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Student Financial Aid Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Reviewing student financial aid packages submitted by campuses Providing regulatory and policy guidance to campus Financial Aid Administrators Reviewing student financial aid records for accuracy ...

Student Financial Assistance Advisor

Westlake, OH · On-site

$18.75 - $24/hr

Student Financial Aid & Scholarships Location: Westshore Campus Reports To: Campus Director, Financial Aid & Scholarships Recruitment Type: External/Internal Requisition ID: req6843 Employment Type ...

Director of Financial Aid

New York, NY · On-site

$75K - $100K/yr

The incumbent manages and supervises all financial aid processes for awarding student grants and scholarship packages (merit and need based); works closely with the University's Student Financial ...

The Executive Director of Financial Aid Services is also responsible for providing overall ... Implement and improve student-centered service programs * Maintain an up-to-date understanding of ...

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Student Financial Aid information

See salary details

$18K

$60.3K

$130.5K

How much do student financial aid jobs pay per year?

As of May 30, 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 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 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 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.

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 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 May 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, 31% Part Time, and 2% Temporary. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $60,262 per year, or $29 per hour.
Student Financial Aid Specialist

Student Financial Aid Specialist

Thomas College

Waterville, ME

Other

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 23 days ago


Job description

Description

Thomas College, located?in beautiful Waterville, Maine, is defining what it means to be the College of the Future. With a strong commitment to innovation, career readiness, and community partnerships, Thomas College is consistently ranked by?U.S. News & World Report?as one of Maine's top colleges for social mobility. Our distinctive Guaranteed Job Program,?accelerated undergraduate degrees, and flexible graduate programs empower students to advance faster in business, entrepreneurship, education, technology, applied STEM, and arts & science fields. At Thomas, belonging isn't a buzzword; it's a promise. We create a supportive, welcoming environment where every student is seen, valued, and prepared to thrive in a rapidly changing world. For more information visit thomas.edu. ?


The Student Financial Aid Specialist (SFA) is accountable for performing all necessary support functions of the Financial Aid Process in a timely and accurate manner. This position reports to the Director of Student Financial Services. The SFA Specialist is responsible for all steps in the Direct Loan processing cycle. This includes origination, promissory notes, adjustments, and disbursements. The SFA Specialist also conducts entrance interviews, exit interviews, and ensures promissory note completion.


The SFA Specialist processes the exit packets and coordinates meetings with graduating seniors, both in November and in April. The SFA Specialist also mails packets as necessary to students who withdraw and do not complete the exit counseling process.

The SFA Specialist is also responsible for new student counseling, Financial Aid award processing, and acts as the Federal Work-Study Program Coordinator. 


The SFA Specialist position requires a person who is articulate and friendly, with a professional appearance. Computer experience is critical. The person must be able to maintain an orderly work-space and be able to withstand frequent interruptions. The qualified candidate must be able to relate well to people over the age of fifteen. This job involves a combination of customer service skills and technical office skills. Common sense and the ability to identify problems with computer generated reports are critical. The SFA Specialist will speak regularly with students, parents, high school officials and peers. 


An Associate Degree is required, Bachelor's Degree is preferred.   Two to three years of financial aid experience is required.


Thomas offers a competitive benefits package to include: 

Medical insurance, dental insurance, life insurance, disability insurance, 6% 403(b) matching plan, paid vacation, paid sick leave, thirteen paid holidays, on-site gym, meal discounts and free tuition for employees, spouse and dependent children.


Interested applicants should submit a cover letter, resume and names of three professional references. Please include an email address on your application materials. 


Thomas College is an equal opportunity employer.
Thomas College's mission is to prepare students for success in their personal and professional lives, and for leadership and service in their communities.