The main purpose of this position is to work within a collaborative team environment to administer various student financial aid programs within regulatory requirements and counsel students, parents, faculty, and staff to support access to the various student aid programs. This position may also act as a mentor, project leader or supervisor for 1-2 classified staff, as assigned.
This position is open to current, regular Boise State University employees only.
Department Overview:
The Financial Aid Counselor at Boise State University will work within a collaborative, supportive, team environment to administer various financial aid programs within regulatory requirements and counsel students, parents, faculty and staff to support access to various student aid programs.
Level Scope:
Entry-level professional with limited or no prior experience to contribute on a project or work team. Incumbent learns to use professional concepts to resolve problems of limited scope and complexity under close supervision while achieving day-to-day objectives. Works on developmental assignments that are initially routine in nature, requiring limited judgment and decision making. This level is typically focused on self-development. Requires theoretical knowledge through specific education and training.
Essential Functions:
60% of Time the Position must perform:
Financial Aid Administration
- Advise and counsel students and families on the financial aid application process and special circumstances for individual applicants via walk-in, multi-line phone system, email and online interactions.
- As a member of the financial aid and scholarships team, collaborate to successfully administer federal and state student financial aid programs (student eligibility, need analysis, verification, awarding, ISIR corrections, disbursement, return to Title IV, etc.) within the guidelines of institutional, private, state, and federal regulations, guidelines and policies.
- Evaluate unusual/extenuating circumstance documentation or information provided by the student; exercise professional judgment by adjusting cost of attendance, income, dependency status, or satisfactory academic progress based on established policies or guidelines.
- Advise on student loan application, consolidation and loan repayment options
- Develop and present informational financial aid programs and community outreach events to local high school students, families and various other groups.
35% of the Time the Position must perform:
Interaction with Technology
- Understand and use technology systems including but not limited to: Common Origination and Disbursement (COD), National Student Loan Data System (NSLDS), FAFSA Partner Portal online, EdConnect, Electronic Loan Management (ELM), PS Campus Solutions, Perceptive Content, etc.
- In collaboration with the Systems team, assist in testing of enterprise resource management systems setup, upgrades and modifications.
- Remain current in knowledge and understanding of regulations and technology changes, as needed.
Programmatic duties:
- Responsibility for specific programmatic duties, such as: Work Study administration, Satisfactory Academic Progress Appeals, verification of eligible citizenship status, assigned work logs, etc.
- Identify and prioritize issues; perform research, offer solutions, options and strategies. Refer to appropriate person or department as needed, and/or arrange for required assistance.
5% of Time the Position must perform:
Supervision/Team management
- Provide training, direction, feedback, and evaluations to direct reports (if assigned) and/or leading a project team in collaboration with supervisor
- Other duties as assigned
Knowledge, Skills, Abilities:
- Knowledge of institutional, state and federal financial aid regulations
- Demonstrated analytical and problem-solving skills
- Ability to handle a large volume of deadline-driven tasks with a moderate level of supervision
- Knowledge of multiple online database systems including COD, NSLDS, CPS, and a financial aid enterprise resource management system such as PeopleSoft
- Understanding of University policies and processes, particularly in the areas of Admissions and Registration
Minimum Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree or relevant experience
Salary and Benefits:
- 12 paid holidays AND the University is closed between Christmas and New Year's (requires use of 3 vacation days)
- Between 12-24 annual paid vacation days for full-time Professional and Classified staff depending on position type and years of service
- 10.76% University contribution to your ORP retirement fund (Professional and Faculty employees)
- 11.96% University contribution to your PERSI retirement fund (Classified employees)
- Excellent medical, dental and other health-related insurance coverages
- Tuition fee waiver benefits for employees, spouses and their dependents
- See our full benefits page for more information!
Required Application Materials:
- Resume
- Cover Letter
- Three Professional References
About Us:
Nestled along the Boise River and steps from the state capitol, Boise State University fosters a vibrant and welcoming academic environment that fuels student and employee success. We’re a trailblazing institution, nationally recognized for our innovative spirit and commitment to positive impact on Idaho and beyond.
Boise State is proud to be recognized by Forbes as the only Idaho employer listed in the top 100 of all national midsize and large employers. We’re building a thriving community of faculty and staff whose unique skills, experiences, and perspectives come together to create a rich and rewarding academic experience. Applications from all backgrounds are welcomed.
Learn more about Boise State and living in Idaho’s Treasure Valley at https://www.boisestate.edu/about/