Bard College

Financial Aid Counselor 

Employer Website: http://apply.interfolio.com/120953
Bard College seeks a motivated and diligent Financial Aid Specialist to coordinate and support the administrative, clerical and operational tasks key to the successful functioning of this busy and dynamic department. Training is available to those who are new to the field of Financial Aid.

Recently, approximately two-thirds of all Bard students have received some form of assistance from the College and/or federal, state, and private programs and this essential role supports Bard’s commitment to increasing access to a Liberal Arts education. The Financial Aid office is a student-centered, customer-service focused department and the person in this role will handle daily office operations while providing financial aid information to current and prospective students and their families. 
 
It is critical that the individual in this role possess strong verbal and written communication skills along with a flexible, organized and solutions-oriented approach to all projects. They must be able to handle confidential student information. The successful candidate will excel at working in an environment that is broadly diverse with regard to race, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, gender, nationality, sexual orientation, and religion. This is a full-time, year-round, benefits-eligible position located on the Annandale campus of Bard College. 
 
Essential Duties

• Respond to phone inquiries and monitor and respond to financial aid emails and messages
• Assist students and their families regarding financial aid opportunities 
• Create and maintain files for prospective and current students
• Develop and maintain financial aid knowledge in federal, state, and institutional aid programs through online and in-person trainings
• Ensure completion of Direct Loan Exit Counseling for student who graduate or fall below half-time enrollment
• Assist with filing and data entry
• Other duties as assigned

Qualifications

• Associate’s degree required
• Experience in an office setting preferred
• Competency in Microsoft Office Suite and Google; knowledge of Ellucian Banner a plus
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Organization, accuracy and keen attention to detail 
• Strong problem-solving, decision-making and time management abilities
• Must be able to work occasional weekends and evenings, as needed
• Must be able to occasionally lift 20 pounds and work in a standard office environment

To Apply
Please submit a cover letter, resume and list of three professional contact references to Interfolio at: http://apply.interfolio.com/120953
Applications will be reviewed as received.

AA/EOE