The Financial Aid Specialist is responsible for processing student financial aid applications, reviewing and servicing them to determine eligibility for financial assistance. This role is primarily internal, with minimal student or customer interaction, though occasional phone communication with lenders and internal partners may be required. Specialists must be well-versed in regulations governing all financial aid programs. Precision and efficiency in a fast-paced, regulated environment are essential for success. Must be available for evening and weekend shifts, with flexibility to work over 40 hours per week when there is a business need.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Process student financial aid applications accurately and promptly.
• Perform complex financial aid processes, including Verification and Return to Title IV (R2T4).
• Promote a positive, student-centered work environment that complies with established policies and procedures.
• Work independently and provide regular status updates to the management team.
• Use information effectively to identify and escalate issues as needed.
• Ensure the security of financial aid applications, documents, systems, and students' personally identifiable information.
• Execute financial aid policies, requirements, and procedures.
• Provide superior customer service and efficiency in response to internal and student inquiries.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with other teams and departments to ensure an exceptional student experience.
• Perform other job-related duties and special projects as assigned.

Job Skills:

• Proficiency in following prescribed criteria and making resulting decisions.
• Strong computer skills including proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite applications.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to adhere to a set schedule in support of departmental goals and objectives.
• Demonstrated critical thinking and ability to take appropriate action based on training and relevant information.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to prioritize and manage multiple demands.
• Ability to accurately perform highly detailed tasks.
• Ability to remain calm under pressure and maintain a professional demeanor at all times.
• Understanding of and compliance with all Title IV rules and regulations.
• Ability to consistently meet or exceed productivity and quality goals on all assigned duties.
• Uphold SEI success behaviors: inclusive teamwork, continuous learning, mission-driven execution, and innovative problem-solving.

Work Experience:

• 1 or more years of student financial aid processing experience or related work experience desired.

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree preferred

Other:

• Must be able to travel up to 10% of the time.
• Must be able to lift 25 lbs.
• Typical office setting.
• Mobility within the office including movement from floor to floor.
• Travel via plane, car, and metro may be required to perform this job.
• Must be able to work more than 40 hours per week when business needs warrant.
• Must be able to work some evening and weekend shifts
• Access information using a computer.
• Effectively communicate, both up and down the management chain.
• Effectively cope with stressful situations.
• Strong mental acuity.
• Regular, dependable attendance and punctuality are essential functions of this job.
• Other essential functions and marginal job functions are subject to modification.

SEI offers a comprehensive package of benefits to employees scheduled 30 hours or more per week. In addition to medical, dental, vision, life and disability plans, SEI employees may take advantage of well-being incentives, parental leave, paid time off, certain paid holidays, tax saving accounts (FSA, HSA), 401(k) retirement benefit, Employee Stock Purchase Plan, tuition assistance as well as entertainment and retail discounts. Non-exempt employees are eligible for overtime pay, if applicable.

Careers - Our Benefits, Strategic Education, Inc

SEI is an equal opportunity employer committed to fostering an inclusive and collaborative culture where individuals can grow their careers and contribute fully. We strive to attract talent with broad experiences, skills and perspectives. We welcome applications from all. While it is not typical for an individual to be hired at or near the top end of the pay range at SEI, we offer a competitive salary. The actual base pay offered to the successful candidate may vary depending on multiple factors including, but not limited to, job-related knowledge/skills, experience, business needs, geographical location, and internal pay equity. Our Talent Acquisition Team is ready to discuss your interest in joining SEI. The expected salary range for this position is below.

$22.25 - $33.75 - Hourly

If you require reasonable accommodations to complete our application process, please contact our Human Resources Department at Careers@strategiced.com.

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