Financial Aid Compliance Specialist

Western Technical College is a preferred employer in the 7 Rivers Region and is committed to providing a safe and respectful workplace for all co-workers. As an open-access institution, we proudly serve learners from all walks of life, recognizing that diverse backgrounds and lived experiences enrich our community and strengthen our mission. We are committed to creating a sense of belonging where everyone feels empowered to be themselves and supported in their personal and professional growth. This means actively identifying and removing barriers to opportunity and providing pathways to social and economic advancement. Western is deeply connected to the communities we serve, and we believe in the power of education to drive positive change. We seek individuals who are passionate about teaching and learning, dedicated to student success, and eager to collaborate in building a more vibrant, equitable community. If you share these values and are ready to make a meaningful impact, we invite you to explore this opportunity at Western.

Summary of Position: The Financial Aid Compliance Specialist ensures compliance with federal, state, and institutional requirements in the administration of financial aid programs. This role leads policy development, reporting, and oversight of regulatory and audit processes while maintaining accurate and transparent records. Additionally, the position administers verification procedures and monitors data integrity to support program eligibility and student success.

This is a hybrid eligible position that would allow for 1 day a week working from home after the training period.

1. Maintain and uphold the College values of Learning, Excellence, Accountability, Diversity, Student Success, Teamwork, Integrity, and Respect. Regular attendance is required.
2. Perform office functions that may include but are not limited to: respond to internal/external customers and staff; create and modify documents, records, and reports using College standard software; maintain hard copy and/or electronic filing system; monitor inventory and budget information; schedule, coordinate, and prepare materials for meetings and/or appointments.
3. Complete all required College training and responsible for maintaining the skills necessary to complete the essential functions of the position as defined by the department.
4. Student Success is the cornerstone of Western's culture and the college may assign employees as needed to other areas or additional duties to foster this success.
5. Regulatory Oversight and Compliance - Supporting Action/Task May Include:

• Lead the development, maintenance, and updates of financial aid policies, procedures, and compliance documents.
• Manage required federal and institutional reporting, certifications, and recertifications to ensure program eligibility.
• Oversee updates to consumer information and required online disclosures.
• Monitor federal guidance and regulations, interpreting policy changes and ensuring institutional compliance.
• Support audit preparation by gathering documentation and ensuring accuracy of records.
• Identify and report compliance concerns or potential fraud

• Administer student loan and financial aid verification processes,
• Process exit counseling, applicant verification, and reporting requirements.
• Monitor and resolve data discrepancies in student records to ensure compliance and accuracy.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Associate degree in related field OR
• Education in related field combined with appropriate occupational experience totaling 2 yrs. OR
• Related occupational experience totaling 2 yrs.

This position reports to: Director - Financial Aid Resource and Planning Services

Starting annual/hourly salary range based on education and experience: $23.61 - $30.24

This position would include competitive salary, along with a wide variety of benefits available to full-time Western Technical College Employees. These benefits include: health, HRA, dental, life, retirement - Wisconsin Retirement System (WRS), voluntary vision, supplemental Allstate insurance (accident, critical illness and cancer), pet insurance, short-term and long-term disability insurance plans, flexible spending account for health & dependent care, employee assistance program (EAP), Employee Wellness Incentive, Education Reimbursement, and tax-sheltered retirement annuity programs - 457 & 403(b). We offer a range of paid leave including Bereavement, Casual Illness, Personal, Vacation, Holidays, Summer Fridays, Shut Down, Parental paid leave, Military paid leave, Volunteer leave, and Leave donation.

This is a hybrid eligible position that would allow for 1 day a week working from home after the training period.

Applicant review will begin: Monday, October 20, 2025

Start Date of: December 2025

Copies of Transcripts from regionally accredited colleges or universities are acceptable during the application process (originals will be required upon hire)
Western is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. Our mission is to provide relevant, high quality education in a collaborative and sustainable environment that changes the lives of students and grows our communities. Western is committed to providing a safe and respectful workplace for all employees.

An Equal Opportunity/Access/Employer And Educator

Western Technical College is an EEO/AA/Title VI/Title IX/Section 504/ADA/ADEA institution in the provision of its education and employment programs and services. All qualified applicants will receive equal consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, pregnancy, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, physical or mental disability, or covered veteran status. Reasonable accommodation will be provided in the job application process to enable a qualified applicant to have an equal opportunity to be considered for a job as is provided to all Western employees. If you want to request an accommodation, please contact the EEO/AA Compliance Officer at (608)785-9274.

Non-Discrimination Notice
Western Technical College, in compliance with state and federal law, does not discriminate on the basis of age, race, color, national origin, disability, marital status, sex, including sexual orientation and gender identity, veteran status, genetic testing or other legislated categories in employment, admissions, programs, or activities. Western prohibits retaliation against any individuals who bring forth any compliant, orally or in writing, to the College or government, or against any individuals who assist or participate in the investigation of any complaint or otherwise oppose discrimination. Western provides assurance that lack of English reading/speaking skills will not be a barrier to admittance and participation in the College. General inquiries regarding the College's non-discrimination policies may be directed to:
John Heath
Director of Human Resources
Western Technical College
111 7th Street North
La Crosse, WI 54601
608-785-9464
WI Relay: 711