Students Accounts Specialist

The Student Accounts Specialist provides exceptional customer service while performing a variety of student account functions, including student billing, collections, payment plan administration, and payment processing for students and families. This position works collaboratively with the Financial Aid Office and other departments across the College to ensure that all student account operations are conducted accurately and in compliance with institutional, federal, and state policies and regulations.

The Student Accounts Specialist is a 12-month staff position that reports directly to the Bursar.

REQUIRED QUALIFIATIONS 

• Associate degree in Business, Accounting, Finance, or a related field.
• Minimum of two (2) years of experience in billing, collections, and customer service.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, particularly Excel and Word.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Experience working in a higher education environment.
• Knowledge of student account management and financial aid processes.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILTIES

1. Provide outstanding customer service by responding to inquiries from students, parents, faculty, staff, and other departments via telephone, email, and in-person interactions.
2. Assist with the preparation, review, and distribution of student billing statements.
3. Process and apply student account charges and credits through system imports and departmental transactions, including: 
   • Bookstore charges
   • Library fines and fees
   • Public Safety charges
   • Student organization fees
   • Private scholarship awards
4. Assist with third-party billing, invoicing, and payment processing.
5. Support collection efforts related to delinquent student accounts while maintaining professionalism and sensitivity in communications.
6. Assist in the preparation, processing, and evaluation of student account refunds.
7. Collaborate with the Financial Aid Office and other campus departments to ensure accurate account reconciliation and compliance with applicable policies and regulations.
8. Maintain accurate records and documentation related to student account transactions.
9. Perform other duties and special projects as assigned by the Bursar.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

• Demonstrated commitment to providing outstanding customer service in a student-centered environment.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to interact effectively with students, parents, faculty, staff, and administrators.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel and Word.
• Ability to maintain a high level of confidentiality and exercise sound judgment when handling sensitive information.
• Excellent organizational, time-management, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities with minimal supervision.
• Ability to analyze data and prepare financial, operational, and statistical reports.
• Ability to present information clearly and effectively regarding Bursar Office policies, procedures, and services.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to accuracy.

APPLICATIN PROCESS

To be considered for this position, applicants must submit the following:

• Completed Employment Application available at www.northwestms.edu
• Current Resume
• Three (3) Professional References (Name, Phone Number, and Email)