Financial Aid Representative

Elaine Sterling Institute; Atlanta (GA); On-site; USD 45,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

Elaine Sterling Institute is seeking a Financial Aid Representative in Atlanta, Georgia. This role involves awarding financial aid, ensuring compliance with regulations, and engaging with students through presentations and workshops. Ideal candidates should have 2+ years in financial aid processes, a deep understanding of aid laws, and exceptional organizational skills. ESI values innovation and positive thinking, striving to make a meaningful impact on students' lives.

Qualifications

• Minimum 2 years of progressively responsible financial aid experience.
• At least 2 years of hands-on student financial aid processing required.
• Strong working knowledge of federal, state, and commercial loan programs.
• Experience with analysis, counseling, and aid packaging.

Responsibilities

• Award and package financial aid for new and continuing students.
• Ensure compliance with Title IV, state, and institutional policies.
• Deliver financial aid presentations and workshops.
• Counsel students and families on financial aid options and adjustments.

Skills

Financial aid laws

Organizational skills

Problem-solving skills

Time-management skills

Written communication

Verbal communication

Confidentiality

MS Office proficiency

Job description

Financial Aid Operations

• Award and package financial aid for new and continuing students
• Develop, negotiate, and finalize student financial plans in compliance with federal, state, and institutional regulations
• Counsel students and families on financial aid options and adjustments
• Administer SAP, Return of Title IV Funds, Title IV refunds/repayments, and loan processing
• Coordinate federal funds reconciliation with third‑party services
• Maintain fund control records and ensure audit‑ready documentation

Compliance & Reporting

• Ensure compliance with Title IV, state, and institutional policies
• Prepare and submit reports including FISAP, IPEDS, ERR, and financial audits
• Manage internal and external reconciliation efforts with auditors, program reviewers, and accreditation teams
• Oversee quality control of all Financial Aid and Academic files per Department of Education guidelines
• Administer SAP and Special Circumstance appeals
• Establish and train appeals committees
• Communicate appeal outcomes and counsel students on next steps

Student & Community Engagement

• Deliver financial aid presentations and workshops
• Participate in New Student Outreach, High School Outreach, and campus events
• Support student record management within Genesis student software

Qualifications

• Minimum 2 years of progressively responsible financial aid experience
• At least 2 years of hands‑on student financial aid processing (required)
• Strong working knowledge of federal, state, and commercial loan programs
• Experience with analysis, counseling, and aid packaging

Skills & Abilities

• Deep understanding of financial aid laws, regulations, and compliance requirements
• Exceptional organizational, problem‑solving, and time‑management skills
• Ability to work independently while collaborating across departments
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Professional discretion and strict adherence to confidentiality
• Comfortable working under pressure and meeting firm deadlines
• Proficiency with MS Office and ability to learn new systems quickly

About Elaine Sterling Institute

Make a real difference in students’ lives, every single day.

The Elaine Sterling Institute (ESI) is seeking an experienced Financial Aid Representative who thrives in a fast‑paced, student‑centered environment and brings strong hands‑on financial aid expertise. If you’re passionate about compliance, collaboration, and helping students navigate the financial aid process with confidence, we’d love to meet you.

At ESI, we believe in quality service, professional growth, sound financial practices, and a culture that encourages innovation and positive thinking. This role is critical to ensuring our students receive accurate guidance and timely support throughout their educational journey.