Company:
The University of Olivet
Job Location:
Olivet, Michigan
Category:
Financial Aid
Type:
Full-Time
Position Summary
The Financial Aid Counselor is responsible for supporting the administration of federal, state, and institutional financial aid programs while delivering high-quality service to students and families. This role manages a caseload of students and ensures compliance with all applicable regulations while contributing to a student-centered, efficient financial aid operation.
Key Responsibilities
- Counsel students and families on financial aid eligibility, application requirements, cost of attendance, and funding options
- Review and process financial aid applications (FAFSA/ISIR) and resolve conflicting information
- Determine student eligibility, including review of C-Flags, C-Codes, and database matches
- Perform federal verification and ensure compliance with Title IV regulations
- Package and adjust financial aid awards, including monitoring for over awards
- Manage Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) evaluations and appeals
- Review and process special circumstance requests using professional judgment
- Assist with loan processing, including Direct Loans and Parent PLUS Loans
- Support reconciliation, reporting, and compliance activities as needed
- Participate in recruitment, outreach, and financial literacy initiatives
- Provide front-line customer service and support to students, families, and campus partners
- Collaborate with Admissions, Student Accounts, and other campus departments to support student success
- Perform other duties as assigned
Minimum Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Business, Finance, Accounting, Education, or related field
- 2+ years of experience in financial aid, student accounts, or a related field OR transferable experience (see below)
- Equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered
Transferable Experience & Skills (Financial Aid Experience Not Required)
Candidates do not need direct financial aid experience to be successful in this role. We strongly encourage applicants with transferable experience in compliance-based, detail-oriented, and student/client-facing roles to apply.
Relevant backgrounds may include:
- Banking, lending, or loan processing
- Accounting, payroll, or finance
- Admissions, registrar, or enrollment services
- Social services or case management
- Insurance, claims, or benefits administration
- Government or compliance-focused roles
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience working in a higher education financial aid office
- Knowledge of Title IV regulations and federal need analysis
- Experience with financial aid systems (PowerFAIDS, Jenzabar, Banner, or similar)
- Strong understanding of SAP, verification, and professional judgment
Key Transferable Skills
Candidates should demonstrate the ability to:
- Interpret and apply policies, rules, or regulations
- Review and verify documentation for accuracy and completeness
- Manage a caseload or high volume of work with competing deadlines
- Communicate complex information clearly and effectively
- Maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information
- Analyze information and make sound, independent decisions
- Provide strong customer service in a fast-paced environment
Training Commitment
We are willing to train the right candidate who demonstrates strong analytical ability, attention to detail, and a commitment to student service.
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
- Ability to interpret and apply complex federal and state regulations
- Excellent communication and customer service skills
- Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities
- High level of accuracy and attention to detail
- Ability to work both independently and collaboratively
- Commitment to supporting a diverse student population
Work Environment
- Full-time, on-campus position
- Fast-paced, service-oriented office environment
- Regular interaction with students, families, and campus stakeholders