Loan Specialist

About Susquehanna

Susquehanna University is the future-ready institution for today, invested in cultivating intellectual grounding, active learning and global citizenship for all students. Renowned as one of the finest U.S. national liberal arts colleges, Susquehanna inspires and challenges 2,200 enterprising, bright-minded students studying the arts, business, humanities and sciences. Our students seize opportunities through exceptional worldwide internships, expert-guided research and an acclaimed study-abroad program, leading to a transformative education that empowers each graduate to realize their unique potential and lead a successful and meaningful life.

The Susquehanna River Valley with its fresh air and overall pleasant year-round climate, provides four distinct seasons amidst a backdrop of vibrant autumn foliage, occasional winter snowfalls, flower-filled springs and warm summer evenings illuminated by fireflies. Nearby outdoor recreational areas for hiking, kayaking, fishing and skiing - and the bustling cultural and commerce hubs of New York City, Washington D.C., Baltimore and Philadelphia within a three-hour drive - present abundant opportunities for learning and discovery.

Job Summary

The Student Financial Services (SFS) Loan Specialist primarily manages the Parent PLUS and private education loan processes at Susquehanna University. This includes advising students and families on loan selection, determining loan amounts based on costs and the loan application process. This position reports to the Assistant Director, Loans. This position is defined as a non-exempt position under FLSA regulations.

Specific Responsibilities

• Answers incoming phone calls according to established schedule; responds to walk-in inquiries from students and families as needed.
• Processes all external student loan applications; assists families with the filing of applications; manage applications in various stages of completion; works with families regarding application completion requirements; determines loan eligibility and amounts within program parameters.
• Authorizes disbursement of federal loan funds within program parameters; imports loan disbursement records, reconciles systems; processes return of loan funds.
• Manages the financial aid processes for the summer session and teacher intern programs, including the verification of enrolled credits.
• Coordinates upper-class financial aid application process; records/tracks receipt of application materials; determines additional documentation requirements and works with families to complete files; prepares complete applications for packaging.
• Assists with prospective financial aid application process; records and tracks receipt of application materials; determines need for additional documentation and works with families to complete files; prepares complete applications for packaging.
• Creates electronic communication campaigns necessary to support the completion of federal student aid eligibility requirements, including entrance/exit counseling.
• Updates student address changes and student major (CIP code) changes with the Department of Education, following program parameters.
• Works closely with outside constituencies, including lenders, guarantee agencies, and scholarship organizations; maintains effective working relationships.
• Works with SFS team to maintain accurate procedure manuals.
• Works to ensure student accounts are resolved prior to the beginning of semester.
• Attends Enrollment events as needed; weekend or evening hours may be required.
• Maintains a commitment to service excellence in all interactions.

Contributes to the overall success of Student Financial Services and the university by performing other duties and responsibilities as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

Education and Experience

High school diploma or equivalent is required, along with one year of office experience. Experience in student financial aid or student accounts receivable is strongly preferred.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities

The person in this position should possess the knowledge and understanding of statute and regulations related to student financial aid and student accounts receivable, have excellent oral and written communications skills; the ability to write clear, concise letters and emails; and the ability to effectively communicate with students and parents while maintaining patience, tact and professionalism. They must be able to calculate figures and amounts in a timely and accurate manner. They should be able to demonstrate skills in Microsoft Office, including Excel, Word, and Outlook. They should have the ability to organize and prioritize work assignments, handle confidential information in a professional and ethical manner, and manage and process detailed information with frequent interruptions. They should also exhibit proficiency in analyzing and interpreting data to solve problems within established policies and procedures. The person in this position should possess the flexibility to work evenings and weekends on occasion and be committed to continual professional development and can attend professional conferences in the field of student financial services.

Additional Information for Applicant

Physical Demand

Must be able to remain in a stationary position for extended periods of time indoors. Operate a computer, scanner, calculator, copier, fax machine and printer. The person in this position frequently communicates with students and families who have inquiries about their tuition bill or financial aid package; must be able to exchange accurate information in these potentially escalated situations. Position requires the ability to communicate information and ideas so others will understand. Position requires the ability to occasionally lift 10 pounds. Position requires occasional interaction with students and families in group settings.

Susquehanna University does not provide visa sponsorship for this position. Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States and must not require employer sponsorship for employment authorization.

To apply, please visit https://www.schooljobs.com/careers/susqu/jobs/5513111/loan-specialist