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Inside Higher Ed

Student Financial Services Counselor

Inside Higher Ed, West Kingston, Rhode Island, us, 02892

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Student Financial Services Counselor 1 week ago: Be among the first 25 applicants.

Job Description The Student Financial Services Counselor is responsible for providing in-depth counseling to students and families regarding University financial policies, student account payment information, and education financing options. The counselor remains current on new University initiatives and programs that impact student accounts to effectively counsel students and families.

The counselor must maintain a comprehensive understanding of University policies and procedures, related technical systems, and state/federal Fair Debt Collection Practices. The counselor is accountable for the collection of outstanding student account balances and requires detailed knowledge of University and third‑party payment and financing options. The counselor assists students and families with navigation of the electronic billing system and the student information system, and discusses education loan status and disbursement requirements. The position requires strong technical skill and willingness to learn new systems. The counselor advises on navigation of University and external websites and systems related to student accounts.

The counselor validates the accuracy of account charges and works with various departments to correct inaccurate charges. The counselor acts as Student Financial Services liaison to campus colleagues in key areas such as the Registrar Office, the College, Graduate School, School of Professional Studies, Health Services, Dining, and Residential Life.

The counselor processes student account refunds accurately and timely, performs outreach and collection efforts to maintain low Student Account Receivables balance for active and inactive students.

The counselor displays effective independent decision‑making skills and ability to apply sound judgment with respect to procedures and professionalism. The position requires a strong commitment to customer service, excellent time‑management skills, and a high degree of tact and confidentiality. Willingness to cross‑train and work in a team environment is crucial.

Major Responsibilities

Respond to inquiries and proactively contact students and families regarding student account transactions, balances, and payment and academic financing options.

Validate and collect all assigned student accounts for payment of balances owed; assist with review of student account data and escalates technical issues appropriately.

Process student account transactions in accordance with Federal and University requirements.

Other student financial services related duties.

Education, Experience, and Job Competencies

Associate’s degree and 2-3 years of related experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience.

3-5 years’ experience in an office environment, preferably in higher education industry and/or background in receivables.

Experience in a customer service role dealing with confidential complex situations; excellent interpersonal, strong oral and written communication skills are required to effectively communicate with a wide variety of students, families, and other university community members.

Experience in making outbound collection efforts, preferably in higher education industry.

Ability to make accurate complex calculations with numbers and perform basic accounting‑related tasks.

Ability to learn new systems quickly and adapt to changing technologies; MS Office experience required; experience with Banner, TouchNet, and Workday preferred.

Excellent attention to detail and ability to shift focus and priority in a fast‑paced environment. Must be able to work with a diverse population.

Strong organizational and time‑management skills; ability to both work and act independently and to work cohesively in a group.

Benefits Information on the benefits of working at Brown can be found here.

EEO Statement Brown University is an E‑Verify Employer. As an EEO employer, Brown University provides equal opportunity and prohibits discrimination, harassment and retaliation based upon a person’s race, color, religion, sex, age, national or ethnic origin, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or any other characteristic protected under applicable law.

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