Financial Aid Specialist-Verification

Overview:

Working at Moraine Park Technical College is much more than a job, it’s an opportunity to help influence the future of higher education. As a part of Moraine Park’s robust Student Services department, you will have the opportunity to directly impact prospective and current students– helping to enrich their educational journey from enrollment to graduation, and beyond. Each employee at the College is an integral part of the Moraine Park mission, and we work diligently to hire candidates with aligned values to help move the mission of Moraine Park forward. 

Position Summary:

Moraine Park Technical College is seeking a a full-time Financial Aid Specialist - Verification on our Fond du Lac Campus.  This position will perform specialized work in Financial Aid, with an emphasis on coordinating the Direct Lending student loan program and managing the verification process. Occasional travel to other campuses to provide coverage may be required.

The successful candidate will have an Associate degree in a related field and three years of related work experience to include higher education such as student services, financial aid or admissions.  Experience in tax preparation or financial auditing may be considered.  

Join us at Moraine Park Technical College, where we strive to make a positive difference in the lives of our students!

Responsibilities:

• Coordinate resolution of conflicting information between application for aid and supporting documentation. Analyze and evaluate information and make financial aid decisions based on information reported on student applications. Interpret federal income tax returns as they apply to student eligibility.
• Verify/validate the accuracy of the financial and family information submitted by students. Assess the need, determine, authorize, and monitor the eligibility of students and award aid according to federal and state rules and institutional policies and procedures. Recalculate or adjust awards, as needed.
• Advise prospective and enrolled students and parents concerning loans according to state and federal regulations. Advise students regarding the resolution of complex individual financial aid problems.
• Determine eligibility for federal, state, college, and other aid programs in accordance with all applicable laws, regulations, policies, guidelines, and other governing criteria. Work with outside agencies as appropriate. Processes DVR training grants and serve as the main financial aid DVR contact person. Certify and award Alternative Education Loans.
• Coordinate financial wellness, including education of the Direct Lending and alternative student loan programs. Advise students about loans, default prevention management, loan certification, and consolidation. Create and maintain educational materials regarding student loans.
• Manage and facilitate entrance and exit counseling with students, which includes an emphasis on financial literacy and debt management. Update borrowers on the status of their risk of default.
• Research federal and state regulations and District policy for procedural changes. Ensure compliance with applicable loans and regulations by monitoring an up-to-date library and by implementing the rules as required.
• Determine and process Promise Scholar Stipends and serve as the main financial aid contact person.
• Serve as backup to the other Financial Aid Specialists. Train employees and work-study students in the proper application of regulations, policies, and procedures.

Experience & Qualifications:

• Ability to compile and prepare detailed reports.
• Considerable knowledge of financial aid regulations, procedures, methods, and terminology, including grant programs, work-study, and veterans.
• Advanced accounting skills and sound math skills.
• Knowledge of ERP systems and software applications, including Microsoft Office 365 (Office Suite, Teams, SharePoint, etc.).
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with internal and external customers. Ability to collaborate and work effectively as part of a team.
• Ability to take initiative, work independently with little supervision and make sound decisions with minimal direction.
• Strong organizational and time management skills, including the ability to prioritize special projects with routine assignments.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills to communicate clearly and effectively with end users, colleagues, and management to provide a complete and timely explanation of issues and decisions to ensure customer satisfaction.
• Ability to plan, organize and prioritize work; analyze information, resolve problems and make recommendations. Knowledge of continuous and performance improvement concepts.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively with diverse populations by promoting and maintaining an inclusive work environment and culture that is respectful and accepting of diversity.

Desired Qualifications:
• Bachelor’s Degree in a related field.
• Experience with financial aid.
• Experience with the student information system, Banner.
• Any combination of necessary experience and qualifications which provides desired knowledge, skills, and abilities.

Other Position Requirements:
• Ability to travel to College and external partner locations.

Hiring Range: $$25.45-$29.94

Starting: Immediately

Workplace Flexibility: Limited work from home upon approval

Hours/Schedule/Travel: Academic: Monday – Friday, 8:00 a.m. (37.5)– 4:30 p.m., Summer: Monday - Thursday, 7:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. (34), minimal travel

Benefits information: Please click here for a summary of our benefits.