Position Title:
Financial Aid Officer

Institution:
Sumner College

Position Contact Name:
HR Department

Position Contact Email:
[email protected]

Position Contact Phone:
503-542-0482

Salary Range:
Compensation discussed with selected candidates

Deadline or Close Date:
09/30/2026

Job Location - City, State:
Portland, OR

Position Description:
The Financial Aid Officer at Sumner College is responsible for coordination and administering financial aid programs to students, ensuring compliance with federal and state regulations. The officer will provide guidance and support to students and their parents on financial aid matters, including the application process, eligibility criteria, award determination and disbursement of funds.

The officer will also participate, as appropriate, in systems/procedures planning and management; implement and coordinate specific individual programs and/or assignments, in accordance with the overall objectives of the department.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Disseminates information about financial aid program and application process, as well as counseling new students and their families on eligibility factors and alternative financing options.
  • Act as a back up for Senior Financial Aid staff.
  • Implements, coordinates and oversees one or more specific administrative programs and/or services areas as assigned.
  • Provide financial aid counseling to students and parents regarding applications procedures and eligibility requirements for students and programs and assist students and their families with the completion of applications forms.
  • Reviews and assesses eligibility of applications for financial aid.
  • Reviews for accuracy and provides signature approval/disapproval of loan applications promissory notes and other financial documents.
  • Participate in orientations and graduations.- Conduct entrance and exit interviews, in accordance with college, state, federal and other agency guidelines.
  • Responds to inquiries and researches and resolves problems related or transactions handled by the unit; serves as liaison with other constituencies in the resolution of day to day administrative and operational issues.
  • Provide information in person, on the telephone and via electronically to students, prospective students and families regarding student financial aid, admissions, student account balance and registration status.
  • Available to conduct workshops and/or presentations to students, parents and/or other interested parties on financial aid policy and procedural issues.
  • Performs miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Required:
  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills and the ability to work effectively with a wide range of constituencies in a diverse community.
  • Skill in the use of personal computers and related software applications.
  • Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
  • Ability to verify and assess student eligibility for financial aid.
  • Ability to analyze and solve problems.
  • Interviewing skills.
  • Ability to make evaluative judgments.
  • Ability to investigate and analyze information and draw conclusions.
  • Ability to supervise and train employees, to include organizing, prioritizing, and scheduling work assignments.
  • Organizing and coordinating skills.
  • Knowledge of federal and state laws, regulations, and policies concerning the provision of financial aid to students.
  • Knowledge of financial aid policies, procedures, and eligibility requirements.
  • Knowledge of data management systems and processes.
  • Ability to develop and present educational programs and/or workshops.
  • Knowledge of the policies and eligibility requirements of a range of federal, state, and agency scholarship programs for tertiary students.
  • Ability to communicate effectively verbally, in writing, and over the telephone.
Minimum Job Requirements:
  • Associate degree required, preferably a Bachelor's degree in a related field
  • At least one (1) year in a professional financial environment
  • At least (2) year of customer service experience
  • Preferred knowledge of Title IV, direct loan program and other financial and regulation
  • Flexibility and adaptability to new/changing circumstances.
  • Effective time management skills and the ability to self-direct and manage dynamic reprioritization of task to best serve the student’s needs.
  • Experience with on-line student information systems and personal computers required.
  • Knowledge of EdExpress, EdConnect,COD and NSLDS preferred.
Job Type: Full-time
Benefits:
  • 401(k) matching
  • Dental insurance
  • Health insurance
  • Life insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Professional development assistance
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • Vision insurance