The Student Accounts Specialist is responsible for managing student accounts, including third party programs, payments, collections, and customer service. This role involves ensuring accurate and timely processing of student financial transactions and maintaining positive relationships with students and their families. The Student Accounts Specialist works closely with other departments to support the overall financial health and administrative functions of the institution. This is a full-time hybrid role with a minimum of two required days at Excelsior's home office of 7 Columbia Circle, Albany, NY, with the remainder of the days worked from home.

• Payments and Receipts: Process payments, including cash, checks, credit cards, and electronic payments. Record and reconcile payments against student accounts.
• Collections: assist students and families with overdue accounts.
• Customer Service: Respond to inquiries from students, parents, and other stakeholders regarding account balances, payment options, billing discrepancies, and related issues. Provide excellent customer service and support.
• Account Reconciliation: Regularly reconcile student accounts with the general ledger. Identify and resolve discrepancies promptly.
• Financial Aid Coordination: Work with the financial aid office to ensure accurate posting of financial aid awards to student accounts. Assist students in understanding how financial aid affects their account balances.
• Payment Plans: Assist in the setup and management of payment plans for students. Ensure payment plan terms are clearly communicated and adhered to.
• Policy Compliance: Ensure all processes comply with institutional policies, as well as state and federal regulations. Stay updated on changes in regulations affecting student accounts.
• Communication: Maintain clear and effective communication with students, parents, and other departments regarding billing and payment processes.
• Process Improvement: Identify opportunities for process improvements in the student accounts area to enhance efficiency and accuracy.

• An earned Associates degree from a regionally accredited university.
• At least 1 year of experience in accounting, finance, or a related field, preferably within higher education institutions.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel.
• Excellent customer service and interpersonal skills.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• High level of accuracy and attention to detail.
• Ability to handle sensitive information confidentially.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.

The hiring salary range for this position is $40,000.00 - $45,000.00. The hiring salary range above represents the University's good faith estimate at the time of posting.