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California Institute of the Arts

Financial Aid Counselor

California Institute of the Arts, Santa Clarita, California, United States, 91382

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Overview

Under the leadership of the Director of Financial Aid, this position carries a caseload of students and is responsible for determining and packaging financial aid eligibility. The role focuses on one or more financial aid programs (e.g., CalGrant, Federal Work Study, Pell, SEOG) and serves as the liaison for students and external agencies on matters pertaining to those programs. Essential Job Functions

Maintain a student caseload by school(s) and provide student‑oriented counseling services on financial aid eligibility, application process, and disbursement. Conduct eligibility analysis for federal funds using FAFSA data and verify eligibility through tax transcripts and other required forms. Package federal and institutional awards in accordance with eligibility, regulation, and policy. Prepare appeals, letters, and e‑mail correspondence and troubleshoot student aid eligibility issues, providing resolution for students and families. Manage one or more financial aid programs (CalGrant, Federal Work Study, Pell, SEOG) by monitoring program budgets and awarding, reconciling funds monthly, semester, and year‑end with Accounting Office and US Department of Education, and communicating with students regarding eligibility, awarding, and disbursement issues. Troubleshoot program‑related issues with federal/state agencies and other outside agencies, and develop and conduct workshops or mechanisms for students to learn about and apply for private scholarship assistance. Maintain confidentiality of financial aid records and information, keep knowledge of current regulations and best practices, and assist in general or specialized financial aid workshops and outreach as determined by the Director of Financial Aid. Skills and Abilities

Excellent interpersonal, written, and oral communication skills. Strong organizational and time‑management skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects and see them through to completion. Effectively interact with varied internal and external constituencies, demonstrating tact, diplomacy, discretion, and good judgment. Work responsibly, independently, and collaboratively in a fast‑paced environment. Adapt to and use new computer systems and technology, with proficiency in Microsoft Office, Google, and Adobe applications. Financial and business acumen to work with complex data processing, needs analysis, and aid packaging strategies. Critical thinking skills required. Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience required. 1–3 years progressively responsible experience in a college financial aid office, including experience with federal and institutional needs analysis. Proficiency with financial aid systems, including PowerFAJDS, Excel, Access, or other data management tools.

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