Director of Student Financial Assistance
Apply NowCompany: State of Washington
Location: Olympia, WA 98501
Description:
Salary: $120,000.00 - $134,000.00 Annually
Location : Thurston County - Olympia, WA
Job Type: Exempt
Remote Employment: Flexible/Hybrid
Job Number: WSAC 18-2024
Department: Washington Student Achievement Council
Opening Date: 11/14/2024
Closing Date: Continuous
Description
This recruitment will remain open until a sufficient number of qualified candidates have applied. The first review of applications is expected to occur on 12/18/2024 and will be ongoing. It is in the applicant's best interest to submit their application materials as early as possible. The hiring manager reserves the right to decide at any time. This job posting may be closed at any time without notice.
Why work for the Washington Student Achievement Council?At the Washington Student Achievement Council (WSAC), we are committed to increasing educational opportunities and attainment in Washington. We believe that every person living in the state of Washington should have access to educational opportunities and be encouraged to pursue education or training beyond high school.
To achieve our mission, we:
At WSAC
Our programs and policies work with diverse communities to eliminate barriers to people pursuing education beyond high school. As an employer, we strive to hire, cultivate, and retain a competitive workforce that reflects the communities we serve.
Learn more about WSAC's mission and our commitment to equity.
Duties
About the Position
The Director of Financial Assistance will provide leadership and management of WA College Grant (WCG), College Bound (CB), and Passport to ensure that the programs align with state policies and support student access, affordability, and success. This individual will engage with legislative bodies, higher education institutions, and other stakeholders to advocate for and design policies that increase educational attainment. The Director is responsible for ensuring compliance with state and federal regulations and overseeing a team responsible for managing WCG, CB, Passport and other programs as designated.
Key Responsibilities include
1. Strategic Leadership:
2. Policy Development:
3. Program Oversight and Compliance:
4. Collaboration and Stakeholder Engagement:
5. Data Management and Reporting:
6. Supervision and Team Management:
7. Budget and Fiscal Oversight:
Qualifications
Minimum Education, Skills, and Experience
Preferred Qualifications:
Supplemental Information
Application Procedures
To be considered for this position, you must possess the required qualification listed above. Find this job posting and complete your profile at which must include the following:
Letter of Application. A letter of application that addresses how you meet the required education and experience described in this announcement. Applications with generic cover letters will be considered nonresponsive and may eliminate the application from further consideration. Resume. A detailed resume including all educational and professional experience. References. A list of names, titles, emails, and current telephone numbers of three (3) professional employment references.
Please Note: Prior to a new hire, a background check including criminal record history will be conducted. Information from the background check will not necessarily preclude employment but will be considered in determining the applicant's suitability and competence to perform in the position.QUESTIONS?
EEO Statement
The Washington Student Achievement Council is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all applicants and employees. We are committed to building a team that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills. The more inclusive we are, the better our work will be. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, persons with disabilities, persons over 40 years of age, and veterans are encouraged to apply. If you need accommodation in the application process or wish to receive this job announcement in an alternative format, please call [redacted] or email HumanR[redacted]
More than Just a Paycheck!
Employee benefits are not just about the kind of services you get, they are also about how much you may have to pay out of pocket. Washington State offers one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation.
We understand that your life revolves around more than just your career. Like everyone, your first priority is ensuring that you and your family will maintain health and financial security. That's why choice is a key component of our benefits package. We have a selection of health and retirement plans, paid leave, staff training and other compensation benefits that you can mix and match to meet your current and future needs.
Read about our benefits:
The following information describes typical benefits available for full-time employees who are expected to work more than six months. Actual benefits may vary by appointment type or be prorated for other than full-time work (e.g. part-time); view the job posting for benefits details for job types other than full-time.
Note: If the position offers benefits which differ from the following, the job posting should include the specific benefits.
Insurance Benefits
Employees and their families are covered by medical (including vision), dental and basic life insurance. There are multiple medical plans with affordable monthly premiums that offer coverage throughout the state.
