Financial Aid Advisor

Uasys; Fort Smith (AR); On-site; USD 42,000 - 62,000; Full time

Job summary

University of Arkansas – Fort Smith is seeking a Financial Aid Advisor to guide students and families through the financial aid process. The role provides counseling, education, and support for applications, awarding, and eligibility while ensuring compliance with federal, state, and institutional policies.

The advisor reports to the Associate Director of Financial Aid & Veteran Benefits and will collaborate with campus partners to manage assigned programs and deliver compassionate customer

Responsibilities

• Provide individualized financial aid counseling to prospective and current students and their families. Explain financial aid options, eligibility requirements, award offers, cost of attendance, student account charges, and available resources.
• Assist students with the financial aid application process and electronic financial aid procedures. Review applications and supporting documentation, determine eligibility, and process federal, state, institutional, and scholarship awards in accordance with applicable regulations and institutional policies.
• Provide timely, professional, and responsive assistance to students and families through in-person, telephone, email, virtual, and other communication channels. Serve at the Financial Aid Office front counter as assigned.

Job description

Current University of Arkansas System employees, including student employees and graduate assistants, need to log in to Workday via MyApps.Microsoft.com, then access Find Jobs from the Workday search bar to view and apply for open positions. Students at University of Arkansas System will also view open positions and apply within Workday by searching for “Find Jobs for Students”. All Job Postings will close at 12:01 a.m. CT on the specified Closing Date (if designated).

If you close the browser or exit your application prior to submitting, the application process will be saved as a draft. You will be able to access and complete the application through “My Draft Applications” located on your Candidate Home page.

Closing Date:

Full consideration will be given to applications received by October 9, 2026.

Type of Position:

Professional Staff - Academic Affairs

Workstudy Position:

No

Job Type:

Regular

Work Shift:

Day Shift (United States of America)

Sponsorship Available:

No

Institution Name:

University of Arkansas at Fort Smith

University of Arkansas – Fort Smith

The University of Arkansas - Fort Smith is a dynamic, mid-sized public university that’s redefining higher education. We’re on a mission to provide transformative, hands‑on learning experiences for students of all backgrounds and aspirations. Our multi‑faceted approach to education offers a wealth of opportunities, with over 70 academic programs, including certificates, associate, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees. We’re committed to building a diverse community that mirrors Arkansas’s rich tapestry, reflecting our dedication to serving the state’s varied population while enhancing the quality of our institution.

As an employer, the University of Arkansas offers a vibrant work environment and a workplace culture that promotes a healthy work-life balance. The benefits package includes university contributions to health, dental, life, and disability insurance, tuition waivers for employees and their families, 12 official holidays, immediate leave accrual, and a choice of retirement programs with university contributions ranging from 5 to 10 percent of employee salary.

Fort Smith, Arkansas

Nestled along the Arkansas River, this vibrant city offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Immerse yourself in the rich heritage of the Old West at the Fort Smith National Historic Site, explore the eclectic local art scene, or take a scenic stroll along the picturesque riverfront trails. With a welcoming community, diverse dining options, and a thriving downtown, Fort Smith is the ideal destination for history enthusiasts and those seeking modern amenities.

Thank you for your interest in joining our university. Below you will find details for the position including any supplementary documentation and/or questions you should review before submitting your application. For general application assistance or if you have questions about a job posting, please contact Human Resources at [phone].

If you have a disability and need assistance with the hiring process please contact Human Resources at 479-788-7080. Applicants are required to submit a request for each position to which they have applied.

Department:

Financial Aid Operations

Summary of Job Duties:

The Financial Aid Advisor serves as a primary resource and advocate for students and families navigating the financial aid process. The Financial Aid Advisor provides personalized counseling, education, and support to help students understand their options, meet eligibility requirements, and overcome financial barriers. They assist with applications, awarding, and eligibility resolution while ensuring compliance with federal, state, and institutional policies. The Financial Aid Advisor provides responsive and compassionate customer service, collaborates with campus partners, and manages assigned financial aid programs, and maintains current knowledge of applicable regulations and policies. The position reports to the Associate Director of Financial Aid & Veteran Benefits.

• 25% – Student Counseling and Financial Aid Advising: Provide individualized financial aid counseling to prospective and current students and their families. Explain financial aid options, eligibility requirements, award offers, cost of attendance, student account charges, and available resources. Assist students in understanding how enrollment decisions may affect their financial aid and help identify solutions to financial aid-related barriers. Provide accurate, compassionate, and student-centered guidance while maintaining confidentiality and professional boundaries.
• 30% – Financial Aid Eligibility, Compliance, and Processing: Assist students with the financial aid application process and electronic financial aid procedures. Review applications and supporting documentation, determine financial aid eligibility, and process federal, state, institutional, and scholarship awards in accordance with applicable regulations and institutional policies. Complete verification, resolve eligibility requirements, monitor overawards, and make necessary adjustments to financial aid. Monitor student financial aid action items and take appropriate action to maintain compliance with federal, state, and institutional requirements. Identify and resolve issues that may affect a student's eligibility or receipt of financial aid and refer complex or unusual circumstances for additional review.
• 10% – Student Assistance, Customer Service Delivery, and Front Counter Support: Provide timely, professional, and responsive assistance to students and families through in-person, telephone, email, virtual, and other communication channels. Serve at the Financial Aid Office front counter as assigned