The Reception Coordinator / Aid Specialist, reporting to the Director of Financial Aid, is the primary point of contact with the Financial Aid Office for all students whether in person, via telephone, or by mail.  The Reception Coordinator / Aid Specialist is responsible for answering telephones, greeting students/families, directing calls or students to the appropriate parties for assistance if necessary, explain and apply Federal, State, and University policy, troubleshoot problems with student applications and the aid process. Distributes published material to students upon request, opens and distributes mail to the appropriate parties. Distributes voicemail to appropriate office staff. As times permits, provides administrative and clerical support for the Financial Aid Staff.

Position Responsibilities

1. Advises students and families regarding financial aid questions and concerns, application questions, document processing and corrections.

2. Manages telephone and answering system, answers incoming calls, transfers calls to appropriate staff within the department and other University offices as warranted. Stay current with voicemail, distributing same to appropriate staff members for handling.

3. Answers basic questions of students/families about Federal, State, and University policies and procedures or refers same appropriate staff for more detailed explanation or assistance. Distributes handout materials to students and families.

4. Meets and counsels students/families on issues relative to financial aid sources, outside scholarships and alternative financing options.

5. Collects, sorts, and distributes all incoming mail twice daily.

6. Responds to students’ questions and concerns in a timely manner.

7. Assists with outgoing mail projects and other projects as time permits.

8. Handles specific inquiries of students/families as to the status of their Financial Aid.

9. Assist in all areas of traditional and nontraditional undergraduate / graduate student financial aid issues.

10. Provides administrative support to staff of the Financial Aid Office as requested by the Director of Financial Aid.

11. Stays current on all federal, state and institutional financial aid regulations, policies and procedures governing the financial aid process, including the Family Education Loan Program (FELP), PLUS and alternative loans.

12. Embodies values of caring and compassion, justice and integrity, competence and affirmation.

13. Seeks to treat each member of the campus community with fairness, dignity and respect seeking a sprit of unity and harmony as we join together to achieve our common mission.

Status:  Staff, full time regular, non- exempt, 12 months/year, 40 hours/week,

One to two years experience in a financial aid office with a working knowledge of financial aid policies and procedures are required for this position. Attention to detail, with proven demonstrated experience for problem solving, an ability to work as a team player, and the ability to work without supervision, and sensitivity to matters of confidentiality are required. Excellent written and verbal communication skills are essential, as is the ability to relate well with current and prospective students, parents, and college personnel. The preferred candidate should be proficient in Word, Excel, CARS, Federal and State software, and the internet. High school diploma is required. It is essential that the incumbent displays an understanding of, and support for, the evangelical Christian mission of the university.

Review of applications will continue until the position is filled. Please send a letter of application, resume, three professional references, and salary requirements to:

Eastern University
Office of Human Resources
Attn: Search #0763
1300 Eagle Road
St. Davids, PA 19087