South Puget Sound Community College
Director (Deputy Head) of Financial Aid
South Puget Sound Community College, Olympia, Washington, United States, 98502
Salary:
$80,000.00 - $82,000.00 Annually Location :
Olympia Main Campus, WA Job Type:
Full-time Job Number:
00015945 Division:
Student Services Opening Date:
09/16/2025
Our Opportunity South Puget Sound Community College
(SPSCC) seeks a highly motivated and qualified individual to serve as the
Director (Deputy Head) of Financial Aid .
The Director of Financial Aid reports to the Dean of Student Financial Services. The Director is responsible for the systems and operation management for all electronic processing of applications for federal, state, and institutional programs relating to financial aid services. The Director exercises discretion and independent judgment in interpreting and overseeing federal and state financial aid policies and ensures successful compliance and participation in all Title IV federal programs, state, and institutional financial aid programs. South Puget Sound Community College is committed to increasing its cultural diversity with an emphasis on equity and inclusion among its professional staff. A firm understanding of anti-racist policy development coupled with the skills to eliminate barriers that harm underrepresented people is a college requirement. The students that we serve come from a variety of backgrounds. On average, 43% of SPSCC students are people of color. We strongly encourage members of the underrepresented groups, veterans, and bi- or multi-lingual individuals to apply for this position to help meet the needs of our diverse students and service district. And if that isn't enough? We also offer: A healthy work/life balance for our employees with the opportunity for flexible work schedules and remote work, depending on position and college needs Fine dining in the , offering vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free choices as part of our Culinary Arts and Baking & Pastry Arts programs The serves Batdorf & Bronson coffee and a selection of delicious food items from our baking/culinary students A brand-new FREE Bus service every 15 minutes to downtown Olympia and beyond FREE on our campuses - permits are not required On-campus Percival Creek, which runs beneath our campus footbridge, provides year-round beauty and views of Chinook, Coho, and chum salmon that pass through each fall Many walking paths that are marked and on nicely paved sidewalks SPSCC promotes wellness with a variety of different on campus Lots of activities with our , which are FREE for staff and faculty Many community events in the that offer an opportunity for SPSCC employees to gather and connect around issues that define them personally and affect their work at the College and their professional development. Current Employee Resource Groups include:
Staff and Faculty of Color (SFOC) ERG - an employee network which strives to create an intentional and relational foundation for community and trust building across different groups through shared values. The LGBTQIA+ ERG creates a space for LGBTQIA+ staff and faculty at the college to share resources, build support and community, and work towards greater equity and accessibility.
What You'll Do
The main purpose of the Director of Financial Aid is to continuously evaluate and improve the financial aid systems and operations for compliance, maximum technological efficiency, and overall effective customer service to internal and external constituents. Additionally, this position greatly assists the Dean of Student Financial Services with management, training, and professional development for all staff within the unit, providing overall leadership, understanding, and regulatory guidance in the administration of all financial aid programs to students, staff, and institutional partners.
