Job Description

Who We AreSimon Fraser University is a leading research university, advancing an inclusive and sustainable future. Our purpose the essence of SFU is to create and connect knowledge, learning and community for deeper understanding and meaningful impact. We are committed to fostering excellence, innovation, belonging and community in all that we do.The Financial Aid and Awards Office plays a pivotal role in student recruitment, retention and success, supporting students financial journeys through post-secondary. Our Advising team provides coaching, guidance, and advice in the interpretation and application of difficult financial aid criteria, policies, and procedures for both SFU-based undergraduate funding opportunities and Canadian and U.S. government student financial assistance programs. As needed, we make referrals to other SFU-based services and departments and external agencies. We believe appropriate strategies, resources and support are integral to student success.About the RoleThe Student Aid Officer provides guidance and advice to financial aid staff and students in the interpretation and application of difficult financial aid criteria, policies, and procedures; approves and/or adjudicates student loans and grants; assesses applications for SFU administered financial aid and award programs and approves need-based funding; coaches individual students in the development of financial action plans; develops and delivers financial education programs for students, parents, staff and the general public; conducts basic needs assessments and makes referrals to external agencies and internal resources.QualificationsBachelor's degree and three years of related experience which includes direct experience in Financial Aid and Awards or Student Services or an equivalent combination of education, training and experience.

• Provides guidance to Financial Aid Staff and students in the interpretation and application of difficult financial aid criteria, policies, and procedures; the development of complex financial action plans and needs assessment reports; and sourcing, compilation and evaluation of defendable justifications based on interpretive reasoning and past practice to assist with financial aid applications, reassessments and appeals that maximize success.
• Ability to assess applications for SFU administered financial aid and award programs and recommending approvals for need based funding including bursaries and emergency assistance funding.
• Resolving complex or problematic student issues relating to financial aid programs by interpreting relevant policies and procedures, liaising with internal staff and external service, agency, and government staff.
• This position does not supervise anyone but time to time, may assign daily tasks to advising support staff team and may monitor work progress and task completion to ensure multiple deadlines are met.

What We OfferAt SFU, our goal is to ensure our people are valued and supported by promoting a healthy work-life balance, professional growth and development, as well as a safe and respectful workplace. We offer continuing employees who belong in the Administrative & Professional Staff Association (APSA):

• 4 weeks vacation (prorated for the first year)*
• Hybrid-work program for eligible positions
• Employer paid defined benefit pension plan
• On-campus tuition waiver for employees and their immediate family members*
• Off-campus tuition reimbursements and professional development funds*
• And more!

*Prorated for part-time employeesAdditional InformationThere is an Identified Departmental Candidate.Please include your cover letter and resume in one attachment.SFU is an equity employer and strongly encourages applications from all qualified individuals including women, Indigenous Peoples, visible minorities, people of all sexual orientations and gender identities, persons with disabilities, and others who may contribute to the further diversification of the university.We are committed to ensuring that the application and interview process is accessible to all applicants. If you require any assistance or accommodations, please contact pei_reception@sfu.ca.

Simon Fraser University