Financial Aid Officer
Stanbridge University is seeking a detail-oriented and student-focused Financial Aid Officer to support students through the financial aid process while ensuring full compliance with federal, state, and institutional regulations.
This role plays a critical part in student success by providing accurate guidance, maintaining compliant records, and supporting the administration of Title IV and other financial aid programs. The ideal candidate is organized, service-oriented, and comfortable working in a highly regulated, deadline-driven environment.
Essential Functions
Student Support & Counseling
- Guide students through the financial aid process, including applications, document collection, and required submissions
- Conduct financial aid presentations and one-on-one counseling sessions
- Explain financial aid options, eligibility, and student responsibilities clearly and accurately
Financial Aid Processing & Compliance
- Review and evaluate financial aid applications to determine eligibility for federal, state, and institutional programs
- Verify student documentation in accordance with Title IV and institutional requirements
- Maintain accurate and complete student financial aid records
Regulatory & Program Knowledge
- Ensure compliance with federal, state, and institutional financial aid regulations
- Stay current on updates to Title IV programs and related policies
- Apply regulatory knowledge to daily processing and student advising
Cross-Functional Collaboration
- Partner with admissions, student services, and academic departments to resolve financial aid issues
- Provide timely and accurate support to students and internal stakeholders
- Assist in resolving complex or escalated financial aid situations
Process Improvement & Support
- Assist in the development and refinement of financial aid policies and procedures
- Support initiatives to improve efficiency, accuracy, and student experience
- Participate in audits, reporting, and compliance reviews as required
Qualifications
Required
- Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, Education, or a related field
- Experience in financial aid, student services, or a regulated administrative environment
- Working knowledge of federal and state financial aid programs and regulations (Title IV preferred)
- Strong attention to detail and ability to manage multiple priorities in a deadline-driven environment
- Excellent communication skills with the ability to explain complex information clearly
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office and financial aid or student information systems
Preferred
- Experience working in higher education financial aid
- Experience with financial aid systems or student information systems
- Familiarity with audits, compliance reviews, or verification processes
- Strong customer service skills with a student-centered approach
Compensation
- $24.00–$27.00 per hour
- Compensation is based on education, experience, and internal equity considerations
Conditions of Employment
- A job-related assessment may be required during the interview process
- Must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily and be physically present on campus as required
- Employment verification will be conducted to validate work experience per accreditation standards
- Offers of employment are contingent upon successful completion of a background check
- Official transcripts are required prior to hire; degrees earned outside the United States must be evaluated by a recognized credential evaluation service for U.S. equivalency
- Must be legally authorized to work in the United States without sponsorship
- Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions
Work Environment
- Standard office environment with frequent interaction with students and departments
- Duties are typically performed while sitting at a desk or computer workstation
- Subject to frequent interruptions, high volume of student inquiries, and regulatory deadlines
Physical Demands
- Regularly sits for extended periods
- Proficient in using electronic keyboards and office equipment
- Effective verbal communication in person and by phone
- Ability to lift, carry, and/or move objects weighing 10–25 pounds as needed
Employee Benefits
- Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)
- Retirement Plan (401k)
- Exciting university events
- Seasonal motivational health and wellness challenges
- Work/Life Balance initiatives
- Onsite wellness program
- Life Insurance (Basic, Voluntary & AD&D)
- Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick & Public Holidays)
- Family Leave (Maternity, Paternity)
Institutional Values
- Diversity and Inclusion: Stanbridge University is committed to fostering an inclusive learning environment that reflects diverse backgrounds and perspectives
- Innovation and Technology: We embrace advanced tools and systems to improve operational efficiency and student support
- Community Engagement: Through initiatives such as Stanbridge outREACH, we contribute to local and global communities
Equal Opportunity Employer
Stanbridge University is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace and do not discriminate on any protected basis. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply.