Student Account Support Specialist (Part-Time)

Catawba College; Salisbury (NC); On-site; USD 21,000 - 30,000; Part time

Job summary

Catawba College is seeking a part-time Student Account Support Specialist to serve as the primary contact for student account matters, delivering exceptional customer service and supporting billing, payments, holds, and inquiries.

The position reports to the Financial Operations Supervisor and collaborates with Financial Aid, Registrar, Athletics, Residence Life, and other campus departments to promote student success.

Qualifications

• Minimum Associate degree required; Bachelor’s degree preferred.
• 1–3 years of accounting experience requested.

Responsibilities

• Serve as the primary point of contact for students, families, faculty, and staff regarding student account questions by phone, email, and in person.
• Educate students and families on billing, payment options, and policies.
• Process student payments, refunds, and monthly reconciliations.
• Generate reports from Banner and assist with year-end activities.

Skills

Customer service

Communication

Problem solving

Excel

Education

Associate's degree

Bachelor's degree preferred

Tools

Banner system

Job description

Position Status: Part-time (20hrs a week – 40hrs during peak times a year)

Directly Reports To: Financial Operations Supervisor

Supervisory Resp: None

Classification: Non-Exempt

Position Summary:

The Student Account Support Specialist serves as the primary point of contact for students, families, and campus partners regarding student account matters. This position is responsible for delivering exceptional customer service while assisting with billing, payments, payment plans, account inquiries, and account resolution. The Specialist provides accurate and timely financial support, promotes a positive customer experience, and partners with Financial Aid, the Registrar, Athletics, Residence Life, and other campus departments to support student success.

Essential Functions: Knowledge and skills necessary to perform the position include but are not limited to, the following:

Customer Service & Student Support

• Serve as the primary point of contact for students, families, faculty, and staff regarding student account questions by phone, email, and in person.
• Deliver exceptional customer service by providing accurate, timely, and courteous assistance while fostering a welcoming and supportive environment.
• Respond to student, family, and campus partner inquiries within one business day (24 hours), providing timely updates when additional research or resolution is required.
• Educate students and families on billing, payment options, payment plans, and Business Office policies and procedures.
• Resolve routine account concerns and partner with other campus offices to resolve more complex issues.
• Build positive relationships with students and families while maintaining confidentiality and professionalism.

Student Account Administration

• Review and maintain the accuracy of student account charges, credits, and adjustments.
• Receive, process, and post student payments.
• Process student refunds in accordance with institutional policies and applicable regulations.
• Release routine financial holds in accordance with established procedures.
• Assist with monthly student account reconciliations and year-end activities.

Cashiering & Collections

• Balance daily cash receipts and prepare bank deposits.
• Maintain accurate records of cash, check, and electronic payments.
• Communicate professionally with students regarding outstanding balances and available payment options.
• Support collection efforts while maintaining a student-centered approach.

Operational Support

• Generate reports from Banner and other systems as requested.
• Assist with outreach to students to obtain missing or incomplete information needed for tax reporting, regulatory compliance, and other institutional reporting requirements.
• Assist with the annual issuance of Form 1098-T and other student account reporting.
• Maintain accurate records and supporting documentation.
• Assist with special projects and other duties as assigned.

Work Environment: This job operates in a professional office environment and routinely uses standard office equipment such as computers, phones, photocopiers, and fax machines.

Physical Demands: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. This is largely a sedentary role; however, some filing and movement is required. This would require the ability to lift files and file boxes, open filing cabinets, walking, and bending or standing as necessary.

Desired Education, Skills, and Experience: Minimum Associate’s Degree required, although Bachelor’s Degree preferred. One (1) to three (3) years of accounting experience required. Successful applicant must exhibit high level of computer skills, with demonstrated strong skills using Excel. Demonstrated history of problem-solving, planning, and organizational skills along with the ability to work collaboratively with others required. Familiarity with Banner preferred. Excellent interpersonal, writing, and verbal communication skills required.

Questions?

• Please contact Jessica Wright with any questions about this position.