Impactful Financial Aid & Basic Needs Counselor

University-of-California,-Irvin; Irvine (CA); Hybrid; USD 67,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

University of California, Irvine seeks a Financial Aid Basic Needs Counselor to apply a broad understanding of student aid practices, determine aid allocations, authorize exceptions, and provide individualized counseling. The role supports Basic Needs initiatives addressing food, housing, health, and financial insecurity for students.

The position requires a Bachelor's degree in a related field and 5–10 years of relevant experience, with strong data handling, policy knowledge, and customer

Qualifications

• Ability to calculate financial aid with accuracy.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills; active listening.
• Working knowledge of advising and counseling techniques.
• Experience using complex databases and reporting tools.
• Knowledge of policies, regulations, and practices for awarding financial aid.
• Excellent organizational skills and ability to manage multiple deadlines.

Responsibilities

• Determine appropriate allocation of aid awards and authorize exceptions.
• Provide individual counseling on non-routine, sensitive aid issues for students and staff.
• Serve as point of contact for the Basic Needs Center and support system-wide initiatives.
• Assist with emergency grants and participate in the Economic Crisis Response Team (ECRT).

Education

Bachelor's degree in related area

5-10 years of directly related professional experience

Tools

University-specific software

Job description

University of California, Irvine seeks a Financial Aid Basic Needs Counselor to apply a broad understanding of student aid practices, determine aid allocations, authorize exceptions, and provide individualized counseling. The role supports Basic Needs initiatives addressing food, housing, health, and financial insecurity for students.

The position requires a Bachelor's degree in a related field and 5–10 years of relevant experience, with strong data handling, policy knowledge, and customer