STAFF SPECIALIST I, HIGHER EDUCATION (Program Manager)

Introduction

Maryland Higher Education Commission is seeking two energetic, experienced in financial aid programs and post secondary education, Staff Spec I''s (Program Managers) for their Office of Student Financial Assistance

GRADE

STD0017

LOCATION OF POSITION

217 E. Redwood St.,Â

Baltimore, MD 21202

Main Purpose of Job

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; career-based scholarships for students entering certain workforce programs; awards to unique populations, such as military veterans; and legislative scholarships. This Staff Specialist I â Higher Education position(s) are assigned duties and responsibilities pertaining primarily to need-based programs and unique populations/legislative scholarship programs. The position reports directly to the Associate Director. The position will provide professional services, including independent policy analysis, development, and implementation to allow for OSFA within MHEC to fulfill its statutory responsibilities with regard to the coordination, statewide planning, and regulation of postsecondary education financial assistance. This position is responsible for managing several distinct programs within the unit and provides direct supervision to 1â5 staff members, along with indirect oversight of additional personnel. Supervision includes oversight of a variety of operational functions within the unit, including telephone inquiries, processing of documents, and responding to e-mail inquiries. The program manager also serves as a subject matter lead for the state financial aid programs administered within the designated unit and is responsible for ensuring that such programs are administered effectively and within the parameters of Commission policies and regulations.

POSITION DUTIES

• Manage funds and oversee administration of financial assistance programs within the assigned unit;
• Manage daily operations and ensure the effective administration of assigned financial assistance programs;
• Assist in the design, development, and modification of financial assistance programs; conduct assessments to support program improvement;
• Provide timely and accurate financial aid information to students, families, and institutional partners;
• Supervise the verification of eligibility documentation and maintain accurate program records;
• Maintain current knowledge of relevant statutory requirements, regulations, policies, procedures, and technological systems;
• Contribute to policy development and provide legislative and statistical analysis for internal and external stakeholders, including the Department of Legislative Services (DLS) and the Department of Budget and Management (DBM);
• Monitor compliance of assigned programs with state laws and internal policies;
• Analyze audit findings and recommend corrective actions in coordination with agency leadership and legal counsel;
• Collaborate with the Associate Directors of Operations and Systems as well as other OSFA staff to ensure MDCAPS operations align with program requirements and regulations;
• Provide leadership and support to staff; develop procedures, facilitate training, and implement continuous process improvements;
• Assist the Executive Director with special projects, including Managing for Results (MFR) submissions, Joint Chairmenâs Reports (JCR), and participation in workgroups and task forces;
• Serve as a liaison to internal units, external agencies, and community organizations;
• Prepare reports, publications, and other communication materials as required;
• Perform additional duties as assigned by the Director or the Secretary of Higher Education; and
• Other similar OSFA and administrative duties as assigned.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Education:Â Â A Bachelor''s degree from an accredited college or university.

Experience:Â 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.

DESIRED OR PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

Preferred Qualifications:

1. The successful candidate will have extensive knowledge and/or experience of department processes, business principles and practices.Â

2. Experience working independently and in a team environment with sensitive and confidential information.

3.Strong attention to detail with a dedication to accuracy is preferred. It is also preferred that applicants be highly organized, be able to multitask, and be a self-starter who can work. Â

4. Experience providing customer service internally and externally, identifying critical paths quickly, and adjusting plans and approach as necessary.

5. Additionally, applicants should possess excellent oral and written communication skills and attention to detail; with the ability to read, analyze and interpret data.

LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS AND CERTIFICATIONS

NOT APPLICABLE.

SELECTION PROCESS

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

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.

BENEFITS

STATE OF MARYLAND BENEFITS

FURTHER INSTRUCTIONS

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.