Position Title:
Specialist, Student Financial Assistance
Position Type:
Regular
About the Role:
Northern Kentucky University invites applications for a Processing
Specialist within Financial Assistance. This position plays a
critical role in supporting the administration of federal, state,
institutional financial aid and foundation/donor funded programs
through accurate processing, record maintenance, compliance review,
and student support.
The Processing Specialist works collaboratively with students,
families, campus partners, and external agencies to ensure
efficient service delivery and adherence to regulatory
requirements.
The Processing Specialist supports financial aid operations by
processing student aid records, reviewing documentation,
maintaining compliance with federal and state regulations, and
assisting students throughout the financial aid lifecycle. This
position also provides season support to foundation donor funded
aid processing. This position requires strong attention to detail,
customer service skills, and the ability to manage high-volume
transactional work in a fast-paced environment.
Primary Responsibilities
- Process financial aid transactions, records, and documentation
in accordance with federal, state, and institutional regulations
and policies.
Review financial aid applications, verification materials, and
supporting documentation for completeness, accuracy, and
compliance.
Maintain and update student records within university systems,
ensuring data integrity and regulatory compliance.
Monitor and resolve discrepancies related to financial aid
eligibility, packaging, awards, and student records.
Communicate with students, families, and campus partners
regarding financial aid requirements, processes, and deadlines
through in-person, phone, email, and virtual channels.
Assist in the administration of federal, state, institutional,
and scholarship aid programs.
Support processing activities related to verification,
satisfactory academic progress, professional judgment, dependency
overrides, and other aid eligibility determinations, as
assigned.
Collaborate with colleagues and campus partners (Admissions,
Student Account Services the Registrar's Office, and other
university offices) to provide coordinated student support.
Participate in peak processing periods and assist with special
projects, audits, reporting requirements, and compliance
reviews.
Identify opportunities for process improvement and support
implementation of efficiencies that enhance service and operational
effectiveness.
Maintain confidentiality of student information in accordance
with FERPA and applicable regulations.
Minimum Qualifications
- High school diploma or GED required.
- Two years of experience in administrative support, records
processing, compliance, customer service, financial aid, higher
education, or a related field.
- Experience working with computerized information systems and
data entry processes.
- Demonstrated attention to detail and ability to accurately
process high-volume transactions.
Preferred Qualifications
- Associate's or Bachelor's degree.
- Experience working in financial aid, student services, higher
education, banking, insurance, compliance, or a similarly regulated
environment.
- Knowledge of federal financial aid regulations and
programs.
- Experience using student information systems, Workday, Banner,
or related enterprise systems.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
- Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple
priorities while meeting deadlines.
- Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication
skills.
- Ability to interpret and apply policies, procedures, and
regulatory requirements.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
- Commitment to providing exceptional customer service.
- Ability to exercise discretion and maintain
confidentiality.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team
environment.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications and electronic
record systems.
Why Join NKU
Northern Kentucky University is a student-ready, regionally engaged
institution committed to transforming lives through education.
Financial Assistance plays a vital role in helping students access
and afford a college education. This position offers the
opportunity to make a meaningful impact by supporting student
success while ensuring responsible stewardship of financial aid
resources.
Posted Salary:
$16.74 per hour
Work Environment & Physical Demands: