Program Specialist 3 - Financial Aid (Work Study/SAP Processing) (C)

Shoreline Community College•Shoreline College, WA

5d•Hybrid

About The Position

Financial Aid provides students access to the resources they need to begin and continue their education, making college possible when it might otherwise be out of their reach. This position directly supports that mission by serving as a primary point of contact and resource for students delivering accurate information and guidance on financial aid processes. Through problem-solving and coordination with campus departments, the role removes barriers to enrollment and completion for financial aid students, ensures compliance with state and federal regulations, and fosters an inclusive, welcoming environment. By helping students navigate complex processes and access necessary resources, the position advances the college's goals of equity, retention, and successful student outcomes.

Requirements

Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited institution
Two (2) or more years’ full-time related experience, or equivalent part-time experience, OR equivalent education/experience
Microsoft Office products including Outlook, Word and Excel
Experience with PeopleSoft (ctcLink) or similar software in a higher education setting
Experience in administering one or more federal or state financial aid programs
One (1) year experience working in a Washington State Community and Technical College setting in an office related to admissions, financial aid, finance, or other related field as a full-time employee, or equivalent experience as a part-time employee
Demonstrated experience with database systems and federal databases and programs such as NSLDS, COD and the FAFSA Partner Portal.
College policies and procedures, and federal and state regulations pertaining to financial aid programs
Fostering a climate of belonging through awareness and responsiveness
Understanding and interpreting detailed information and troubleshooting/problem solving issues with attention to detail
Time management, organization, and ability to meet competing deadlines/priorities
Critical thinking and proactive problem solving
Providing effective customer service to diverse groups of students
Entering and/or retrieving data accurately in computerized record keeping systems
Handling difficult and sensitive situations, using sound independent judgment within college & legal guidelines
Writing/editing/proofreading clear and concise materials resulting in effective oral and written communication with individuals inside and/or outside of the College
Establishing/maintaining effective working relationships at all organizational levels
Ability to work in a collaborative team environment with a diverse group of students, staff, and the public in a friendly, courteous and helpful manner

Nice To Haves

Please apply anyway! Studies have shown that some candidates are less likely to apply to jobs unless they meet every single qualification – even if they might be a great fit for the role!

Responsibilities

Provide comprehensive, independent guidance to a diverse student body regarding financial aid policies, application processes, and eligibility requirements via in-person and virtual platforms.
Analyze student applications and documentation to determine financial need; offer federal and state aid packages based on Department of Education and state criteria.
Interpret and apply federal and state regulations, including FERPA, to manage specialized programs like Work Study, Pell, and Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP).
Utilize ctcLink (PeopleSoft), the WSAC portal, and Common Origination and Disbursement (COD) systems to process aid, run queries, and maintain accurate student records.
Evaluate student files for accuracy and exercise professional judgment to make data element or budget exceptions based on unique student circumstances.
Partner with the Finance office and external agencies (ED, WSAC) to ensure proper tracking, reconciliation, and disbursement of funds.
Draft and maintain student notification letters, instructional documents, and website updates regarding missing information, eligibility issues, and program deadlines.
Collaborate with the State Board for Community and Technical Colleges (SBCTC) to test software upgrades, report system issues, and develop processes that ensure technical compliance with federal and state requirements.
Monitor changes from the Department of Education and state boards; advise leadership on regulatory shifts and recommend policy updates to maintain institutional compliance.
Maintain expertise through NASFAA/FSA certifications and training conferences; cross-train in areas such as R2T4, Loans, and Census to provide departmental backup.
Contribute to a welcoming environment at Shoreline College by attending staff meetings, proposing service improvements, and assisting with campus-wide student success initiatives.