Financial Aid Liaison

Title: Financial Aid Liaison

Agency: Southwest Virginia Community College

Location: Tazewell - 185

FLSA: Exempt

Hiring Range: $45,739 to $49,000

Full Time or Part Time: Full Time

Additional Detail

Job Description:

Southwest Virginia Community College is seeking a candidate to fill the role of Financial Aid Liaison. The Financial Aid Liaison, specializing in Pell Grant support, is responsible for assisting Pell-eligible students throughout the financial aid process, ensuring they receive the necessary guidance to access and maintain their financial aid. This non-exempt position focuses on providing personalized support, improving student retention, and enhancing financial literacy among Pell Grant recipients.

Responsibilities Include:

• Financial Aid Counseling:
  • Provide one-on-one counseling to Pell Grant-eligible students regarding the financial aid application process--including FAFSA completion, verification, and understanding award packages.
  • Assist students in understanding Pell Grant eligibility requirements and how to maintain their aid
  • Work closely with admissions, records, bursar, and academic departments to facilitate a seamless student experience.
• Student Support and Retention:
  • Monitor academic progress of Pell Grant recipients to ensure compliance with Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) standards.
  • Develop and implement interventions for students at risk of losing financial aid eligibility due to academic or enrollment issues.
  • Integrate into college early alert programs as a financial contact for flagged Pell students
  • Collaborate with academic advisors as well as student services and academic areas to support student success initiatives.
  • Participate or plan campus events such as orientation, open houses, and financial aid fairs.
• Financial Literacy Education:
  • Conduct workshops and seminars on financial literacy topics such as budgeting, debt management, and responsible borrowing (if applicable at the institution).
  • Create and distribute educational materials to help students make informed financial decisions.
• Outreach and Communication:
  • Serve as the primary point of contact for Pell Grant-related inquiries from students, parents, and campus staff.
  • Engage community partners/organizations and generally widen the reach of financial aid dissemination in the college’s community.
  • Community outreach and connection with community partners, may include evenings and weekends.
  • Proactively reach out to eligible students who have not applied for financial aid or are facing challenges in the process.
• Compliance and Reporting:
  • Comply with federal, state, and institutional regulations and policies.
  • Maintain accurate records of student interactions, educational and outreach programs offered, as well as other assistance provided.
  • Assist in preparing reports related to Pell Grant disbursement, usage, and student outcomes.
  • Track College Pell Boost program budget and ensure appropriate recording of expenses
  • Set measurable objectives based on local college needs and track progress throughout the year
  • Follow guidance and requirements as disseminated by the VCCS Program Coordinator

This is a grant-funded position. Continued employment in this role is contingent upon funding availability and the needs of the College. Position is not eligible for severance benefits under state policy.

Position is located on main campus but will occasionally require travel to off-campus sites.

A one-year probationary period is required for both new hires and transfers.

• Knowledge of student barriers and current evidence-based solutions
• Experience working with diverse individuals and groups
• Strong interpersonal skills and effective problem-solving skills
• Excellent customer service skills, including the ability to effectively follow up and follow through
• Knowledge of and sensitivity to the needs of individuals from underserved populations
• Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing and work effectively with multi-cultural populations that support diversity, cultural understanding and inclusion
• Demonstrated ability to prioritize and manage multiple tasks; work in a demanding, fast-paced environment with changing priorities; and adhere to required timelines meeting work priorities and objectives
• Demonstrated proficiency using Office 365, Google Suite, and related applications
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and in a team environment
• Desire to learn and grow as a professional
• Ability to track program outcomes, set measurable objectives, and work toward those targets

• Demonstrated experience in higher education areas such as financial aid, academic/career coaching, or advising
• Experience using tools such as EAB Navigate, PeopleSoft SIS, & Canvas