Financial Aid Professional II

The selected candidate will serve in the Processing Unit, a team that performs a wide range of critical roles and functions within OSFA. The primary responsibility of this position is to accurately and efficiently process, evaluate, review, and verify financial aid documentation and records to determine whether applicants meet federal, state, and institutional eligibility requirements.

This role requires strong critical thinking skills, the ability to work on a computer for extended periods, a commitment to ongoing training and documentation, and a high level of attention to detail. The ideal candidate is a quick learner who demonstrates consistent and accurate adherence to established policies and procedures, exceptional customer service, and responsive, respectful professionalism.

The position operates in a hybrid work environment and requires someone who thrives both in a collaborative team setting and when working independently with limited supervision and high accountability.

Outstanding UA benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance plans; life insurance and disability programs; paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays; UA/ASU/NAU tuition reduction for the employee and qualified family members; retirement plans; access to UA recreation and cultural activities; and more!

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* Coordinate the processing and administration of financial aid and related documentation while working in a collaborative team environment.
* Review and verify information provided on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and supplemental documentation (including tax forms) in accordance with federal Title IV regulations to determine student eligibility through processes such as verification and professional judgment.
* Ensure consistent compliance with federal, state, and institutional regulations and policies governing the provision of student financial aid.
* Develop a working knowledge of all Title IV and institutional financial aid and scholarship programs, policies, and procedures.
* Understand the Standard Aid Index (SAI) calculation and how it impacts the awarding of Title IV funds.
* Help ensure a streamlined experience for University of Arizona students by encouraging timely completion of financial aid requirements, in coordination with colleges, departments, and external entities.
* Gain proficiency across multiple federal and institutional systems and platforms (e.g., COD, CPS, NSLDS, FPP).
* Identify and prioritize discrepancies and escalated cases; conduct research, provide solutions and strategies, and refer to appropriate resources or departments as necessary.
* Collaborate with OSFA units and other campus partners to ensure continued student eligibility and compliance with financial aid regulations; communicate changes in eligibility and support students toward optimal outcomes.
* Participate in committees and assist with the research and interpretation of evolving federal regulations and institutional policies; help review and update institutional procedures to maintain compliance.
* Take on leadership roles such as training staff, presenting at unit meetings, serving on hiring committees, developing technical documents, and improving unit processes.
* Engage in professional development, including federal credential certification, webinars, and participation in conferences through presenting, attending, and networking.
* Occasionally represent OSFA at outreach events, working directly with high school counselors, students, and families to explain financial aid processes and answer questions.
* Support the Client Services unit during peak processing periods, providing direct service to students and families.
* Perform additional duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

* Knowledge of government, donor, and institutional rules, regulations, guidelines, and procedures related to the awarding of financial aid.
* Ability to manage a high volume of tasks with accuracy and efficiency, while balancing multiple details, stakeholders, competing priorities, quick turnaround expectations, and strict deadlines.
* Proficiency with automated processing systems and tools.
* Understanding of Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) requirements.
* Comprehensive knowledge of federal financial aid programs and regulations, including Title IV, U.S. Department of Education guidelines, current U.S. tax forms, and the implications of tax regulations on financial aid.
* Strong organizational skills with the ability to prioritize, problem-solve, and make timely, sound decisions.
* Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to draft technical and procedural manuals, training materials, research documents, and reports.
* Solid foundational math skills.
* Strong interpersonal skills for effectively engaging with both professional colleagues and student populations.
* Proficiency in standard computer applications such as Microsoft Word and Excel, with exposure to financial aid systems such as PeopleSoft. Demonstrated commitment to learning and utilizing new technologies and systems and supporting others in doing the same.

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent advanced learning attained through professional level experience required.
• Minimum of 3 years of relevant work experience, or equivalent combination of education and work experience.