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Seattle Colleges · 2 weeks ago

Program Specialist- District Financial Aid (2 positions)

Greater Seattle Area

Full-time

Hybrid

Entry, Mid Level

$62K/yr - $81K/yr

2+ years exp

Seattle Colleges is looking to hire two Program Specialists in District Financial Aid to manage and coordinate financial aid programs. The role involves ensuring compliance with federal, state, and institutional requirements while supporting students' financial needs and advising on financial aid rules and regulations.

EducationHigher EducationSTEM Education

No H1B

Responsibilities

Manage one or more financial aid programs (Federal Loans, State Aid, Grants, Institutional Funds, Seattle Promise)

Advise students, faculty, and staff on financial aid rules, regulations, and eligibility

Monitor federal, state, and local policy changes and keep the team informed of updates

Develop and maintain processes, policies, and training to ensure compliance with changing regulations

Lead program tasks such as Census Date processing, Return to Title IV (R2T4), disbursements, and aid adjustments

Prepare and reconcile monthly and annual reports (FISAP, WA State Aid, Seattle Promise, etc.)

Collaborate with campus teams, cashiering, and Student Financials to ensure accurate fund disbursement

Review and process financial aid applications, analyze data, and determine student eligibility

Maintain accurate, auditable records of aid awards, adjustments, appeals, and compliance documentation

Resolve issues related to loan applications, citizenship status, and aid disbursements while supporting students through the process

Qualification

Financial Aid ManagementCompliance KnowledgeData AnalysisCustomer ServiceInterpersonal SkillsOrganizational SkillsProblem-SolvingCritical ThinkingAttention to DetailCommunication Skills

Required

You have an Associate's degree or higher in a related field

You have 2 or more years of experience in student financial aid, student development services, or a related higher education role

You have a track record of providing excellent, student-centered customer service with strong interpersonal and organizational skills

You have demonstrated commitment to equity and inclusion, serving diverse student populations and working to remove barriers for historically marginalized communities

You have experience interpreting and applying policies and procedures based on federal and state regulations

You have knowledge of federal and state resources for training and compliance, including financial aid associations and conferences

You have experience working with systems that process, communicate, and oversee student financial aid eligibility

You are detail-oriented, able to troubleshoot and problem-solve complex academic and systems issues with accuracy

You have the ability to communicate clearly, collaboratively, and respectfully with people from diverse backgrounds and abilities

You are proactive, able to think critically, meet deadlines, prioritize time-sensitive work, and are willing to work evenings and weekends when needed