College Aid Associate

The Community Service Society (CSS) is an independent, not-for-profit organization that has been at the forefront of public policy innovations that support low-income New Yorkers for more than 180 years. In 2019, through its Program Services Department, CSS launched the Education Debt Consumer Assistance Program (EDCAP), which helps consumers navigate the student lending system and make informed decisions about financing higher education. In 2024, EDCAP expanded its services to support current and future college students with financial aid (FAFSA) application assistance and pre-college counseling. EDCAP is increasing its capacity to meet the demand for these services and is looking for a strong candidate to join its team.

Job Description:

EDCAP provides remote and in-person counseling services to individuals who need help with student loans and funding higher education. Services include assisting borrowers with enrolling in appropriate repayment plans, getting out of default, applying for student loan discharge or forgiveness programs, and more. With its expanded focus on college affordability, EDCAP now also supports students and families in understanding financial aid options and making informed decisions about paying for college.

The College Aid Associate will play a key role in delivering these expanded services. This is a temporary, time-limited position supporting the Manager of College Financing Initiatives in providing high-quality pre-college counseling and financial aid assistance to students and families across New York State. The College Aid Associate will provide one-on-one consumer assistance, conduct outreach and education efforts, and help ensure that individuals have the tools and information they need to make sound financial decisions about higher education. As part of this work, the College Aid Associate will also help build relationships with school counselors and support their efforts to guide students through the financial aid process.

Job Responsibilities:

• Provide one-on-one and group counseling sessions on financial aid, FAFSA and TAP completion, and college affordability
• Assist students and families in understanding financial aid award letters and comparing college costs
• Support the development and delivery of workshops, webinars, and outreach events
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of federal, state, and institutional financial aid policies and procedure
• Collaborate with schools, community organizations, and other stakeholders to expand access to EDCAP services
• Track client interactions and outcomes using Salesforce and other internal systems
• Contribute to the creation of educational materials and resources
• Other responsibilities as assigned by the Supervisor

Job Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree preferred
• Experience or demonstrated interest in financial aid counseling, college access, or student support services
• Experience working directly with clients, students, or community members in a service-oriented or educational setting
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
• Willingness to travel for events, including occasional evenings and weekends

Compensation: $34.62 per hour

Additional Details: This is a time limited position with an end date of September 30, 2026.

CSS currently offers a hybrid work environment requiring onsite work at CSS’ office at least two days per week and three days per week remote work.

• **Interested applicants should provide a cover letter and resume at the time of application submission***