Specialist, Student Financial Assistance

Position Title:
Specialist, Student Financial Assistance
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Position Type:
Regular
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About the Role:
Northern Kentucky University invites applications for a Processing Specialist within Financial Assistance. This position plays a critical role in supporting the administration of federal, state, institutional financial aid and foundation/donor funded programs through accurate processing, record maintenance, compliance review, and student support.

The Processing Specialist works collaboratively with students, families, campus partners, and external agencies to ensure efficient service delivery and adherence to regulatory requirements.
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The Processing Specialist supports financial aid operations by processing student aid records, reviewing documentation, maintaining compliance with federal and state regulations, and assisting students throughout the financial aid lifecycle. This position also provides season support to foundation donor funded aid processing. This position requires strong attention to detail, customer service skills, and the ability to manage high-volume transactional work in a fast-paced environment.

Primary Responsibilities

- Process financial aid transactions, records, and documentation in accordance with federal, state, and institutional regulations and policies.
- Review financial aid applications, verification materials, and supporting documentation for completeness, accuracy, and compliance.
- Maintain and update student records within university systems, ensuring data integrity and regulatory compliance.
- Monitor and resolve discrepancies related to financial aid eligibility, packaging, awards, and student records.
- Communicate with students, families, and campus partners regarding financial aid requirements, processes, and deadlines through in-person, phone, email, and virtual channels.
- Assist in the administration of federal, state, institutional, and scholarship aid programs.
- Support processing activities related to verification, satisfactory academic progress, professional judgment, dependency overrides, and other aid eligibility determinations, as assigned.
- Collaborate with colleagues and campus partners (Admissions, Student Account Services the Registrar's Office, and other university offices) to provide coordinated student support.
- Participate in peak processing periods and assist with special projects, audits, reporting requirements, and compliance reviews.
- Identify opportunities for process improvement and support implementation of efficiencies that enhance service and operational effectiveness.
- Maintain confidentiality of student information in accordance with FERPA and applicable regulations.

Minimum Qualifications

- High school diploma or GED required.
- Two years of experience in administrative support, records processing, compliance, customer service, financial aid, higher education, or a related field.
- Experience working with computerized information systems and data entry processes.
- Demonstrated attention to detail and ability to accurately process high-volume transactions.

Preferred Qualifications

- Associate's or Bachelor's degree.
- Experience working in financial aid, student services, higher education, banking, insurance, compliance, or a similarly regulated environment.
- Knowledge of federal financial aid regulations and programs.
- Experience using student information systems, Workday, Banner, or related enterprise systems.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

- Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple priorities while meeting deadlines.
- Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
- Ability to interpret and apply policies, procedures, and regulatory requirements.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
- Commitment to providing exceptional customer service.
- Ability to exercise discretion and maintain confidentiality.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications and electronic record systems.

Why Join NKU

Northern Kentucky University is a student-ready, regionally engaged institution committed to transforming lives through education. Financial Assistance plays a vital role in helping students access and afford a college education. This position offers the opportunity to make a meaningful impact by supporting student success while ensuring responsible stewardship of financial aid resources.

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Posted Salary:
$16.74 per hour
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Work Environment & Physical Demands: