Lead Financial Aid Advisor, State Programs
The University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia, us, 30604
Overview
Posting Details
Posting Details
Posting Number S14663P Working Title Lead Financial Aid Advisor, State Programs Department VPI-Student Financial Aid About the University of Georgia
Chartered by the state of Georgia in 1785, the University of Georgia is the birthplace of public higher education in America and is the state’s flagship university. The proof is in our more than 240 years of academic and professional achievements and our continual commitment to higher education. UGA is currently ranked among the top 20 public universities in U.S. News & World Report. The University’s main campus is located in Athens, approximately 65 miles northeast of Atlanta, with extended campuses in Atlanta, Griffin, Gwinnett, and Tifton. UGA employs approximately 3,100 faculty and more than 7,700 full-time staff. The University’s enrollment exceeds 41,000 students including over 31,000 undergraduates and over 10,000 graduate and professional students. Academic programs reside in 19 schools and colleges, including our newly established School of Medicine.
About The College/Unit/Department
The Office of Student Financial Aid (OSFA) manages and executes the financial aid operations, programs, and processes for the campus. OSFA oversees the administration of federal, state, and institutional aid provided to the UGA student body. With approximately 42 employees OSFA has responsibility for all financial aid received by the UGA student body in the form of grants, scholarships, loans, and work programs. OSFA annually administers in excess of $500 million in student financial aid for UGA students.
College/Unit/Department website https://osfa.uga.edu/
Posting Type
External
Retirement Plan
TRS or ORP
Employment Type
Employee
Benefits Eligibility
Benefits Eligible
Full/Part time
Full Time
Work Schedule
Monday – Friday, 8:00am – 5:00pm. Some evening or weekend hours may be needed. Some travel needed.
Advertised Salary
Up To $57,145
Posting Date
02/03/2026
Open until filled
Yes
Closing Date
Proposed Starting Date 03/01/2026
Location of Vacancy
Athens Area
EEO Policy Statement
The University of Georgia is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or veteran status or other protected status. Persons needing accommodations or assistance with the accessibility of materials related to this search are encouraged to contact Central HR ( hrweb@uga.edu ).
USG Core Values Statement
The University System of Georgia is comprised of our 26 institutions of higher education and learning, as well as the System Office. Our USG Statement of Core Values are Integrity, Excellence, Accountability, and Respect. These values serve as the foundation for all that we do as an organization, and each USG community member is responsible for demonstrating and upholding these standards. More details on the USG Statement of Core Values and Code of Conduct are available in USG Board Policy 8.2.18.1.2 and can be found online at
https://www.usg.edu/policymanual/section8/C224/#p8.2.18_personnel_conduct .
Additionally, USG supports Freedom of Expression as stated in Board Policy 6.5 Freedom of Expression and Academic Freedom found online at
https://www.usg.edu/policymanual/section6/C2653 .
Position Information
Classification Title
Financial Aid Advisor III
FLSA
Exempt
FTE
1.00
Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in a related field or equivalent and 5 years of professional experience
Preferred Qualifications
Prior experience working in Student Financial Aid
Position Summary
Serve as lead financial aid advisor for state student financial aid programs, including the HOPE and Zell Miller scholarship programs. Advise students and parents regarding federal, state, and institutional financial aid in an accurate and efficient manner, and assist with related financial aid application processes. Award, cancel, and revise financial aid awards based on office policies and procedures, and in compliance with applicable rules and regulations. Serve as lead on data reporting and regulatory compliance for all state programs. Remain current regarding federal, state, university, and other financial aid regulations, policies, and procedures.
Knowledge, Skills, Abilities And/or Competencies
Acute attention to detail and deadlines
Strong organizational skills
Ability to multitask with high levels of accuracy
Strong customer service skills
Excellent oral and written communication skills
Strong computer and technology skills
Physical Demands
Climb stairs.
Sit for extended periods of time doing computer work.
Lift up to 30 pounds.
Some evening and weekend work.
Some travel for off-campus outreach events.
Is driving a responsibility of this position?
Yes
Is this a Position of Trust?
Yes
Does this position have operation, access, or control of financial resources?
Yes
Does this position require a P-Card?
No
Is having a P-Card an essential function of this position?
No
Does this position have direct interaction or care of children under the age of 18 or direct patient care?
No
Does this position have Security Access
Yes
Credit and P-Card policy
Be advised a credit check will be required for all positions with financial responsibilities. For additional information about the credit check criteria, visit the
UGA Credit Background Check website .
Background Investigation Policy
Offers of employment are contingent upon completion of a background investigation including, a criminal background check demonstrating your eligibility for employment with the University of Georgia; confirmation of the credentials and employment history reflected in your application materials (including reference checks) as they relate to the job-based requirements of the position applied for; and, if applicable, a satisfactory credit check. You may also be subject to a pre-employment drug test for positions with high-risk responsibilities, if applicable. Please visit the
UGA Background Check website .
