Financial Aid Specialist

TITLE:                                     Financial Aid Specialist

REPORTS TO:                        Director of Financial Aid

SUMMARY

Under general supervision, reviews, verifies, analyzes, and processes financial aid applications and documents to determine student eligibility for loans, grants, scholarships, and work-study programs. Ensures accurate, timely, and compliant financial aid services that support student enrollment and success.

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

- Reviews financial aid applications and materials for completeness and eligibility;

- Verifies accuracy of documents and data; analyzes discrepancies between FAFSA applications, verification documents, and student information; determines resolution if needed;

- Requests additional information for incomplete applications; processes all documentation per federal, state, and institutional guidelines; performs need analysis;

- Determines eligibility and processes student financial aid offers within the Banner system;

- Ensures students, parents, staff, and federal/state agencies receive high-quality customer service by assisting with inquiries and resolution of issues;

- Reviews and reconciles all financial aid resources, including scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study;

- Prepares reports and invoicing for financial aid programs;

- Assists with other office functions as needed, including cross-training on other department duties;

- May participate in the annual audit of student records;

- Assists with supervision of student employees;

- May serve on various campus committees as assigned;

- Performs other duties as assigned or required; and

- Nothing contained herein shall limit the President in assigning the employee to any of the various college activities for which he/she would be qualified in order to meet the needs of New Mexico Junior College.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

- High school diploma or equivalent required; Associate’s degree preferred;

- Six (6) months experience working in a financial aid office; OR an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

- Knowledge of college admission policies, standards and procedures.

- Knowledge of Federal and State laws, regulations, and policies pertaining to financial aid.

- Knowledge of customer service standards and procedures.

- Knowledge of automated records processing.

- Skilled with work-related computer software.

- Skill in presenting ideas and concepts to effectively communicate with internal and external customers.

- Skill in resolving problems and implementing results.

- Ability to gather and analyze data, make simple calculations, and prepare reports.

- Ability to assist customers who may be confused, agitated, or hostile.

- Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships.

Additional Information:

In compliance with federal law, all individuals hired will be required to verify their identity and eligibility to work in the United States and complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire.  This position is not eligible for Visa sponsorship.

To apply:
Submit the NMJC application form via the NMJC website (www.nmjc.edu)