Position Information

Posting Number 20112887

Position Title Financial Aid Specialist

FTE 1.0

Position Type Staff

Department Student Financial Aid

Position Summary Information

Job Summary/Basic Function

About This Role:

Under the direction of the Assistant Director for Financial Aid Operations, the Financial Aid Specialist Operations will be involved in all aspects of financial aid administration. The purpose of this position is to evaluate, approve and award financial aid to students in accordance with federal, state, and university regulations, policies, and operating guidelines. This position assesses the financial needs of students, advises students and parents regarding financial aid options, processes, and requirements. Participates as appropriate in systems/procedures planning and management; implements and coordinates specific individual programs or assignments in accordance with the overall objectives of the office, within the division of Enrollment Management.

What You’ll Do – Position Responsibilities

• Analyzes and evaluates financial viability of students and families and provides advice and counsel regarding available financial aid opportunities, eligibility requirements, and the application process.

• Reviews and assesses eligibility of applications for financial aid; exercises professional judgment to determine whether adjustments should be made.

• Reviews for accuracy and provides signature approval/disapproval of loan applications, promissory notes, and other financial documents.

• Responds to inquiries and research and resolves problems related to transactions handled by the unit; serves as liaison with other constituencies in the resolution of day-to-day administrative and operational issues.

• Provide information, in person, on the telephone, and through electronic Chat, to students, prospective students, and families regarding student financial aid, admissions, account balance, and registration status.

• Serves as liaison with state, federal, tribal, and other agencies; keeps abreast of student assistance opportunities and program regulations.

• Oversees the collection, management, and reporting of data in accordance with the objectives of the position; participates in the development and implementation of data management systems and procedures, as appropriate.

• Implements, coordinates, and oversees one or more specific administrative programs and/or service areas, as assigned.

• Trains and serves as an operational resource to other staff and /or students, as appropriate; may supervise student employees or lower-level staff.

• Serves as subject matter expert, suggesting improvements where appropriate and maintaining procedural and policy documentation on an annual basis.

• Performs miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned.

• Must have the ability to obtain and retain access to the National Student Loan Database ( NSLD ).

Key Competencies:

• Excellent communication and counseling skills (verbal and written). This position involves significant interaction with students and parents.

• Strong analytical and computer proficiency skills are necessary, along with the ability to multitask effectively. This job requires the ability to perform the four basic arithmetic operations.

  Who We Are:

Lamar University is an accessible global university for life-long learners with a passion for broad-based community engagement. As a vital contributor to the socioeconomic wellbeing and resilience of the Gulf Coast region, our expertise is recognized locally and beyond. Lamar University is home to more than 17,000 students and is among the fastest growing Texas colleges and universities. LU is a member of The Texas State University System, which is the first higher education system of Texas and maintains the lowest average tuition and fees of any university system in Texas. With more than 100-degree options and a community that cares, Lamar students are always proud to be Cardinals.

Lamar University is committed to fostering a culture of diversity where students, faculty and staff of all backgrounds can learn, work, and serve.

Benefits:

• Health, dental & vision insurance

• Life insurance

• State of Texas Retirement plans

• Tuition covered at 100% for employees, spouses and/or eligible dependent.

• Paid time off – vacation, sick, and holidays.

To see more information about the available benefits, please visit: Insurance – Lamar University (https://www.lamar.edu/faculty-staff/human-resources/insurance.html)

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED .

• Two years of experience directly related to the duties and responsibilities specified.

• Familiar with financial documents and a high competency of computer skills.

• Strong customer service skills that demonstrate a "student first’’ environment.

  EEO Statement

Lamar University is An Equal Opportunity Employer

Veteran's Preference Statement

Lamar University is proud to provide employment preference to veteran applicants in accordance with Texas 805 Government Code, Section 657.003.

Preferred Qualifications

• Two years of experience in financial aid.

  Security Sensitive Statement

This position is security-sensitive and thereby subject to the provisions of the Texas Education Code §51.215, which authorizes the employer to obtain criminal history record information.

Salary $33,330 - $43,329

Work Hours

Application Information

Posting Date 04/23/2024

Close Date 07/23/2024

Open Until Filled No

Special Instructions