Funds Management and Programmatic Responsibilities
Lead day-to-day operations with the financial aid office while advancing strategies that improve internal financial aid processes and procedures and ensure the highest standard of service to students; Build and maintain systems that encourage student access to funds and ensure consistent delivery of services and improvements to positively impact the student experience; Monitor and oversee the administration of federal, state, and institutional financial aid programs in accordance with established federal, state, and institutional guidelines. Including developing annual awarding targets and independently monitoring funds to ensure year-end expenditures are within annual allocations; Serve as the Primary Destination Point Administrator (DPA) for the college. Ensure access to federal financial aid systems for staff and update the information accordingly. Ensure that all correspondence and federal/state requirements and deadlines are met in a timely manner; Serve as a liaison between Student Financial Services and the Business Office, supporting student account management, billing, disbursement, and reconciliation for all financial aid programs. Coordinate and communicate fiscal procedures and assist with developing and conducting internal controls, risk assessments, and federal, state, or other audit preparations. Develop and monitor streamlined processes, and development of financial aid policy and procedure manuals and operational calendars, to support the scope of work and ensure effective daily, weekly, monthly, quarterly, and annual services and goals are met. Assess, monitor, and disseminate workloads and schedules for financial aid staff. Plan, analyze, and evaluate programs and services, operational needs, and fiscal constraints. Ensure that staff adhere to regulations for awarding and serve as a resource for troubleshooting and resolving complex issues; Exercise professional judgment and guide financial aid staff in utilizing professional judgment to make financial aid decisions, including but not limited to special circumstances, appeals, and dependency overrides; Ensure programmatic eligibility for Title IV financial aid programs, including the evaluation of new programs and ensuring the update to existing programs within the Application to Participate in Federal Student Aid Programs (ECAR)remain eligible for Title IV funding. Technology & Compliance Reporting
Ensure the timely completion of federal, state, and institutional reporting requirements, including FISAP, Unit Record, Interim reports, and other regulatory requirements. Coordinate with the student services division department managers and staff to identify needs, communicate changes, and facilitate testing and training for system implementations and upgrades. Help develop and support Financial Aid Training plans to support SPSCC Navigators and outreach programs. Partner with IT to conduct research, identify, implement, and test new software releases. Collaborate with financial aid staff to facilitate new software trainings, ensure the completion of any necessary setups, resolve technical issues, schedule jobs, and implement controls to maximize the efficiency of financial aid systems. Partner closely with IT and the State Board to develop and ensure proper and efficient system functionality within PeopleSoft (CtcLink), including identifying and escalating issues for resolution as required. Assist IT in the identification and development of PS Queries when needed. Ensure accurate, compliant, and timely development and dissemination of all digitally produced student financial aid communications, including but not limited to SAP, financial aid overpayments, financial aid awards, and student loan and consumer information. Department Leadership & Supervision
Supervision and evaluation of all Financial Aid employees and staff, providing mentorship, leadership, and guidance, working with HR to resolve issues of conduct or insubordination, elevating emergent staff needs or issues to the Dean, and advocating for staff concerns whenever necessary. Engage in and encourage the growth and development of all financial aid staff, including ensuring regularly scheduled 1:1s, and that opportunities for professional development, both for self and for all staff, are regularly communicated. Ensure that developed policies, guidelines, and procedures are in regulatory compliance with federal, state, and institutional programs, and that adherence to compliance requirements is maintained across campus. Develop workflows and delegate tasks to staff to ensure essential deadlines and timelines are met. Consistently evaluate and align policy and guidelines with institutional goals, ensuring responsiveness to student needs within the process. Serve as a resource to assist staff with complex situations and questions. Think critically to find comprehensive solutions that stay within regulatory guidelines and, to the extent possible, support student goals. Ensure FERPA disclosure policies are followed by all FA employees. Maintain an active presence across campus, ensuring financial aid is appropriately represented in all areas and aspects of the college. Represent the office in various activities, including conferences, state-wide meetings, with governmental agencies, and statewide CTC/FA community, including attending meetings and providing input on SPSCC's behalf; Assume responsibility for Student Financial Services in the absence of the Dean. Qualifications You Possess
Required Education, Experience, and Competencies:
Bachelor's degree or higher and three (3) years of experience in Financial Aid administration;
OR An equivalent combination of education and experience to successfully perform the duties of the job;
Experience or demonstrated competency with problem-solving and interpreting complex rules and regulations. Strong computer skills, with the ability to navigate multiple systems and applications. One (1) year of supervisory experience; Must not be in default on a federal student loan through the Direct Loan program.
