Financial Aid Program Specialist 3

Financial Aid Program Specialist 3

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.

Bellevue College is a vibrant, student-centered institution located just 10 miles east of Seattle. Serving one of the most diverse student populations in Washington - we are proud to reflect the global community we serve.

As an employer, Bellevue College is committed to fostering a workplace where employees feel valued, supported, and empowered. We believe that our faculty and staff are essential partners in fulfilling our mission, and we prioritize professional growth, collaboration, and innovation in everything we do. Employees at Bellevue College benefit from opportunities to expand their skills, contribute to meaningful work that changes lives, and engage in a community that is deeply committed to inclusion.

The Financial Aid Office in collaboration with Student Central supports the mission of Bellevue College by providing high quality, flexible and accessible services, which support student access to educational opportunities that advance pluralism, inclusion, and global awareness. Student Central provides complex comprehensive and confidential service and information for programs identified as Enrollment Services, Evaluations and Graduation, and Financial Aid. Services include;

providing information and access to functions related to transfer and evaluation of credits, graduation, prior learning credit, residency application processes, registration and all other enrollment functions, in addition to financial aid application processes required to award funds needed to pay for college.

Manage, direct, and coordinate all aspects of the processing of third-party waivers, emergency grants, veterans program waivers, and financial aid outreach.

Analyze and evaluate documentation to determine financial aid completion and student eligibility, audit processes, and award federal and state funding.

Provide technical assistance with applications and processes and provide consultation and problem resolution to students related to all student central services.

Track, read, and interpret federal, state, and campus regulations and policies and monitor compliance.

Communicate with students through creation of letters and information documents and based on specific student needs, develop resolution to eligibility issues and other complex problems.

Minimum Qualifications:

Bachelor's Degree in a related field. Any combination of relevant education and experience may be substituted for the educational requirement on a year-for-year basis

Two (2) or more years full-time experience, or equivalent part-time experience, working in a financial aid office in a higher education setting, with a demonstrated ability to work in accordance with policies, procedures, and federal and state regulations

One (1) or more years full-time experience, or equivalent part-time experience, processing financial aid files, and offering aid to students in a higher education setting.

Experience working in a collaborative team environment with diverse employees and student/customer groups

Effective verbal and written communication skills

Demonstrated ability to understand and interpret detailed information and troubleshoot and problem solve issues with attention to detail

Demonstrated ability to think critically, be proactive, meet deadlines and prioritize time-sensitive work

Proficient in MS Office

Effective customer service skills

Experience…