Financial Aid and Federal Work Study Counselor

Description

The mission of Goodwin University is to educate a diverse student population in a dynamic environment that aligns education, commerce, and community. Our innovative programs of study prepare students for professional careers while promoting lifelong learning and civic responsibility. As a nurturing university community, we challenge students, faculty, staff, and administration to fully realize their highest academic, professional, and personal potential.

Position Description Summary/Purpose:

Under the supervision of the Supervisor of Financial Aid, the Financial Aid and Federal Work Study Counselor coordinates with all departments as well as external non-profits to administer and ensure compliance of the Federal Work Study Program.

Essential Job Functions/Primary Responsibilities:

(The essential functions or duties listed below are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related or a logical assignment to the position.)

• Counsel students and parents in all facets of work-study and financial aid.
• Counsels prospective and current students regarding financial aid eligibility, pertinent school policies and available funding.
• Uses judgment and problem-solving skills to award students.
• Follows up on incomplete or missing financial aid information and verifies information for students selected for verification.
• Ensure that the program is in compliance with federal, state, and institutional regulations.
• Develop and implement work-study policies and procedures.
• Manage and reconcile the University-wide work-study program budgets.
• Verify student eligibility and certify all work-study awards.
• Administer awards and monitor balances in Federal Work-Study (on and off-campus).
• Provide work-study information to students, and employers (on-campus and off-campus).
• Collaborate with various departments to ensure proper workflow of the hiring process.
• Coordinate with Career Services to manage work-study employment opportunities through the use of College Central.
• Oversight and management of the off-campus work study student payroll.
• Work closely with Human Resources to schedule hiring appointments and create best use of payroll reports.
• Develop and present appropriate workshops and training on Federal Work-Study Program to students, campus departments, and off-campus organizations; which may require some travel.
• Review Work-Study Agreements and approve employers for work-study partnerships.
• Conducts all work in a safe manner and all work safety practices are followed.

Other Functions: 

• Performs similar or related work as required, directed or as situation permits.
• Continues professional development and training; keeps current with trends.
• Assists other department staff as needed to promote a team effort.

Knowledge, Ability and Skill:

• Demonstrated commitment to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion, and work in an environment in which all members of the University community are treated with respect and dignity.
• Knowledge of federal and state financial aid regulations and familiarity with Goodwin University policies and procedures preferred.
• Must be able to perform problem analysis, awarding of funds, and adjustment of aid.
• Ability to interpret federal, state, and institutional rules and regulations, policies and procedures, and to exercise good professional judgment as needed to ensure that appropriate aid resources are directed to all work-study applicants.
• Ability to interpret University policies regarding application of aid.
• Must possess good communication skills, be attentive to details, and demonstrate competent computer skills.
• Ability to demonstrate customer service excellence.

Qualifications

Minimum Required Qualifications:

• Experience with computers in a detail-oriented environment; good mathematical and analytical skills with knowledge of fiscal management or accounting; ability to provide excellent oral and written communication with diverse individuals.
• Experience working independently and demonstrated initiative.
• Experience working with PowerFaids or similar financial aid software, COD, NSLDS in a financial aid office.

Education, Training and Experience:

• Associates degree or equivalent
• 3-5 years’ experience in administrative role

Special Requirements:

• Valid Driver’s license and insured vehicle

Physical and Mental Requirements: 

Vision requirements

_X_        Close vision (i.e. clear vision at 20 inches or less)

___        Distance vision (i.e. clear vision at 20 feet or more)

___        Color vision (i.e. ability to identify and distinguish colors)

___        Peripheral vision (i.e. ability to observe an area that can be seen up and down or

               left and right while the eyes are fixed on a given point)

___        Depth perception (i.e. three-dimensional vision, ability to judge distances and

               spatial relationships)

___        No special vision requirements

(This job description does not constitute an employment agreement between the university and employee. It is used as a guide for personnel actions and is subject to change by the university as the needs of the university and requirements of the job change.)