Preferred/Desired Education, Experience, and Competencies:
Demonstrated ability to work effectively with students, staff, and faculty; Demonstrated organizational skills, ability to prioritize and handle multiple tasks simultaneously; Experience with program management and/or reconciliation of large accounts; Experience with one or more of the following systems: PeopleSoft, WSAC Portal, FAM, EdConnect, COD, NSLDS, FPS, Partner Connect; other federal and state financial aid systems Special Requirements/Conditions of Employment:
Knowledge of federal, state, and local rules and regulations regarding student services, including FERPA and Title IV and Title IX, ability to successfully interpret and implement regulations and guidelines; Negotiate priorities according to campus need while considering rules and process requirements in decision-making. Work independently in a busy environment with regular interruptions; Work under stressful situations and manage stress appropriately; Maintain flexibility and openness to change as part of working in a dynamic learning environment. Model and provide exceptional customer service skills in-person, online, and over the phone; Communicate effectively, verbally and in writing, to our internal and external customers; Interact effectively with colleagues, staff, students, administrators, and others of various cultural and socio-economic backgrounds; Prioritize required job duties with ongoing confirmed deadlines and regulations; Consistently and accurately document information and process files; Work collaboratively in a team environment; Maintain confidentiality of student information; Embrace and incorporate diverse perspectives, and work successfully with staff, faculty, and students of varying ethnicities, ages, backgrounds, and abilities.
To Apply Applications must be completed online and include the following attachments: Cover letter addressed to the Screening Committee, highlighting your ability to perform the responsibilities and competencies described in the job posting. Current resume/CV showing all educational and professional experience, which demonstrates how you meet the minimum and any preferred qualifications. Copies of unofficial transcripts from institutions of higher education.
Top candidates will be notified directly to interview for this position. Selection will be based on the applicant's knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the duties listed in this job posting as identified in the materials requested above. Applications with comments directing the reader to see attachments will be considered incomplete.
Veterans Preference Applicants who meet the minimum qualifications and wishing to claim Veterans Preference should redact their personally identifiable information from a copy of their United States Department of Veterans Affairs honorable discharge documentation and email to
sbutler-hill@spscc.edu
with the job number for which they are applying in the subject line.
Condition of Employment Employment with the college is contingent upon the successful completion of a comprehensive background check. Any adverse information will be considered on a case-by-case basis and does not automatically preclude a candidate from employment.
South Puget Sound Community College values diversity and is an Equal Opportunity Employer and Educator South Puget Sound Community College provides equal opportunity in education and employment and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, sex, sexual orientation, marital status, creed, religion, or status as a veteran of war. Prohibited sex discrimination includes sexual harassment (unwelcome sexual conduct of various types). SPSCC provides reasonable accommodations for qualified students, employees, and applicants with disabilities in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and Federal Rehabilitation Act. The following person has been designated to handle inquiries regarding non-discrimination policies, Title II and Title IX, Samantha Dotson, Executive Human Resource Officer /Title IX Coordinator, 360-596-5361, ssoto@spscc.edu, Building 25, Room 220, 2011 Mottman Rd SW, Olympia, WA 98512; South Puget Sound Community College is a smoke-free/drug free environment.
Applicants needing accommodation in the application process in an alternative format may contact the Human Resources office at (360) 596-5500. SPSCC OFFERS: A generous benefits package including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, long-term disability, retirement, and optional deferred compensation programs. The position is eligible to participate in the (SBRP) and (DRS). Employees have the option to participate in two tax-deferred retirement investment programs. For health benefit information go to
COMPENSATION Your paycheck is just part of your total compensation package, with an employee benefits package worth about 30% of your salary.
VACATION AND SICK LEAVE Annual leave includes 24 days of vacation, 11 paid holidays, and 12 days of sick leave
For more benefits information please visit our website. 01
What experience do you have in leading, serving, advocating, collaborating, and/or representing specific underrepresented marginalized communities? 02
Describe your approach to collaboration and how you work in a culturally diverse groupto reach a common goal. 03
How do you approach cultural conflicts that might occur between individuals and/orgroups of people? 04
Describe how you use critical thinking skills to understand diverse perspectives. 05
How do you show empathy when working with others, especially those who are from another culture, or might have a different perspective than you? Required Question
$80,000.00 - $82,000.00 Annually Location :
Olympia Main Campus, WA Job Type:
Full-time Job Number:
00015945 Division:
Student Services Opening Date:
09/16/2025
Our Opportunity South Puget Sound Community College
(SPSCC) seeks a highly motivated and qualified individual to serve as the
Director (Deputy Head) of Financial Aid .
