Financial Aid Counselor

Company: Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
Location: Daytona Beach
Posted on: April 6, 2026

Job Description:

Job Description Embry-Riddle: Celebrating 100 Years of Leadership in Aviation and Aerospace As Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University marks its Centennial, we proudly celebrate 100 years of advancing the future of flight and aerospace education. With vibrant residential campuses in Daytona Beach, FL, and Prescott, AZ — and a Worldwide network spanning nearly 120 global locations — Embry-Riddle stands as the world’s largest aviation and aerospace university. For a century, we have led innovation in STEM education, serving more than 30,000 students around the globe. Our cutting-edge programs in Applied Science, Aviation, Business, Technology, Engineering, Safety, Security, and Space empower the next generation of leaders to shape the future of flight, exploration, and discovery. As we launch our next century, we remain committed to excellence, innovation, and preparing graduates who will transform industries and redefine what is possible. The Opportunity Assists in the administration of multi-faceted federal, state, institutional, and private financial aid programs primarily through the determination of financial need and aid while simultaneously counseling parents and students culturally/respectfully on aid programs consisting of scholarships, grants, loans, 3rd party assistance, and work study opportunities via a variety of mediums. Adheres to FERPA, state, institutional, and federal regulations while monitoring individual student eligibility for aid awarded under specific programs and regulations. Verifies the accuracy of information submitted by students on the FAFSA, certifies the eligibility and processing of funds for federal, state, and private loans, provides in identifying sources of financial assistance for which a student may qualify to aid in recruitment, retention and completion. Strict regulations contribute to the complexity of this position. Essential Job Functions, Duties, or Accountabilities: Processing – Assist in processing aid for financial aid applicants through the University's and Department of Education's electronic processing systems, including processing applications and corrections, adjusting students Cost of attendance, assigning checklists, coding documents, completing verification, initiating letters and award notifications, and awarding funds. In addition to assisting with quality control checks for all Federal, State, and Institutional programs; reports and fixing discrepancies that may arise with a student’s financial aid (grants, loans, scholarships, return of funds, verification, etc.) within the student systems and notifying the Operations Team of any major issues. Assist with quality assurance reports verifying systematic processing in accordance with Financial Aid eligibility and packaging Review and verify documentation submitted by student and parent to resolve verification requirements and C Flag issues and determine institutional, state, and federal aid eligibility. Performs necessary adjustments to student aid packages to align with federal, state, institutional, and external student aid guidelines and university policy Review and assist with assigned reports i.e., to determine Estimated Financial Assistance (EFA) or award adjustments are needed, COA changes, enrollment changes, over awards, etc. Processing of Federal Direct/PLUS loan programs and private loan programs with an approximate annual volume of $100 million for students and families. Executes strategic communications plans in place for all Client Services processes. Certify PLUS, Graduate PLUS and private education loans, resolving issues between the university’s system and the Dept. of Educations Advising – Counsel students and parents with a strong focus on quality service regarding financial aid eligibility i.e. Federal, State, Institutional, External, and other assistance programs available, and their rights and responsibilities associated with those programs. Provide timely, accurate, professional, and comprehensive financial aid counseling and advisement to all current and prospective students and families by video, phone, in person, and email with the goal of delivering exceptional customer service. Provide advising to students and their family regarding financial aid process, cost, financial aid eligibility ( i. e. Federal, State, Institutional, External, and other assistance programs); balance owed on the student's account, guide them where to set up payment plans, applying for additional loans and other payment options. Counsel on the determination of a student’s eligibility for financial assistance in compliance with federal, multiple states and institutional guidelines and award Financial Aid assistance accordingly. Counsel students and their families regarding state, federal, university, and private funding options, i.e. 3rd party assistance, scholarships, military/VA assistance, employee waivers, etc. Counsel families regarding verification changes, the effects on their financial aid award and the appeals process. Counsel students on the consequences of withdrawing, non-participation of courses, etc. and the Return of Title IV policies and procedures Assist and support students to obtain and retain financial aid eligibility for all types of aid. Monitor and advise financial aid recipients to assist in all enrollments, retention, and completion efforts. Advising financial aid recipients on satisfactory academic progress. Serving as a resource for information related to Bright Futures, Scholarships, and financial aid. Maintain working knowledge of all federal, state, institutional regulations and related office