Staff are eligible to enroll each year in a medical flexible spending account which enables them to use tax-deferred dollars toward their health care expenses. Employees are also covered by basic life and long-term disability insurance, with the option to purchase additional coverage amounts.
To view premium rates, coverage choice in your area and how to enroll, please visit the Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB) website. The Washington Wellness program from the Health Care Authority works with PEBB to support our workplace wellness programs.
Dependent care assistance allows the employee to save pre-tax dollars for a child or elder care expenses.
Other insurance coverage for auto, boat, home, and renter insurance is available through payroll deduction.
The Washington State Employee Assistance Program promotes the health and well-being of employees.
Retirement and Deferred Compensation
State Employees are members of the Washington Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS). New employees have the option of two employer contributed retirement programs. For additional information, check out the Department of Retirement Systems' web site.
Employees also have the ability to participate in the Deferred Compensation Program (DCP). This is a supplemental retirement savings program (similar to an IRA) that allows you control over the amount of pre-tax salary dollars you defer as well as the flexibility to choose between multiple investment options.
Social Security
All state employees are covered by the federal Social Security and Medicare systems. The state and the employee pay an equal amount into the system.
Public Service Loan Forgiveness
If you are employed by a government or not-for-profit organization, and meet the qualifying criteria, you may be eligible to receive student loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.
Holidays
Full-time and part-time employees are entitled to paid holidays and one paid personal holiday per calendar year.
Note: Employees who are members of certain Unions may be entitled to additional personal leave day(s), please refer to position specific Collective Bargaining Agreements for more information.
Full-time employees who work full monthly schedules qualify for holiday compensation if they are employed before the holiday and are in pay status for at least 80 nonovertime hours during the month of the holiday; or for the entire work shift preceding the holiday.
Part-time employees who are in pay status during the month of the holiday qualify for the holiday on a pro-rata basis. Compensation for holidays (including personal holiday) will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status in the month to that required for full-time employment, excluding all holiday hours. Pay status includes hours worked and time on paid leave.
Sick Leave
Full-time employees earn eight hours of sick leave per month. Overtime eligible employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month, earn a monthly proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Overtime exempt employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month do not earn a monthly accrual of sick leave.
Sick leave accruals for part-time employees will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.
Vacation (Annual Leave)
Full-time employees accrue vacation leave at the rates specified in (1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA). Full-time employees who are in pay status for less than 80 nonovertime hours in a month do not earn a monthly accrual of vacation leave.
Part-time employees accrue vacation leave hours in accordance with (1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA) on a pro rata basis
Location : Thurston County - Olympia, WA
Job Type: Exempt
Remote Employment: Flexible/Hybrid
Job Number: WSAC 18-2024
Department: Washington Student Achievement Council
Opening Date: 11/14/2024
Closing Date: Continuous
Description
This recruitment will remain open until a sufficient number of qualified candidates have applied. The first review of applications is expected to occur on 12/18/2024 and will be ongoing. It is in the applicant's best interest to submit their application materials as early as possible. The hiring manager reserves the right to decide at any time. This job posting may be closed at any time without notice.
Why work for the Washington Student Achievement Council?At the Washington Student Achievement Council (WSAC), we are committed to increasing educational opportunities and attainment in Washington. We believe that every person living in the state of Washington should have access to educational opportunities and be encouraged to pursue education or training beyond high school.
To achieve our mission, we:
- Lead statewide strategic planning to increase educational attainment. (See our )
- Administer programs that help people access and pay for college.
- Advocate for the economic, social, and civic benefits of higher education.
- Learn more about the work of the Washington Student Achievement Council and our equity statement at www.wsac.wa.gov.
At WSAC
Our programs and policies work with diverse communities to eliminate barriers to people pursuing education beyond high school. As an employer, we strive to hire, cultivate, and retain a competitive workforce that reflects the communities we serve.
