Student Accounts Specialist

The New School, a pioneering institution established in 1919 to challenge conventional educational models, is seeking a dedicated and detail-oriented individual to join our team as a Student Accounts Specialist. Reporting to the Assistant Director of Student Accounts, the Student Accounts Specialist will play a crucial role in managing and overseeing student accounts, ensuring accurate billing, processing payments, and providing exceptional support to our diverse student body. The successful candidate will have strong analytical skills, a commitment to customer service, and a deep understanding of financial operations within a higher education setting. By joining our dynamic team, the Student Accounts Specialist will contribute to the financial well-being of our students, helping to maintain the inclusive and supportive environment that is a hallmark of The New School.

This is a Local 1205 Professional Unit position subject to the terms and conditions agreed to in the Union Contract between Teamsters Local 1205 and The New School.

The New School is strongly committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace and particularly seeks applications from members of underrepresented groups, as well as candidates who share this commitment.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Assist the Assistant Director in overseeing all aspects of student account operations and customer service initiatives to ensure smooth and efficient processes.
• Ensure effective communication within the department and with students, parents, and other stakeholders through calls, emails, in-person meetings, Qless, Zoom, and other communication methods, facilitating productive interactions and resolutions.
• Act as a primary point of contact for students, parents, and other individuals regarding student account inquiries, providing accurate information and resolving concerns promptly.
• Collaborate with various departments across the institution to facilitate account corrections, follow-ups, and ensure seamless interdepartmental communication.
• Maintain comprehensive knowledge of regulations, policies, and procedures to ensure compliance and provide accurate assistance to students and other stakeholders.
• Contribute to departmental goals by improving processes, enhancing customer service, and ensuring accuracy and efficiency in all account-related activities.
• Analyze reporting data to proactively identify and troubleshoot student account issues, including payment processing, account holds, charge errors, financial aid discrepancies, and balance inquiries.
• Assist in managing the Emergency Committee account review process, ensuring the timely processing and refunding of emergency funds to eligible students.
• Support updates to the department’s communication materials, including the tuition and fees website, announcements, canned responses, and auto-reply emails, ensuring clarity and accuracy.
• Manage the processing of Canadian tax forms and address related inquiries from parents and students, as well as handle IRS 1098-T form inquiries.
• Assist in managing third-party billing, outside scholarships, Federal Perkins loans, and other specialized areas, ensuring accurate processing and resolution of related transactions and inquiries.
• Perform other duties as assigned to support the overall mission and operations of the Student Financial Services department.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Articulate and proactive communicator with the ability to work cooperatively with students, parents, co-workers, and other departments.
• Positive and detail-oriented individual with a demonstrated ability to initiate follow-up with students and complete assignments effectively.
• Ability to learn new technologies and programs, adapting to evolving systems and processes within the department.
• Strong commitment to exceptional customer service, ensuring positive and supportive interactions with all stakeholders.
• Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively within a diverse and dynamic team of professionals.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook, etc.) to efficiently manage documents, communications, and data analysis.
• At least 3 years of related experience in student accounts, financial services, or a similar role within a higher education setting.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree (BA/BS) in a relevant field.
• Familiarity with the SCT Banner system or comparable administrative software is highly desirable.
• Experience with the TouchNet Product Suite is a plus, enhancing the candidate’s ability to manage payment and billing processes effectively.
• Knowledge of FERPA regulations and the ability to apply these principles in managing student information and maintaining confidentiality.

WORK MODE

• Hybrid – Employees hired for this position primarily work remotely with the occasional on-campus presence required with advanced notice. Employees in this role will also be expected to use their best judgment to be on campus when necessary in order to best fulfill the responsibilities of their job descriptions. #LI-HYBRID

HOURLY RATE

• $25 – $29 per hour

We look forward to receiving your application!