policies and procedures. Utilize conflict resolution skills set to pacify disgruntled students and parents, helping them to understand the situation and identify potential solutions to issues. Maintain knowledge of university services that specifically support student success. Assist University Staff with student financial assistance when requested. Professional Judgment/Special and Unusual Circumstances – Use professional judgment to perform review of all special and unusual circumstances appeals for a caseload of prospective/current undergraduate and graduate students: determining additional COA allowances on individual circumstances: Evaluate student aid appeals including, Satisfactory Academic Progress, special and unusual circumstance, and dependency override to determine eligibility for a professional judgement review. Collecting the appropriate documentation as required by institution, federal, or state if applicable. Re-determine financial need for a caseload of prospective/current undergraduate and graduate students considering new or changed information not on the original applications. Revise offers of financial aid based on professional judgement utilizing institutional policy and guidance set from the U.S. Department of Education Review of student's account for adjustments to financial aid because of discrepancies with credit load, housing, budget etc. Other duties as assigned. Perks Await You at Embry-Riddle! Health Benefits: Experience comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, along with wellness programs that include preventive care and fitness memberships. Our flexible spending and health savings accounts simplify managing healthcare costs. Join a workplace that prioritizes your health—because your journey to wellness should be rewarding! Buckle up for a healthier, happier you! Tuition Coverage: Get 100% tuition coverage for yourself for one undergraduate and one graduate degree, and discounted rates for your spouse and dependent children up to age 26. Retirement Contributions: ERAU contributes an annual 6% gift of your base salary to your retirement plan and offers a 4% matching contribution, with no vesting period. Generous Time Off: Generous Time Off: Relax with 18 days of personal leave in your first year. Enjoy 9 paid holidays, including the day after Thanksgiving and the week between Christmas Eve and New Year’s Day. Compensation Compensation The hourly range for this position is $18.91 - $20.00 . The final offer will consider the candidate’s skills, qualifications, and experience, along with applicable state regulations, internal equity, and business needs, and may fall outside of the stated range. Qualifications Required Education and Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree required 3–5 years of relevant work experience Required Skills, Knowledge, and Abilities: Strong analytical skills with in-depth knowledge of information systems Technical proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, including Access, Excel, PowerPoint, Word, Outlook, and internet applications Prior financial aid experience required, including performing financial aid verification Detailed knowledge of federal, state, and university financial aid regulations and policies Experience working with automated financial aid systems Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to effectively counsel students, parents, staff, and the university community Excellent written and verbal communication skills Demonstrated ability to manage complex administrative tasks in a fast-paced, multi-tasking environment Ability to work under pressure while maintaining attention to detail Strong customer service orientation with the ability to work both independently and collaboratively Proven ability to contribute to and promote a team environment Flexibility to work evenings and weekends during peak periods Application process/requirements To submit your application for this opportunity, please visit the Embry-Riddle Career Site and search for requisition number R311204 ? . Please attach all relevant materials to your application when you apply online. Complete submissions include: Cover letter Full Resume Contact information for at least three professional references (please note that references may be contacted as part of the interview/screening process) Current Embry-Riddle employees: Please apply directly through the ERAU Employee Hub Central application within Workday. Embry-Riddle is committed to fostering a workplace where all individuals are valued and respected. We strive to ensure that all faculty, staff, and students are treated fairly and provided equal opportunities for employment, advancement, compensation, training, and other benefits of employment. Embry-Riddle makes employment decisions — including hiring, promotions, compensation, and other terms of employment — based on individual merit, qualifications, and abilities. Embry Riddle is strongly opposed to discrimination and harassment, and such behavior is prohibited by university policy. Embry Riddle does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, veteran status, predisposing genetic characteristics, age, religion, or pregnancy status, or any other status protected by federal, state, or local law, in its employment, educational programs, admissions policies, financial aid, or other school-administered programs or activities. For further information, please visit our website . Embry-Riddle is not seeking assistance from staffing or recruitment agencies. All agencies are directed to contact eraujobs@erau.edu and should not reach out to hiring managers or staff.

Keywords: Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, Orlando , Financial Aid Counselor, Accounting, Auditing , Daytona Beach, Florida