Program Specialist- Financial Aid

Program Specialist
- District Financial Aid (2 positions)

1 day ago – Be among the first 25 applicants

Seattle Colleges is looking to hire two Program Specialists (PS3) in District Financial Aid: one position in Funds Management, and one in Compliance and Processing and Technology.

Salary Range
: $61,512 to $80,820 annually (depending on experience).

Opportunity is open until filled. First review of materials will begin December 30th, 2025
.

As a Financial Aid Program Specialist, you will be a key member of the Funds Management and Compliance Team that manages, directs, and coordinates all aspects of assigned aid programs to ensure compliance with federal, state, and institutional requirements while supporting students' financial needs. You will work independently under general supervision with district‑wide responsibility for one or more aid programs, oversee file transmissions to agencies, manage student allocations and eligibility, reconcile program funds, complete monthly and annual reporting, and serve as a consultant to campus financial aid teams.

Additionally, you will support the Processing and Technology Team in reviewing and awarding financial aid files throughout the year. These full‑time positions (40 hours per week) are typically scheduled Monday through Friday 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, but may require evenings and weekends as needed. They work a hybrid schedule of both remote and on‑site work.

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, plus five specialty training centers. We are the largest and most diverse community college district in the state of Washington and 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.

• Competitive Pay Rates
• Promotional Opportunities
• Great Medical, Dental, and Retirement plans
• Paid Sick and Vacation Leave
• Transportation benefits
• 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 current Resume
• Attached cover letter addressing how your background intersects with the job

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. Seattle Colleges is unable to extend post‑completion optional practical training (OPT) to F‑1 students who receive STEM degrees.

• Manage one or more financial aid programs (Federal Loans, State Aid, Grants, Institutional Funds, Seattle Promise).
• Advise students, faculty, and staff on financial aid rules, regulations, and eligibility.
• Monitor federal, state, and local policy changes and keep the team informed of updates.
• Develop and maintain processes, policies, and training to ensure compliance with changing regulations.
• Lead program tasks such as Census Date processing, Return to Title IV (R2T4), disbursements, and aid adjustments.
• Prepare and reconcile monthly and annual reports (FISAP, WA State Aid, Seattle Promise, etc.).
• Collaborate with campus teams, cashiering, and Student Financials to ensure accurate fund disbursement.
• Review and process financial aid applications, analyze data, and determine student eligibility.
• Maintain accurate, auditable records of aid awards, adjustments, appeals, and compliance documentation.
• Resolve issues related to loan applications,…