- We offer flexible/alternative work schedules, wellness activities, and teleworking opportunities.
- Eligible employees who are new parents or legal guardians can bring their infant (six weeks to six months) when returning to work.
- Employees have access to tuition assistance and tuition waiver programs,
- If you have experience advocating for communities of color or others who are experiencing educational inequities-including those directly impacted by the criminal justice system; people who identify as queer, trans, lesbian, gay or bisexual; veterans; and people with disabilities-you are strongly encouraged to apply, even if you don't meet all the desired/preferred qualifications listed.
Learn more about WSAC's mission and our commitment to equity.
Duties
About the Position
The Director of Financial Assistance will provide leadership and management of WA College Grant (WCG), College Bound (CB), and Passport to ensure that the programs align with state policies and support student access, affordability, and success. This individual will engage with legislative bodies, higher education institutions, and other stakeholders to advocate for and design policies that increase educational attainment. The Director is responsible for ensuring compliance with state and federal regulations and overseeing a team responsible for managing WCG, CB, Passport and other programs as designated.
Key Responsibilities include
1. Strategic Leadership:
- Direct WCG, CB, Passport and other designated programs to ensure policies and processes support educational access and affordability.
- Collaborate with agency senior leaders and stakeholders to support statewide strategies that promote educational attainment.
2. Policy Development:
- Develop policies and procedures for WCG, CB, Passport and other designated that align with legislative mandates and the state's higher education goals.
- Serve with other agency staff as the state's subject matter experts on financial aid, providing technical expertise to policymakers, higher education institutions, and other stakeholders.
3. Program Oversight and Compliance:
- Oversee the administration and compliance of WCG, CB, Passport and other programs as designated.
- Ensure compliance with state and federal regulations, working closely with the assistant attorney general and other legal entities.
- Provide fiscal accountability for all programs under the division's purview.
4. Collaboration and Stakeholder Engagement:
- Partner with WSAC staff and external stakeholders, including higher education institutions, K12 entities, government agencies, and national organizations, to improve access to financial aid.
- Collaborate with other agency divisions to streamline processes and ensure alignment between financial aid and the state's broader attainment strategies as set forth in the WSAC Strategic Action Plan.
5. Data Management and Reporting:
- Present data and program results to stakeholders, including the Legislature and professional associations, using data visualizations, reports, and presentations.
- Ensure accurate and timely reporting of program outcomes and financial aid utilization.
6. Supervision and Team Management:
- Lead and supervise a team including classified and exempt employees, ensuring staff development and performance management.
- Work with other agency staff to help provide technical training on the administration of financial aid programs to financial aid administrators, high school counselors, and other stakeholders.
7. Budget and Fiscal Oversight:
- Oversee administrative and program budgets, forecasting costs, and ensuring efficient use of resources.
- Monitor expenditures and ensure fiscal compliance of WCG, CB and designated aid programs.
Qualifications
Minimum Education, Skills, and Experience
- Bachelor's degree.
- A demonstrated record of managerial success, execution of initiatives, collaboration across diverse populations, and commitment to access and inclusion.
- Ten years' experience in financial aid administration or related work in post-secondary education.
- Three years of supervisory experience overseeing large teams and diverse programs.
- Experience in presentations and representing financial aid programs to external audiences.
- Strong leadership, organizational, and communication skills.
- Experience managing budgets, digital systems, and staff development.
- Expertise in financial aid regulations and compliance.
- Experience in program administration and managing large-scale funding programs.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience with Washington State statutes and financial aid programs.
- Experience working with the Washington or other state legislature related to higher education funding and financial aid policies.
- Experience working with national financial aid organizations like the National Association for State Student Grant Aid Programs.
- Master's degree in Higher Education Administration, Public Policy, Student Services, or a related field.
Supplemental Information
Application Procedures
To be considered for this position, you must possess the required qualification listed above. Find this job posting and complete your profile at which must include the following:
Please Note: Prior to a new hire, a background check including criminal record history will be conducted. Information from the background check will not necessarily preclude employment but will be considered in determining the applicant's suitability and competence to perform in the position.QUESTIONS?
