Position Information Posting Number 20113033 Position Title Financial Aid Counselor FTE 1.0 Position Type Staff Department Student Financial Aid Position Summary Information Job Summary/Basic Function About This Role: The Financial Aid Counselor works in a student-centered fast-paced team environment while complying with federal and state regulations as well as institutional policies. This is accomplished by ensuring all federal and state regulations are met, ensuring correct information is reported to the Department of Education’s Office of Federal Student Aid, analyzing tax forms, W-2’s and other relevant financial documents, and inputting data into the university’s student database. Other duties include organizing files, maintaining office equipment and supplies for office operations reviewing files for award processes, answering questions on the application process, explaining policies and procedures to students, parents and staff, working with default management program to maintain a low school default rate, and assisting staff with related department paperwork and data. Strict adherence to established NCAA , Southland Conference, Lamar University, and Texas State University System rules and regulations. What You’ll Do – Position Responsibilities: + Counsel students regarding financial aid eligibility, appropriate policies, and available funding. + Assists students in the application process for financial aid by helping them to complete appropriate and required forms; by advising them of their rights and responsibilities concerning financial aid; and by providing them with information about the status of their financial aid applications. + Advise students and parents on eligibility requirements for federal and state aid. + Follows up with students concerning incomplete information; assists with students selected for Verification. + Completes data on award notifications by calculating student budgets to establish student’s cost of attendance to award grants, loans, and other financial aid. + Contacts all graduating students during each semester to make sure they meet federal requirements to complete Stafford Loan Exit Counseling. + Communicates effectively and consistently with pertinent internal department members from admissions, cashiering and registrar, etc. + Represents the department at special events such as high school college nights, orientations, financial aid workshops, financial literacy workshops, etc. + Provides expertise in the process of financial aid verification as identified by the U.S. Department of Education Office of Federal Student Aid to determine eligibility for federal, state, and institutional need-based aid. + Communicated with students and parents via phone, e-mail, and live chat system. Key Competencies: (KSAs – Knowledge Skills and Abilities) + Excellent communication and counseling skills (verbal and written). + This position involves significant interaction with students and parents. + Strong analytical and computer proficiency skills are necessary, along with the ability to multitask effectively. + This job requires the ability to perform the four basic arithmetic operations. Physical Requirements: + Ability to sit for extended periods while working at a desk. + Proficiency in typing, handling documents and operating office equipment. + Ability to move around the office, including walking, reaching, bending and occasionally stooping or kneeling. Job Conditions: + Generally, a standard 40-hour workweek with occasional extended hours during peak periods. Extended computer usage, telephone communications and document handling. Who We Are: Lamar University is an accessible global university for life-long learners with a passion for broad-based community engagement. As a vital contributor to the socioeconomic wellbeing and resilience of the Gulf Coast region, our expertise is recognized locally and beyond. Lamar University is home to more than 17,000 students and is among the fastest growing Texas colleges and universities. LU is a member of The Texas State University System, which is the first higher education system of Texas and maintains the lowest average tuition and fees of any university system in Texas. With more than 100-degree options and a community that cares, Lamar students are always proud to be Cardinals. Lamar University is committed to fostering a culture where students, faculty and staff of all backgrounds can learn, work, and serve. Benefits: + Health, dental & vision insurance + Life insurance + State of Texas Retirement plans + Tuition covered at 100% for employees, spouses and/or eligible dependents. + Paid time off – vacation, sick, and holidays. To see more information about the available benefits, please visit: Insurance – Lamar University (https://www.lamar.edu/faculty-staff/human-resources/insurance.html) Minimum Qualifications + Bachelor’s degree in finance, business administration or a related field. Will accept work experience relevant to the role in lieu of education requirement. + Minimum of two years of experience in a professional, service-oriented environment, demonstrating exceptional customer service skills, particularly in interactions with students and their families. EEO Statement Lamar University is An Equal Opportunity Employer Veteran's Preference Statement Lamar University is proud to provide employment preference to veteran applicants in accordance with Texas 805 Government Code, Section 657.003. Preferred Qualifications + Relevant experience and skills with a strong background in customer service and a commitment to student support. + Previous experience in financial aid counseling or a related field. + Knowledge of Financial Aid programs and familiar with federal, state and institutional financial aid programs. Security Sensitive Statement This position is security-sensitive and thereby subject to the provisions of the Texas Education Code §51.215, which authorizes the employer to obtain criminal history record information. Salary $37,330 - $48,529 Work Hours Application Information Posting Date 12/12/2024 Close Date 03/11/2025 Open Until Filled No Special Instructions