Financial Aid Specialist

Lamar-University; Beaumont (TX); On-site; USD 36,000 - 60,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health, dental & vision insurance

Life insurance

Texas Retirement plans

Tuition benefits

Job summary

Lamar University is seeking a Financial Aid Specialist, Operations to review, process, and administer federal, state, and institutional financial aid programs. The role evaluates student records, determines eligibility, and ensures compliance with regulations and policies.

The position emphasizes strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to manage a high-volume workload while using NSLDS and other financial aid systems.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED.
• Six months minimum experience in data entry, administrative support, records processing, financial services, or a related area.
• Strong computer skills to accurately enter, review, and maintain information in electronic systems.
• Ability to perform basic arithmetic and work with numerical/financial information.
• Strong organizational skills to manage multiple priorities, meet deadlines, and maintain attention to detail.

Responsibilities

• Analyze and evaluate financial viability of students and families; advise on financial aid opportunities and eligibility.
• Review and assess eligibility of financial aid applications; exercise professional judgment for adjustments.
• Review for accuracy and provide signature approval/disapproval of loan documents.
• Respond to inquiries and resolve problems related to unit transactions; liaison with stakeholders.
• Provide information to students and families by in-person, phone, or electronic chat; assist with admissions, balances, and registration status.
• Liaise with state, federal, tribal, and other agencies; stay updated on program regulations.
• Oversee data collection, management, and reporting; contribute to data systems development.
• Coordinate and oversee one or more administrative programs or service areas.
• Train and support staff or student workers; supervise as needed.
• Serve as subject matter expert; maintain procedural and policy documentation.

Skills

Data entry

Administrative support

Financial services

Attention to detail

Analytical skills

Education

High school diploma or GED

Tools

Microsoft Office

NSLDS access

Job description

Under the direction of the Senior Compliance Officer, the Financial Aid Specialist, Operations is responsible for the review, processing, and administration of federal, state, and institutional financial aid programs. This position evaluates student records and documentation, determines financial aid eligibility, processes and awards aid, resolves discrepancies, and ensures transactions are completed accurately and in accordance with applicable regulations, policies, and procedures.

The Specialist also supports assigned financial aid programs and operational functions and contributes to the development and improvement of systems, procedures, and workflows. Successful candidates will demonstrate strong analytical skills, attention to detail, technological proficiency, and the ability to effectively manage a high-volume workload with accuracy and efficiency.

The position requires the ability to obtain and maintain appropriate access to federal student aid systems, including NSLDS.

• Analyzes and evaluates financial viability of students and families and provides advice and counsel regarding available financial aid opportunities, eligibility requirements, and the application process.
• Reviews and assesses eligibility of applications for financial aid; exercises professional judgment to determine whether adjustments should be made.
• Reviews for accuracy and provides signature approval/disapproval of loan applications, promissory notes, and other financial documents.
• Responds to inquiries and researches and resolves problems related to transactions handled by the unit; serves as liaison with other constituencies in the resolution of day-to-day administrative and operational issues.
• Provide information, in person, on the telephone, and through electronic Chat, to students, prospective students, and families regarding student financial aid, admissions, account balance, and registration status.
• Serves as liaison with state, federal, tribal, and other agencies; keeps abreast of student assistance opportunities and program regulations.
• Oversees the collection, management, and reporting of data in accordance with the objectives of the position; participates in the development and implementation of data management systems and procedures, as appropriate.
• Implements, coordinates, and oversees one or more specific administrative programs and/or service areas, as assigned.
• Trains and serves as an operational resource to other staff and /or students, as appropriate; may supervise student employees or lower-level staff.
• Serves as subject matter expert, suggesting improvements where appropriate and maintaining procedural and policy documentation on an annual basis.

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED.
• Minimum of six months of experience in data entry, administrative support, records processing, financial services, or a related area.
• Strong computer skills with the ability to accurately enter, review, and maintain detailed information in electronic systems.
• Ability to perform basic arithmetic and work accurately with numerical and financial information.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities, meet deadlines, and maintain attention to detail.

Desired Qualifications:

Previous experience in financial aid, higher education, student services, banking, financial services, or a related environment is preferred, but we are willing to train a motivated candidate with strong transferable skills.

Key Competencies:

• Knowledge Skills and Abilities)Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to review information for accuracy, identify discrepancies, and determine appropriate next steps.
• High level of accuracy and attention to detail, particularly when entering data and reviewing documentation.
• Ability to handle confidential information with discretion and professionalism.
• Adaptability and willingness to learn new systems, regulations, procedures, and processes.

Physical Requirements: With or without accommodation:

• Works in an office environment for 6 to 8 hours.
• Work is normally performed in a typical interior work environment that does not subject the employee to any unpleasant elements.
• Occasional lifting, pushing, climbing, and pulling may be required.
• Work environment involves minimal exposure to physical risks.
• Regularly use headphones and earpiece.
• Occasionally lift 10-15 pounds.

Job Conditions:

Office environment with controlled temperature. Moderate exposure to noise.

Special Note: We are unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position. Candidates must be authorized to work in the United States without the need for sponsorship now or in the future.

Who We Are:

Home to more than 18,000 students, Lamar University is among the fastest growing Texas colleges and universities. LU is a member of The Texas State University System, which is the first higher education system of Texas and maintains the lowest average tuition and fees of any university system in Texas. With more than 120-degree options and a community that cares, Lamar students are always proud to be Cardinals. Lamar University strives to educate leaders, demonstrate excellence in student learning and career readiness, and pursue research with relevance.

Lamar University is committed to fostering an environment of teamwork where all students, faculty, and staff can learn, work, and become a part of our community.

Benefits:

• Health, dental & vision insurance
• Life insurance
• State of Texas Retirement plans
• Tuition covered at 100% for employees, spouses and/or eligible dependents
• Paid time off – vacation, sick, and holidays

To see more information about the available benefits, please visit: Benefits - Lamar University