"Financial Aid Advocate"

About Us

Since our founding in 2005, Georgia Gwinnett College (GGC) has been dedicated to providing an exceptional educational experience to our students. At GGC, we believe that our students' success is our success, and we are committed to creating a culture that supports and uplifts them throughout their academic journey.

As a member of our faculty or staff, you will become part of a dedicated and passionate community of educators and professionals. Together, we work towards a common goal of empowering our students to achieve their full potential, both academically and personally. We take pride in our student body, which represents a multitude of backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences. Whether you are involved in teaching or providing essential services, your contribution will make a significant impact on the lives of our students and the broader community.

In addition to our commitment to student success, we also value the well-being and professional growth of our employees. We offer a comprehensive benefits package, designed to support the needs of our faculty and staff. From competitive compensation to health and wellness programs, and professional development opportunities to work-life balance initiatives, we strive to create an environment where everyone can thrive and feel valued.

Located in the thriving community of Gwinnett County, GGC offers a rich cultural and social landscape that enhances the overall college experience. Our backdrop is a beautiful, modern 260-acre campus located just 30 miles northeast of downtown Atlanta. Our students and employees benefit from the close proximity to various local amenities, including shopping, dining, entertainment, and outdoor recreational opportunities. This vibrant community serves as an extension of our campus, providing a stimulating environment for personal and professional growth.

Join GGC and become part of a dynamic team that plays a pivotal role in shaping the lives and celebrating the achievements of our students. Together, let's make a positive impact and empower the next generation of leaders.

Job Summary

Reporting to the Assistant Director for Customer Service, the Financial Aid Advocate is a member of the Financial Aid Customer Service team and is responsible for advising of financial aid, including eligibility and awarding of federal, state, local, private and institutional aid to students. The Financial Aid Advocate must stay informed of current financial aid policies and regulations in order for proper awarding and disbursement of financial aid. Will assist with emails, call center tickets and social media content creation.

This individual is expected to play a key role in fostering a positive work environment with the expectation of continuous improvement and first-class customer service. Position will also provide leadership to the Enrollment Management Services Division. Collaborative and team-oriented skills with a commitment to student success are essential attributes to this position.

This position does require weekend and evening responsibilities.

Responsibilities

• Provides face-to-face and external financial aid counseling to students and parents. Meets with students and parents concerning all federal, state and institutional programs.
• Accepts and reviews documents submitted
• Responds to and shares responsibility for Call Center tickets, office emails and/or office visits from students and their families
• Assists students with researching additional avenues for funding specifically related to students who owe balances or have extenuating financial circumstances. Makes recommendations for emergency funding to the Scholarship Manager
• Researches and interprets student financial aid program guidelines including but not limited to those in the student aid handbooks and training materials to ensure compliance with federal and state regulations and program requirements.
• Participates in preparation and execution of outreach programs and initiatives (on and off campus) offered by the Office of Financial Aid Services, GGC campus partners and/or community partners. Makes recommendations for potential outreach activities and initiatives. Conducts financial aid presentations on and off campus
• Participates in national, regional, and state conferences pertaining to student financial aid programs, practices, and related technology and communicate any information that may be needed by other GGC departments
• Serves on campus committees to increase exposure and footprint of the Office of Financial Aid Services
• Other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications

• 4 Year / Bachelor's Degree
• One year of relevant experience

Preferred Qualifications

• Financial aid experience in a higher education environment, with knowledge of rules and regulations as they pertain to Federal Title IV and State funding strongly preferred
• Knowledge of Banner, National Student Loan Data System (NSLDS), Central Processing System (CPS)
• National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators (NASFAA) Credentials preferred
• Bilingual preferred

Proposed Salary

34,800 - 41,700

Salary offer will be dependent on candidate's experience and qualifications, internal equity considerations, budget availability, and salary administration guidelines.

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Access) and other relevant computer based programs.
• Proven customer service skills and enthusiasm for providing exceptional service to all.
• Commitment to collaborative planning and teamwork
• Dependable attendance
• Ability to maintain confidentiality
• Ability to effectively communicate complex ideas to various stakeholders (students, parents, colleagues, etc)
• Effective task and time management abilities
• Ability to manage multiple projects to meet deadlines
• Strong analytical and problem solving skills