Student Accounts Associate

Description

Nichols College

Student Accounts Associate

DEPARTMENT:                              STUDENT FINANCIAL SERVICES

REPORTS DIRECTLY TO:            DIRECTOR OF STUDENT ACCOUNTS

JOB SUMMARY:

This position provides support to all students in a high-volume environment. Students, parents, college advisors, staff and interested outside parties rely upon the knowledge of this position as the key point of contact for all information concerning Student Accounts.  In addition to analyzing and explaining student accounts, this position must understand and determine applicability of complex programs, recommend payment options and apply payments and/or adjustments to accounts.  Requires strong math skills, a high level of detail and proficiency with the Student Information System, payment processing systems as well as spreadsheets and documents.  In addition, this position requires accuracy, analysis, problem solving, quick thinking and compassion in an often-high pressure, fast paced emotionally charged environment.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILILTIES:

Assist the Director of Student accounts with the following:

• Provide support for students and families as it pertains to the Student Financial Services (SFS) Office inquiries. Be accessible to all students with respect to counseling, questions and problem solving as it relates to SFS.

• Maintain accurate student records, both electronic and paper files.

• Assist with orientation, check-in and other college events that may require some weekend and/or holiday hours.
• Audit student accounts to identify and calculate necessary adjustments, Title IV funding returns, credit refunds, and balances that need to be collected.
• Invoice students for balances due and monitor status of pending payments, including third-party vendors and corporate sponsors.
• Collect payments and record in student database.
• Communicate with Financial Aid Officer(s) regarding student accounts.
• Communicate with students to discuss their account and financial obligations.
• Process and monitor payment plans.
• Monitor office email daily and respond to inquiries.
• Open and process office postal mail each day; monitor returned mail and resolve discrepancies.
• Ad hoc assignments as required by management.
• Any other duties as deemed appropriate by the Director of Student Accounts.

KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS/EDUCATION REQUIRED:

Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail are mandatory.  The ideal candidate must be willing to work in a fast-paced, high-volume environment.  Must be capable of working independently as well as working in conjunction with others to foster a team-oriented environment.  Must demonstrate initiative to follow through on all assigned duties and responsibilities.  Candidate should have a working knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite programs (Word, Excel, etc.). Prior Accounts Receivable experience preferred. Strong customer service and computer skills are required due to the high-volume interaction with students, outside parties, and staff in person, via email and telephone.

The successful candidate will be a detailed oriented person with:

• Ability to interact successfully with students, administration, faculty and staff
• Ability to provide clear and accurate explanations via email or verbally
• Knowledge of basic accounting principles and practices
• Ability to make rapid, accurate mathematical computations and answer "what-if" questions
• Ability to analyze and make sound decisions with limited direct supervision
• Ability to conduct sensitive conversations while exhibiting calm, diplomatic demeanor
• Ability to follow procedures, keep money and data secure and enforce payment policies
• Flexibility to shift projects and adapt to new programs and initiatives as they arise

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: Associate's Degree in Accounting or a closely related field or an equivalent three (3) years combination of education, and experience in accounting or bookkeeping.

PHYSICAL JOB COMPONENTS:

• Light to moderate lifting of files, supplies, boxes of literature and office materials
• Able to use office and telecommunications equipment
• Walking required

Qualifications