Financial Aid Counselor

About Salve Regina University:

Salve Regina University, ranked as one of the most transformative colleges in the United States by Money Magazine, is a comprehensive Catholic University located in the scenic coastal community of Newport, Rhode Island. The University's commitment to academic success and personal discovery extends beyond its historic campus into a dynamic world where the application of higher thinking and skill are most valued. Salve Regina offers bachelor's and master's degree programs, graduate certificates, and doctoral programs in humanities, international relations and nursing. Enrollment includes more than 2,600 undergraduate and graduate students from across the U.S. and around the world.

Job Description:

This position is eligible for up to two days remote work per week.

BASIC FUNCTION:

The Financial Aid Counselor is responsible for administering assigned financial aid processes, including student counseling, file review, verification, awarding, and customer service. The position serves as a primary point of contact for students and families and assists in ensuring the accurate and timely delivery of financial aid services in accordance with federal, state, and institutional requirements.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Student Financial Aid Administration and Counseling (80%)

• Manage an assigned caseload of students throughout the financial aid process.
• Administer financial aid programs and processes in accordance with applicable federal, state, and institutional regulations, policies, and procedures.
• Counsel students and families regarding financial aid eligibility, application procedures, financing options, awarding, and program requirements.
• Review FAFSA, tax documentation, and supporting materials to determine aid eligibility and complete verification requirements.
• Request, review, and evaluate documentation needed to resolve conflicting information and complete federal verification requirements.
• Verify enrollment status, housing status, and other eligibility factors affecting financial aid awards.
• Prepare student files for awarding and administer financial aid awards in accordance with federal, state, and institutional policies.
• Communicate with students and families regarding financial aid requirements, eligibility, deadlines, and award revisions.
• Respond to inquiries through in-person appointments, telephone, email, and virtual communication channels.
• Maintain accurate student records and documentation.

Student Employment Administration (10%)

• Assist with the administration of student employment programs, including the preparation and processing of work authorization forms, W-4 forms, and I-9 documentation.
• Maintain accurate student employment records and documentation.
• Assist students and supervisors with routine student employment inquiries and processes.

General Office Operations and Professional Development (10%)

• Participate in professional development activities and share knowledge through staff training.
• Assist with office projects, process improvements, and special initiatives.
• Perform other duties as assigned by department leadership.

ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS:

The incumbent is not substantially exposed to adverse environmental conditions. Occasional bending, reaching, ascending and descending stairs, standing, walking, pushing, pulling, lifting, talking, and hearing may be required.

Requirements:

Required:

• Bachelor's degree required.
• Strong oral, written, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively with students, families, faculty, and staff.
• Ability to work as part of a collaborative office team.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information with discretion.
• Ability to work occasional evenings and weekends as necessary to support University programs and events.

Preferred:

• One year of financial aid experience preferred but not required.
• Knowledge of PowerFAIDS preferred but not required.