Financial Aid Counselor

University Overview: Malone strives to provide an education that produces graduates with a love of truth and a vibrant, mature faith. Our intent is that students attain the wisdom, knowledge, and skills necessary to serve, engage, and transform the communities in which they live and work. To this end, we provide the curricular and co-curricular context in which to pursue the following educational goals: Understand and critically engage those bodies of knowledge and cultural influences that have shaped the world; Understand the biblical, historical, and theological foundations of the Christian faith; Think critically and creatively and communicate effectively in multiple contexts; Attain expertise in at least one profession or academic discipline and lay the foundation for meaningful work or further studies at the graduate level; and explore the implications of the Christian faith for all areas of living, including intellectual, spiritual, and community pursuits. II. University Expectations Maintains a personal, active relationship with Jesus Christ and is a consistent witness for Jesus Christ Faithfully upholds Malone in prayer Participates in community worship as schedule permits Demonstrates behavior aligned with Malone’s Mission, Foundational Principles, Doctrinal Statement and its Community’s General Principles Effectively represents Jesus Christ to those within both personal and professional spheres of influence III.

Job Summary: The Financial Aid Counselor provides comprehensive support and guidance to prospective and current students and their families regarding the financial aid process. This role is responsible for administering federal, state, and institutional financial aid programs, performing file verification, and ensuring compliance with all regulatory requirements. The Counselor serves as a primary point of contact for financial aid advising, helping students navigate funding options to support their education at Malone University. As a member of the Enrollment Management team, the Financial Aid Counselor works collaboratively to support recruitment and retention goals by providing timely, accurate, and student-centered financial aid services that align with the University’s Christian mission. IV.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities: Student Advising & Support Counsel students and families on the financial aid application process, eligibility requirements, and available funding types including grants, loans, and scholarships. Provide personalized financial aid planning and debt management counseling to support student persistence and financial literacy. Participate in recruitment events, financial aid workshops, and orientation sessions to present financial aid information to diverse audiences. Respond promptly to inquiries via phone, email, and in-person meetings with a high level of customer service and care. Program Administration & Compliance Review and process financial aid applications (FAFSA) and perform federal verification of student files. Identify and resolve conflicting information in student records to ensure accurate awarding of aid. Evaluate special circumstance appeals and perform professional judgment reviews in accordance with federal regulations and institutional policy. Monitor Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) and process related appeals for financial aid eligibility. Ensure all processing activities comply with Title IV regulations, state laws, and University guidelines.

Other Duties: Fulfill other tasks as assigned to support the Enrollment Division, Financial Aid Office, and university goals. V.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: Knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel, Power Point and related programs High attention to detail and commitment to data accuracy. Ability to handle confidential information with discretion. Ability to collaborate with others Excellent organizational management skills Ability to work through complex issues Ability to manage multiple projects Excellent interpersonal and communication skills Ability to collaborate with a wide range of people Professionalism VI.

Education and Experience: 1-3 years of experience in higher education financial aid or a student services related field preferred. Familiarity with financial aid management systems (e.g., PowerFAIDS, Jenzabar) and federal databases Excellent verbal and written communication skills with a focus on student-centered service. VII. Working Conditions / Physical Demands Work generally conducted in an office environment