Financial Aid Specialist – Part-time

Southern Virginia University; Buena Vista (VA); On-site; USD 27,552 - 41,328; Part time

Job summary

Southern Virginia University is seeking a part-time Financial Aid Specialist to assist students in navigating the financial aid process. The role involves guiding students, creating equitable financial aid packages, and maintaining compliance with federal regulations.

Ideal candidates will have strong relationship-building skills, a Bachelor's degree or relevant experience, and excellent communication abilities. This role may require occasional overtime or weekend work during peak processing times.

Qualifications

• Strong relationship‑building skills and ability to meet strict goals.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• High levels of empathy, social intelligence, and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Understand and apply federal financial aid regulations.
• Guide students through the financial aid application process.
• Maintain accurate records of student contacts and financial aid.

Skills

Relationship-building skills

Organization and detail-oriented

Verbal and written communication skills

Empathy and social intelligence

Education

Bachelor's Degree

Relevant work experience (3 years)

Tools

Jenzabar or similar SIS software

Job description

Southern Virginia University’s Office of Financial Aid is seeking a motivated Financial Aid Specialist to assist students in navigating the financial aid process. In this role, you will help students access scholarships, student loans, and grants to support their education. You will build strong relationships with students and their families while providing excellent customer service and ensuring compliance with federal regulations and institutional policies. This position may require occasional overtime or weekend work during peak processing periods.

Responsibilities

• Understand and apply all regulations governing federal financial aid
• Guide students through the application process for financial aid
• Track and facilitate student progress in obtaining financial aid
• Create fair and equitable financial aid packages based on federal guidelines and student eligibility
• Inform students about institutional financial awards and other resources
• Accurately disburse financial aid to qualifying students
• Provide financial literacy education to students and parents
• Build and maintain relationships with students and parents
• Communicate frequently with students through various channels (email, phone, text)
• Meet department performance goals related to student outreach, aid processing timelines, and compliance standards
• Maintain accurate records of student contact and financial aid using departmental software
• Participate in training and financial aid conferences regularly
• Represent the University’s mission to Gather, Lift, Launch
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Director of Financial Aid

Minimum Qualifications

• Strong relationship‑building skills
• Ability to meet strict goals and deadlines
• Highly organized and detail‑oriented
• High levels of empathy and social intelligence
• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Excellent judgment and decision‑making abilities
• Proven work ethic and self‑motivation
• Ability to work with diverse personalities and perspectives
• Bachelor’s Degree or at least three years of relevant work experience

Preferred Qualifications

• Background in college financial aid
• At least 3 years of work experience in financial services, customer service, sales, or a related field
• Experience with Jenzabar or similar student information system (SIS) software
• Master’s Degree

Applications

This is a part‑time hourly position. Occasional overtime or weekend work may be required during peak financial aid processing periods. Interested applicants should submit a resume and cover letter to [e-mail] . The position will be open until filled.