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The Pennsylvania State University

Financial Aid Counselor

The Pennsylvania State University, Abington, Pennsylvania, United States

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Application Instructions Internal applicants please log in to Workday to complete the internal application process; do not apply here. External applicants may click "Apply" to complete the application process.

Position Specifics Penn State Abington is seeking a Financial Aid Counselor. This position primarily provides personal and financial aid application counseling to students and families, assists in the administration of the financial aid program, and decides on awarding funds to students eligible for scholarships, grants, and college work‑study. The counselor audits and reconciles financial aid accounts, packages awards, and disseminates information through face‑to‑face, email, and phone counseling.

Job Responsibilities

Advise and counsel students and parents regarding the financial aid process

Provide intake services: take student/parent phone calls, respond to email, and assist visitors in the office

Analyze and evaluate student financial needs and advise on availability of assistance

Monitor and coordinate the processing of verification and certification changes due to eligibility changes from FAFSA data updates

Develop and maintain strong knowledge of all federal, state, and university student aid regulations, policies, and procedures

Responsible for awarding, monitoring, and overseeing federal, state, and university student aid

Work with the Office of Student Aid's Application and Eligibility Services staff to monitor eligibility and review aid processes

Collaborate with other campus aid representatives, university personnel, and outside agencies in the administration of aid applicant verification and certification reviews

Coordinate financial aid communication strategies

Represent the Office of Financial Aid at admissions and financial aid events, sometimes in evenings and weekends

Present financial aid information to small and large audiences

Required and Preferred Qualifications

Typically requires a Bachelor's degree in a related field and 3+ years of relevant experience or an equivalent combination of education and experience

Proficient and comprehensive knowledge of all federal, state, and university student aid regulations, policies, and procedures

Dedication to excellent customer service and motivation to help students succeed

Ability to communicate effectively and professionally with detailed and sensitive information

Strong work ethic and attention to detail

Critical thinking and creative problem‑solving skills

Ability to work independently and collaboratively

Demonstrated commitment to access and inclusion

Excellent writing, presentation, and organizational skills

Proficiency in student information systems and Microsoft Office is preferred

Willingness to work some evenings and weekends as needed

Background Checks This position requires successful completion of the following background checks:

PA State Police Criminal Background Check

PA Child Abuse History Clearance Form

Federal (FBI) Fingerprint Criminal Background Check

Application Instructions (Again) For full consideration, applicants must submit a cover letter and resume with their application.

Campus Information Abington, PA is a northern suburb of Philadelphia known for its diversity and accessibility. It is located just 45 minutes outside center city, and residents can easily travel to and from Philadelphia and surrounding communities by trains, regional rails, and buses. As a staff member at Penn State Abington, you will enjoy access to popular destinations such as Keswick Village, Willow Grove Park, Briar Bush Nature Center, and Abington Arts Center, along with outdoor recreation, shopping, dining, and historic arts and museums of the greater Philadelphia region.

Benefits Penn State offers a competitive and generous benefits package for full‑time staff, including:

Health insurance, dental and vision coverage

Retirement plans

75% tuition discount for employees, eligible spouses, and dependent children to attend Penn State

Paid time off including holidays, vacation, sick days, and paid parental leave

Minimum Education, Work Experience & Required Certifications Bachelor's Degree, 3+ years of relevant experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted. Required Certifications: None.

Salary & Benefits The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $46,400.00 – $67,300.00.

Campus Security Crime Statistics For information on campus security and crime statistics, see the combined Annual Security and Fire Safety Report (ASR) available for review here.

EEO Is the Law Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814‑865‑1473.

The Pennsylvania State University is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness and a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university's teaching, research, and service mission.

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