Duties/Responsibilities
Serve as office lead for and maintain commanding knowledge of state systems and the regulations, policies, and procedures governing programs administered by the State of Georgia, as well as other states
Promptly apprise supervisor and senior management of changes in systems and/or regulations/policies affecting the administration of state programs
Maintain current relevant sections of the OSFA Policies and Procedures Manual, and prepare staff training on issues related to state student financial aid
Percentage of time 25
Advise accurately and efficiently students and parents who call, visit, or email the office regarding financial aid information and processes throughout lifecycle of financial aid application through receipt of aid funds and after
Provide assistance to students, families, and colleagues in completing financial aid processes
Maintain a working knowledge of relevant student information and financial aid processing systems
Maintain privacy and confidentiality of student and family data and information
Maintain security of student records and related information
Percentage of time 25
Accurately award and revise student financial aid in accordance with federal, state, and university policies and procedures
Process and work numerous and complex reports—these reports will interpret the necessary action and completed in a timely manner
Remain current regarding federal, state, and university regulations and policies and procedures concerning financial aid related matters
Monitor relevant systems (e.g., BANNER, COD, NSLDS, CHECS, etc.) for changes to students’ aid eligibility and revise or cancel financial aid awards
Reconcile award discrepancies with Student Accounts and work with UGA departments as needed to resolve financial aid related issues
Adhere to all statutory, regulatory, and policy guidance, including office policies and procedures
Percentage of time 30
Collaborate with other employees on office committees regarding policy, procedures, and training opportunities
Participate in approved professional development activities in coordination with supervisor
As needed, assist with presentations and financial aid outreach events, delivering information and responding to questions accurately, timely, and professionally
As needed, assist in training new employees (permanent and temporary, including interns and graduate assistants)
Percentage of time 15
Provide clear and accurate documentation of transactions, conversations, interactions, and edits to records affecting student eligibility and/or compliance with applicable regulations, statutes, and/or policies
Maintain professional appearance and demeanor, including when engaging students, families, colleagues, and members of the public
Perform other duties as assigned in support of office, divisional, and institutional goals [5%]
Percentage of time 5
Contact Information
Recruitment Contact
Contact Details
For questions concerning this position or recruitment progression, please refer to the Recruitment Contact listed below.
Recruitment Contact Name
Wanda Pickens
Recruitment Contact Email
wanda.pickens@uga.edu
Recruitment Contact Phone
Posting Specific Questions
Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).
Required Documents
Resume/CV
Cover Letter
List of References with Contact Information
Optional Documents
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Posting Details
Posting Number S14663P Working Title Lead Financial Aid Advisor, State Programs Department VPI-Student Financial Aid About the University of Georgia
Chartered by the state of Georgia in 1785, the University of Georgia is the birthplace of public higher education in America and is the state’s flagship university. The proof is in our more than 240 years of academic and professional achievements and our continual commitment to higher education. UGA is currently ranked among the top 20 public universities in U.S. News & World Report. The University’s main campus is located in Athens, approximately 65 miles northeast of Atlanta, with extended campuses in Atlanta, Griffin, Gwinnett, and Tifton. UGA employs approximately 3,100 faculty and more than 7,700 full-time staff. The University’s enrollment exceeds 41,000 students including over 31,000 undergraduates and over 10,000 graduate and professional students. Academic programs reside in 19 schools and colleges, including our newly established School of Medicine.
About The College/Unit/Department
The Office of Student Financial Aid (OSFA) manages and executes the financial aid operations, programs, and processes for the campus. OSFA oversees the administration of federal, state, and institutional aid provided to the UGA student body. With approximately 42 employees OSFA has responsibility for all financial aid received by the UGA student body in the form of grants, scholarships, loans, and work programs. OSFA annually administers in excess of $500 million in student financial aid for UGA students.
College/Unit/Department website https://osfa.uga.edu/
Posting Type
External
Retirement Plan
TRS or ORP
Employment Type
Employee
Benefits Eligibility
Benefits Eligible
Full/Part time
Full Time
Work Schedule
Monday – Friday, 8:00am – 5:00pm. Some evening or weekend hours may be needed. Some travel needed.
Advertised Salary
Up To $57,145
Posting Date
02/03/2026
Open until filled
Yes
Closing Date
Proposed Starting Date 03/01/2026
Location of Vacancy
Athens Area
EEO Policy Statement
The University of Georgia is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or veteran status or other protected status. Persons needing accommodations or assistance with the accessibility of materials related to this search are encouraged to contact Central HR ( hrweb@uga.edu ).
USG Core Values Statement
The University System of Georgia is comprised of our 26 institutions of higher education and learning, as well as the System Office. Our USG Statement of Core Values are Integrity, Excellence, Accountability, and Respect. These values serve as the foundation for all that we do as an organization, and each USG community member is responsible for demonstrating and upholding these standards. More details on the USG Statement of Core Values and Code of Conduct are available in USG Board Policy 8.2.18.1.2 and can be found online at
https://www.usg.edu/policymanual/section8/C224/#p8.2.18_personnel_conduct .
