Assistant Financial Aid Counselor - Loan and Pell Programs

The Beach • Long Beach, CA

3d

About The Position

Join the vibrant community at California State University, Long Beach (CSULB)! Located just three miles from the Pacific Ocean, CSULB offers an inspiring workplace and an exceptional Southern California lifestyle. Our 322-acre campus—one of the largest in the CSU system—serves more than 42,000 students and is known for its commitment to student success, innovation, and impactful academic and research initiatives. As a member of the CSULB community, you’ll experience a dynamic environment filled with cultural landmarks, collaborative energy, and opportunities to make a meaningful difference. Work-life balance thrives here. Long Beach blends coastal relaxation with urban vibrancy, offering miles of beaches, year-round sunshine, a thriving arts and food scene, and convenient access to both Los Angeles and Orange County. It’s an ideal place to grow your career while enjoying everything Southern California has to offer. Job Summary The Assistant Financial Aid Counselor - Loan and Pell Programs provides administrative support by assisting with processing activities associated with loan origination and disbursement, reconciliation support, and customer service. The position provides cross-functional support for Federal Pell Grant processing, including assisting with data review and reconciliation-related research. The position serves as a key operational support role within the Financial Aid Office, helping ensure timely, accurate, and compliant delivery of student financial aid while supporting institutional, federal, and state regulatory requirements. Furthermore, the incumbent provides services that are equitable, inclusive, and culturally sensitive to enhance the quality of campus life. This position uses a student-centered and equity-minded approach in all communication and service efforts.

Requirements

• The ideal candidate possesses strong knowledge of financial aid programs, policies, regulations, and needs‑analysis methodology, with the ability to accurately interpret and apply federal, state, and institutional guidelines within a constantly evolving regulatory environment.
• They demonstrate proficiency with online student information systems and the technical skill needed to adapt to complex system and policy changes.
• Exceptional customer service is essential—they consistently communicate with professionalism, empathy, and clarity, whether working with students, families, faculty, or staff, including when conveying difficult or technical information.
• The candidate must remain composed and supportive in challenging situations while effectively presenting financial aid processes to diverse audiences.
• They also excel as a collaborative team member, able to navigate shared workloads and support colleagues’ decisions.
• Strong time‑management and organizational skills are critical, as the role requires managing multiple deadlines with great attention to detail and accuracy, balancing daily responsibilities with ongoing training and professional development.
• Ability to communicate with an ethnically and culturally diverse campus community.
• Ability to follow all university policies, procedures, and guidelines including but not limited to safety, civility, information security, and non-discrimination policies and procedures.
• Ability to contribute to a positive university experience for each and every student and assist in achieving the university's commitment to a "vision of excellence."
• Equivalent to a bachelor's degree in one of the behavioral sciences, public or business administration, or a job-related field and one year of directly related experience required.

Responsibilities

• Assist with Student Loan and Federal Pell Grant awarding, origination and disbursement processing, reconciliation, and issue resolution.
• Assist with addressing student inquiries by providing excellent customer service in all areas of financial aid.
• Cross-training in loans and grant policies and procedures to help ensure compliance with changing federal, state, and institutional guidelines.

Benefits

• Generous Paid Time Off : Up to 24 vacation days per year (based on employee group and/or service), 14 paid holidays, and 12 sick days annually with unlimited accrual.
• Comprehensive Health Coverage : A variety of medical, dental, and vision plans to suit your needs.
• Retirement Plans : Participation in CalPERS defined benefit plan and access to voluntary savings plans like 403(b), 401(k), and 457.
• Educational Benefits : Tuition fee waivers for employees and eligible dependents.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) : Confidential counseling and support services for employees and their families.
• Additional Perks : Access to wellness programs, professional development opportunities, and various insurance options including life, disability, and pet insurance.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Number of Employees: 251-500 employees