A Financial Aid Counselor or Specialist provides information and assistance to students and families, including information on student loans and other sources of financial aid. Leads group presentations or provides individual counseling and assistance with the application process; may also solicit and review applications for specific scholarships.
5102-Financial Aid Classification Pay Scale In compliance with SB 1162, Western University of Health Sciences is providing a pay scale for this position. The pay scale reflects the minimum and maximum target for new hire salaries for this position. Within this range, the individual pay is determined by a variety of factors, including but not limited to job-related skills, experience, relevant education or training, and work location. Please note that the compensation details listed reflects the base salary only.
Expected Pay Scale Minimum:
$31.25 Hourly Maximum $31.25 Hourly Job Summary The Lead Financial Aid Technician serves as the senior technical subject matter expert responsible for overseeing complex financial aid processing, mentoring technical staff, and ensuring accuracy, compliance, and timeliness across Title IV, state, and institutional aid programs. This role also performs limited financial aid operational analysis, trend monitoring, and quality assurance reporting to support continuous improvement, audit readiness, and regulatory compliance. The position does not hold policy authority, system ownership, or final approval authority for disbursements or regulatory submissions. Analytical responsibilities focus on operational data validation, exception trending, workload forecasting, and internal control monitoring in partnership with leadership. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Ability to interpret regulations and apply them effectively in day-to-day operations. Strong focus on data accuracy and ensuring records are aligned and complete. Skilled in identifying issues and improving processes to prevent them from recurring. Clear and professional written communication and documentation skills. High level of attention to detail with a strong commitment to compliance. Ability to influence and guide others, even without direct supervisory authority. Sound judgment and discretion in handling sensitive matters. Adaptable and comfortable navigating change and evolving priorities. Demonstrate a commitment to working in an organization that values and promotes humanism.
Required Qualifications Education:
Bachelor's degree required.
Experience:
Minimum 5-7 years of progressively responsible financial aid processing experience in a Title IV environment. Demonstrated expertise in federal aid regulations including: Verification, SAP , R2T4, Enrollment reporting, Professional judgment, Packaging and recalculation logic Experience with Banner and/or Ellucian financial aid systems. Strong data analysis skills using Excel, reporting tools, and system queries. Proven ability to interpret regulatory guidance and apply operationally. Experience supporting audits, reconciliations, or compliance reviews.
Preferred Qualifications Education:
Major in Business, Finance, Accounting, Higher Education, or related field preferred. NASFAA credentials (FAAC®, CRPC®, etc.).
Experience:
Experience supporting system implementations or major process redesigns. Experience developing procedural documentation and training materials. Exposure to internal control frameworks and audit evidence management.
