E-Rate Specialist

Allegheny Intermediate Unit•Homestead, PA

7d•Hybrid

About The Position

This position involves managing the E-Rate lifecycle for both internal AIU needs and external client districts, encompassing application, compliance, and reporting. The role requires expertise in E-Rate regulations and processes, strong organizational and communication skills, and the ability to manage multiple clients and deadlines. It also includes business development aspects, such as identifying new client opportunities and promoting the AIU's consulting services. The specialist will ensure compliance with all federal regulations and support audits. Collaboration with internal technology teams and staying current on telecommunications trends are also key components of the role.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in business administration, public administration, information technology, education, or a related field.
Minimum of three (3) years of direct experience managing E-Rate applications and compliance for a school district, consortium, library, or E-Rate consulting firm.
Demonstrated expertise with the USAC E-Rate Productivity Center (EPC) and all E-Rate program forms and processes.
Strong knowledge of FCC rules, eligible services, and competitive bidding requirements for E-Rate Categories 1 and 2.
Excellent organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple clients, deadlines, and funding years simultaneously.
Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to translate complex regulatory requirements into clear guidance.
Knowledge of K-12 network infrastructure, telecommunications, and broadband technologies.
Current Act 114, Act 34, Act 151 and NSOR Clearances required prior to an offer (Must be dated within 1 year of hire date).
School Personnel Health Record (Form H511.340) must be completed and received by Human Resources prior to hire date.
Valid driver’s license

Nice To Haves

Experience managing E-Rate for a large consortium network, preferred.
E-Rate consulting experience with multiple simultaneous external clients, preferred.
Experience with state or federal grant administration beyond E-Rate.
Experience working in or with Pennsylvania intermediate units or school districts.
Familiarity with Salesforce or other CRM platforms for client and pipeline management.

Responsibilities

Manage the full E-Rate lifecycle for the AIU’s internal ERate (C1 & C2) filings and the Allegheny Connect consortium, including Forms 470, 471, 486, and 472 (BEAR/SPI) filings.
Conduct competitive bidding processes in compliance with FCC rules and USAC guidelines.
Coordinate with consortium member districts to gather required data, letters of agency, and other required documentation.
Maintain accurate records and documentation to support Program Integrity Assurance (PIA) reviews and audits.
Monitor funding commitments, disbursements, and deadlines across all funding years.
Track regulatory changes from the FCC and USAC and advise leadership on programmatic impact.
Serve as the dedicated E-Rate consultant for external client districts, managing their complete E-Rate application and compliance cycle.
Conduct needs assessments and technology plan reviews for client entities to maximize eligible funding.
Prepare and submit all required E-Rate forms and documentation on behalf of clients within established deadlines.
Respond to USAC inquiries, PIA reviews, and appeals on behalf of client organizations.
Provide training and guidance to client personnel on E-Rate eligible services, document retention, and CIPA compliance.
Develop and deliver client-facing reports summarizing funding status, savings achieved, and upcoming deadlines.
Proactively identify and pursue new E-Rate consulting client opportunities among eligible school districts, libraries, and consortia in the region.
Develop proposals, presentations, and marketing materials to promote the AIU’s E-Rate consulting services.
Build and maintain relationships with current and prospective clients through regular communication and exceptional service delivery.
Track client engagement activities, pipeline, and revenue in a CRM system (e.g., Salesforce); experience with CRM tools is preferred but not required.
Represent the AIU at relevant conferences, workshops, and industry events to expand visibility and client base.
Ensure all E-Rate activities comply with federal regulations, FCC orders, and USAC program requirements.
Maintain organized filing systems (physical and electronic) for all E-Rate records per retention requirements.
Prepare regular status reports for internal leadership and external clients on application progress, funding outcomes, and program changes.
Support internal and external audits related to E-Rate funding.
Collaborate with Technology Services staff on network infrastructure planning as it relates to E-Rate eligible services.
Stay current on telecommunications, broadband, and cybersecurity trends affecting K-12 E-Rate eligibility.
Maintain relationships with PA Statewide ERate Coordinator and USAC.
Stay current on E-Rate Developments, Communications from Advocacy Organizations (SHLB & Funds for Learning).
Perform other related duties as assigned by the CTO.