The Director of Financial Aid reports to the Dean of Student Financial Services. The Director is responsible for the systems and operation management for all electronic processing of applications for federal, state, and institutional programs relating to financial aid services. The Director exercises discretion and independent judgment in interpreting and overseeing federal and state financial aid policies and ensures successful compliance and participation in all Title IV federal programs, state, and institutional financial aid programs. South Puget Sound Community College is committed to increasing its cultural diversity with an emphasis on equity and inclusion among its professional staff. A firm understanding of anti-racist policy development coupled with the skills to eliminate barriers that harm underrepresented people is a college requirement. The students that we serve come from a variety of backgrounds. On average, 43% of SPSCC students are people of color. We strongly encourage members of the underrepresented groups, veterans, and bi- or multi-lingual individuals to apply for this position to help meet the needs of our diverse students and service district. And if that isn't enough? We also offer: A healthy work/life balance for our employees with the opportunity for flexible work schedules and remote work, depending on position and college needs Fine dining in the , offering vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free choices as part of our Culinary Arts and Baking & Pastry Arts programs The serves Batdorf & Bronson coffee and a selection of delicious food items from our baking/culinary students A brand-new FREE Bus service every 15 minutes to downtown Olympia and beyond FREE on our campuses - permits are not required On-campus Percival Creek, which runs beneath our campus footbridge, provides year-round beauty and views of Chinook, Coho, and chum salmon that pass through each fall Many walking paths that are marked and on nicely paved sidewalks SPSCC promotes wellness with a variety of different on campus Lots of activities with our , which are FREE for staff and faculty Many community events in the that offer an opportunity for SPSCC employees to gather and connect around issues that define them personally and affect their work at the College and their professional development. Current Employee Resource Groups include:
Staff and Faculty of Color (SFOC) ERG - an employee network which strives to create an intentional and relational foundation for community and trust building across different groups through shared values. The LGBTQIA+ ERG creates a space for LGBTQIA+ staff and faculty at the college to share resources, build support and community, and work towards greater equity and accessibility.
What You'll Do
The main purpose of the Director of Financial Aid is to continuously evaluate and improve the financial aid systems and operations for compliance, maximum technological efficiency, and overall effective customer service to internal and external constituents. Additionally, this position greatly assists the Dean of Student Financial Services with management, training, and professional development for all staff within the unit, providing overall leadership, understanding, and regulatory guidance in the administration of all financial aid programs to students, staff, and institutional partners.
