Financial Aid Specialist

Closing Date:

University of Arkansas - Fort Smith

The University of Arkansas - Fort Smith is a dynamic, mid-sized public university that's redefining higher education. We're on a mission to provide transformative, hands-on learning experiences for students of all backgrounds and aspirations. Our multi-faceted approach to education offers a wealth of opportunities, with over 70 academic programs, including certificates, associate, bachelor's, and master's degrees. We're committed to building a diverse community that mirrors Arkansas's rich tapestry, reflecting our dedication to serving the state's varied population while enhancing the quality of our institution.

As an employer, the University of Arkansas offers a vibrant work environment and a workplace culture that promotes a healthy work-life balance. The benefits package includes university contributions to health, dental, life, and disability insurance, tuition waivers for employees and their families, 12 official holidays, immediate leave accrual, and a choice of retirement programs with university contributions ranging from 5 to 10 percent of employee salary.

Fort Smith, Arkansas

Nestled along the Arkansas River, this vibrant city offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Immerse yourself in the rich heritage of the Old West at the Fort Smith National Historic Site, explore the eclectic local art scene, or take a scenic stroll along the picturesque riverfront trails. With a welcoming community, diverse dining options, and a thriving downtown, Fort Smith is the ideal destination for history enthusiasts and those seeking modern amenities.

Thank you for your interest in joining our university. Below you will find details for the position including any supplementary documentation and/or questions you should review before submitting your application. For general application assistance or if you have questions about a job posting, please contact Human Resources at (479) 788-7080.

If you have a disability and need assistance with the hiring process please contact Human Resources at 479-788-7080. Applicants are required to submit a request for each position to which they have applied.

Required Education and/or Work Experience: Minimum qualifications include a formal education equivalent of a high school diploma; plus one years' experience in a clerical field, customer service or related area. Other job related education and/or experience may be substituted for part of these requirements.

Preferred Education and/or Work Experience: Associate's degree and/or experience in higher education is preferred.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: To perform the job successfully, the following competencies are required for the essential functions of this position:

• Knowledge of best practices in providing excellent customer service, particularly in a higher education setting.
• Demonstrate a friendly, helpful attitude and commitment to making a difference for students.
• Understanding of financial aid processes, including FAFSA, student loans, scholarships, and grants.
• Ability to clearly explain complex financial aid information in a simple, understandable way.
• Ability to successfully function within a fast paced, stressful environment, while maintaining accuracy and attention to detail.
• Understand FERPA and the highly confidential nature and scope of this position.
• Commitment to a high level of quality customer service.
• Professional demeanor
• Computer proficiency is required particularly with Microsoft Office suite.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality.

Summary of Job Duties:

• 50% - Provide excellent customer service in-person, over the phone, and through written communications to students, families, and staff. Address student inquiries related to financial aid, loan processing, FAFSA, as well as state and institutional scholarships.
• 20% - Assist students and families with completing and submitting the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), supporting documentation, and web based financial aid applications such as SAMS for Arkansas Challenge and LionShare for UAFS Foundation Scholarships. Help guide individuals through the process of completing student loan entrance counseling and master promissory notes (MPN).
• 10% - Ensure that all student financial aid documentation is properly imaged and updated in the university's Student Information System (SIS). Maintain accurate records for efficient tracking and compliance.
• 5% - Support the Assistant Director of Financial Aid Client Services in gathering and organizing data for monthly reports. Contribute to reporting on office visits, Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP), and other relevant data.
• 5% - Assist with financial aid outreach events aimed at educating students and families about financial aid opportunities.
• 5% - Manage incoming and outgoing daily mail for the financial aid office, ensuring proper distribution. Maintain an organized office environment, including the lobby and inventory areas. Keep inventory counts of marketing materials, promotional items, and office supplies, ensuring stock levels are sufficient.
• 5% - Other duties as assigned.
• Responsible for maintaining a positive work atmosphere by acting and communicating in a manner to foster teamwork and by providing leadership to subordinates.
• Requires consistent on-time attendance.

Additional Information:

Working Relationships: Ability to work efficiently and collaboratively with prospective and current students and families, administrators, staff, faculty, and alumni as well as campus guests, donors, and community members.

List Employees Supervised: This position has no supervisory responsibility.

Special Job Dimensions: Work performed primarily in an office setting. While performing the duties of this job, the employee regularly exhibits digital dexterity when entering data into computer. The employee frequently sits for extended periods of time, and occasionally stands and walks. Vision demands include close, relatively detailed vision when focusing on a computer screen. Employee regularly talks and hears. Employee occasionally lifts items up to 50 pounds. Routine work schedule Monday through Friday, 8:00am to 5:00pm with occasional overtime and travel required

Background Check Requirements. Criminal Background Check and Motor Vehicle Registry (MVR) Check.

All application materials must be uploaded to the University of Arkansas System Career Sitehttps://uasys.wd5.myworkdayjobs.com/UASYS

Please do not send to listed recruitment contact.

This position may be subject to a pre-employment criminal background check, sex offender registry check, financial history background check, and/or drug screening. A criminal conviction or arrest pending adjudication and/or adverse financial history alone shall not disqualify an applicant in the absence of a relationship to the requirements of the position. Background checks and drug screening information will be used in a confidential, non-discriminatory manner consistent with state and federal law.

Persons must have proof of legal authority to work in the United States on the first day of employment.

All application information is subject to public disclosure under the Arkansas Freedom of Information Act.