Job Summary

Big Sandy Community and Technical College is seeking a Financial Aid Specialist to provide essential support to students by assisting with the application and award processes for federal, state, and institutional financial aid programs. This position is responsible for ensuring that students receive accurate information about their financial aid eligibility, completing required documentation, and providing guidance on the financial aid process from initial inquiry through to award disbursement.

Job Duties:

Provide personalized assistance to students and families regarding financial aid options, including federal, state, and institutional programs.
Assist students in understanding financial aid eligibility, application processes, and requirements.
Answer general questions related to tuition, scholarships, grants, loans, work-study, and other financial aid programs.
Process student applications for financial aid, including verifying and evaluating financial information.
Review and analyze Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and other required documents for accuracy and completeness.
Determine financial aid eligibility and prepare award packages based on federal, state, and institutional guidelines.
Communicate with students, families, and college staff in person, via email, and over the phone.
Provide clear, accurate, and timely responses to inquiries regarding financial aid processes, policies, and deadlines.
Develop and maintain positive relationships with students, faculty, and other college departments.
Ensure compliance with federal, state, and institutional financial aid regulations and policies.
Ensure compliance with federal, state, and institutional financial aid regulations and policies.
Maintain accurate records of financial aid applications, awards, and communications.
Assist in the preparation for audits and provide necessary documentation as requested.
Manage and administer federal, state, and institutional financial aid programs, including grants, loans, work-study, and scholarships.
Monitor student eligibility and disbursements, ensuring timely and accurate processing. Assist in the administration of financial literacy workshops and outreach programs to promote financial awareness.
Participate in ongoing professional development and training to stay current with financial aid policies, software, and best practices.
Participate in scholarship processes.
Ability to work in a fast-paced, student-centered environment with multiple deadlines.
Ability to explain complex financial aid concepts in a clear, accessible manner.
Must be able to work independently as well as part of a team.
Commitment to fostering an inclusive and supportive campus environment.

Minimum Qualifications:

Bachelor's Degree and 3 years related experience. 

Preferred Qualifications:

Bachelor's Degree and 5 years related experience.

Additional Skills Requested:

Strong understanding of federal, state, and institutional financial aid programs, policies, and regulations.
Excellent customer service and communication skills, both written and verbal.
Ability to work effectively with a diverse student population.
Strong attention to detail, with excellent organizational and time-management skills.
Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information in a professional manner.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook) and familiarity with data entry and reporting tools.

Employee Rights - Employee Polygraph Protection Act

Equal Opportunity Employer - The Kentucky Community and Technical College System is an equal educational and employment opportunity institution.