Financial Aid Specialist II - Financial Aid Operations

SUMMARY JOB DESCRIPTION

This is an administrative support position responsible for supporting the financial aid office and coordinating projects and programs as assigned. Works under general supervision, with moderate latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment. Reports to the assigned Financial Aid Counselor and/or Assistant/Associate Director.

QUALIFICATIONS

High school diploma or equivalent is required. Some college coursework in accounting, business, or a related field is preferred. Two years of related experience is required. General office experience is required. Experience in accounting/bookkeeping and customer service functions is required. Experience with database management and software is preferred.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

Provides clerical/administrative support to financial aid office in all areas as assigned. Assists in daily operations of assigned student aid program(s). Researches information to solve identified problems as appropriate. Assists in answering routine questions concerning university and departmental policies, procedures, and processes. Escalates issues to appropriate staff. Provides students, parents, university faculty and staff, and the general public with information regarding financial aid programs. Scans electronic images into imaging database, performing verification and linking imaged documents to student information system. Creates, maintains, and updates electronic forms. Assists with completion of these forms as appropriate. Monitors and tracks electronic workflow. Monitors, tracks, and approves work-study permits. Satisfies minor tracking requirements for students. Assists in developing and/or updating tracking items/requirements as needed. Assists with functions associated with Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) appeals process, to include performing qualitative and quantitative calculations. Maintains financial aid databases. Assists in developing system reports and documenting and testing system changes. Assists in regular data reviews. Verifies, validates, and corrects data as needed. Compiles various special, quarterly, monthly, and ad hoc reports. Supervises assigned staff, including student assistants.

NON-ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

Serves as backup to front counter staff. Assists in processing financial aid forms, applications, and related documents. Coordinates and assists with special projects as assigned. Serves as backup to other clerical and administrative staff when needed. Performs other related duties as assigned.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

The individual must possess the following knowledge, skills, and abilities or be able to explain and demonstrate that the individual can perform the essential functions of the job, with or without reasonable accommodation. Knowledge of, or the ability to learn, university policies and procedures. Knowledge of records administration and maintenance techniques and procedures. Skill in typing with minimal errors. Skill in using computer applications including spreadsheet, database, and word processing software. Ability to accurately prepare and maintain records, files, and reports. Ability to communicate effectively in both oral and written form. Ability to maintain effective interpersonal relationships. Ability to work successfully as a member of a team and independently with general supervision. Ability to set priorities and complete assignments on time. Ability to operate office machines, including adding machine, calculator, and personal computer. Ability to work effectively and patiently with students. Ability to learn office and university-specific software. Ability to supervise others.

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS TO APPLICANT

Employees of the Office of Financial Aid & Scholarships must be in good standing on all federal student aid loans, and may not be in default.

SPECIAL CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT

Safety Statement Stephen F. Austin State University recognizes the potential for accidents in performing job-related tasks. SFA promotes a safe working environment. Employees will be responsible for completing assigned tasks safely and efficiently. Employee evaluations will include safe job performance. This is a security-sensitive position subject to criminal record check. This is an IT-sensitive position subject to the Computer and Network Security policy.