Financial Aid Counselor
About Us
Savannah State University established in 1890, is the first public historically black college or university in the state of Georgia and the first institution of higher learning in the city of Savannah. The university's students select majors from four colleges — Business Administration, Education, Liberal Arts and Social Sciences, and Sciences and Technology. The campus is by far the most picturesque in the state of Georgia. The moss-laden sweeping oak trees, expansive marsh and historic architecture create a resplendent yet tranquil atmosphere. Beneath the beauty and splendor is a vibrant residential campus bursting at the seams with the vim and vigor of quality collegiate life: relevant academic majors, engaging lectures, cutting-edge research, quality student-faculty engagement and a nurturing environment.
Job Summary
Reporting to the Director, the Financial Aid Counselor advises students about financial aid eligibility, application procedures, aid programs, costs, indebtedness, money management and financial planning. The incumbent individualizes information to the particular needs and situation of the student. Additionally, the incumbent collects and/or analyzes financial data on students to determine aid eligibility and make awards within federal, state, and institutional guidelines. May be directed to perform job related tasks other than those specifically delineated in this description.
NOTE: In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required eligibility verification form upon hire. This position does not offer sponsorship for employment visas.
Responsibilities
- Evaluate financial need of students from a variety of sources including documentation of financial status and personal interviews.
- Award financial aid according to federal, state, and institutional regulations and guidelines.
- Present financial aid information to students, parents, high school guidance counselors and university constituents.
- Provide good customer service by responding to student and parent inquiries accurately and in a timely manner.
- Maintain a working knowledge of all federal, state, and institutional programs administered by the Financial Aid Office.
- Make referrals for students over a wide range of subjects relating to the financial aid processes and eligibility requirements.
- Keep abreast of all changes in federal, state, and institutional rules and regulations by reading aid literature and attending various training sessions.
- Maintain detailed records and documentation for assigned student cases.
- Contact students to clarify questions or to request additional information.
- Represent the department at special events such as high school college nights, orientations, financial aid workshops, financial literacy workshops, open campus days, etc.
- Answer telephone calls and respond to emails on behalf of the office.
- Follow NASFAA's Statement of Ethical Principles and Code of Conduct.
- Perform assigned responsibilities, duties, and tasks according to established practices, procedures, techniques, and standards with minimal supervision.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree required and one year of experience at an institution of higher education focusing on financial aid and/or student counseling OR Associate's degree with three (3) years of experience at an institution of higher education focusing on financial aid and/or student counseling.
- Professional work experience in counseling, advising, and disseminating information to educate relevant constituencies
- Demonstrated proficiency with computer software and general office applications
Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities
- Knowledge of federal, state, USG and institutional processes, procedures and guidelines related to federal financial aid
- Knowledge of database management
- Skilled in customer service with ability to adapt in a dynamic work environment
- Skilled in communication (interpersonal, oral, and written)
- Ability to maintain a professional demeanor and a positive orientation toward customer service
- Ability to handle difficult situations with sensitivity and responsiveness to student needs; handle confidential information with discretion and good judgement
- Ability to take initiative and follow through to completion all assignments and projects in a timely manner
- Ability to prioritize, organize, and collaborate with staff and management
Apply Before Date
For best consideration, apply by May 9, 2025.
Contact Information
For more information or questions about a job posting, please contact the Department of Human Resources at [email protected]. For technical support, please call the USG Service Desk at (877) 251.2644, or email [email protected].
Conditions of Employment
Offers of employment are contingent upon completion of a background investigation including a criminal background check demonstrating your eligibility for employment with Savannah State University, as determined by Savannah State University, its sole discretion, confirmation of the credentials and employment history reflected in your application materials and, if applicable, a satisfactory credit check. Applicants may be subject to a pre-employment drug test. Offers are made expressly subject to the applicable federal and state laws, to the statutes, rules and regulations of this institution and to the Bylaws and Policies of the Board of Regents (BOR) of the University System of Georgia (USG), which are available for your inspection upon request.
Other Information
- The work is typically performed in an office setting while sitting at a desk or table with intermittent standing, bending, or stooping.
- The work may require lifting light objects up to 15 pounds.
- The work will require travel and may necessitate overnight travel for workshop and conference attendance.
- The work may require some evening and weekend work during seasonal or peak periods.
Special Applicant Instructions
- Applicants must include a list containing the name, e-mail address and telephone number for three (3) professional references (e.g. supervisor, mentor, colleague).
- Applicants must upload transcript(s) with the application. Unofficial are acceptable. Official transcript(s) required upon hire.
