Lead Financial Aid Specialist

Required Education and Experience: Bachelors degree AND:

• 48 months of financial aid general office clerical or related experience.

Equivalency/Substitution: Will accept 48 months of relevant work experience in lieu of the bachelors degree for a total of 96 months of experience.

Certifications or Licenses:None

Skills:

• Financial Aid programs.
• Regulations and policies.
• Student aid types and qualifications.
• Budgeting and financial literacy.
• Data management.
• Counseling and technology.
• Communication.
• Empathy and patience.
• Analytical thinking.
• Problem-solving.
• Customer service
• Time management.
• Attention to detail and adaptability.
• Independent decision making
• Conflict resolution.
• Cultural sensitivity.
• Team collaboration.
• Education advocacy and continuous learning.

Working Conditions:

• Physical:
  • Must be able to work in sitting position for extended periods.
  • Ability to engage in repetitive motion.
• Environmental:
  • Office Work Environment.
  • Travel across campuses to attend meetings.
  • Student interaction is common with this position.

Why You Belong at the University of Oklahoma: The University of Oklahoma values our communitys unique talents perspectives and experiences. At OU we aspire to harness our innovation creativity and collaboration for the advancement of people everywhere. You Belong Here!

Diversity Statement:The University of Oklahoma is committed to achieving a diverse equitable and inclusive university community by recognizing each persons unique contributions background and perspectives. The University of Oklahoma strives to cultivate a sense of belonging and emotional support for all recognizing that fostering an inclusive environment for all is vital in the pursuit of academic and inclusive excellence in all aspects of our institutional mission.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement:The University of Oklahoma in compliance with all applicable federal and state laws and regulations does not discriminate based on race color national originsex sexual orientation genetic information gender identity gender expression age religion disability political beliefs or status as a veteran in any of itspolicies practices or procedures. This includes but is not limited to admissions employment financial aid housing services in educational programs or activitiesand health care services that the University operates or provides.

This position requires a meticulous and detail-oriented person. They provide a vital role in efficiently and accurately processing student financial aid ensuring compliance with regulations and institutional position requires a keen eye for detail strong organizational skills and the ability to work collaboratively within a fast-paced environment.

Essential Duties:

• Review and verify student financial aid applications for accuracy and compliance with regulations.
• Independently assess income documentation to ensure its alignment with federal guidelines and institutional policies.
• Exercise independent judgment to assess unique student circumstances and make discretionary adjustments to aid packages.
• Evaluate a students appeal for additional aid due to sudden medical expenses and independently decide on modifying the award based on the situation.
• Exercise independent judgment to address loan-related inquiries concerns and discrepancies from students parents and external entities.
• Independently resolve a discrepancy in financial aid disbursement amounts by researching the issue and communicating with relevant parties to rectify the situation.
• Provide personalized and comprehensive advisement to students regarding their financial aid options to make informed decisions about their educational expenses.
• Providing detailed information to a student about the costs of their program and what aid options may be available to them.
• Also provide steps needed to secure the aid options available to them.
• Independently monitor and ensure compliance with Federal State and Institution regulations generating reports as needed.
• Independently conduct an audit of loan files to verify adherence to loan program regulations and generate a compliance report for internal assessment.
• Performs other duties as assigned to ensure the overall successful operation of the department.