Program Specialist 3 - Financial Aid (Work Study/SAP Processing) (C)

Program Specialist 3 – Financial Aid (Work Study/SAP Processing) Shoreline Community College Salary: $61,524.00 - $82,860.00 Annually Job Number: PS3FAWSSAP26 Location: Shoreline College, WA Department: Financial Aid Services Date of First Consideration: July 12, 2026 Position Summary 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. Primary Responsibilities Student Guidance: Provide comprehensive, independent guidance to a diverse student body regarding financial aid policies, application processes, and eligibility requirements via in‑person and virtual platforms. Financial Aid Determinations: Analyze student applications and documentation to determine financial need; offer federal and state aid packages based on Department of Education and state criteria. Regulatory Compliance: Interpret and apply federal and state regulations, including FERPA, to manage specialized programs like Work Study, Pell, and Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP). Systems & Data Management: Utilize ctcLink (PeopleSoft), the WSAC portal, and Common Origination and Disbursement (COD) systems to process aid, run queries, and maintain accurate student records. Professional Judgment & Verification: Evaluate student files for accuracy and exercise professional judgment to make data element or budget exceptions based on unique student circumstances. Fund Reconciliation & Coordination: Partner with the Finance office and external agencies (ED, WSAC) to ensure proper tracking, reconciliation, and disbursement of funds. Communications Management: Draft and maintain student notification letters, instructional documents, and website updates regarding missing information, eligibility issues, and program deadlines. Technical Troubleshooting & Implementation: Collaborate with the State Board for Community and Technical Colleges (SBCTC) to test software upgrades, report system issues, and develop processes that ensure technical compliance with federal and state requirements. Legislative & Policy Tracking: Monitor changes from the Department of Education and state boards; advise leadership on regulatory shifts and recommend policy updates to maintain institutional compliance. Professional Development & Training: Maintain expertise through NASFAA/FSA certifications and training conferences; cross‑train in areas such as R2T4, Loans, and Census to provide departmental backup. Departmental Collaboration: Contribute to a welcoming environment at Shoreline College by attending staff meetings, proposing service improvements, and assisting with campus‑wide student success initiatives. Qualifications Required Education & Experience: Bachelor's Degree from an accredited institution Two (2) or more years' full‑time related experience, or equivalent part‑time experience, OR equivalent education/experience Knowledge Of Microsoft Office products including Outlook, Word and Excel Experience with PeopleSoft (ctcLink) or similar software in a higher education setting Experience in administering one or more federal or state financial aid programs One (1) year experience working in a Washington State Community and Technical College setting in an office related to admissions, financial aid, finance, or other related field as a full‑time employee, or equivalent experience as a part‑time employee Demonstrated experience with database systems and federal databases and programs such as NSLDS, COD and the FAFSA Partner Portal. College policies and procedures, and federal and state regulations pertaining to financial aid programs Skill In Fostering a climate of belonging through awareness and responsiveness Understanding and interpreting detailed information and troubleshooting/problem‑solving issues with attention to detail Time management, organization, and ability to meet competing deadlines/priorities Critical thinking and proactive problem solving Providing effective customer service to diverse groups of students Entering and/or retrieving data accurately in computerized record‑keeping systems Handling difficult and sensitive situations, using sound independent judgment within college & legal guidelines Writing/editing/proofreading clear and concise materials resulting in effective oral and written communication with individuals inside and/or outside of the College Establishing/maintaining effective working relationships at all organizational levels Ability to work in a collaborative team environment with a diverse group of students, staff, and the public in a friendly, courteous and helpful manner Conditions of Employment Physical Work Environment: The College provides services both online and in‑person. This position will perform work in a standard office setting, use standard office equipment and physically attend meetings both on and off campus. There may be limited opportunities for online work depending on program or area needs. If authorized for online work, employees will need to provide their own workspace and internet access, noting the College will provide technical equipment and support for online work needs. Terms of Employment/Salary: This position is allocated to pay range 53 under the Washington State Office of Financial Management higher education salary schedule. Salary placement for new employees is determined by the College. This position works 40 hours per week, with a schedule dependent upon department needs. Hiring of this position is contingent on available funding as determined by the College President. Required Materials NEOGOV online application and supplemental question(s) Cover letter describing relevant knowledge, skills, and characteristics that align with the needs of the position Current resume Official transcript required upon hire Non‑Discrimination and Equal Opportunity Statement Shoreline College is committed to providing equal opportunity in education and employment for all students, employees, and applicants, and does not allow discrimination or harassment on the basis of race or ethnicity, color, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, creed, religion, status as an honorably discharged veteran or military status, political affiliation or belief, citizenship/status as a lawfully admitted immigrant authorized to work in the United States, or presence of any physical, sensory, or mental disability. For our full non‑discrimination statement and contact information, visit Persons with disabilities have the right to reasonable accommodation in all aspects of employment with the College. This includes, but is not limited to recruitment, application, hiring, training, termination, conditions of employment, and any other employer‑supported activities. Applicants requesting accommodation should contact the Office of Human Resources at View email address on click.appcast.io. In accordance with RCW 28B.112.080, applicants considered for this position will be required to disclose if they are the subject of any substantiated findings or current investigations related to sexual misconduct at their current or past places of employment. In compliance with the Immigration and Nationality Act, proof of authorization to work in the United States will be required at the time of hire. Shoreline College does not currently sponsor HB‑1 visas. Other conditions that may apply will be detailed upon the offer of employment. Applicants considered for positions at the College may be required to submit to a background check as a condition of employment. Adverse information from the background check will not necessarily preclude employment but will be considered in determining the applicant's suitability for the position. Faculty positions are represented by the American Federation of Teachers Local #1950. Classified positions are represented by the Washington Federation of State Employees. To apply, please visit #J-18808-Ljbffr National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators