Financial Aid Counselor

Get Set for Cumberlands!

Join our team of student-focused individuals working together in order to encourage intellectual and spiritual growth, leadership and service.

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Under the general direction of the Director of Financial Aid, the Financial Aid Counselor plays a critical role in assisting students in navigating the financial aid process. The ideal candidate will provide comprehensive financial aid counseling, assisting students through the application and awarding processes, ensuring access to the financial resources needed to pursue their education.

Essential Job Functions:

• Provide individualized counseling to students regarding financial aid options, eligibility, and application procedures.
• Assist students in understanding and navigating the financial aid process, including completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and other required documentation.
• Review and evaluate financial aid applications for accuracy and completeness.
• Address inquiries related to financial aid policies, procedures, and eligibility criteria.
• Advocate for students in resolving financial aid issues and challenges.
• Facilitate outbound communication via telephone, email, and text to ensure students are appropriately informed of missing financial documents.
• Answer phone calls and respond to emails in a professional and tactful manner.
• Stay informed about changes in federal and state financial aid regulations.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant laws and regulations governing financial aid programs.
• Assist with new student orientation including the ability to counsel, present and deliver presentation with financial information to prospective students and parents.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Initiative-taker with positive outlook and an interest in the success of the University
• Possess good decision-making skills and the ability to assist a student community of diverse perspectives and cultures.
• Demonstrated excellence in verbal and written communication skills.
• Must have exceptional follow-up, follow-through, and attention to detail.
• Respond to large volumes of phone, email and in-person inquiries in a timely manner.
• Ability to manage confidential information, exercise sound judgment and recognize the confidential nature of student information (FERPA)
• Results oriented with ability to manage multiple projects or tasks.
• Strong critical thinking skills with the ability to solve problems and communicate concisely while focusing on the needs of the student.

Minimum Education and Experience:

• Associate degree or equivalent experience required, B.A. or B.S. preferred.
• Previous experience in financial aid counseling or related student services role is preferred.
• Knowledge of federal and state financial aid programs and regulations.
• Excellent communication and time-management abilities.
• Ability to work with diverse student populations and maintain confidentiality.
• Strong computer skills including proficiency in Microsoft Word, Outlook, and Excel with a willingness to learn University software products.
• Demonstrated organizational and time management skills including the ability to successfully priority and manage multiple tasks.

Cumberlands is different by design. Our employees exemplify our motto in the pursuit of a

“life-more-abundant.”