What are the responsibilities and job description for the Financial Aid and Scholarship Coordinator position at Missouri Western State University?
Reporting to the Director of Financial Aid, the Financial Aid and Scholarship Coordinator is responsible for the administration and coordination of financial aid and scholarship programs, ensuring compliance with federal, state, and institutional regulations. The position focuses on promoting access to education by supporting students and their families throughout the financial aid process and managing scholarship distribution effectively. This role requires collaboration with various departments to enhance student success and retention.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES:
- Coordinate institutional, foundation, and external scholarship programs, including application processes, eligibility reviews, and awarding.
- Collaborate with the University Advancement team to maintain donor relationships and scholarship fund utilization.
- Assist with developing and maintaining scholarship policies and procedures in alignment with university goals and compliance standards.
- Assist students and families in understanding financial aid processes, including FAFSA completion, verification, and aid packaging.
- Evaluate financial aid applications and determine eligibility for federal, state, and institutional aid programs.
- Conduct outreach efforts to increase awareness of financial aid opportunities and application deadlines.
- Ensure compliance with federal and state regulations (Title IV, state aid programs) and institutional policies.
- Prepare and submit reports as required by university leadership, donors, and regulatory agencies.
- Maintain accurate and organized records for audits and compliance reviews.
- Serve as a primary contact for students, parents, and staff regarding financial aid and scholarship inquiries.
- Provide one-on-one counseling and group workshops to enhance financial literacy and scholarship opportunities.
- Collaborate with academic departments and student services to support retention initiatives.
- Utilize financial aid software (e.g., Ellucian Banner) and scholarship platforms to manage awards and data effectively.
- Monitor scholarship fund balances and assist with reconciling accounts.
- Identify and implement improvements to enhance processes and student experiences.
- Perform other duties as assigned by the Director or Assistant Director
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
- Expert knowledge of all federal, state, and institutional aid programs, including all applicable regulations and policies.
- Ability to provide accurate information to students and families based on established laws and policies.
- Knowledge of tax laws, and the ability to assist students and families with the FAFSA application and the verification process.
- Knowledge of financial aid websites.
- Proficient in Microsoft Office programs and other general office equipment.
- Ability to learn new computer software.
- Organized thinker with exceptional attention to detail.
- Excellent communication skills, both verbally and in writing.
- Strong customer service skills.
- Ability to effectively organize and prioritize work as well as concentrate on multiple tasks simultaneously
Required Qualifications
- Associate’s Degree
- One to three years of financial aid, customer service, or related experience sufficient to successfully perform the essential duties of the job.
Preferred Qualifications
- Preferred Education in Accounting, Finance, Business, or a related field.
Physical Demands
- General office conditions. Exposed to moderate noise levels.
- Required to use close vision and be able to focus.
- Regularly required to talk and hear; frequently required to sit, stand, and bend at the knee and waist, and walk.
- Must be able to have repetitive wrist, hand and/or finger movement to type and work on computer.
- Must have finger dexterity and hand-eye coordination to work on computer, telephone, and related office equipment.
- Regular attendance is a necessary and essential function.
FLSA
Non-Exempt
Additional Demands
- The Financial Aid and Scholarship Coordinator may assist other coordinators with processes related to the administration of scholarships, grants, loans, and third-party aid.
- Continual participation in compliance webinars, conferences, and training is required to successfully perform job duties.
- Occasional evening and weekend work may be required based on departmental needs
Hours of Work
- Standard hours are Monday-Friday; 8:00 am-4:30 pm
Posting Detail Information
Posting Number
S759P
Open Date
02/14/2025
Priority Deadline
03/10/2025
Open Until Filled
Yes
