Financial Aid – Counselor/Senior Counselor

Western Colorado University

Western Colorado University seeks applications for a Financial Aid – Counselor/Senior Counselor.

Job Description

Western Colorado University, a mid-size public university deep in the heart of the Rockies, is seeking customer service oriented and dynamic full time Counselors/Senior Counselors in the Financial Aid Office. These positions provide services to students, parents and university staff and are IN PERSON (not remote). Job Responsibilities: • Provide counseling to prospective and current students and their families with accurate information regarding the application process, estimated financial aid eligibility including federal, state and institutional forms of aid; manage all aspect of student financial aid processes accurately and efficiently. • Collect, review and evaluate student financial aid applications and financial aid forms. Verify documentation submitted meets federal, state and institutional policies. • Review financial aid results with students and families and offer solutions. • Formulate financial aid packages, perform needs analysis and certify loans. • Pro-actively perform diligent follow-up on missing paperwork due from students to complete their files within established deadlines. • Respond accurately to high levels of inbound calls and emails from prospective and current students and their families. Handle all inquiries with courtesy and professionalism. • Participate in student recruitment events and activities. • Perform other duties as assigned. Senior Counselor Additional Responsibilities • Provide training, mentorship and leadership to entry level Financial Aid Counselors and assist with day to day management of the counseling staff to ensure consistency in packaging and implementation of all financial aid programs. Should possess advanced knowledge of federal Title IV regulations. • Acts as the primary counselor to students in special programs such as the Rady Engineering Partnerships, Adult Degree Completion, Study Abroad and Tuition Assistance (service members) programs. • Verify documentation and utilize professional judgment to evaluate changes in student/family circumstances that affect students’ financial aid offers. • Resolve conflicts with students and parents on financial aid and student account issues. • Primary certification specialist for private loans and AmeriCorps Educational awards. • Manages Satisfactory Academic Progress appeals review process and the Exit Counseling program administered by the institution. Minimum Qualifications: • A bachelor’s degree • One year of experience in customer service or professional office at a post-secondary institution • Knowledge of management information systems in a higher education environment • Strong organization, time management, and multi-tasking skills • High level of interpersonal communication skills- written and oral • Ability to do highly detailed work • Ability to work in a fast-paced and changing environment Preferred Qualifications: • Working knowledge of Banner Systems • Two or more years of experience in professional office/financial aid at a post-secondary institution • Advanced knowledge of federal and state regulations and policies • High level of supervisory and communication skills, both written and oral Compensation: $40,000 – $45,000 annual salary rate dependent on experience and appointment as either Counselor or Senior Counselor. These positions are FLSA exempt from overtime and are non-classified. These positions are eligible for full benefits including paid time off, excellent insurance plans and shared contribution retirement plan.

Application Instructions

Apply online – application available on Western’s website (link below). Select the job title, scroll up the page and click the apply link. Required attachments to online applications include: cover letter, resume/CV and contact information for three references. Official transcripts required for employment. Application review begins immediately and continues until positions are filled. Start Date: December 15, 2022