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Job description
Salary: Depends on Qualifications
Location : Cape Girardeau, MO
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number:
Division: Enrollment Management and Student Success
Department: Student Financial Services
Opening Date: 08/25/2026
Position Summary
Outreach and Retention Specialist
Student Financial Services
Full-Time
Southeast Missouri State University is seeking an Outreach and Retention Specialist to join the Student Financial Services team. This position plays an important role in helping prospective and current students understand and navigate the financial aid process while supporting enrollment and student retention efforts.
The Outreach and Retention Specialist serves as a primary point of contact for incoming and first-year students and their families regarding financial aid opportunities. The position provides individualized financial aid counseling, supports scholarship processing, participates in outreach and recruitment activities, and proactively works with students to identify and address financial barriers that may affect their ability to enroll and persist at Southeast.
This position is ideal for an individual who enjoys working directly with students and families, explaining complex information in an understandable way, building relationships, and collaborating with campus partners to help students achieve their educational goals.
Primary Responsibilities
Serve as a primary financial aid resource for incoming, first-year, and prospective students and their families
Provide individualized counseling and guidance regarding federal, state, institutional, and private financial aid opportunities, including grants, scholarships, loans, and work-study
Explain financial aid eligibility requirements, application procedures, deadlines, and award information to students and families
Develop and maintain knowledge of federal Title IV regulations, financial aid methodology, application requirements, and financial aid packaging procedures
Lead policy research, implementation, documentation, and training related to processes affecting incoming and first-year students
Assist with the review and processing of financial aid applications and ensure awards are administered accurately and in accordance with applicable regulations and University policies
Respond to inquiries related to scholarships
Maintain proactive communication with incoming and first-year students and identify potential financial or administrative barriers that could affect enrollment or retention
Work collaboratively with campus departments and other University partners to develop solutions to student concerns and connect students with appropriate resources
Participate in student retention initiatives and contribute to strategies designed to support student persistence
Represent Student Financial Services at student orientations, Paying for College Nights, FAFSA completion events, recruitment activities, high school visits, community events, and other outreach programs
Present financial aid information to students, families, schools, community organizations, and other groups
Participate in the development, implementation, documentation, and training of departmental procedures
Stay current with changes in federal, state, and institutional financial aid policies and communicate relevant changes to appropriate staff and stakeholders
Provide excellent customer service through in-person, telephone, email, and other communication channels
Maintain confidentiality and protect sensitive student information in accordance with FERPA and University policies
Required Qualifications Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution
Experience in financial aid, higher education, student services, admissions, advising, or a customer service related field; two or more years of experience working in student financial aid or a related higher education environment is a plus
Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively and establish trust relationships with students, families, and diverse audiences
Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
Strong problem-solving and critical-thinking skills
Ability to interpret and apply federal, state, and institutional policies and regulations by explaining complex information in a clear and understandable manner
Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively as a team and independently
Strong written, verbal, interpersonal, and presentation skills
Demonstrated attention to accuracy and detail while managing multiple priorities and meeting established deadlines
Demonstrated commitment to confidentiality and sensitive information
Ability to work effectively in a high-volume environment
Application Process
Application Deadline: To ensure full consideration, applications must be received by September 8, 2026. The position is available immediately and will remain open until filled.
To Apply: Complete the application by clicking on the APPLY button at the top of the page. You will need to submit the following in order for your application materials to be complete. Cover letter
Current resume
Names and contact information of three professional references may be asked for later, if not previously submitted
Additional Information
About Southeast Missouri State University (SEMO): Founded in 1873 and accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, Southeast Missouri State University provides student-centered education and experiential learning with a foundation of liberal arts and sciences, embracing a tradition of access, exceptional teaching, and commitment to student success that significantly contributes to the development of the region and beyond. SEMO values access to high-quality, affordable education with a broadly representative student body, faculty, and staff that respects and celebrates a diverse learning community in a global society.
Southeast Missouri State University provides an excellent benefits package. For complete benefit details visit our website at
Worksite address
cape girardeau, MO, 63705, US
Who can apply
Review the original listing for work authorization, qualifications and employer requirements.