Financial Aid Counselor: Lead Loan Programs & Counseling

Who's On the Move; Spartanburg (SC); On-site; USD 41,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

University of South Carolina Upstate in Spartanburg, SC seeks a Financial Aid Counselor to manage Direct Federal Loans (Direct, PLUS, Perkins) and oversee ED processes, ELM, COD, and NSLDS data. The role involves counseling students, parents, and staff, reviewing loan applications, and ensuring accurate award processing.

Responsibilities include loan certification, monitoring approvals/denials, and coordinating with SC Teacher Loan programs. Bachelor’s degree required; Master’s degree preferred.

Qualifications

• Requires a bachelor’s degree in a job-related field and 1+ years of job-related experience; a successful background check is required.
• Master’s degree preferred; experience with financial aid software systems is desirable.

Responsibilities

• Operates Direct Federal Loans (Direct, PLUS, Perkins) via ED website and manages loan funds for lender platforms.
• Counsels prospects, parents, students, faculty, and staff in financial aid.
• Reviews files, performs verification, and ensures ED compliance and NSLDS integrity.
• Awards Direct and Private loans and monitors loan certifications and disbursements.
• Represents the FA office at recruitment events and supports SC Teacher Loan Program processing.

Education

Bachelor's degree in a job-related field

Master’s degree preferred

Job description

University of South Carolina Upstate in Spartanburg, SC seeks a Financial Aid Counselor to manage Direct Federal Loans (Direct, PLUS, Perkins) and oversee ED processes, ELM, COD, and NSLDS data. The role involves counseling students, parents, and staff, reviewing loan applications, and ensuring accurate award processing.

Responsibilities include loan certification, monitoring approvals/denials, and coordinating with SC Teacher Loan programs. Bachelor’s degree required; Master’s degree preferred.