Financial Aid Advisor

South Dakota Board of Regents; Spearfish, Northern (SD, KY); Hybrid; USD 50,000 - 58,000; Full time

Job summary

Black Hills State University in Spearfish, SD seeks a Financial Aid Advisor to guide students and families through federal and institutional aid programs. You will provide personalized counseling and ensure compliance with regulations.

This grant-funded position supports the Enrollment Management team and requires strong communication and organizational skills to simplify complex information for diverse audiences.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• 1–3 years of general office or administrative experience.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong interpersonal and customer service skills with the ability to work effectively with students, families, faculty, staff, and campus partners.

Responsibilities

• Provide comprehensive, individualized financial aid counseling to students and families regarding federal, state, institutional, and financial aid programs.
• Explain aid eligibility, award requirements, policies, deadlines, and responsibilities clearly for students.
• Respond to inquiries by phone, email, and in person with professionalism and accuracy.
• Review and process financial aid information in compliance with regulations.
• Manage SAP processes and appeals.

Skills

Bachelor's degree

Communication skills

Interpersonal skills

Confidentiality

Organizational skills

Teamwork

Detail-oriented

Education

Bachelor's degree or equivalent

Tools

NSLDS

Banner SIS

Job description

Black Hills State University is seeking a dynamic, student-focused professional to join our Student Financial Aid Office as a Financial Aid Advisor. This position is an integral part of the Enrollment Management team and is based on the Spearfish campus.

The Financial Aid Advisor serves as a key resource for students and families navigating the financial aid process. This position provides personalized financial aid counseling, supports the administration of federal and institutional aid programs, and helps students understand their options for financing their education.

The ideal candidate is approachable, organized, detail-oriented, and committed to helping students succeed. Financial aid can be complex, and we are looking for someone who can turn complicated regulations and processes into information students and families can understand and use.

This position is grant funded for two years, with the intention of transitioning to a university-funded position following the grant period.

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide comprehensive, individualized financial aid counseling to prospective and current students and their families regarding federal, state, institutional, and alternative financial aid programs.
• Explain financial aid eligibility, award requirements, policies, deadlines, and student responsibilities in a clear and student-friendly manner.
• Respond to student and family inquiries by phone, email, and in person with professionalism, accuracy, and a commitment to excellent customer service.
• Review and process financial aid information and documentation in accordance with federal, state, and university regulations.
• Manage Satisfactory Academic Progress ( SAP ) processes, including monitoring, student communication, and review of SAP appeals.
• Coordinate and administer the Federal Work-Study ( FWS ) program, including awarding, monitoring, tracking, and communication with students and campus departments.
• Utilize the National Student Loan Data System ( NSLDS ) and other federal and institutional systems to research student eligibility and financial aid history.
• Maintain accurate student records and ensure compliance with applicable federal, state, and university policies and regulations.
• Collaborate with campus partners across Enrollment Management and other university departments to support student enrollment and retention.
• Participate in financial aid outreach activities, including financial aid workshops, FAFSA information nights, student orientations, and other recruitment or enrollment events.
• Stay current on changes to federal and state financial aid regulations, institutional policies, and financial aid programs.
• Perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• 1–3 years of general office or administrative experience.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong interpersonal and customer service skills with the ability to work effectively with students, families, faculty, staff, and campus partners.
• Ability to explain complex information clearly to individuals with varying levels of knowledge and experience.
• Ability to exercise sound judgment, maintain confidentiality, and handle sensitive student information appropriately.
• Ability to work independently while also contributing effectively as part of a collaborative team.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Previous experience working in financial aid or higher education.
• Experience with Banner Student Information System ( SIS ) or another student information system.
• Knowledge of federal financial aid regulations, including FAFSA , Federal Pell Grant, Direct Loans, Federal Work-Study, and Satisfactory Academic Progress.
• Experience counseling students or providing financial aid advising.
• Experience working with NSLDS or other federal financial aid systems.

Comments: Sponsorship is not available for this position.

Advertised Salary $50,000

Duration of the Term 12 months

Appointment Percent 100

Monday – Friday, 8:00am – 5:00pm (Fall and Spring)
Monday – Friday, 7:30am – 4:00pm (Summer, flexible schedule available)

Appointment Type Regular

Faculty Status No

Black Hills State University is a masters-level state university with more than 3,600 students. The campus leads the region in sustainability efforts and maintains top academic programs in business ( AACSB Accredited), exercise science, natural sciences, social sciences, the arts, mass communication, health sciences and education. The University, founded in 1883, is located in the northern Black Hills, a region abundant with outdoor activity and culture. Spearfish, S.D., is recognized as one of the top 10 most livable small towns in the USA and has also been recognized nationally for outdoor recreational opportunities. A second location, BHSU -RC, is in Rapid City, the state’s second-largest city. BHSU , a member of NCAA Division II athletics, offers 14 sports, and has a legacy of champion rodeo teams.

Black Hills State University is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Black Hills State University and the Board of Regents ensure that all employment practices are free of discrimination.

Employment is dependent upon a satisfactory background check.

Notice to all applicants: If you are selected as a finalist, job references and a background check may be conducted.

South Dakota Board of Regents
306 E. Capital Ave, Suite 200
Pierre, SD 57501
605-773-3455