Financial Aid Assistant and Customer Service Specialist

OverviewThis position, located in-person at the Williamson campus, provides exceptional front-line service to students, parents, and the college community by delivering support in financial aid, admissions, registration, and general student services. The specialist assists with onboarding new students, receiving and securing documentation, responding to inquiries, and supporting financial aid processing in alignment with Columbia State Community College policies and procedures.Essential FunctionsProvide student support services at the front desk and through virtual communication, ensuring a welcoming, professional, and confidential environment.Onboard students in accordance with college policies and procedures, assisting with applications, FAFSA completion, orientation preparation, and other required steps for enrollment.Receive and securely submit documentation for processing, ensuring compliance with FERPA and federal/state financial aid guidelines.Assist with financial aid and general college inquiries, referring students to appropriate staff or departments when needed.Provide support for financial aid processing, including verification tasks, document tracking, and communication with students regarding aid status.Maintain current knowledge of programs of study, Satisfactory Academic Progress, and course-related requirements to assist students with academic or enrollment-related questions.Maintain general knowledge of Dual Enrollment Grant processes and provide assistance to students and families participating in early college programs.Participate in campus events such as registration, orientation, financial aid workshops, FAFSA Frenzy, and other student engagement activities.Collaborate with the Enrollment Services and Student Affairs teams to ensure seamless delivery of student-centered services across campuses.Use Banner, Slate, Service Desk software, and related systems to document interactions, process student information, and track communication.Support development, oversight of programs and services that result in enrollment, progression, retention and graduation growth for the service area.Supplemental FunctionsSupport departmental communication efforts, including chatbots, websites, and outreach materials.Assist with data entry, filing, correspondence, purchase orders, and other administrative functions.Provide cross-training and backup assistance to other offices as needed.Participate in professional development and training to maintain current knowledge of financial aid regulations and student affairs processes.Education, Training, and ExperienceRequired:High School diploma or equivalentDemonstrated computer proficiency and customer service experience in an office or service settingPreferred:Associate’s degree in Business, Office Administration, or a related fieldExperience in financial aid, admissions, or other college student services functions.Knowledge of federal and state financial aid regulationsKnowledge, Skills, and AbilitiesStrong customer service orientation with the ability to interact effectively and respectfully with diverse populations.Knowledge of financial aid, admissions, records, and registration functions in a higher education setting.Ability to communicate clearly and professionally, both verbally and in writing.Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information responsibly.Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Outlook, Word, Excel), Banner, and related student information systems.Ability to manage multiple priorities, stay organized, and work collaboratively within a team environment.Flexibility and adaptability to meet the evolving needs of students and the department.Working ConditionsRegular schedule: Monday – Friday, 9:30 am – 6:00 pm; some morning and weekend hours required during peak enrollment periodsRequires sitting, standing, and extended use of computer terminalOccasional travel to other campuses, high schools, or recruitment events within the service areaAbility to lift 40 lbs. and perform standard office movement and activityHiring Salary Range: $35,190 - $42,230This position is based at the Williamson, TN Campus.About Columbia State Community CollegeAs Tennessee’s first community college (established in 1966), Columbia State is committed tocommitted to student success both in and out of the classroom, as well as economic and community development in our nine-county service area.Columbia State is a member of the Tennessee Board of Regents.Columbia State offers a comprehensive benefits package, including but not limited to the following:Vacation and Sick Leave14 paid holidaysMedical, dental, vision and life insuranceRetirement plansOptional 401K and 403B Deferred Compensation PlansEducational benefits for the employee and their spouse and dependentsColumbia State Community College does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, ethnicity or national origin, disability, age, status as a protected veteran, genetic information, or any other class protected by Federal or State laws and regulations and by Tennessee Board of Regents policies with respect to employment, programs, and activities.The following person has been designated to handle inquiries regarding nondiscrimination policies:Executive Director of Human Resourceshumanresources@columbiastate.edu1665 Hampshire Pike, Columbia, TN 38401931-540-2501 #J-18808-Ljbffr