Student-Facing Financial Aid Advisor

Chattanooga College Medical Dental and Technical Careers; Chattanooga (TN); On-site; USD 42,000 - 64,000; Full time

Job summary

Chattanooga College MDTC is seeking a Student-Facing Financial Aid Officer to help implement our strategy of making a BIG difference for students. This role centers on guiding families through financial aid options, FAFSA completion, and documentation review.

Ideal candidates will have strong interpersonal and communication skills, the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment, and a deep knowledge of federal/state financial aid regulations.

Qualifications

• Required: Associate’s degree in finance or business or related field (or equivalent experience).
• Preferred: Bachelor’s degree in finance, business, education, or related field (or equivalent).
• Minimum 1–3 years of experience in financial aid, student services, or a customer-facing administrative role.
• Experience in higher education and familiarity with financial aid regulations.

Responsibilities

• Provides primary financial aid counseling to a diverse population of students and families.
• Implements institutional or departmental strategic priorities related to retention, enrollment, and compliance.
• Counsels, advises, or supports individuals through individual and group sessions to address concerns and provide guidance.
• Educates individuals on institutional resources, policies, procedures, and expectations.
• Implements solutions, including technology, to promote efficiency, access, and success.
• Completes required professional development and training annually.
• Supports department-wide and student services initiatives.
• Maintains accurate documentation and records in compliance with institutional, accreditation, and federal requirements.
• Collaborates with departments and colleagues—specifically admissions and the bursar—to increase engagement, retention, and success, especially for at-risk populations.
• Provides appropriate referrals for personal, social, and/or academic concerns that may impair success.
• Upholds confidentiality and complies with institutional policies, accreditation standards, and federal regulations.
• Assists with planning and coordination of events such as financial aid workshops and outreach activities.
• Maintains tools, systems, or resources necessary to effectively perform job duties, including updating student information systems.
• Remains current on relevant state and federal guidelines, emerging best practices, and research related to the role.
• Monitors and resolves student account balances.
• Collaborates with Department Leadership.

Skills

Strong interpersonal, communication, &

Relationship building with students/fh

Clear verbal & written communication

Knowledge of financial aid regulations

Technology proficiency (MS Office, SIS

Detail-oriented & approachable

Education

Associate’s degree in finance or business, or related field (or equivalent experience)

Bachelor’s degree in finance, business, education, or related field (or equivalent experience)

Job description

Chattanooga College MDTC is seeking a Student-Facing Financial Aid Officer to help implement our strategy of making a BIG difference for students. This role centers on guiding families through financial aid options, FAFSA completion, and documentation review.

Ideal candidates will have strong interpersonal and communication skills, the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment, and a deep knowledge of federal/state financial aid regulations.