Financial Aid Officer

The Financial Aid Officer supports the mission of Carthage College by administering financial aid programs and providing exceptional service to students and families throughout the financial aid process. This position is responsible for counseling students on financial aid eligibility and financing options, ensuring compliance with federal and state regulations, and supporting institutional enrollment and retention goals.

The Financial Aid Officer works collaboratively across campus to help students successfully navigate the financial aid process while maintaining accuracy, compliance, and a student-centered approach.

Responsibilities:

• Counsel prospective and current students and families regarding financial aid programs, application procedures, eligibility requirements, financing options, and policies.
• Administer federal, state, and institutional financial aid programs in accordance with all applicable regulations and institutional guidelines
• Review and evaluate financial aid applications, verification materials, appeals, and supporting documentation.
• Package and revise financial aid awards using established policies and professional judgment when appropriate.
• Maintain accurate student records and documentation within Workday Student and related systems.
• Monitor student eligibility and satisfactory academic progress in compliance with federal regulations.
• Assist with federal verification, reconciliation, reporting, audits, and year-end processing activities.
• Respond to student inquiries via phone, email, virtual appointments, and in-person meetings in a timely and professional manner.
• Support enrollment initiatives by participating in admissions events, orientation programs, financial aid presentations, and outreach activities.
• Collaborate with campus departments, including Admissions, Student Accounts, Registrar, and Student Success, to support student persistence and success.
• Remain informed on changes to federal and state financial aid regulations and best practices.
• Assist in developing and maintaining office procedures, communications, and training materials.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree required.
• One to three years of experience in financial aid, higher education administration, accounting, student services, or a related field preferred.
• Knowledge of federal and state financial aid regulations and programs preferred.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to handle confidential information with professionalism and discretion.
• Strong customer service orientation and commitment to student support.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications and student information systems.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience using Workday Student or similar ERP systems.
• Experience in a higher education environment.
• Familiarity with financial aid processing systems and reporting tools.
• Bilingual communication skills are a plus.