Job Description

University of Utah Job Description

Job Summary

Assists University students with financial aid processes and provides information about available programs, procedures, and eligibility requirements. Reviews financial aid applications and related documentation for compliance and eligibility. Researches and implements relevant Financial Aid laws and provides on-going training.

Qualifications

One year customer service, general office or equivalency (one year of education can be substituted for two years of related work experience) required; basic computer and data entry skills, ability to prioritize and organize multiple work assignments and demonstrated human relations and effective communication skills are required.

Some areas of assignment may require two to four years’ progressively more responsible experience in a Financial Aid environment as well as in-depth knowledge of government rules, regulations and procedures regarding Financial Aid. Database management and supervisory skills may also be required.

Applicants must demonstrate the potential ability to perform the essential functions of the job as outlined in the position description.

Disclaimer

This job description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification.  It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities and qualifications required of employees assigned to the job.

Essential Functions

1. Provides information to students to assist with obtaining and processing Financial Aid and to clarify eligibility requirements.
2. Receives, reviews and verifies content of applications and support documents; follows up on missing information.
3. Enters application information into database, sets up and maintains files for student application paperwork.
4. Prepares routine statistical reports and correspondence.
5. Responds to inquiries, researches and resolves related Financial Aid problems such as misplaced paperwork.
6. May research Financial Aid laws and recommend revisions to departmental policy and procedure.
7. May provide training on Financial Aid policies and procedures and department specific computer training.

Problem Solving

Specialists must act professionally when encountering irate, sometimes threatening students whose monies have been delayed or denied. Frequent interruptions while working on multiple projects require strong organizational skills and the ability to maintain focus. Due to the large amount of paperwork received, maintaining accurate, up-to-date databases is challenging. Ongoing training is required due to frequent changes in laws and systems upgrades as well as high turnover rates.

Comments

Work Environment and Level of Frequency typically required

Nearly Continuously: Office environment.

Physical Requirements and Level of Frequency that may be required

Nearly Continuously: Sitting, hearing, listening, talking.

Often: Repetitive hand motion (such as typing), walking. 

Seldom: Bending, reaching overhead.