EEO Statement
The Washington Student Achievement Council is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all applicants and employees. We are committed to building a team that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills. The more inclusive we are, the better our work will be. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, persons with disabilities, persons over 40 years of age, and veterans are encouraged to apply. If you need accommodation in the application process or wish to receive this job announcement in an alternative format, please call [redacted] or email HumanR[redacted]
More than Just a Paycheck!
Employee benefits are not just about the kind of services you get, they are also about how much you may have to pay out of pocket. Washington State offers one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation.
We understand that your life revolves around more than just your career. Like everyone, your first priority is ensuring that you and your family will maintain health and financial security. That's why choice is a key component of our benefits package. We have a selection of health and retirement plans, paid leave, staff training and other compensation benefits that you can mix and match to meet your current and future needs.
Read about our benefits:
The following information describes typical benefits available for full-time employees who are expected to work more than six months. Actual benefits may vary by appointment type or be prorated for other than full-time work (e.g. part-time); view the job posting for benefits details for job types other than full-time.
Note: If the position offers benefits which differ from the following, the job posting should include the specific benefits.
Insurance Benefits
Employees and their families are covered by medical (including vision), dental and basic life insurance. There are multiple medical plans with affordable monthly premiums that offer coverage throughout the state.
Staff are eligible to enroll each year in a medical flexible spending account which enables them to use tax-deferred dollars toward their health care expenses. Employees are also covered by basic life and long-term disability insurance, with the option to purchase additional coverage amounts.
To view premium rates, coverage choice in your area and how to enroll, please visit the Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB) website. The Washington Wellness program from the Health Care Authority works with PEBB to support our workplace wellness programs.
Dependent care assistance allows the employee to save pre-tax dollars for a child or elder care expenses.
Other insurance coverage for auto, boat, home, and renter insurance is available through payroll deduction.
The Washington State Employee Assistance Program promotes the health and well-being of employees.
Retirement and Deferred Compensation
State Employees are members of the Washington Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS). New employees have the option of two employer contributed retirement programs. For additional information, check out the Department of Retirement Systems' web site.
Employees also have the ability to participate in the Deferred Compensation Program (DCP). This is a supplemental retirement savings program (similar to an IRA) that allows you control over the amount of pre-tax salary dollars you defer as well as the flexibility to choose between multiple investment options.
Social Security
All state employees are covered by the federal Social Security and Medicare systems. The state and the employee pay an equal amount into the system.
Public Service Loan Forgiveness
If you are employed by a government or not-for-profit organization, and meet the qualifying criteria, you may be eligible to receive student loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.
Holidays
Full-time and part-time employees are entitled to paid holidays and one paid personal holiday per calendar year.
Note: Employees who are members of certain Unions may be entitled to additional personal leave day(s), please refer to position specific Collective Bargaining Agreements for more information.
Full-time employees who work full monthly schedules qualify for holiday compensation if they are employed before the holiday and are in pay status for at least 80 nonovertime hours during the month of the holiday; or for the entire work shift preceding the holiday.
Part-time employees who are in pay status during the month of the holiday qualify for the holiday on a pro-rata basis. Compensation for holidays (including personal holiday) will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status in the month to that required for full-time employment, excluding all holiday hours. Pay status includes hours worked and time on paid leave.
Sick Leave
Full-time employees earn eight hours of sick leave per month. Overtime eligible employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month, earn a monthly proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Overtime exempt employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month do not earn a monthly accrual of sick leave.
Sick leave accruals for part-time employees will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.
Vacation (Annual Leave)
Full-time employees accrue vacation leave at the rates specified in (1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA). Full-time employees who are in pay status for less than 80 nonovertime hours in a month do not earn a monthly accrual of vacation leave.
Part-time employees accrue vacation leave hours in accordance with (1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA) on a pro rata basis