Funds Management and Programmatic Responsibilities
Lead day-to-day operations with the financial aid office while advancing strategies that improve internal financial aid processes and procedures and ensure the highest standard of service to students; Build and maintain systems that encourage student access to funds and ensure consistent delivery of services and improvements to positively impact the student experience; Monitor and oversee the administration of federal, state, and institutional financial aid programs in accordance with established federal, state, and institutional guidelines. Including developing annual awarding targets and independently monitoring funds to ensure year-end expenditures are within annual allocations; Serve as the Primary Destination Point Administrator (DPA) for the college. Ensure access to federal financial aid systems for staff and update the information accordingly. Ensure that all correspondence and federal/state requirements and deadlines are met in a timely manner; Serve as a liaison between Student Financial Services and the Business Office, supporting student account management, billing, disbursement, and reconciliation for all financial aid programs. Coordinate and communicate fiscal procedures and assist with developing and conducting internal controls, risk assessments, and federal, state, or other audit preparations. Develop and monitor streamlined processes, and development of financial aid policy and procedure manuals and operational calendars, to support the scope of work and ensure effective daily, weekly, monthly, quarterly, and annual services and goals are met. Assess, monitor, and disseminate workloads and schedules for financial aid staff. Plan, analyze, and evaluate programs and services, operational needs, and fiscal constraints. Ensure that staff adhere to regulations for awarding and serve as a resource for troubleshooting and resolving complex issues; Exercise professional judgment and guide financial aid staff in utilizing professional judgment to make financial aid decisions, including but not limited to special circumstances, appeals, and dependency overrides; Ensure programmatic eligibility for Title IV financial aid programs, including the evaluation of new programs and ensuring the update to existing programs within the Application to Participate in Federal Student Aid Programs (ECAR)remain eligible for Title IV funding. Technology & Compliance Reporting
Ensure the timely completion of federal, state, and institutional reporting requirements, including FISAP, Unit Record, Interim reports, and other regulatory requirements. Coordinate with the student services division department managers and staff to identify needs, communicate changes, and facilitate testing and training for system implementations and upgrades. Help develop and support Financial Aid Training plans to support SPSCC Navigators and outreach programs. Partner with IT to conduct research, identify, implement, and test new software releases. Collaborate with financial aid staff to facilitate new software trainings, ensure the completion of any necessary setups, resolve technical issues, schedule jobs, and implement controls to maximize the efficiency of financial aid systems. Partner closely with IT and the State Board to develop and ensure proper and efficient system functionality within PeopleSoft (CtcLink), including identifying and escalating issues for resolution as required. Assist IT in the identification and development of PS Queries when needed. Ensure accurate, compliant, and timely development and dissemination of all digitally produced student financial aid communications, including but not limited to SAP, financial aid overpayments, financial aid awards, and student loan and consumer information. Department Leadership & Supervision
Supervision and evaluation of all Financial Aid employees and staff, providing mentorship, leadership, and guidance, working with HR to resolve issues of conduct or insubordination, elevating emergent staff needs or issues to the Dean, and advocating for staff concerns whenever necessary. Engage in and encourage the growth and development of all financial aid staff, including ensuring regularly scheduled 1:1s, and that opportunities for professional development, both for self and for all staff, are regularly communicated. Ensure that developed policies, guidelines, and procedures are in regulatory compliance with federal, state, and institutional programs, and that adherence to compliance requirements is maintained across campus. Develop workflows and delegate tasks to staff to ensure essential deadlines and timelines are met. Consistently evaluate and align policy and guidelines with institutional goals, ensuring responsiveness to student needs within the process. Serve as a resource to assist staff with complex situations and questions. Think critically to find comprehensive solutions that stay within regulatory guidelines and, to the extent possible, support student goals. Ensure FERPA disclosure policies are followed by all FA employees. Maintain an active presence across campus, ensuring financial aid is appropriately represented in all areas and aspects of the college. Represent the office in various activities, including conferences, state-wide meetings, with governmental agencies, and statewide CTC/FA community, including attending meetings and providing input on SPSCC's behalf; Assume responsibility for Student Financial Services in the absence of the Dean. Qualifications You Possess
Required Education, Experience, and Competencies:
Bachelor's degree or higher and three (3) years of experience in Financial Aid administration;
OR An equivalent combination of education and experience to successfully perform the duties of the job;
Experience or demonstrated competency with problem-solving and interpreting complex rules and regulations. Strong computer skills, with the ability to navigate multiple systems and applications. One (1) year of supervisory experience; Must not be in default on a federal student loan through the Direct Loan program.
