Position Title: 75% Time, Program Specialist 2 - Workforce Funding & Financial Aid
Classification: WFSE Classified, Class Code 107I
FTE: 0.75 FTE
Schedule: 30 hours/week, within Monday-Friday 8 AM-5 PM.
FLSA Status: Overtime Eligible
Job Summary
The Workforce Funding/Financial Aid Program Specialist 2 performs program support work under general supervision, applying knowledge of financial aid programs, state and federal grants, and workforce funding sources. The position independently processes and monitors funding, interprets and applies policies and regulations, and ensures compliance with institutional, state, and federal requirements.
Welcoming and assisting all visitors to the department, this position provides guidance to students, staff, and program participants on eligibility, application processes, and program requirements. Responsibilities include maintaining accurate records and spreadsheets, protecting confidential student information, and supporting daily operations of Workforce Funding and Financial Aid programs.
The position works both independently and as part of a team, uses judgment to resolve routine issues, and regularly interacts with the public and campus partners.
Reporting Structure/Supervisory Relationship
- This position reports to the Associate Director of Workforce.
ResponsibilitiesEssential Functions
- Coordinates Workforce Funding program operations, including development and maintenance of weekly, quarterly, and annual calendars and system-wide scheduling activities.
- Maintains and oversees student information systems and records, ensuring accuracy, integrity, confidentiality, and compliance with program, reporting, and regulatory requirements.
- Monitors participant eligibility and program compliance through regular data queries, audits, and review of internal and external systems.
- Tracks, reconciles, and coordinates grant funding activities, including quarterly payments, student reimbursements, and related financial support processes.
- Maintains and documents confidential case notes and records in DSHS and other required systems in compliance with applicable policies and regulations.
- Manages and updates Workforce Funding digital platforms, including Canvas and web-based resources, to ensure accurate, accessible, and current program information.
- Coordinates outreach, engagement, and program operations activities, including student surveys, campaigns, scheduling processes, and related communications.
- Compiles, analyzes, and reports program data from multiple systems to support evaluation, decision-making, and compliance reporting.
- Provides guidance to students on completing the FAFSA/WASFA and submitting required documentation; explains financial aid, grant, and scholarship processes and requirements.
- Interprets and applies financial aid and workforce funding policies to support eligibility determination, file review, and program compliance.
- Conducts preliminary review of financial aid and workforce funding applications to ensure completeness and adherence to program requirements.
- Monitors student eligibility, Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP), and funding compliance using reports and queries; identify and resolve routine discrepancies.
- Tracks and reconciles student awards, grant payments, and reimbursements in accordance with program guidelines.
- Supports alignment of academic programs with funding requirements and assists students in maintaining eligibility for financial aid and workforce funding.
- Provides direct guidance, coaching, and technical assistance to students regarding program eligibility, funding interpretation, WCC systems, and resource navigation.
- Maintains and updates student employment resources, including the job board, to support participant engagement and outcomes.
- Serves as a primary point of contact for the Workforce Funding program, responding to inquiries and coordinating services with students, staff, and external partners.
- Delivers presentations and program information at New Student Orientations and other outreach or engagement events.
- Coordinates with Workforce Funding staff to ensure consistent application of policies and alignment of program practices and information.
- Provides daily administrative and operational support for program functions, students, and staff.
- Provides direction, coordination, and oversight of Work Study student employees, including assigning tasks and monitoring work performance.
- Ensures compliance with ADA documentation and accessibility standards across program materials and systems.
- Performs other related work of a similar nature and level
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
- Knowledge of state and federal financial aid programs, including FAFSA/WASFA, grants, and workforce funding sources, and related rules, regulations, and compliance requirements governing program administration.
- Knowledge of eligibility requirements, Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) standards, and documentation and recordkeeping requirements for workforce funding programs.
- Skill in interpreting, applying, and communicating policies and procedures to ensure consistent, compliant, and equitable program operations.
- Skill in maintaining, managing, and ensuring the integrity of complex data systems, databases, and records across multiple platforms, including spreadsheets and reporting tools.
- Ability to collect, analyze, and interpret program data and reports to monitor eligibility, identify discrepancies, ensure compliance, and support program decision-making.
- Ability to provide clear, accurate, and professional communication to students, staff, and external stakeholders regarding financial aid, workforce funding, eligibility, and program processes.
