"Student Services Specialist - Student Financial Services"

Position Summary

Student Services Specialist
Student Financial Services
Full-Time

Student Financial Services is a central student services center that provides end-to-end, student-focused support for financial aid, student accounts, and other university accounts receivable. The Student Service Specialist's role is to provide counseling to students and other constituents regarding accounts receivable and financial aid, while adhering to University and FERPA policies and ensuring compliance. A major responsibility of the Student Service Specialist is to help students navigate the process of financing their education.

Primary Responsibilities

• Advises and counsels students, parents, agencies, and University staff on all aspects of billing and financial aid programs (federal, state, University, private, military, and other third-party), policies, procedures, practices, office services, and document completion
• Pre-verifies documents needed for the financial aid verification process
• Audits students' accounts to verify that the accounts are current and accurate; update records, as needed, to be proactive and resolve problems
• Advises future, current, and prior students regarding their financial obligations to the University and provides guidance in resolving their balances and setting up payment plans to encourage student retention and customer satisfaction
• Presents financial literacy information to classes and student organizations that covers all aspects of financing higher education
• Presents information regarding financial aid and billing practices for parents and students during First Step Orientation
• Participates in the planning of and training for all SFS staff members regarding customer service and maintenance of customer service level standards
• Collaborates with faculty and staff to promote cooperative relationships that will result in opportunities to resolve financial concerns and complaints, or other difficult situations
• Handles all information with tact and discretion and recognizes the confidential and sensitive nature of university business
• Advocates for a positive student enrollment experience and promotes the University in a positive image
• Utilizes various University, business, and customer service software programs and assists with system testing and upgrades
• Assists with the development and implementation of policies and procedures
• Represents the Student Financial Services Office at outreach events (local high schools, community events, Orientation, etc.)
• Represents the Student Financial Services Office on various University committees
• Keeps up to date with university, departmental, federal, and state regulations, policies, and updates
• Develops and prepares ad hoc reports and assumes other responsibilities as assigned by the Director or Assistant Director
• Other duties as assigned

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree
• Experience handling complex customer service issues with the ability to assess situations quickly and react to customers accurately and pleasantly in a timely manner
• Computer proficiency with Microsoft Word and Excel, and demonstrated experience using database query programs
• Strong critical thinking skills with the ability to solve problems, including the ability to help inexperienced individuals understand policies and processes
• Ability to handle confidential information, exercise sound judgment, and maintain accurate records and files
• Experience working as part of a team in a collaborative work environment
• Excellent communication skills, including writing and editing skills, and the ability to present information to the public as well as in one-on-one meetings
• Excellent organizational and time-management skills, including the ability to successfully prioritize and manage multiple tasks with minimal supervision
• Evidence of the ability to analyze, interpret, and implement federal, state, and/or University regulations, policies, and procedures

Required Information & Deadline

Application Deadline: To ensure full consideration, application materials listed below must be received by January 9, 2026. The position is available immediately and will remain open until filled.

To Apply: Submit the following items by clicking on the APPLY button at the top of the job announcement. Applications submitted without a letter of interest and a resume will not be reviewed by the search committee.

• Letter of interest addressing required qualifications
• Current resume
• Names and contact information of three professional references will be asked for at a later date if not submitted

Additional Information

Department Website: Student Financial Services

About Southeast Missouri State University (SEMO): Founded in 1873 and accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, Southeast Missouri State University provides student-centered education and experiential learning with a foundation of liberal arts and sciences, embracing a tradition of access, exceptional teaching, and commitment to student success that significantly contributes to the development of the region and beyond. SEMO values access to high-quality, affordable education with a broadly representative student body, faculty, and staff that respects and celebrates a diverse learning community in a global society.