Preferred/Desired Education, Experience, and Competencies:
Demonstrated ability to work effectively with students, staff, and faculty; Demonstrated organizational skills, ability to prioritize and handle multiple tasks simultaneously; Experience with program management and/or reconciliation of large accounts; Experience with one or more of the following systems: PeopleSoft, WSAC Portal, FAM, EdConnect, COD, NSLDS, FPS, Partner Connect; other federal and state financial aid systems Special Requirements/Conditions of Employment:
Knowledge of federal, state, and local rules and regulations regarding student services, including FERPA and Title IV and Title IX, ability to successfully interpret and implement regulations and guidelines; Negotiate priorities according to campus need while considering rules and process requirements in decision-making. Work independently in a busy environment with regular interruptions; Work under stressful situations and manage stress appropriately; Maintain flexibility and openness to change as part of working in a dynamic learning environment. Model and provide exceptional customer service skills in-person, online, and over the phone; Communicate effectively, verbally and in writing, to our internal and external customers; Interact effectively with colleagues, staff, students, administrators, and others of various cultural and socio-economic backgrounds; Prioritize required job duties with ongoing confirmed deadlines and regulations; Consistently and accurately document information and process files; Work collaboratively in a team environment; Maintain confidentiality of student information; Embrace and incorporate diverse perspectives, and work successfully with staff, faculty, and students of varying ethnicities, ages, backgrounds, and abilities.
To Apply Applications must be completed online and include the following attachments: Cover letter addressed to the Screening Committee, highlighting your ability to perform the responsibilities and competencies described in the job posting. Current resume/CV showing all educational and professional experience, which demonstrates how you meet the minimum and any preferred qualifications. Copies of unofficial transcripts from institutions of higher education.
Top candidates will be notified directly to interview for this position. Selection will be based on the applicant's knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the duties listed in this job posting as identified in the materials requested above. Applications with comments directing the reader to see attachments will be considered incomplete.
Veterans Preference Applicants who meet the minimum qualifications and wishing to claim Veterans Preference should redact their personally identifiable information from a copy of their United States Department of Veterans Affairs honorable discharge documentation and email to
sbutler-hill@spscc.edu
with the job number for which they are applying in the subject line.
Condition of Employment Employment with the college is contingent upon the successful completion of a comprehensive background check. Any adverse information will be considered on a case-by-case basis and does not automatically preclude a candidate from employment.
South Puget Sound Community College values diversity and is an Equal Opportunity Employer and Educator South Puget Sound Community College provides equal opportunity in education and employment and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, sex, sexual orientation, marital status, creed, religion, or status as a veteran of war. Prohibited sex discrimination includes sexual harassment (unwelcome sexual conduct of various types). SPSCC provides reasonable accommodations for qualified students, employees, and applicants with disabilities in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and Federal Rehabilitation Act. The following person has been designated to handle inquiries regarding non-discrimination policies, Title II and Title IX, Samantha Dotson, Executive Human Resource Officer /Title IX Coordinator, 360-596-5361, ssoto@spscc.edu, Building 25, Room 220, 2011 Mottman Rd SW, Olympia, WA 98512; South Puget Sound Community College is a smoke-free/drug free environment.
Applicants needing accommodation in the application process in an alternative format may contact the Human Resources office at (360) 596-5500. SPSCC OFFERS: A generous benefits package including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, long-term disability, retirement, and optional deferred compensation programs. The position is eligible to participate in the (SBRP) and (DRS). Employees have the option to participate in two tax-deferred retirement investment programs. For health benefit information go to
COMPENSATION Your paycheck is just part of your total compensation package, with an employee benefits package worth about 30% of your salary.
VACATION AND SICK LEAVE Annual leave includes 24 days of vacation, 11 paid holidays, and 12 days of sick leave
For more benefits information please visit our website. 01
What experience do you have in leading, serving, advocating, collaborating, and/or representing specific underrepresented marginalized communities? 02
Describe your approach to collaboration and how you work in a culturally diverse groupto reach a common goal. 03
How do you approach cultural conflicts that might occur between individuals and/orgroups of people? 04
Describe how you use critical thinking skills to understand diverse perspectives. 05
How do you show empathy when working with others, especially those who are from another culture, or might have a different perspective than you? Required Question