Financial Aid Coordinator

Job Summary:

Coordinates various financial aid programs and processes within primary responsibility in a specialized area according to established policies, procedures, federal and state guidelines; assists students in applying for financial aid; and coordinates operations and activities within the Financial Aid Office.

Primary Functions/Responsibilities:

• Evaluate and process financial aid applications
• Counsel students and families on financial aid options
• Maintain student financial aid records and documentation
• Monitor and ensure compliance with federal, state, and institutional regulations
• Coordinate financial literacy workshops and informational sessions on financial aid
• Review and update financial aid policies and procedures
• Assist in budget planning and financial aid distribution
• Respond to inquiries from students, parents, and staff regarding financial aid
• Collaborate with other departments to facilitate student enrollment and retention
• Conduct audits to ensure accuracy and compliance of financial aid records
• Prepare and submit reports related to financial aid activities and expenditures
• Develop and implement strategies to improve the efficiency of financial aid processes
• Develops, updates, and maintains forms, spreadsheets, databases, handbooks, manuals and other written materials to facilitate student award coordination.
• Provides information on admissions, scholarships, financial aid and registration policies and procedures; provides guidance to students on all aspects of student financial aid such as satisfactory academic progress, eligibility, appeals, scholarships, rules and regulations; monitors financial aid applicant results.
• Coordinates, plans, develops and conducts internal and external presentations or workshops on and off campus to provide any, prospective and continuing students with specialized assistance and information on financial aid and scholarships, to inform student of program requirements and appropriate deadlines; incorporates educational trends and community needs into workshops and presentations.
• Performs other duties as assigned

Requirements:

Education: Bachelor’s degree in finance, education or other related field

Qualifications and Skills:

• Minimum of 3 years working in a higher education financial aid office
• Strong understanding of federal and state financial aid regulations
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Proficiency in financial aid management software
• Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information
• Strong organizational and time management skills
• Detail-oriented and ability to work under pressure
• Experience with financial aid auditing and compliance
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment
• Knowledge of student information systems (SIS)
• Knowledge of financial aid programs and eligibility requirements
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite
• Experience in customer service or counseling
• Strong attention to detail
• Ability to interpret and apply financial aid regulations
• Experience with data entry and management
• Commitment to providing high-quality service to students and families
• Ability to maintain a high level of accuracy in financial aid processing

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities - Possess exceptional interpersonal and communication skills (i.e., written and public speaking) and the ability to work effectively with a wide range of constituencies in a diverse community while providing strong customer service. Ability to work in a fast-paced environment, gather data, compile and prepare reports, communicate effectively, both orally and in writing, possess strong organizational and project management skills, skilled in the use of software systems and databases, and knowledge of university enrollment management policies, standards, and procedures. Must show creativity and enthusiasm for an educational environment. Must have the ability to lift 25 pounds. Driver’s license required.

Caring for Our Team
We offer a comprehensive benefits package to support our employees' well-being and professional growth. Benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance available starting the first day of the month following 30 days of employment, along with life insurance, short and long-term disability coverage. Paid Time Off begins accruing from day one, and we also provide a 401k plan, an education assistance program, and an employee assistance program. Additionally, employees working evening, night, or weekend shifts may be eligible for a shift differential, adding even more value to your role.

Strength Through Diversity

Meritus Health believes that diversity, equity, and inclusion are key drivers for excellence. We share a common devotion to delivering exceptional patient care. When you join us, you become a part of Meritus Health, and we expect a record of achievement and advancement as we meet our mission.

Our commitment to equity in all aspects of patient care delivery, education, and research to promote policies and practices to allow opportunities for all to create joy at work and reach their potential.

Happy to Help

At Meritus, we believe in a collaborative and caring work environment. Interactions are an opportunity to learn, listen and to be there for one another. Therefore, we provide warm welcomes, hospitality-driven closures, and are always Happy to Help.