Title: Financial Aid Specialist

VP Area: Admissions & Marketing

Department: Financial Aid

Published Salary Range: 36000

Job Summary/Basic Function:

SUMMARY

The Financial Aid Specialist plays a vital role in the daily operations of Lake Superior State University’s Financial Aid Office by supporting students and families in navigating the financial aid process. Reporting directly to the Director of Financial Aid, this entry-level position provides front-line service and performs essential processing functions, including needs analysis, verification, and packaging of student financial aid. The Specialist also supports federal and state financial aid compliance efforts, delivers FAFSA workshops, assists with prison education program support, and maintains effective communication with prospective and current students, families, and campus stakeholders.

This student-centered role is ideal for a service-oriented professional who thrives in a fast-paced, detail-driven environment and is passionate about educational access and success.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Financial Aid Processing & Student Support
• Counsel prospective and current students and families on the financial aid process, eligibility, verification, and award information.
• Conduct needs analysis, verification, and packaging of financial aid using both automated and manual methods in accordance with federal, state, and institutional regulations.
• Review FAFSA data for accuracy and perform corrections as needed.
• Monitor student progress through key milestones (admissions, verification, SAP, enrollment changes) and take appropriate action to ensure timely disbursement of aid.
• Support ongoing review and tracking of prison education program student eligibility and awarding in accordance with federal rules.

Customer Service & Communication
• Serve as a primary point of contact for walk-in visitors, phone inquiries, and email communication.
• Provide clear, compassionate, and timely communication to students and families regarding financial aid status and required documentation.
• Represent the Financial Aid Office during events such as orientation, high school visits, and community outreach programs.
• Serve as lead for FAFSA workshops both on-campus, in the community, and virtually.

Front Office & Documentation Support
• Manage the intake, imaging, and tracking of financial aid documents using the University’s document management systems.
• Ensure accurate document indexing and maintain compliance with Title IV Verification requirements.
• Monitor office email and work queues to ensure timely response to student inquiries.
• Support creation, maintenance, and distribution of financial aid communications and publications.

Administrative Operations
• Participate in planning and coordinating financial aid presentations and workshops for various campus and external audiences.
• Provide backup support for student employment processing and assist with reconciling purchasing card transactions.
• Assist with front-office operations, including training and supervision of student employees.
• Maintain current knowledge of financial aid policies, regulations, and procedures through review of training materials, regulatory updates, and professional development opportunities.

Other Duties
• Occasional evening and weekend work is required.
• Other duties as assigned to support institutional enrollment, retention, and student success efforts.

QUALIFICATIONS & COMPETENCIES
Required Qualifications:
• Associate’s degree from an accredited institution
• One year of experience in customer service or office support
• High level of computer literacy, including Microsoft Office Suite
• Excellent organizational and time management skills
• Strong communication skills, both written and oral
• Professional demeanor and ability to maintain confidentiality
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team