P/T Adjunct Financial Aid Counselor

Job Description

Under the general supervision of the Director of Student Financial Assistance, the P/T Adjunct Financial Aid Counselor will be responsible for financial aid counseling services for SUNY Westchester Community College students, both on an individual and group basis. The Adjunct Financial Aid Counselor must demonstrate an ability to work collaboratively in a student-centered environment and possess strong communication skills and attention to detail. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Performs financial aid counseling on an individual and group basis;
• Counsels students and families on financial aid options, eligibility, and application procedures;
• Assists with FAFSA completion, verification, and documentation requirements;
• Responds promptly to student inquiries via email, phone, and in-person appointments;
• Evaluates financial aid applications for accuracy and compliance;
• Determines award eligibility based on established guidelines and regulations;
• Maintains accurate records in PeopleSoft financial aid systems;
• Ensures adherence to Title IV regulations and institutional policies;
• Coordinates with Admissions, Bursar, and Academic departments to support student success;
• Participates in outreach events and financial literacy workshops as needed;
• Keeps abreast of new literature published in the financial aid counseling field;

Requirements

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS: The successful candidate must possess one of the following:

• Master's Degree and Bachelor's Degree in Guidance Counseling, Psychology, Sociology, or closely related field, and one year of professional experience.
• Bachelor's Degree in a relevant field as listed above, and three years of experience.
• Master's Degree in a relevant field as listed above, plus a Bachelor's degree in a non-specific field (other than those listed), and two years of experience.

The successful candidate will demonstrate an ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously while remaining organized in a fast-paced environment. Proficiency in software systems including Microsoft Office applications is required. Candidate will be required to exercise discretion in handling confidential information, and be able to work with a team of diverse faculty, staff, and students.

All candidates must have evidence of responsiveness to and an understanding of the diverse academic, socioeconomic, cultural, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation, and ethnic backgrounds of community college students, as these factors relate to the need for equity-minded practice in all college policies, practices, and personnel.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS: It is preferred that the successful candidate will have experience in higher education, preferably working with community college students, and a background in financial aid, bursar, business office, or related area. At least one year's prior experience working as a financial aid counselor or advisor preferred. Experience using PeopleSoft is desirable.