 2025 list.

The target starting salary for this position is $43,888, depending on experience and qualifications.

This is an on-campus position with some hybrid/remote work schedule flexibility. 

Reporting to the Assistant Director of Operations & Compliance, the NCAA Financial Aid & Scholarship Counselor provides specialized financial aid counseling and oversight for student-athletes, ensuring compliance with NCAA, SEC, federal, state, and institutional regulations. This position is responsible for awarding, managing, auditing, and reconciling all forms of student-athlete aid—including athletic scholarships, stipends, external awards, and Student-Athlete Opportunity Funds—while serving as a key liaison between the Office of Financial Aid & Scholarships and the Athletics Department. The Counselor plays a critical role in supporting student-athletes’ financial wellness, academic progress, and overall retention.

Required Education and Experience: 

Associate’s degree or 2 years of financial aid training and experience.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: 

• Excellent oral and communication skills. 

• Ability to write clear, concise letters using effectual writing skills. 

• Sensitive to cultural diversity and ability to communicate and interact with people of all ages and diverse backgrounds. 

• Proven ability to work effectively as a team member. 

• Ability to analyze and interpret data and make independent decisions. 

• Ability to work independently, under time constraints, and prioritize projects. 

• Ability to maintain a high level of discretion. 

• Ability to interpret complex policies and regulations. 

• Knowledge of MS Office products or similar.

Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis without need now or in the future for sponsorship for employment visa status.

Preferred Education and Experience: 

Bachelor's degree

• Two to four years progressively responsible financial aid or tax experience and Ellucian Banner experience preferred. -Master’s degree in Higher Education, Business, Sports Administration, or related field.

• Experience using student information systems (e.g., Banner) and NCAA compliance software.

• Familiarity with financial literacy programs, workshops, or coaching.

• Experience preparing compliance reports and conducting internal audits or quality control reviews.

Preferred Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: 

• Knowledge of federal, state, NCAA/SEC, and institutional financial aid regulations. 

• Knowledge of governmental agency guidelines including but not limited to the IRS, Department of Veterans Affairs, Department of Homeland Security, Social Security Administration and INS to analyze applications and data sent to the university from prospective and current students. 

• Experience in financial aid, NCAA/SEC compliance, or student services. 

• Experience advising student-athletes or working with NCAA compliance.

Benefits: 

University of Tennessee employees are eligible for a comprehensive suite of benefits that includes:

• Generous paid leave, accruing up to 24 days of vacation and 12 days of sick leave annually, plus 14 paid holidays and administrative closing days

• Flexible work arrangements, offering a hybrid schedule to most team members

• Education benefits for employees and their dependents at UT System campuses

• Retirement and deferred compensation plans, including 401(k), 403(b), etc.

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance plans

• Employee discounts to attractions, services, and goods

The Division