Job Details

Salary: $38,868.00 - $51,588.00 Annually
Location : Yakima, WA
Job Type: Classified
Job Number: 25-041
Division: Student Services
Opening Date: 04/08/2025
Closing Date: 4/22/2025 11:00 PM Pacific

Description
Our Mission Statement:
As a federally designated Hispanic-serving Institution residing on the traditional homelands of the 14 Confederated Tribes and Bands of the Yakama Nation, Yakima Valley College cultivates equity and a culture of innovative and inclusive teaching and learning.

Yakima Valley College serves all students holistically, supports all students' learning goals, and fosters achievement within career and educational pathways.

We strengthen our communities by providing opportunities for personal enrichment, economic mobility, and sociocultural engagement.

Yakima Valley College is accepting applications for a Program Assistant in the Student Services Division - Financial Aid Services. This is a full-time, in person, classified position, beginning salary is $3,239 per month for 40 hours per week, with periodic increments up to $4,299, plus a full state benefits package.
Reporting to the Director of Financial Aid Services, the Program Assistant plays a key role in supporting financial aid operations. This position works closely with the Director, Assistant Director, and financial aid staff to administer aid programs while ensuring compliance with federal, state, and institutional guidelines.
The Program Assistant is responsible for advising and assisting students, parents, faculty, staff, and external agencies regarding financial aid programs, eligibility, and awards. The role includes reviewing applications, determining eligibility, and awarding financial aid in alignment with institutional policies and regulatory requirements. Maintaining data integrity within the Financial Aid Management System and ensuring accurate transmissions to and from federal and state agencies is essential. Additionally, the Program Assistant gathers, analyzes, and presents data related to program operations while providing training, guidance, and support to financial aid staff.
Serving as a liaison between the financial aid office and other departments or external organizations, the Program Assistant contributes to a team-oriented environment focused on delivering exceptional student service. This position is primarily office-based, with the potential for a hybrid schedule if customer service needs are met. Occasional evening or weekend work may be required.

Essential Tasks

• Address and resolve inquiries related to financial aid rules, regulations, policies, procedures, and services. Handle phone calls, emails, and correspondence while assisting students through the financial aid process.
• Greet and refer visitors, facilitating the operation of financial aid programs.
• Compile and distribute information on financial aid program activities; collaborate with campus departments and external agencies per regulations. Serve as a resource for campus committees focused on financial aid operations.
• Utilize specialized software to record, retrieve, monitor, calculate, and report financial aid data.
• Analyze and interpret statistical data, historical reports, and other relevant materials.
• Establish, maintain, and organize records and files.
• Prepare narrative and statistical reports on program operations and activities.
• Develop and maintain accurate records using spreadsheet and database software.
• Coordinate and oversee the production of student notifications.
• Plan, coordinate, and conduct financial aid information sessions for students and stakeholders.
• Generate reports, upload files, and reconcile fund accounts with federal/state agencies and the business office.
• Process and submit program reports to external agencies.
• Provide backup support for other office functions.
• Conduct complex federal eligibility verification, review data for accuracy, and make necessary award adjustments.
• Award applicants based on federal, state, and institutional guidelines and funding priorities.
• Process revisions to student awards due to funding availability, eligibility changes, and enrollment status.
• Run reports, troubleshoot issues, and implement proactive corrections.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

Qualifications

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Two years of full-time clerical experience.
• OR equivalent education/experience.

ABILITY TO:

• Learn and adapt to new technology, utilizing its full functionality.
• Troubleshoot technical issues and develop effective solutions.
• Think critically, take initiative, and approach tasks proactively.
• Provide positive and constructive feedback to students and staff.
• Communicate clearly, collaboratively, and consistently.
• Meet deadlines and effectively prioritize time-sensitive tasks.

KNOWLEDGE OF:

• Financial aid programs, regulations, and eligibility requirements.
• Financial aid systems, including interpreting and adjusting student eligibility when necessary.
• Key processing deadlines and timelines for task completion.
• The student journey and financial aid information essential for informed academic decision-making.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in a related field.
• At least one year of experience in financial aid or two years in a related field.
• Proficiency with financial aid management software.
• Strong knowledge and experience using Microsoft Office, including spreadsheet and database applications.
• Technical expertise applicable to a student services environment.
• Commitment to serving students from diverse backgrounds.
• Ability to work methodically and collaboratively.
• Strong interpersonal skills to effectively interact with staff, students, and the public.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong attention to detail, accuracy in record-keeping, and ability to identify errors.
• Capacity to concentrate for extended periods, manage interruptions, and multitask effectively.
• Proficiency in keyboarding with normal speed, including extended periods of sitting and hand/arm movement.
• Sound judgment in decision-making, ensuring compliance with regulations and established policies.

Supplemental Information
APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:

To apply for this position, you MUST submit a complete YVC Online Employment Application, and include the following REQUIRED attachments:

• A cover letter describing how you meet the qualifications of this position (a generic cover letter will not be accepted)
• A current resume(a resume will not substitute for the "work experience" section of the online application)
• Three (3) professional references(personal references do not count as professional)
• Unofficial transcripts for confirmation of degree(if minimum qualifications require a degree). The successful candidate will be required to submit official transcripts at time of hire.
• Certifications/Credentials as required for fulfillment of the minimum qualifications.

Please note: Failure to follow the above application instructions will lead to disqualification. Please do not include any attachments other than the ones requested above. E-mailed documents will not be accepted after the closing of the recruitment or in lieu of attaching your documents to the online application.
SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION:

Candidates invited for interviews may be required to complete a skills test.

Candidates may be subject to a Criminal History Background Check as a condition for consideration of employment.

"In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire."

Yakima Valley College does not discriminate against any person on the basis of race, color, national origin, disability, sex, genetic information, or age in admission, treatment, or participation in its programs, services and activities, or in employment. All inquiries regarding compliance should be directed to the Director of Human Resource Services, YVC, South 16th Ave. & Nob Hill Blvd., Yakima, WA 98902; or call 509.###.####.

Yakima Valley College's Annual Safety and Fire Report is available online at mandated information about current campus policies concerning safety and security issues, required statistics, and other related information for the past three calendar years. To obtain a paper copy of the report, please call 509.###.####.

Applicants with disabilities who require assistance with the recruitment process will be accommodated to the extent reasonably possible.

All positions are subject to funding.
Yakima Valley College offers a selection of health and retirement plans allowing you to take advantage of the plans that work for you. We also offer paid leave, development and career opportunities, and other compensation benefits. Benefit packages are a key component of our Total Compensation Model.

Insurance Benefits

Yakima Valley College offers medical (including vision), and dental. There are several medical plans with affordable monthly premiums that offer coverage throughout the state. Employees are also covered by basic life and long term disability insurance, with the option to purchase additional coverage amounts. To view premium rates, coverage choice in your area and how to enroll, please visit the

Retirement and Deferred Compensation

State Employees are members of the Washington Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS). New employees have the option of two employer contributed retirement programs. For additional information, check out the ' web site.

Employees also have the ability to participate in the (DCP), a supplemental retirement savings program that allows you control over the amount of pre-tax salary dollars you defer as well as the flexibility to choose between multiple investment options.

Please refer to the for more detailed information.
Paid Leave and Other Incentives

In addition to the benefits above, full time classifed employees can accrue up to 25 days of vacation, 12 sick days, and 3 personal days each year. Full time employees are also able to take advantage of waived tuition, scholarships and other professional development opportunities.

Contact our Human Resources team with any additional questions you may.