The Financial Aid Service Center Tech Specialist position serves as the first point of contact for interdepartmental staff and both prospective and current students, with focus on the financial aid needs of students. Performs specialized clerical and technical duties related to processing and storing information for student financial aid programs. Maintains student financial obligation records. Provides technical assistance and information to students, staff and the public.

POSITION RESPONSIBILTIES

• Assists students with the financial aid process, from start to finish, aligned with best practices in customer service.
• Assists students and families with any and all questions, related to the financial aid process, including follow-up as needed and when prudent.
• Explains the different types of financial aid programs, processing procedures, and interprets policies of the funding organizations as well as SAP eligibility, requirements for program qualification and compliance, and program options so that students make informed decisions about their obligations.
• Instructs students in correct procedures for completion of forms and applications, special requirements and restrictions, and supporting documentation such as tax returns, income and housing verifications, and transcripts.
• Reviews completed forms for accuracy and completeness.
• Performs basic troubleshooting of problems associated with financial aid accounts, student status, and computer-aided files.
• May prepare standardized correspondence for/to students, verifying status and other information.
• Under the direction of the AVP of Enrollment Services, develops and independently implements new or revised goals and objectives for the Financial Aid Service Center.
• Collects and submits any student feedback regarding the services provided by the Financial Aid Service Center to AVP of Enrollment Services, in order to create strategic plans for the advancement of the Center and to continue to evolve to best meet the needs of students and families.
• May help to evaluate the effectiveness of Financial Aid Service Center to develop and implement improved methods.
• Confers with and advises staff, students and others to provide technical advice, problem solving assistance, answers to questions regarding goals and policy interpretations; refers to appropriate department or person when unable to respond.
• Performs continued research/training on best practices, related to financial aid, including changes in local, state and federal regulations as well as continual learning in the area.
• Maintains innovative means of assisting students through the process of financial aid and is instrumental in creating ways to improve student retention/completion efforts.
• Participates in cross-departmental functions, throughout the college community, at times outside of normal business hours.
• Interacts and maintains liaison with students, faculty, staff and outside/community agencies in facilitating department objectives.
• Other duties as assigned.