Financial Aid Specialist, CASH Scholarships at University of Oklahoma in Norman, Oklahoma

Job Description:

The Financial Aid Office’s focus is to eliminate unnecessary barriers to college access and completion. Our goal is to simplify the financial aid process as much as possible, and to make sure students are always engaged and aware of the next step. Our office allows us to reach students earlier and more efficiently, to have important conversations with students about their individual situations and what needs to be done to help them persist and succeed.

We need someone who exhibits:

Integrity: Accountability for doing the right thing by exercising good judgment and honesty. Ability to create a safe environment for students and families and team members, including having emotional intelligence and self-awareness. Transparency, professionalism and thoughtfulness in communication.

Care: Prioritization of creating the best experience possible for each person we encounter and at every step of the student experience. Providing service to others by being friendly, welcoming, and approachable. Commitment to collaboration and to being a team player with a positive attitude. 

Intentionality: Strong work ethic and contribution to the excellence of the Division of Enrollment Management, and OU; self-motivation. Consistency in meeting deadlines and responding in a timely manner.

Innovation: Possession of a natural curiosity to learn and a continual pursuit of personal and professional growth in the field of college enrollment management. A focus on innovation, displaying an understanding of positive change and possessing a strong analytic ability. Efficiency by researching best practices, making creativity a priority.

Essential Duties: 

• Coordinates scholarship information. 


• Responsible for various office and financial aid tasks. 


• Performs routine to moderately complex job responsibilities.  


• Budgets scholarship funds. Assists campus partners with managing scholarship applications and award cycle. Prepares scholarship applications for review and consideration. Verifies award eligibility. Processes award decisions and disbursement requests.


• Communicates with students concerning additional documentation needed to continue financial aid processing and inquiries regarding load. Releases scholarship award offers to students. Responsible for reviewing financial aid e-mails and responding to questions. Sends out global e-mail messages to students and groups of students concerning various issues at Director's request.


• Initiates verification process and subsequently reviews verification documentation submitted by student. Completes system updates with information submitted for verification and troubleshoots any discrepancies. Prepares or coordinates OU Foundation scholarship requests from the various colleges. Notifies counselors of these awards so student records can be updated. Verifies students' enrollment and accuracy of award.


• Initial contact for students and parents. Provides answers for basic application and processing questions to students and parents. Provides general office and administrative support by performing various data maintenance, reception, records activities, information distribution, correspondence, and other related support duties.


• Performs other duties as assigned to ensure the overall successful operation of the department.

**This position will be located in Norman with a flexible and/or remote option possible for experienced candidates after required training period and is eligible to participate in our Launch Advancement Program and receive up to $7,500 upon completion. ** 

Required Education: High School Diploma or GED, AND: 

• 24 months financial aid general office, clerical, or related experience.

Skills:

•    Knowledge of financial aid regulations and processes.   


•    Ability to communicate verbally and in writing.   


•    Ability to solve problems in a timely manner.     


•    Customer Service.   


•    Ability to be patient and handle issues in a professional manner.       


•    Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, and Outlook).

Advertised Physical Requirements:

• Sitting for prolonged periods.


• Communicate effectively and listen.


• Uses a computer and telephone.


• Standard Office Environment.

Departmental Preferences:

• Financial Aid or Student Service experience preferred


• Proficiency with Blackbaud Award Management


• 
  Special Instructions: If you are selected as a final candidate for this position, you will be subject to The University of Oklahoma Norman Campus Tuberculosis Testing policy.  To view the policy, visit https://hr.ou.edu/Policies-Handbooks/TB-Testing.

Why You Belong at the University of Oklahoma: The University of Oklahoma fosters an inclusive culture of respect and civility, belonging, and access, which are essential to our collective pursuit of excellence and our determination to change lives. The unique talents, perspectives, and experiences of our community enrich the learning, and working environment at OU, inspiring us to harness our innovation, creativity, and collaboration for the advancement of people everywhere.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement: The University of Oklahoma, in compliance with all applicable federal and state laws and regulations, does not discriminate based on race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, genetic information, gender identity, gender expression, age, religion, disability, political beliefs, or status as a veteran in any of its policies, practices, or procedures. This includes, but is not limited to, admissions, employment, financial aid, housing, services in educational programs or activities, and health care services that the University operates or provides.

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