Financial Aid Outreach Specialist

MULTIPLE CAMPUS LOCATIONS

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

A bachelor’s degree and one (1) year of work-related experience.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

The preferred candidate will hold a bachelor’s degree and have at least three (3) years of related work experience, ideally in financial aid, student services, or outreach coordination. They should possess in depth knowledge of federal and state financial aid programs, policies, and regulations. Strong public speaking and presentation skills are essential, along with the ability to engage diverse audiences effectively. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills are required to interact with students, parents, staff, and external partners. The candidate should be capable of managing multiple tasks, prioritizing responsibilities, and meeting deadlines. Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, financial aid software, and online communication tools is expected. The ability to travel locally for outreach events and work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, is also necessary. Experience working in a higher education setting, particularly in financial aid or student services, is highly desirable. Familiarity with financial aid processing systems such as BANNER, NSLDS, COD, or other student information systems is preferred.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

The Financial Aid Outreach Specialist is responsible for developing, coordinating, and implementing outreach initiatives to increase awareness and accessibility of financial aid resources for both prospective and current students. With a focus on financial aid literacy, FAFSA completion, verification assistance, and the overall financial aid application process, the specialist plays a critical role in supporting student success. This position involves working collaboratively with internal departments and external stakeholders such as local high schools, community organizations, and college personnel to ensure students have the tools and guidance necessary to navigate the financial aid process effectively.

Key responsibilities include developing and implementing outreach programs to educate students, parents, and community members on available financial aid opportunities, including federal, state, and institutional aid. The specialist will conduct workshops, presentations, and informational sessions focused on financial aid literacy, FAFSA completion, and verification requirements. They will also work with the RNP list to assist students in submitting FAFSA applications, verifying missing documents, and completing appeal documentation. The role involves establishing and maintaining partnerships with local high schools and community organizations to extend financial aid services and resources. Additionally, the specialist will organize and participate in college fairs, community events, and recruitment initiatives to promote financial aid awareness.

The position also includes developing outreach materials such as brochures, digital content, and presentations to communicate financial aid policies, deadlines, and eligibility criteria. Targeted outreach campaigns will be implemented using social media, email, and other platforms to enhance visibility and awareness. The specialist is expected to track and evaluate the effectiveness of outreach initiatives to ensure continuous improvement and alignment with institutional goals. They will serve as a resource to students and families by providing one-on-one counseling and support throughout the financial aid process. Collaboration with financial aid staff, admissions, academic advisors, and student services is essential to support student retention and success through financial aid education. Finally, the specialist is Southern Crescent Technical College expected to stay informed on federal and state financial aid policies to ensure compliance and accuracy in all communications and will perform other duties as assigned by the Director of Financial Aid.

Other Duties assigned by the Director.

COMPETENCIES:

Demonstrate strong competencies in various areas essential to the role. Strong organizational and planning skills, with the ability to provide clear and concise financial aid guidance to students and their families. They should possess sound decision-making and problem-solving abilities, as well as the capacity to collaborate effectively with both internal and external stakeholders. A solid understanding of effective outreach strategies and student engagement techniques is essential. The candidate should be capable of assessing program effectiveness and implementing data-driven improvements. Strong customer service and conflict-resolution skills are also key, along with the ability to maintain accurate and confidential records related to student financial aid inquiries and outreach efforts.

SALARY:  

Salary commensurate with education and work experience. Benefits include paid state holidays, paid annual and sick leave, and the State of Georgia Flexible Benefits Program.

SPECIAL NOTES:

It shall be a condition of employment to submit to a background investigation. Offers of employment shall be conditional pending the result of the background investigation. 

Federal Law requires ID and eligibility verification prior to employment. 

All male U.S. citizens, and male aliens living in the U.S., who are ages 18 through 25, are required to register for the military draft and must present proof of Selective Service Registration upon employment. 

Applicants who need special assistance may request assistance by phoning (770)229-3454. 

Only those who are interviewed will be notified of the status of the position. Candidates must successfully complete a criminal background investigation and motor vehicle screening.

The Technical College System of Georgia and its constituent Technical Colleges do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, creed, national or ethnic origin, sex, religion, disability, age, political affiliation or belief, genetic information, disabled veteran, veteran of the Vietnam Era, spouse of military member, or citizenship status (except in those special circumstances permitted or mandated by law). This nondiscrimination policy encompasses the operation of all technical college-administered programs, programs financed by the federal government including any Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) Title I financed programs, educational programs and activities, including admissions, scholarships and loans, student life, and athletics. It also encompasses the recruitment and employment of personnel and contracting for goods and services.