at Cowley College in Arkansas City, Kansas, United States
Job Description
Date: April 2025
Grade: 13
Salary Range: $39,761-$46,733
Position Type: Full Time
Position Status: Salary/Exempt
Pay Frequency: Monthly
Location: Arkansas City Main Campus – Arkansas City, KS
Job Summary: The Financial Aid Specialist is responsible for educating students and parents about financial aid options, policies, and procedures according to regulations set by the Department of Education. They will provide proactive support to students throughout the financial aid cycle.
Essential Functions:
- Maintain current knowledge and understanding of all Federal Financial Aid programs to include Pell Grants, Direct Student Loans, Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants, and Work Study
- Determine student eligibility for federal and non-federal aid, maintain accurate student records, and process awards for students.
- Use professional judgment to evaluate file status and authorize use of financial aid for payment of tuition and fees.
- Educate and advise students and their parents regarding financial aid policies, procedures, processes, and financial aid programs.
- Provide training and support to Admissions Representatives regarding financial aid opportunities and responsibilities for students.
- Assist in public speaking engagements and presentation of financial aid information for returning and/or prospective students and their parents.
- Contribute to the continuous improvement of processes and procedures.
- Take advantage of professional development opportunities related to the processing of federal aid.
- Must be punctual and timely in meeting all requirements of performance, including, but not limited to attendance standards and work deadlines.
- Must maintain courteous, professional, and effective working relationships with employees, vendors, and/or any other representatives of external organizations.
- Must be able to multi-task, be self-motivated, and use professional judgment when necessary to provide the best customer service possible to all students and their families.
- Assist the Director of Financial Aid by performing any other financial aid-related duties as assigned.
- Comply with all College policies and procedures.
Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
- Ability to organize and prioritize tasks efficiently.
- Adequate experience and ability in the use of Microsoft Office programs such as Word and Excel.
- Good interpersonal and communication skills. Must be able to work well with other Cowley employees, students, prospective students, and parents in a pleasant and professional manner.
- Ability to multitask, be self-motivated, and use professional judgment when necessary.
Education Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree preferred. Relative work experience may be considered in lieu of educational requirement.
