Financial Aid Student Communications Specialist

Provide comprehensive support in the daily operations of the Financial Aid & Veteran Services Office, including advising and counseling students and their families. Manage complex data, ensures regulatory compliance, leads outreach and communication initiatives, and oversees specialized programs such as Federal Work-Study and Satisfactory Academic Progress.

Essential job functions

1. Develop a comprehensive understanding of Federal and State student aid programs, including eligibility requirements, processes, rules, and regulations.
2. Provide guidance and support to students, parents, and staff on all aspects of student financial aid, including application procedures, special circumstances, alternative funding options, eligibility requirements, financial literacy, and budgeting.
3. Gather and analyze complex data while handling highly confidential records and sensitive situations. Apply detailed regulatory guidance when determining financial aid awards and processes, summarize findings in relevant reports, and provide precise and accurate responses in communications.
4. Contribute to the development, implementation, and ongoing maintenance of financial aid policies and procedures.
5. Conduct financial aid outreach to high schools and the community, presenting information and providing counsel to students and parents at local Financial Aid events
6. Serve as the primary point of contact for student financial aid advising, providing accurate and timely guidance to walk-in students, phone inquiries, and email communications to support student understanding and access to financial aid.
7. Administer the Federal Work-Study (FWS) Program, including student placement, compliance monitoring, and coordination of required documentation
8. Monitor and manage Federal Work-Study time reporting and earnings to ensure program integrity and adherence to federal regulations.
9. Provide training and support to students and staff in navigating online financial aid systems, applications, and resources to promote self-sufficiency and accuracy.
10. Advise students on Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) policies, offering individualized guidance and support throughout the SAP appeal process.
11. Plan, coordinate, and implement outreach initiatives to engage students, parents, schools, and community organizations in financial aid awareness and access.
12. Serve as the college's Homeless Liaison, connecting students experiencing housing insecurity with internal support services and external community resources.
13. Develop and manage the financial aid office communication plan, ensuring consistent, accurate, and timely messaging across multiple platforms-including email, text messaging, and the college portal. Coordinate communication strategies to effectively reach prospective and current students, enhancing awareness and understanding of financial aid processes, deadlines, and resources.
14. Engage in training and professional development to stay up-to-date with federal, state, and institutional regulations and processes.
15. Perform other duties as assigned by the Director of Financial Aid & Veteran Services.

Education Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree required.

• Related experience in a college setting preferred; one year financial aid administration experience preferred.

• Knowledge of community college environment, including student records process, financial aid regulations and guidelines, and the utilization of technology preferred.

• Excellent customer service and organizational skills; Strong interpersonal, oral and written communication skills; excellent presentation skills; ability to think critically and be detail-oriented; ability to comprehend and communicate Federal/State regulations and guidelines regarding financial aid; ability to work with numerous interruptions.

• Ability to work effectively with administration, faculty and staff of the college, high school principals and guidance counselors, students and parents; ability to vision and influence change; ability to work independently and as a team member.