Job Description

Job Description:
Make a direct impact on student success by helping coordinate and strengthen student employment programs that build career readiness and meaningful work experience while in college. The Program Specialist I ensures programs are compliant with federal and institutional regulations while coordinating key operational details including position approvals, partner onboarding, staffing logistics, and communication with campus partners such as HR, Payroll, and Finance. This role also supports budget monitoring, program evaluation, training coordination, and engagement efforts that promote student employment opportunities and recognize student employees and supervisors.

This role supports the planning, implementation, and continuous improvement of programs such as federal work-study, on-campus employment, community service opportunities, Undergraduate Research Assistantships, and off-campus partnerships. This role is a strong fit for someone who is highly organized, detail-oriented, and comfortable managing multiple moving pieces in a fast-paced environment. Successful candidates are collaborative relationship-builders who can work across campus and community partners, communicate clearly, interpret regulations, and balance compliance with student-centered program development.

Preferred Qualifications:

Experience in higher education student support or financial aid administration.

Knowledge of federal, state, and institutional work-study regulations.

Program development and project management experience.

Experience working with data management and reporting systems, specifically Workday

Experience working with schools or community-based organizations

Experience designing and delivering trainings or workshops.

About the Department:

Located in the heart of Iowa State’s campus, the Office of Student Financial Aid is a proud unit within the Division of Academic Affairs. We administer over $400 million in federal, state, institutional, and private aid annually—supporting more than 85% of undergraduate students and many domestic graduate students. Our mission is to empower students to succeed through financial support, education, and outreach. Our team values student success, accountability, innovation, collaboration, dignity and respect, and advocacy. We prioritize professional growth through staff retreats and conference opportunities, and we foster a collaborative environment that values each team member’s strengths. If you're ready to make a difference and be part of a supportive, student-focused team—we invite you to apply and join us!