- Ability to coordinate multiple program activities and priorities independently while also collaborating with internal and external partners in a fast-paced, student-centered environment.
- Ability to support program operations through problem-solving, issue resolution, and application of established policies to routine and non-routine situations.
- Ability to communicate clearly and effectively with students, staff, and the public regarding complex financial aid and funding information.
- The ability to actively contribute to a work and learning environment that treats everyone with respect and dignity, while engaging diverse perspectives, backgrounds and experiences to enhance the College's mission, vision, and promise.
Working Conditions/Environment
- Work Setting: Work primarily performed in indoor office setting/work station. Navigate across campus to other buildings as needed for meetings and to provide student assistance.
- Tools and Equipment: Standard office equipment required
- Frequent interaction with applicants, employees, interviewees, and the public as the office is open during business hours.
QualificationsMinimum Qualifications
- A bachelor's degree with focus on business, human services, or related field.
- One year of experience providing program, financial aid, workforce funding, or student services support.
- -OR-
- Equivalent combination education and experience sufficient for the person to perform the duties.-AND-
- Experience providing customer service in an educational, financial aid, or social services environment.
- Experience using computerized systems and software applications (e.g., spreadsheets, databases, and document management tools) to maintain records and track program data.
Preferred Qualifications
- Bilingual or multilingual abilities that support effective communication with diverse student populations.
- Experience working in a community or technical college environment.
- Experience in financial aid administration within higher education, including familiarity with federal and state aid programs.
- Experience supporting workforce funding programs or grant-funded student support services.
- Experience using student information systems (e.g., ctcLink/PeopleSoft) or similar databases to manage records and track program data.
- The ability to take action to learn and grow.
- The ability to take action to meet the needs of others.
Licensure, Certification & Other Necessary Requirements
- Employment contingent upon passing a criminal background check and sexual misconduct review.
- Occasional travel to meetings, conferences and training sessions may be required.
Salary:
- This is a 75% time, grant funded, classified, WFSE (Washington Federation of State Employees) represented position. Salary is Range 42, starting at Step C, $2,943.75 per month which is 75% of the full-time amount of $3,925.00 with periodic increments to $3,661.50 per month, which is 75% of the full-time amount of $4,882.00. Position renewal is contingent upon the continuation of grant funding.
Benefits Package:
- The position comes with a full benefit package, including health, dental, life, long-term disability insurance and a retirement plan.
- Accrues 75% of 8 hours per month of sick leave and 75% of 11.33 hours per month vacation leave with periodic vacation accrual increases based on longevity.
- 11 paid holidays annually.
- 1 personal holiday annually after 4 months of continuous employment.
- 3 personal leave days annually after 4 months of continuous employment.
*Additionally, as a Washington State, public higher education institution, WCC offers the following:
- Whatcom Community College is a qualified employer for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program (PSLF). If you work for the College full time, have had Direct Loans and are on an eligible repayment plan, you are eligible to apply.
- Full-time employees are eligible to apply and participate in the Whatcom Community College Employee Tuition Program, which provides a tuition waiver for available and eligible WCC courses.
- Full-time employees may qualify for Washington State Paid Family Medical Leave (PFML) benefit.
Start Date:
- As soon as can be arranged with the successful candidate.
Application Due Date:
- For guaranteed consideration, application packets should be submitted by Monday, June 22nd, 2026, at 5:00 pm. Position open until filled.
How To Apply
A completed application consists of an online application and:
- Cover letter detailing relevant experience and how the applicant is prepared to meet the duties of the position.
- Current resume.
- Values statement that responds to the following prompt:
Short Reflection (1 page max): One of the core values of this institution is building an inclusive and supportive campus. This core value is reflected in our strategic plan, goals and in the work that we do every day. Please describe your experience in building an inclusive environment that supports a sense of belonging.
- Official transcripts of any degrees listed as part of the minimum requirements will be required upon hire, but not as part of the application process.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: From $2,943.75 per month
Benefits:
- Dental insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Health insurance
- Health savings account
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Professional development assistance
- Retirement plan
- Tuition reimbursement
- Vision insurance
Ability to Commute:
- Bellingham, WA 98226 (Required)
Ability to Relocate:
- Bellingham, WA 98226: Relocate before starting work (Required)
Work Location: In person
