Financial Aid Coordinator

Classification

Regular

Minimum Pay

$25.22

Compensation will be commensurate with the level of the position, education, and experience.

JOB DESCRIPTION SUMMARY

The Financial Coordinator supports the administration of federal, state, and institutional financial aid programs under the direction of the Director of Financial Aid and Compliance. This position is responsible for determining and authorizing financial aid awards using the College's student information system (SIS) and providing specialized support for initiatives such as Prisoner Education Program, Workforce Pell and all other special projects. The position assists with application processing, compliance tracking, and direct service to participating students, while also supporting departmental projects and federal reporting that improve efficiency, compliance, and student service delivery.

ESSENTIAL POSITION FUNCTIONS:

• Calculates, authorizes, and finalizes financial aid awards in compliance with federal, state, and institutional regulations.
• Processes and maintains accurate financial aid records in the College's student information system to ensure timely and correct disbursement of aid.
• Provides specialized support for the Prisoner Education Program (PEP) and other special population initiatives, including application processing, documentation, and communication with students and partner sites.
• Advises and counsels students, including Prisoner Education Program participants, on financial aid eligibility, application procedures, and program requirements.
• Monitors and verifies that financial aid recipients meet institutional and federal Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) standards.
• Manages and completes special federal reports (such as those for Workforce Pell and PEP) and institutional reporting as needed to support program compliance and departmental operations.
• Processes returns of federal funds for official and unofficial withdrawals in accordance with federal regulations.
• Develops, tests, and runs reports using the College's student information system and other data platforms to support compliance and data integrity.
• Leads departmental special projects, specifically the creation and maintenance of internal policies and procedures for special federal programs.
• Designs and delivers technical training for staff regarding compliance updates, system processes, and the specific requirements of Workforce Pell and the Prisoner Education Program.
• Collaborates with internal departments and external partners to coordinate services and ensure compliance with federal and institutional policies.
• Participates in ongoing professional development to remain current with changing financial aid regulations and best practices.
• Maintains dependable attendance and participates in department meetings, training sessions, and assigned activities.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

• Comprehensive knowledge of federal, state, and institutional financial aid regulations, policies, and procedures.
• Proven experience in creating, writing, and maintaining departmental policies and procedures
• Demonstrated ability to design and deliver technical training for staff on complex financial aid processes and regulatory updates.
• In-depth knowledge of financial aid application and verification procedures, with specific expertise in Pell Grant programs.
• Strong organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills with high attention to accuracy and detail.
• Excellent interpersonal and customer service skills, including the ability to work effectively with diverse and specialized student populations.
• Ability to maintain strict confidentiality and handle sensitive student information appropriately.
• Ability to work independently, manage multiple priorities, and meet established deadlines for special federal reports.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and database systems for data tracking and reporting.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills for both student advising and formal policy drafting.
• Ability to interpret complex federal regulations and apply them appropriately to student and institutional situations.
• Ability to type a minimum of 40 words per minute.
• Ability to lift up to 20 pounds and perform job duties requiring bending, stooping, reaching, or walking as needed.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS FOR EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

• Bachelor's degree preferred, or an equivalent combination of education and relevant work experience.
• Three (3) years of full-time related work experience.
• Must pass background check.

The specific statements shown in each section of this description are not intended to be all inclusive. They represent typical elements and criteria considered necessary to perform the job successfully. Metropolitan Community College recognizes that an individual with a disability may require an accommodation to enable the candidate to successfully perform a job function. Consideration will be given to reasonable accommodations.