STAFF SPECIALIST I, HIGHER EDUCATION (Program Manager of Student Financial Assistance)

Job Description

**Introduction**
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The Maryland Higher Education Commission (MHEC), is seeking an experienced and energetic individual to fill the position of Staff Specialist I in their Office of Student Financial Assistance.

Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the U.S.A without sponsorship for employment visa status (e.g., H1B status).

**GRADE**
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17

**LOCATION OF POSITION**
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217 E. Redwood Street, Suite 2100

Baltimore, MD 21202

**Main Purpose of Job**
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The Maryland Higher Education Commission (MHEC) has two main purposes:

(1) academic planning and policy analysis and (2) financial assistance. The Office of Student Financial Assistance is responsible for all State student financial aid programs, administering over $100 million in grants and scholarships in Maryland. Financial aid programs include need-based grants which are awarded on the basis of the student’s ability to pay; merit-based scholarships given to students with special talents; career-based scholarships for students entering certain workforce programs; awards to unique populations, such as military veterans; and legislative scholarships. This Staff Specialist I – Higher Education position is assigned duties and responsibilities pertaining primarily to service-based programs. The position reports directly to the Associate Director.

**POSITION DUTIES**
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* Supervise Administration of Need-based aid programs:

* Develop policies and procedures for all decentralized financial assistance programs.

* Provide direction and leadership to decentralized unit staff

* Train and develop decentralized unit staff on process and procedures

* Monitor assigned programs for compliance with Maryland law and regulations. Assignment will includemultiple programs.

* Supervise programs and maintain internal review process for administration of program

* Identify recommendations of improvement in internal processes when needed

* Update/Review each assigned programs Polices/Procedures/Internal Review Documents/Award

* Perform personnel related tasks such as mentoring, position description, employee relations, and performance evaluations

* Approving time sheets and leave request

* Counseling/ Performance Review and Recommendations

* Analyze findings of internal quality assurance and control reviews and determine the appropriate course of action in consultation with staff and legal counsel.

* Respond to written student complaints in accordance with Maryland regulations.

* Respond to public and institutional inquiries regarding decentralized programs including awarding and eligibility regulations.

* State Policy Planning and Development:

* Recommend, develop and initiate changes to regulations and policies relating to requirements for in-state and out-of-state institutions operating in Maryland.

* Participate in MHEC policy work groups or other committees, and assist with academic affairs initiatives, as assigned.

* Write reports and policy papers relating to the Maryland State Plan for Postsecondary Education (updated every four years).

* Other similar OSFA and administrative duties as assigned

**MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS**
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Education: A Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university.

Experience: One year of administrative or teaching experience in post-secondary education programs.

Notes:

1. Candidates may substitute the possession of a Master’s degree from an accredited college or university for one year of the required experience.

2. Candidates may substitute the possession of a Doctoral degree from an accredited college or university for the required experience.

**SELECTIVE QUALIFICATIONS**
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* One year experience in accounting, business operations, banking or related financial

Business, preferably in higher education;

**DESIRED OR PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS**
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1. The successful candidate will have extensive knowledge of department processes, business principals and practices, and strong attention to detail with a dedication to accuracy.

2. Applicants should be highly organized, be able to multitask, and be a self-starter who can work independently and in a team environment with sensitive and confidential information.

3. Additionally, applicants should possess excellent oral and written communication skills and attention to detail; with the ability to read, analyze and interpret data as well as the ability to provide excellent customer service internally and externally; demonstrated ability to listen effectively, identify critical paths quickly, and adjust plans and approach as necessary.

**SELECTION PROCESS**
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Please make sure that you provide sufficient information on your application to show that you meet the qualifications for this recruitment. All information concerning your qualifications must be submitted by the closing date. We will not consider information submitted after this date. Successful candidates will be ranked as Best Qualified, Better Qualified, or Qualified and placed on the eligible (employment) list for at least one year.

**EXAMINATION PROCESS**
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The assessment may consist of a rating of your education, training, and experience related to the requirements of the position. It is important that you provide complete and accurate information on your application. Please report all experience and education that is related to this position.

**FURTHER INSTRUCTIONS**
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Online applications are highly recommended. However, if you are unable to apply online, the paper application and supplemental questionnaire may be submitted to: Department of Budget and Management, Recruitment and Examination Division, 301 W. Preston St., Baltimore, MD 21201. Paper application materials must be received in our office by the closing date for the recruitment. No postmarks will be accepted.

For questions regarding this recruitment, please contact the DBM Recruitment and Examination Division at Application.Help@maryland.gov or 410-767-4850, MD TTY Relay Service 1-800-735-2258.

We thank our Veterans for their service to our country.

People with disabilities and bilingual candidates are encouraged to apply.

As an equal opportunity employer, Maryland is committed to recruitment, retaining and promoting employees who are reflective of the State’s diversity.