Job Description

　　The Education Secretariat is committed to equity and valuing the unique and diverse characteristics and experiences of every member of its workforce. We encourage an authentic workplace where colleagues show up as their full selves, where collaboration, innovation, and connections are key to realizing our mission that all children, youth, and families thrive socially, academically, and economically. We seek teammates who are committed to promoting a diverse and inclusive work environment, where everyone is valued and engaged. We encourage you to apply and identify your strengths in these areas.

　　Position Overview:

　　The Associate Director for Student Financial Assistance ("Associate Director") will assist with administrating statewide financial aid programs and initiatives including the Financial Aid Advisory Committee; Police Career Incentive Pay Program; Hazing Compliance; and the Massachusetts High Demand Scholarship program. The Associate Director is also responsible for supporting data collection efforts and conducting background research for policy development recommendations that promote college access and the enhancement of student success in higher education. The Associate Director supports the Department of Higher Education's efforts to ensure the integrity of all financial aid programs and related initiatives, as defined and within alignment with the agency's equity strategic plan.

　　Essential Job Functions

　　Manage the applicant selection, awarding, and funds disbursement process for the Massachusetts High Demand Scholarship Serve as program coordinator for the Police Career Incentive Pay Program (PCIPP) program; review and approve officer credentials for certification and bonus reimbursement; respond to municipality inquiries, provide annual updates to cities and towns, as required; maintain and update historical database; Coordinate the annual Hazing Attestation and Compliance process for postsecondary institutions, as required by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Provide administrative staff support for agency task forces, advisory committees (including the DHE's Statewide Financial Aid Advisory Committee), and other short-term groups appointed to explore issues related to financial aid policy Assist with related background research and correlated tasks that will help guide the development of policy recommendations and initiatives designed to promote equity and enhance student success, as part of the department's equity strategic plan Assist the OSFA senior staff with outreach programs for underrepresented students; participate in support services such as FAFSA Completion, career planning, and academic advising to positively impact and promote at-risk students' participation in higher education With other OSFA program administrators, test new programs in OSFA's MASSAid system, identifying issues and proposing enhancements in communication with OSFA's software vendor

　　Serve on various ad hoc committees to support department and agency transitions and initiatives Support the office in other endeavors, such as annual updates to web-based communications and statewide training workshops, to ensure OSFA continues to operate in an environment that promotes integrity and quality in program management and improves accountability in support of the agency's goals for student success

　　• Other duties as assigned

　　Questions regarding the posting or hiring process: [email protected]

　　Qualifications

　　Preferred Qualifications/Other Skills/Abilities

　　The successful candidate must possess the following:

　　• Experience in financial aid program management at the state, federal, or institutional level, with direct knowledge of program regulations and guidelines

　　• An ability to exercise sound judgment, maintain high ethical standards, and set a positive example

　　• An ability to plan, organize, multi-task, and prioritize tasks for timely completion and delivery

　　• An ability to work effectively in a team-oriented environment; interacting with office staff in a positive and cooperative manner

　　• Has familiarity with technology tools and their application in the areas of research, data analysis, and program evaluation

　　• Is highly organized and possesses excellent communication skills, with an ability to make oral presentations

　　• Is results-oriented and assumes responsibility and accountability for own work; responds appropriately to internal and external requests for assistance, demonstrates initiative, flexibility, and an ability to engage in multiple tasks, as assigned successfully

　　Minimum Entrance Requirements

　　• Master's degree and a minimum of five years of experience in a higher education program or policy administration, such as financial aid or a related student services environment

　　• Experience in conducting research, data analysis, and program evaluation

　　• Knowledge and understanding of higher education policies and issues that impact academic preparedness, access, student retention, and college completion

　　• Direct experience with college access programs, student counseling, and financial aid administration, including knowledge of state and federal program regulations

　　• Proven written and oral communication skills, with an ability to make effective presentations

　　Comprehensive Benefits

　　When you embark on a career with the Commonwealth, you are offered an outstanding suite of employee benefits that add to the overall value of your compensation package. We take pride in providing a work experience that supports you, your loved ones, and your future.

　　Want the specifics? Explore our Employee Benefits and Rewards!

　　An Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer. Females, minorities, veterans, and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.

　　The Commonwealth is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate based on race, religion, color, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, national origin, veteran status, or any other basis covered by appropriate law. Research suggests that qualified women, Black, Indigenous, and Persons of Color (BIPOC) may self-select out of opportunities if they don't meet 100% of the job requirements. We encourage individuals who believe they have the skills necessary to thrive to apply for this role.