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Student Financial Aid Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Student Financial Aid Counselor

Pueblo, CO ยท On-site

$42K - $45K/yr

This position will advise students about financial aid eligibility, application procedures, available financial aid programs; educational costs; and financial management strategies including loans ...

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Student Financial Aid information

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$18K

$60.3K

$130.5K

How much do student financial aid jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for student financial aid in the United States is $60,262.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42,500.00 and $65,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some typical challenges faced by professionals in Student Financial Aid, and how can they be managed effectively?

Professionals in Student Financial Aid often face challenges such as navigating complex federal and institutional regulations, handling high volumes of student inquiries during peak periods, and addressing sensitive financial situations with empathy and accuracy. Effective time management, ongoing professional development, and strong communication skills are essential for success in this role. Staying current with policy changes, utilizing technology for workflow efficiency, and collaborating closely with admissions and academic advisors can also help manage these demands while ensuring students receive the support they need.

What is the difference between Student Financial Aid vs Student Loan Officer?

AspectStudent Financial AidStudent Loan Officer
CredentialsMay require financial aid certifications or knowledge of federal aid programsOften requires financial or loan processing certifications
Work EnvironmentEducational institutions, financial aid officesBanks, credit unions, or financial institutions
Employer & IndustryColleges, universities, government agenciesFinancial institutions, loan companies
Primary FocusAssisting students in applying for and understanding financial aid optionsAssessing, processing, and managing student loan applications

While both roles involve working with students and financial processes, Student Financial Aid professionals focus on helping students access various aid programs, whereas Student Loan Officers specialize in managing and processing student loans. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths and job expectations in the education finance industry.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Student Financial Aid Officer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Student Financial Aid Officer, you need a solid understanding of federal and state financial aid regulations, attention to detail, and typically a bachelor's degree in a related field. Familiarity with financial aid management systems like Banner or PeopleSoft and knowledge of FAFSA processing are crucial. Strong interpersonal skills, problem-solving abilities, and clear communication help in guiding students and resolving complex financial situations. These skills ensure accurate aid distribution, regulatory compliance, and effective support for students navigating financial challenges.

What is student financial aid?

Student financial aid refers to funding that helps students pay for their education expenses, such as tuition, fees, books, and living costs. Financial aid can come in the form of grants, scholarships, work-study programs, and loans, and is typically provided by federal or state governments, colleges, and private organizations. The goal of financial aid is to make higher education accessible and affordable for students from all backgrounds.
More about Student Financial Aid jobs
What cities are hiring for Student Financial Aid jobs? Cities with the most Student Financial Aid job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Student Financial Aid jobs? The most popular types of Student Financial Aid jobs are:
What states have the most Student Financial Aid jobs? States with the most job openings for Student Financial Aid jobs include:
Infographic showing various Student Financial Aid job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 24% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $60,262 per year, or $29 per hour.
Student Financial Aid Administrator - Office of Student Financial Aid

Student Financial Aid Administrator - Office of Student Financial Aid

University of Illinois

Urbana, IL โ€ข On-site

$52K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post hasย expired today.ย Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Student Financial Aid Administrator - Office of Student Financial Aid
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Job Summary
Plan, operate, process and report a wide range of financial aid programs and services provided by the Office of Student Financial Aid (OSFA) to student populations representing a wide range of backgrounds, identities, and lived experiences. OSFA is responsible for the administration and coordination of federal, state and institutional financial aid programs totaling over $1.2 billion annually and provide financial aid information and services to 60,000 students.Duties & Responsibilities
Customer Service/Outreach Training
  • Provide advice and counsel to clients of the Office of Student Financial Aid, either in-person, by telephone or through written correspondence (including e-mail)
  • Be knowledgeable of all student financial aid programs and services
  • Serve as liaison with University offices and other related financial aid agencies
  • Utilize available resources and provide presentations to large groups as well as work one-on-one with students and their families
  • Represent OSFA on institutional, state and federal committees and at professional conferences and workshops
  • Develop a thorough knowledge of legislation governing financial aid programs and federal needs analysis methodology
  • Exercise professional judgment when financial aid program guidelines do not seem to adequately address a specific situation