Additionally, USG supports Freedom of Expression as stated in Board Policy 6.5 Freedom of Expression and Academic Freedom found online at
https://www.usg.edu/policymanual/section6/C2653 .
Position Information
Classification Title
Financial Aid Advisor III
FLSA
Exempt
FTE
1.00
Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in a related field or equivalent and 5 years of professional experience
Preferred Qualifications
Prior experience working in Student Financial Aid
Position Summary
Serve as lead financial aid advisor for state student financial aid programs, including the HOPE and Zell Miller scholarship programs. Advise students and parents regarding federal, state, and institutional financial aid in an accurate and efficient manner, and assist with related financial aid application processes. Award, cancel, and revise financial aid awards based on office policies and procedures, and in compliance with applicable rules and regulations. Serve as lead on data reporting and regulatory compliance for all state programs. Remain current regarding federal, state, university, and other financial aid regulations, policies, and procedures.
Knowledge, Skills, Abilities And/or Competencies
Acute attention to detail and deadlines
Strong organizational skills
Ability to multitask with high levels of accuracy
Strong customer service skills
Excellent oral and written communication skills
Strong computer and technology skills
Physical Demands
Climb stairs.
Sit for extended periods of time doing computer work.
Lift up to 30 pounds.
Some evening and weekend work.
Some travel for off-campus outreach events.
Is driving a responsibility of this position?
Yes
Is this a Position of Trust?
Yes
Does this position have operation, access, or control of financial resources?
Yes
Does this position require a P-Card?
No
Is having a P-Card an essential function of this position?
No
Does this position have direct interaction or care of children under the age of 18 or direct patient care?
No
Does this position have Security Access
Yes
Credit and P-Card policy
Be advised a credit check will be required for all positions with financial responsibilities. For additional information about the credit check criteria, visit the
UGA Credit Background Check website .
Background Investigation Policy
Offers of employment are contingent upon completion of a background investigation including, a criminal background check demonstrating your eligibility for employment with the University of Georgia; confirmation of the credentials and employment history reflected in your application materials (including reference checks) as they relate to the job-based requirements of the position applied for; and, if applicable, a satisfactory credit check. You may also be subject to a pre-employment drug test for positions with high-risk responsibilities, if applicable. Please visit the
UGA Background Check website .
Duties/Responsibilities
Serve as office lead for and maintain commanding knowledge of state systems and the regulations, policies, and procedures governing programs administered by the State of Georgia, as well as other states
Promptly apprise supervisor and senior management of changes in systems and/or regulations/policies affecting the administration of state programs
Maintain current relevant sections of the OSFA Policies and Procedures Manual, and prepare staff training on issues related to state student financial aid
Percentage of time 25
Advise accurately and efficiently students and parents who call, visit, or email the office regarding financial aid information and processes throughout lifecycle of financial aid application through receipt of aid funds and after
Provide assistance to students, families, and colleagues in completing financial aid processes
Maintain a working knowledge of relevant student information and financial aid processing systems
Maintain privacy and confidentiality of student and family data and information
Maintain security of student records and related information
Percentage of time 25
Accurately award and revise student financial aid in accordance with federal, state, and university policies and procedures
Process and work numerous and complex reports—these reports will interpret the necessary action and completed in a timely manner
Remain current regarding federal, state, and university regulations and policies and procedures concerning financial aid related matters
Monitor relevant systems (e.g., BANNER, COD, NSLDS, CHECS, etc.) for changes to students’ aid eligibility and revise or cancel financial aid awards
Reconcile award discrepancies with Student Accounts and work with UGA departments as needed to resolve financial aid related issues
Adhere to all statutory, regulatory, and policy guidance, including office policies and procedures
Percentage of time 30
Collaborate with other employees on office committees regarding policy, procedures, and training opportunities
Participate in approved professional development activities in coordination with supervisor
As needed, assist with presentations and financial aid outreach events, delivering information and responding to questions accurately, timely, and professionally
As needed, assist in training new employees (permanent and temporary, including interns and graduate assistants)
Percentage of time 15
Provide clear and accurate documentation of transactions, conversations, interactions, and edits to records affecting student eligibility and/or compliance with applicable regulations, statutes, and/or policies
Maintain professional appearance and demeanor, including when engaging students, families, colleagues, and members of the public
Perform other duties as assigned in support of office, divisional, and institutional goals [5%]
Percentage of time 5
Contact Information
Recruitment Contact
Contact Details
For questions concerning this position or recruitment progression, please refer to the Recruitment Contact listed below.
Recruitment Contact Name
Wanda Pickens
Recruitment Contact Email
wanda.pickens@uga.edu
Recruitment Contact Phone
Posting Specific Questions
Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).
Required Documents
Resume/CV
Cover Letter
List of References with Contact Information
Optional Documents
#J-18808-Ljbffr