Student Accounts Specialist

Reporting directly to the Director of the Bursar Office, the Student Accounts Specialist is responsible for providing comprehensive support for student account operations, including account analysis, billing, cashiering, and customer service. This position serves as a primary point of contact for students, faculty, staff, and external partners regarding student account inquiries, payment processing, and workforce or third-party billing. The role ensures accuracy, compliance, and timely resolution of account-related matters across assigned campuses. Hourly Rate: $19.00 Location: Valparaiso Major Responsibilities Student Account Management & Customer ServiceServe as a primary contact for student account inquiries, providing detailed guidance to students, faculty, staff, and external partners via phone, email, and in-person communication.Research, analyze, and resolve complex student account issues, including tuition, financial aid, and billing discrepancies.Explain billing statements, account activity, and financial aid impacts to students and families.Assist students with completing online processes related to payments, refunds, and account management. Account Maintenance & TransactionsReview and manage student account holds, including placing or releasing holds as appropriate.Create, monitor, and follow up on payment plans to ensure timely payments.Research and resolve returned refunds, stale-dated checks, and missing payments.Process account adjustments, refunds, and ensure proper reconciliation of accounts.Maintain accurate records and ensure compliance with institutional policies and procedures. Cashiering & ReconciliationPerform daily cashiering functions, including payment processing and transcript payments.Reconcile daily cash drawers and prepare deposits with required documentation.Ensure all transactions are balanced and discrepancies are resolved promptly. Billing, Invoicing & Third-Party AccountsManage third-party and workforce billing, including contract setup, invoicing, and payment tracking.Review sponsor accounts for accuracy and follow up on outstanding balances.Process non-credit and workforce-related billing, vouchers, and claims.Ensure proper coding of revenue and cost centers within financial systems. Account Analysis & ReportingReview credit balance reports and initiate refunds where appropriate.Reconcile student, agency, and program accounts to ensure accuracy and completeness.Monitor outstanding balances and communicate with students regarding payment obligations. Compliance & Administrative SupportAssist with audit preparation and ensure compliance with federal, state, and institutional regulations.Maintain organized and accurate electronic and physical filing systems.Support operational needs of the Bursar Office, including special programs and initiatives. Perform other duties as assigned consistent with commonly accepted practices. Minimum Requirements:Associate's degree in business, accounting, finance, or related field; or equivalent work experience.Experience with cash handling, account reconciliation, or financial transactions.Strong customer service, communication, and interpersonal skills.High level of accuracy, attention to detail, and organizational ability.Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information.Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook) and general computer systems. Preferred QualificationsExperience with student information or financial systems (e.g., Banner, Workday, Touchnet).Experience with third-party billing, workforce programs, or higher education finance operations. Ivy Tech is committed to supporting the well-being, growth, and financial security of our full-time faculty and staff. Our comprehensive benefits package includes: Health & WellnessMultiple medical plan options paired with a Health Savings Account with a generous employer contributionDental plan with no-cost preventive services and coverage for orthodontiaVision plan with low-cost exams and allowances for glasses or contact lensesEmployee Assistance Program offering no-cost confidential counseling sessions, legal consultations, financial planning consultations, and other resourcesWellness program with opportunities to earn $250 in Wellness RewardsFlexible Spending Accounts for healthcare (limited purpose) and dependent care Retirement & Financial Security10% employer retirement contribution, fully vested after two yearsBasic life insurance equal to annual salary paid by the College, with optional supplemental coverageShort-term and long-term disability benefits Educational BenefitsFee remission for employees, spouses, and dependent childrenTuition assistance for undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programsPaid professional development opportunities Work-Life BalanceGenerous paid time off, including vacation, sick leave, holidays, and winter recessFlexible work arrangements where availablePaid childbirth recovery leave (8 weeks)Paid parental leave (4 weeks) Additional PerksEligibility for Public Service Loan ForgivenessAdditional discounts on gym memberships, transportation, and various retail services Ivy Tech is proud to offer benefits that support your health, your family, and your future-because when our employees thrive, our students and communities thrive too. For more information on Ivy Tech Benefits, visit https://careers.ivytech.edu/benefits. Note: Employees who re-hire with the College within 180 days of leaving a full-time position with the College may be eligible for additional benefits depending on their bridged seniority date. Ivy Tech Community College is an accredited, equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, ethnicity, national origin, marital status, religion, sex, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, age or veteran status. As required by Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, Ivy Tech Community College does not discriminate on the basis of sex, including sexual harassment in its educational programs and activities, including employment and admissions. Questions specific to Title IX may be referred to the College's Title IX Coordinator or to the US Department of Education Office of Civil Rights.