Financial Services Counselor

Thomas Edison State University provides distinctive undergraduate and graduate education for self-directed adults through flexible, high-quality, collegiate learning and assessment opportunities. One of New Jersey’s senior public institutions of higher education, the University offers associate, bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees in more than 100 areas of study. At Thomas Edison State University we embrace a diverse and dynamic workforce that drives innovation, learner success and organizational growth. We welcome you to apply to be a part of our team 

Job Summary:

Under the direction of The Director of Student Financial Accounts, the Student Financial Services Counselor is a customer service oriented position which serves as a point of contact for prospective and current students with questions regarding financial aid programs, eligibility requirements, financial awareness, tuition and fees, cost of education, payment options, and policies and procedures at the university. This position serves as a liaison between Student Financial Accounts and Operations and the Office of Financial Aid to ensure the most effective, efficient, supportive, and seamless service is provided relating to all areas affecting financial services. This position welcomes change, growth, and continuous improvement to better serve students and to facilitate the enrollment of students consistent with the University’s mission.

Requirements:

Education: Graduation from an accredited college or university with a bachelor's degree in a field related to the position to be filled, or equivalent as determined by the appointing authority.

Experience: Two years of professional experience in admissions, sales, or marketing of a nontraditional higher education facility or other field that is directly related to the functions of the position to be filled, or equivalent as determined by the appointing authority.

Duties:

The Student Financial Services Counselor provides high quality customer service, assists students in navigating the financial aid process including the completion of financial aid applications, resolving discrepancies, and apprises students of any changes to existing policies and resources.

Thoroughly understand and clearly communicate all military, veteran, corporate, third party and traditional tuition and fee policies and assists students in reconciling accounts.

Interpret and discuss complex confidential financial data and other scenario driven circumstances with students.

The Counselor is able to handle highly confidential material with integrity and discretion and is able to work effectively with a wide variety of personalities. The Counselor is highly flexible and able to adapt to a fast changing, dynamic, and exciting environment in a calm and effective manner.

Experience with Colleague workflow screens and interpretation of financial data that pertain to the student’s financial aid and student account records.

Utilize database tools to track the efficiency and effectiveness of processes and procedures, identifies weaknesses and strengths, and recommend improvements throughout the year using a continuous improvement model.

Maintains thorough knowledge of federal/state regulations governing financial aid, student accounts and loans.

Performs other duties that support the Student Financial Services One-Stop shop including, but not limited to, outreach efforts to assist with retention and enrollment.