Staff Specialist I, Higher Education

State of Maryland•Baltimore City, MD

19d

About The Position

The Maryland Higher Education Commission is seeking two energetic, skilled professional Program Managers for their Office of Student Financial Assistance Unit. The Maryland Higher Education Commission (MHEC) has two main purposes: (1) academic planning and policy analysis and (2) financial assistance. The Office of Student Financial Assistance is responsible for all State student financial aid programs, administering over $100 million in grants and scholarships in Maryland. Financial aid programs include need- based grants which are awarded on the basis of the student's ability to pay; merit-based scholarships given to students with special talents; career-based scholarships for students entering certain workforce programs; awards to unique populations, such as military veterans; and legislative scholarships. This Staff Specialist I – Higher Education position is assigned duties and responsibilities pertaining primarily to service-based programs. The position reports directly to the Associate Director.

Requirements

A Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university.
One year of administrative or teaching experience in post-secondary education programs.

Nice To Haves

Extensive knowledge and/or experience of higher education financial aid operations, including departmental processes, regulatory requirements, and best practices in administering federal, state, and institutional aid. Demonstrated commitment to accuracy, compliance, and meticulous attention to detail in all financial aid–related activities.
Strong organizational and multitasking skills, with the capacity to manage complex workflows in a fast-paced higher education environment.
Experience working both independently and collaboratively while handling sensitive and confidential student financial information in accordance with FERPA and financial aid regulations.
Excellent oral and written communication skills, with the ability to clearly interpret, analyze, and convey financial aid data, policies, and eligibility criteria to diverse audiences.
Expereince providing exceptional customer service to students, families, faculty, and campus partners.
Demonstrated ability to listen effectively, identify critical issues, and adapt plans or processes to meet evolving operational and compliance needs.

Responsibilities

Develop policies and procedures for all decentralized financial assistance programs.
Provide direction and leadership to decentralized unit staff
Train and develop decentralized unit staff on process and procedures
Monitor assigned programs for compliance with Maryland law and regulations. Assignment will include multiple programs.
Supervise programs and maintain internal review process for administration of program
Identify recommendations of improvement in internal processes when needed
Update/Review each assigned programs Polices/Procedures/Internal Review Documents/Award
Perform personnel related tasks such as mentoring, position description, employee relations, and performance evaluations
Approving time sheets and leave request
Counseling/ Performance Review and Recommendations
Analyze findings of internal quality assurance and control reviews and determine the appropriate course of action in consultation with staff and legal counsel.
Respond to written student complaints in accordance with Maryland regulations.
Respond to public and institutional inquiries regarding decentralized programs including awarding and eligibility regulations.
Recommend, develop and initiate changes to regulations and policies relating to requirements for in-state and out-of-state institutions operating in Maryland.
Participate in MHEC policy work groups or other committees, and assist with academic affairs initiatives, as assigned.
Write reports and policy papers relating to the Maryland State Plan for Postsecondary Education (updated every four years).
Other similar OSFA and administrative duties as assigned