Financial Aid Quality Assurance Specialist

National University

23h•Remote

About The Position

The Financial Aid Quality Assurance Specialist is accountable for conducting thorough internal reviews aimed at monitoring University controls for adherence to both internal guidelines and external regulations. These reviews specifically focus on areas of Federal Financial Aid (Title IV) compliance, Veterans Funding, Student Advising, and overall University operations. The scope of review subjects may vary, contingent on ongoing University projects and changes in regulatory requirements. As a crucial member of the team, the Specialist plays a pivotal role in articulating findings and identifying trends to University stakeholders. Additionally, they may actively contribute to essential regulatory tasks, including the annual audit, reconciliation, reporting, and participation in special projects as required. To ensure continuous compliance, the Specialist stays informed about regulatory modifications by monitoring communications and releases from external agencies such as the Department of Education, Veteran Affairs, and Accreditors. In order to enhance understanding across the University community, the Specialist interprets regulations and produces compliance and policy memos, offering expertise on matters related to regulations and University processes. Furthermore, they collaborate in external audits by preparing requested documentation, conducting individual file reviews, and delivering constructive feedback based on these reviews. The Specialist also lends support to University projects that align with new initiatives, processes, and organizational goals.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree preferred or equivalent combination of experience.
Minimum of three (3) to five (5) years of financial aid, advising, training, or auditing.
3 years’ experience administering financial aid for non-term programs required.
Knowledge of internal policy and procedures.
Current knowledge of financial aid programs and regulations required.
Experience in higher education required.
Knowledge of available private, state, and federal financial aid programs and regulations.
Knowledge of non-term financial aid requirements.
Knowledge of academic and business workings of a higher education institution in an online environment.
Knowledge of University policies and procedures, including policy updates.
Skill in operating equipment, such as personal computers and phone system.
Ability to use and facilitate online communications using email and/or other technology-based communication media.
Ability to multi-task, prioritize, and problem-solve.
Excellent customer service skills.
Detail-oriented, highly organized, and strong time management skills.
Ability to maintain confidentiality.
Ability to provide financial aid services to learners in an online environment.
Be self-motivated and able to work independently, with minimal supervision.
Ability to remain flexible in a fast-paced work environment.
Must be able to consistently display the highest level of integrity.
Strong understanding of the University mission, vision, values, goals, and strategies.

Nice To Haves

2 years of R2T4 identification and calculation experience desired.
Regulatory analysis and interpretation experience preferred.
Experience with data processing and automated records maintenance systems preferred.
Experience working in a technology-driven enterprise preferred.
Knowledge of ED Express & PeopleSoft software.
Experience with Anthology a plus, with demonstrated agility across various financial aid technical systems.
Skill in oral and written communication with the ability to prepare letters, reports, and business correspondence.

Responsibilities

Monitor internal controls as they pertain to the administration of Title IV Federal Student Assistance and R2T4.
Perform comprehensive internal reviews of University controls to assess compliance with internal guidelines and external regulations.
Identify error trends during internal audits, synthesize the results and present them to University stakeholders.
Maintain collaborative and transparent relationships across University constituencies.
Compose and disseminate compliance and policy memos to provide guidance and understanding to relevant stakeholders.
Responsible for the preparation, review, and organization of data and records for annual compliance audits and interim audits, as needed.
Serve as a subject matter expert on issues related to regulations, financial aid processes, and University compliance requirements.
Identify opportunities for process and training improvement and contribute to the development and implementation of enhanced procedures to strengthen overall compliance.
Ensure accurate and organized documentation of review processes, compliance memos, and audit-related materials.
Monitor and interpret regulatory changes and industry best practices, ensuring compliance and strategic alignment.
Uphold and enforce the highest standards of confidentiality and data security, safeguarding sensitive information with rigorous protocols.
Participate in ongoing department projects, or other special projects, as needed.
Champion and cultivate a culture of excellence and inclusivity by leading team activities, driving initiatives, and promoting open communication.
Reasonable and consistent attendance to fulfill requirements of the position.
Other duties as assigned.