Fiscal Specialist; Program Specialist II

Job Summary

Are you detail oriented and passionate about making a difference for schools and students through strong fiscal management? Join the NDE Special Education team as a Fiscal Specialist to support the administration of IDEA Part B and C funding across Nebraska. You will work with schools, districts, and educational entities to review applications and reimbursement requests, monitor budgets and compliance requirements, and provide guidance on fiscal processes.

84th & O St, Lincoln, NE

Pay Grade 7: $30.597/hour ($30.979/hour after pay structure increases on June 29, 2026). Total compensation includes an approximate $27,000 in additional benefits value. Benefits include competitive benefits, paid time off, 79% employer‑paid health insurance, dental, vision, disability, flex spending accounts, employee discount program, generous vacation and sick leave (starting at 12 days each year), multiple leave types, 156% state‑matched retirement, five paid holidays per year, and more.

The Nebraska Department of Education does not sponsor or transfer non‑immigrant work visas for these positions.

• Review IDEA consolidated applications and Maintenance of Effort (MOE) eligibility, prepare allocations to ensure budget alignment, and monitor status of funds.
• Review nonpublic Proportionate Share to ensure completeness.
• Approve service and individual provider financial submissions for rate approval.
• Review reimbursement requests and funding applications to ensure alignment with grant and project budgets and allowable expenditures.
• Update Special Education payments for budget reporting.
• Coordinate development and maintenance of the MOE tracking tool for eligibility and compliance.
• Support training on fiscal processes and assist with development and delivery of webinars and in‑person presentations.
• Maintain regular and reliable attendance, possess a valid driver’s license, travel independently, and work in a variety of settings.

This position requires approximately 90% of work time spent in an office environment; the remaining 10% involves traveling or working at alternative sites such as schools, educational service units, trainings, and meetings. There is also approximately five days of overnight travel per year.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field and three years of experience related to the essential functions of the position; equivalent education and/or work experience may substitute.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with budget management within a school district.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, especially Excel.

The State of Nebraska values our teammates and strives to promote diversity, inclusion, and belonging. We recruit, hire, train, and promote in all job classifications and at all levels without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, marital status, or genetics.