Financial Aid Counselor

Financial Aid Counselor - Athletics 

Charleston Southern University

Summary

The Financial Aid Counselor – Athletics is responsible for managing all aspects of financial aid for student-athletes at Charleston Southern University. This position plays a critical role in evaluating financial aid documentation, determining eligibility, and awarding scholarships in accordance with regulations established by the U.S. Department of Education, the South Carolina Commission on Higher Education, the South Carolina Tuition Grants Program, and Charleston Southern University.

The counselor coordinates athletic scholarship awards and renewals, ensures compliance, and serves as a primary liaison between Student Financial Services, Athletics, and Compliance. This role provides financial counseling to student-athletes and their families, supports recruiting and retention efforts, and assists in developing and maintaining institutional policies that promote fiscal responsibility, regulatory compliance, and student success.

In keeping with CSU's mission of integrating faith in learning, leading, and serving, the Financial Aid Counselor – Athletics demonstrates professionalism, integrity, and a commitment to helping students navigate the financial aid process with excellence and care.

Work Performed: 

· Counsel student-athletes and parents on financial aid options, athletic scholarships, financial planning, debt management, and the federal Title IV refund policy, including implications of withdrawal or eligibility changes.

· Serve as the primary liaison between Student Financial Services and Athletics, ensuring clear communication and accurate award management.

· Maintain detailed and accurate records of athletic financial aid awards, renewals, and adjustments; calculate and process athletic scholarships, Max Free Aid, and related reporting.

· Collaborate with Student Accounts and Compliance with billing, payments, refunds, payment plans, and account reconciliations for student-athletes.

· Partner closely with Compliance to monitor fund balances and ensure full adherence to financial aid regulations, institutional policy, and federal guidelines.

· Assist in developing, revising, and implementing financial aid policies and procedures specific to athletics; provide ongoing support and guidance to athletic staff.

· Evaluate and process Special Circumstances requests in compliance with federal and institutional policies, maintaining appropriate documentation for audit and regulatory review.

· Provide comprehensive financial aid counseling to student-athletes and families, including guidance on Pell Grants, Federal Direct Loans, state grants, and institutional aid.

· Conduct federally required verification of student files in compliance with the U.S. Department of Education, state agencies, and university policy; resolve conflicting information promptly.

· Host FAFSA completion workshops and other financial aid information sessions for student-athletes.

· Represent Student Financial Services at campus events, orientations, and outreach activities to promote financial literacy and student engagement.

· Perform other duties as assigned that support the mission, goals, and strategic initiatives of Charleston Southern University.

Minimum Qualifications

· Education: Bachelor's degree required.

· Experience: Minimum of one year of experience in financial aid, admissions, or related student services preferred.

· Knowledge:

o Knowledge of Title IV federal aid regulations, state financial aid programs, and NCAA financial aid compliance.

o Familiarity with higher education student systems (e.g., Jenzabar, Slate, PoweFAIDS) preferred.

· Skills and Abilities:

o Excellent organizational, communication, analytical, and problem-solving skills.

o Ability to manage multiple priorities with accuracy and professionalism in a fast-paced environment.

o Demonstrated collaboration across departments and ability to provide outstanding student service.

o Commitment to maintaining confidentiality, integrity, and accountability in all financial aid matters.

o Alignment with the mission and values of Charleston Southern University, and dedication to integrating faith and learning in daily work.

Application Process

Interested candidates should submit a CSU application, cover letter, resume, and contact information for three professional references. In the cover letter, applicants should address their experience in call center management and how their personal faith aligns with the mission of Charleston Southern University.

Charleston Southern University is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate based on race, color, national origin, sex, disability, or age. We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive community that reflects our values and mission.

This job description is not designed to contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee.  Other duties, responsibilities and activities may change or be assigned at any time with or without notice.

This position will remain open until filled.

Charleston Southern University is a Christian university and tobacco-free campus.  We do not illegally discriminate on the basis of race, age, color, national or ethnic origin, disability, sex, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions (including but not limited to lactation), religion, genetic information, veteran or military status, or any other basis on which the university is prohibited from discrimination under local, state or federal law, in its employment or in the provision of its services, including but not limited to its programs and activities, admissions, educational policies, scholarship and loan programs, and athletic and university-administered programs.  In order to fulfill its purpose, the university may legally discriminate on the basis of religion in employment.  The university has been granted exemption from certain regulations promulgated under Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 which conflict with the University's religious tenets and core values.

To apply, please complete the online application below and attach a resume.  Entering untrue or inaccurate information will result in disqualification for consideration of vacant positions, or subsequent termination after hire.  This position will remain open until filled.  By completing this application you are giving Charleston Southern University the authority to contact any person, educational institution, current or former employer, or company to disclose in good faith any information they may have regarding your qualifications and fitness for employment including, but not limited to, those you have listed in your application materials.  Prior to a final offer of employment, the selected candidate will be required to submit to a background check including, but not limited to, employment verification, educational and other credential verification, criminal background check and reference check.  Applicants who will drive for the University will be required to complete a background check on their driving record.