Program Specialist - Financial Aid Coaching Specialist

Program Specialist 3 - Financial Aid Coaching Specialist

North Seattle College is looking to hire a Program Specialist 3 - Financial Aid Coaching Specialist.

Salary Range for this position is $61,512 - $82,860 annually (DOE)

Application and required materials must be submitted no later than March 10, 2026.

Financial Aid Office at North Seattle College is committed to delivering high-quality, student-centered service in an environment grounded in equity, justice, and cultural humility. Our team works to reduce financial barriers and provide accurate, compassionate support so students can achieve their educational goals while ensuring equitable outcomes for our diverse community.

Financial Aid Coaches provide coaching and guidance throughout the financial aid process, support students in workforce and worker retraining pathways, and assist with BFET awarding and reconciliation. We seek candidates who are committed to equity and inclusion and who will contribute to a welcoming and supportive experience for all students, particularly those from historically marginalized communities.

This position is governed by a collective bargaining agreement with representation by WFSE.

We are a district of three distinct colleges:
North Seattle College, Seattle Central College, and South Seattle College, and five specialty training centers. Which makes us the largest and most diverse community college district in the state of Washington, we are leaders in change and innovation.

Seattle Colleges is committed to recruiting dedicated faculty and employees who together create a welcoming academic climate that reflects the diverse backgrounds of our community, including ethnicity, national origin, religion, race, gender, gender identity, age, status as a veteran or disabled veteran, disability, political status, and sexual orientation.

• Great Medical, Dental, and Retirement plans
• Paid Sick and Vacation Leave
• Tuition Waivers
• PEBB Wellness Plan
• Washington State Employee Assistance Programs (EAP)

Seattle Colleges staff and faculty also enjoy professional development opportunities and enrichment experiences in areas of their choice, including committee, workgroup, and affinity group opportunities.

• Attached cover letter addressing how your background intersects with the job
• Required application materials must be completed and submitted online

Required application materials must be completed and submitted online

Please note that Seattle Colleges has moved to holding interviews virtually using video conference options such as Zoom or Teams. As such, if you are selected for an interview, please be prepared to hold your interview virtually.

Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a regular basis. The employer will not sponsor applicants for work visas.

• Advance equity, diversity, and inclusion by advocating for historically marginalized students and supporting policy and practice improvements
• Coordinate disbursement of workforce program funds (Worker Retraining, Work First, BFET, Opportunity Grant) totaling over $1.5 million annually
• Manage financial aid application processes and requirements for Workforce Education students
• Assist in developing and implementing procedures, policies, and quality assurance practices
• Reconcile assigned program budgets and student-level expenditures monthly across multiple systems
• Interpret and maintain compliance with federal, state, and institutional regulations
• Crosstrain staff and develop reports, training materials, and documentation
• Advise students, faculty, staff, and the public on financial aid and program policies
• Prepare documentation for state and federal audits
• Participate in departmental meetings, trainings, and outreach events

• Provide student-centered coaching to support belonging and success, particularly for traditionally marginalized populations
• Advise students on admissions, financial aid applications, funding programs, placement options, and enrollment steps
• Provide individualized problem-solving to support completion of applications and funding requirements
• Track and monitor student progress toward enrollment milestones and deadlines
• Deliver workshops, orientations, and presentations for students, families, high schools, and community partners
• Serve as an advocate for students navigating college systems and funding processes
• Provide services via in-person, virtual, phone, and email modalities
• Perform other related duties as assigned in a collaborative team environment

This description is not intended to cover every aspect of this job, we are a team that works together to meet the needs of those we serve, and every member of the team is expected to contribute, even beyond the specific responsibilities listed in this description.

(Any Equivalent Combination of Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, Education and…