Financial Aid Advisor

Job Description

Indian River State College is seeking a student-centered Financial Aid Advisor who is passionate about helping learners navigate the path to achieving their educational goals. In this role, you will guide students and their families through the financial aid process—from understanding available resources to maintaining eligibility—while providing personalized academic and financial planning support.

As a trusted resource, you will work one-on-one with a diverse student population, offering clear, compassionate guidance on financial aid options, academic progress, and career planning. You will also play an important role in evaluating aid applications, exercising professional judgment in complex situations, and supporting the administration of federal, state, and institutional programs.

This position is ideal for someone who thrives in a collaborative, student-focused environment, values accuracy and integrity, and is motivated to make a meaningful impact on student success.

About Us

Indian River State College is a leading public institution located on Florida’s Treasure Coast, serving students across multiple campuses in four counties. We are dedicated to academic excellence, innovation, and community engagement, offering associate and bachelor’s degrees, workforce training, and continuing education programs.

At The River, we believe every student’s and employee’s story matters. We value the different perspectives, experiences, and talents that come together on our campuses, creating a learning environment and workplace that’s supportive, inclusive, and inspiring. With flexible options online, on campus, and hybrid, we design learning experiences that meet students where they are and prepare them for real-world success. Programs like the Promise Program open doors by providing eligible students with tuition-free access, ensuring every learner has the opportunity to thrive.

Why Join the River

When you join Indian River State College, you become part of a forward-thinking and supportive community where your work truly matters. Your role is more than a job; it’s an opportunity to shape the future, uplift students, and be part of a mission-driven college that is changing lives every day.

What We Offer
At Indian River State College, we value the well-being and professional growth of our employees. Our comprehensive benefits package includes:

·       Health & Wellness: Medical, dental, vision, flexible spending accounts, life insurance, supplemental plans, and access to our Employee Assistance Program (EAP).

·       Affordable Coverage: PPO/HMO options starting at just $50/month for individual coverage and $180/month for family coverage.

·       Retirement Security: Participation in the Florida Retirement System (FRS), plus tax-deferred annuities and Roth 403(b) options.

·       Time for You: Generous paid vacation, personal, and sick leave to support work-life balance.

·       Perks & Discounts: Reduced rates on services and tickets to local attractions.

·       Growth & Development: Professional development programs, leadership training, and opportunities to advance your career.

About Us

Indian River State College is a leading public institution located on Florida’s Treasure Coast, serving students across multiple campuses in four counties. We are dedicated to academic excellence, innovation, and community engagement, offering associate and bachelor’s degrees, workforce training, and continuing education programs.

At The River, we believe every student’s and employee’s story matters. We value the different perspectives, experiences, and talents that come together on our campuses, creating a learning environment and workplace that’s supportive, inclusive, and inspiring. With flexible options online, on campus, and hybrid, we design learning experiences that meet students where they are and prepare them for real-world success. Programs like the Promise Program open doors by providing eligible students with tuition-free access, ensuring every learner has the opportunity to thrive.

Why Join the River

When you join Indian River State College, you become part of a forward-thinking and supportive community where your work truly matters. Your role is more than a job; it’s an opportunity to shape the future, uplift students, and be part of a mission-driven college that is changing lives every day.

What We Offer
At Indian River State College, we value the well-being and professional growth of our employees. Our comprehensive benefits package includes:

·       Health & Wellness: Medical, dental, vision, flexible spending accounts, life insurance, supplemental plans, and access to our Employee Assistance Program (EAP).

·       Affordable Coverage: PPO/HMO options starting at just $50/month for individual coverage and $180/month for family coverage.

·       Retirement Security: Participation in the Florida Retirement System (FRS), plus tax-deferred annuities and Roth 403(b) options.

·       Time for You: Generous paid vacation, personal, and sick leave to support work-life balance.

·       Perks & Discounts: Reduced rates on services and tickets to local attractions.

·       Growth & Development: Professional development programs, leadership training, and opportunities to advance your career.

QUALIFICATIONS, KNOWLEDGE AND SKILL REQUIREMENTS:

The qualifications and skill requirements for this position include:

• Bachelor’s degree and three (3) years of related experience working in a post-secondary educational environment;
• Knowledge of federal and state financial aid programs and services;
• Possess excellent written and verbal communication skills;
• Be student-oriented;
• Possess the ability to work with a diverse student population;
• Exhibit sound judgment and discretion in working with students and the general public;
• Proven knowledge of Microsoft Office and Windows based computer applications;
• Ability to maintain strict accuracy and be detail oriented;
• Must possess strong organizational and interpersonal skills;
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision and be self-motivated;
• Willingness to handle routine tasks;
• Documented work experience in an area of customer service and support that relates to the knowledge and skill requirements may be substituted for the post-secondary work experience;

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

The essential job functions and responsibilities of this position include, but are not limited to:

• Completing academic advising to obtain and retain financial aid eligibility for all types of aid;
• Completing academic advising to IRSC students;
• Maintaining a general knowledge of Division services in support of servicing students;
• Advising students relative to the Financial Aid application process;
• Evaluating and approving/disapproving student applications;
• Determining various aid awards;
• Supervising student employees;
• Recording application information into an electronic format;
• Creating accurate records;
• Using professional judgment relative to student requests and appeals;
• Supporting the Financial Aid Office in planning, organizing, and carrying out specific financial aid functions including but not limited to: coordination of State grant and scholarships, monitoring institutional, Foundation and community scholarships, and preparing student loans.

SPECIFIC DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

The primary duty of the Financial Aid Advisor is the academic advisement of students relative to career planning and directing students in their financial aid planning and preparation.

The specific duties and responsibilities of this position include, but are not limited to:

• Analyzing and approving student aid petitions for special conditions;
• Conducting individual advising sessions with students and families;
• Managing State financial aid programs;
• Authorizing eligibility financial aid recipients;
• Determining academic eligibility for scholarship and programs and coordinating student program awards;
• Promoting an awareness of educational resources;
• Preparing Financial Aid solutions for general students;
• Serving as a resource for information relative to Bright Futures and financial aid;
• Conducting information sessions at public venues;
• Monitoring student adherence to academic progress relative to financial aid;
• Assigning tasks to work study students;
• Developing and maintaining student records;
• Completing other duties and responsibilities as assigned by the Director of Financial Aid.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

This position requires an ability to sit, stand, walk, bend, lift, reach up, stoop, and carry items occasionally in excess of twenty-five (25) pounds.  It also requires manual dexterity to operate standard office machines, such as, copier, fax, calculator, telephone, and other equipment as necessary.  IRSC expects its employees to follow proper safety standards while employed by the College.

Classification

Staff

Supervisory

No

FLSA Exempt

Yes

Employment Type

Regular

Compensation and Application Deadline

The starting salary for this position is $41,382.38 | All salary calculations start at the minimum salary and are based on the candidate's education and experience. | Open until filled.