Student Accounts and Financial Aid Customer Service (WS-ST2)

Job Title: Student Accounts and Financial Aid Customer Service (WS-ST2)

Classification: Student Employee (non-exempt)

Name and Address of Employer: St. Olaf College, 1520 St. Olaf Ave, Northfield, MN 55057

If the position requires the student to work off campus, provide the name and address here:

Department Name: Student Accounts/Financial Aid

Unit Number (5 digits): 16112

Length of Position: See Employment Authorization  

Contact Person/Supervisor: Student Accounts Specialist

Wage Range: $12.00-13.00/hour

Description of the Position: (Purpose of the Position): 

Serve as the first point of contact for students, families, and staff at the combined Student Accounts and Financial Aid front desk. Provide courteous, timely, and accurate assistance in person, by phone, and via email. Support administrative functions and ensure compliance with institutional policies and FERPA guidelines.​

Transferable Skills: 

• Professional customer service in a fast-paced office environment

• Clear verbal and written communication across diverse populations

• Organization and time management with competing priorities

• Attention to detail in data entry, financial transactions, and document handling

• Confidential records management and regulatory compliance awareness (FERPA)

• Financial literacy and basic accounting concepts (debits, credits, account balances)

• Calendar management and appointment scheduling systems

• Cash handling and payment processing

• Proficiency with Microsoft Excel and office productivity software

• Ability to learn and navigate institutional systems (e.g., SIS, PowerFAIDS, ImageNow)

Duties and Responsibilities: 

• Welcome visitors and manage front desk operations, including appointment check-ins and scheduling through Google Calendar and Book An Appointment tools

• Respond to student, faculty, and staff inquiries in person, by phone, and via email regarding student accounts and financial aid

• Route individuals to appropriate campus offices when needed

• Review weekly communications and task lists to remain informed of departmental priorities

• Scan, link, proof, purge, and check in documents within institutional systems while maintaining accuracy and confidentiality

• Process payments, issue receipts, manage cash advances, and handle credit payouts

• Prepare and route scholarship checks for posting

• Interpret and explain student account statements, including charges, credits, and balances

• Provide general guidance on financial aid policies, procedures, timelines, and application steps

• Assist students in understanding components of their financial aid packages and required documentation

• Organize and maintain financial aid records in compliance with FERPA regulations

• Support the Student Accounts and Financial Aid teams with administrative and operational tasks as assigned

Qualifications: (Education/Experience/Skills) 

• Strong interpersonal and written communication skills

• High level of accuracy and attention to detail

• Ability to multitask and prioritize in a busy office setting

• Working knowledge of Microsoft Excel and basic office software

• Ability to handle financial transactions responsibly and accurately

• Comfort interpreting financial information and explaining it clearly to others

• Ability to maintain strict confidentiality and adhere to FERPA regulations

• Willingness to learn institutional systems and departmental procedures

• Professional demeanor and reliability

This job description is for general information purposes.  It is not intended to list all duties and responsibilities of the position.  This job description is subject to change at any time by St. Olaf College, with or without prior notice.