Program Administration
  • Coordinate the staff efforts required to carry out program responsibilities and educate/train other office staff regarding the programs for which they are responsible
  • Responsible for the administration of programs and execution of procedures specified on the Office of Student Financial Aid Program Responsibilities list
  • Responsible for:
    • student awarding
    • disbursement and reconciliation of federal, state and institutional financial aid
    • accounting and funds management
    • maintenance of student record
    • application in-take and processing
    • verification of student records
    • scholarship administration
Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in business, communications, humanities, social sciences, or a closely related field to the position
  • One (1) year (12 months) of professional experience working in student services, financial aid/loans or a closely related field within higher education or a related agency
Preferred Qualifications
  • Master's degree in Student Personnel, Higher Education, Business Administration or a related field
  • Successful experience in student financial aid or client services
  • Experience presenting information to large groups of people
Appointment Information
This is a 100% full-time Civil Service 5011 - Financial Aid Associate position. The expected start date is as soon as possible after the close of the search. The budgeted salary for this position is $52,000 annually. Salary is competitive and commensurate with qualifications and experience, while also considering internal equity.
Employees hired into this position are expected to work on-site at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign campus on a full-time basis with the possibility of hybrid work options. Sponsorship for work authorization is not available for this position.
For more information on Civil Service classifications, please visit the SUCSS web site at https://www.sucss.illinois.gov/pages/classspec/default.aspx.
Application Procedures & Deadline Information
Applications must be received by 6:00 pm (Central Time) on July 9, 2026. Apply for this position using the Apply Now button at the top or bottom of this posting. For full consideration, application materials should include a cover letter, current resume (including month/year employment dates), contact information for three professional references, and transcripts or proof of degree(s). Please ensure your resume highlights your qualifications/experience for this position. This may include professional, academic, volunteer, or other applicable experience that aligns with the responsibilities and requirements of this role.
In order to be considered as a transfer candidate, you must apply for this position. Applications not submitted through https://jobs.illinois.edu will not be considered. If required by the position, transcripts or other documentation of credentials are to be provided no later than the first day of employment. For further information about this specific position, please contact steiling@uillinois.edu. For questions regarding the application process, please contact 217-333-2137.
At the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign - the state's flagship public university and one of the world's leading research institutions - every staff member helps shape what's next. Founded in 1867, Illinois is home to a vibrant community of 59,000 students from all 50 states and 129 countries, supported by 15 colleges and instructional units, more than 20 research institutes, and one of the most comprehensive student service ecosystems in the nation. Whether you're empowering first-generation students, fueling breakthrough innovation, or strengthening communities across Illinois and beyond, your work here has a far-reaching and deeply meaningful impact. The university offers a highly competitive benefits package designed to support your well-being, growth, and financial security. Join a top 10 public university that has launched over 330 startups and continues to redefine excellence - where the Illinois Value Proposition ensures that your contributions are recognized, your potential is nurtured, and your career can thrive.
Champaign-Urbana
Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools may be used in some portions of the candidate review process for this position; however, all employment decisions will be made by a person.
This position is intended to be eligible for benefits. This includes Health, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, a Retirement Plan, Paid time Off, and Tuition waivers for employees and dependents.
The University of Illinois System is an equal opportunity employer, including but not limited to disability and/or veteran status, and complies with all applicable state and federal employment mandates. Please visit Required Employment Notices and Posters to view our non-discrimination statement and find additional information about required background checks, sexual harassment/misconduct disclosures, and employment eligibility review through E-Verify.
Applicants with disabilities are encouraged to apply and may request a reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act (2008) to complete the application and/or interview process. Accommodations may also be requested on the basis of pregnancy, childbirth, and related conditions, or religion. Requests may be submitted through the reasonable accommodation portal, or by contacting the Office for Access & Equity at 217-333-0885, option #1, or accessibility@illinois.edu.
Requisition ID: 1037227
Job Category: Professional and Administrative
Apply at: https://jobs.illinois.edu

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About University of Illinois

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The University of Illinois, located in Urbana, Illinois, US, is a prominent entity in the higher education sector. Operating its official functions through its website uillinois.edu, the institution provides a range of educational programs and services. The University was founded in 1867 and has since grown dramatically both in size and reputation. Its core values are embodied in its mission to enhance the lives of its students and citizens in the state, nation, and world through leadership in learning, discovery, engagement, and economic development. The university boasts several notable achievements including producing Nobel laureates and Pulitzer prize winners. It is renowned for its research programs and is known for significant advancements across various fields including engineering, science, and humanities.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Urbana, IL, US

Year founded

1974

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