Job Description
Job Overview:
Position Title:
Financial Aid Advisor IJob Group:
Professional & ScientificRequired Minimum Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degreePreferred Qualifications:
Experience working in a higher education financial aid office or a related student services role, with knowledge of financial aid regulations and processes.Familiarity with financial aid management systems such as Workday, or other student information systems.
Public speaking or presentation experience
Experience with financial literacy topics, including budgeting, student loans, and responsible borrowing.
Job Description:
Looking to make a meaningful impact in the Iowa State University community by supporting and educating students on their financial journey? As a Financial Aid Advisor I in the Office of Student Financial Aid, you will play a critical role in helping students and their families understand how to fund their college education and develop essential financial literacy skills. From one-on-one advising to group presentations and outreach events, you will guide students through the financial aid process, promote responsible money management, and help shape their future. This is a rewarding opportunity for someone who enjoys working in a collaborative, student-focused environment and is passionate about making college accessible and affordable for all.
Key Responsibilities:
- Advise students and their families on financial aid application procedures, eligibility, and available funding options.
- Conduct one-on-one advising sessions and group presentations focused on financial literacy and aid opportunities.
- Assist with outreach initiatives, including university resource fairs, community events, and meetings with prospective students.
- Support institutional compliance by interpreting and applying federal, state, and university regulations.
- Process and award financial aid in a timely and accurate manner to support enrollment and retention goals.
- Respond to student and parent inquiries via email, phone, and in-person meetings
- Collaborate with internal and external partners to support student success initiatives.
- Stay current on changes to financial aid policy and contribute to continuous improvement efforts within the office.
- Participate in training sessions, retreats, and professional development opportunities.
About the Department:
The Office of Student Financial Aid is a key unit within the Division of Academic Affairs at Iowa State University, located in the heart of campus. Each year, we administer more than $400 million in aid to a diverse student body, supporting more than 85% of undergraduate students and many domestic graduate students. Our mission is centered on student success—we educate, empower, and advocate for our students through financial literacy and access to aid. We pride ourselves on fostering a supportive and growth-oriented work environment that values collaboration, innovation, and professional development. If you’re ready to join a team that’s passionate about student achievement and financial empowerment, we welcome your application.
This is a term position with the end date of 06/30/2026, with the opportunity for renewal.
Example of Duties
• Assists students and families by making recommendations, interpreting regulations, and reviewing petitions.
• Counsels students and families regarding financial aid including eligibility, application procedures, aid programs, costs, indebtedness, money management, and financial planning.
• Provides status updates regarding eligibility, scholarships, and applications.
• Provides specialized support for a financial aid area.
• Analyzes data and applies judgement.
• Evaluates individual circumstances and documentation and makes adjustments or exceptions based on judgement.
• Prepares and gives presentations related to financial aid and related topics.
Level Guidelines
• Individual contributor position with developing professional and/or technical skills working under immediate to general supervision
• Grasps professional-level knowledge and concepts of field while working in a progressive learning mode
• Works on problems and issues of somewhat limited scope
• Follows standard practices and procedures in analyzing situations or data for which answers are available or can be obtained
• Responds to inquiries and issues, escalating to manager or higher level workers as appropriate
• May lead projects of limited scope and complexity
• May provide guidance to students
Appointment Type:
Regular with Term Appointment (Fixed Term)Proposed End Date or Length of Term:
June 30, 2026Number of Months Employed Per Year:
12 Month Work PeriodTime Type:
Full timePay Grade:
PS805Application Instructions:
To apply for this position, please click on “Apply” and complete the Employment Application. Please be prepared to enter or attach the following:
1) Resume/Curriculum Vitae
2) Letter of Application/Cover Letter
If you have questions regarding this application process, please email employment@iastate.edu or call 515-294-4800 or Toll Free: 1-877-477-7485.
Why Choose ISU?
Iowa State Employees enjoy comprehensive health and work-life benefits, including medical and dental; as well as:
• Retirement benefits including defined benefit and defined contribution plans
• Generous vacation, holiday and sick time and leave plans
• Onsite childcare (Ames, Iowa)
• Life insurance and long-term disability
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Various voluntary benefits and discounts
• Employee Assistance Program
• Wellbeing program
• Iowa State offers WorkFlex options for some positions. WorkFlex offers flexibility on when, where, and how you do your work. For more information, please speak with the Hiring Manager.
