| Location | WA |
| Salary | $51,600–$61,332 Per Year |
Student Financials Specialist (Fiscal Specialist 2) - Veterans Benefits Ch. 31/33
Salary
$51,600.00 - $62,880.00 Annually
Location
Pierce College District, WA
Job Type
Classified Full Time
Job Number
C2640
Division
Fiscal Services
Department
Cashiering - FS
Opening Date
10/16/2026
Closing Date
10/30/2026 5:00 PM Pacific
Position Summary
This recruitment may be used to fill additional Student Financials Specialist (Fiscal Specialist 2) positions district-wide within Student Financials over the next three (3) months. See Terms of Employment below for additional information.
Please Note: The salary range for this position is $51,600.00 - $61,332.00 annually, depending on qualifications, with periodic increments up to $62,880.00 annually.
The mission of Pierce College is to create quality educational opportunities for a diverse community of learners to thrive in an evolving world. The Pierce College District is committed to being an anti-racist institution. To truly be anti-racist, we must work deliberately to eliminate barriers that have prevented the most promising and capable students from entering and thriving in college.
The Student Financials Specialist (Fiscal Specialist 2) - Veterans Benefits Ch. 31/33 administers claims, billing, payment processing, and account maintenance in accordance with established procedures and requirements for Veterans Affairs and other third-party agency platforms on behalf of the Pierce College District.
This position serves as the subject-matter expert in its assigned area(s) and is responsible for developing, recommending, and establishing procedures within those areas while working within the framework of established college procedures for recording, summarizing, and reporting fiscal activity. This position ensures compliance with applicable state and federal regulations, Office of Financial Management (OFM) requirements, and institutional regulations, policies and procedures related to student receivables, refunds, billing, collections, recordkeeping, and financial transactions.
The position provides high-quality customer service district-wide to students, employees, and external partners by answering questions related to student account balances, reconciliations, billing, payments, refunds, sponsorships, and other Student Financials functions. It also provides backup support for front-line Student Financials operations, including cashiering, payment processing, customer assistance, and front desk coverage, as needed.
This position reports to the Student Financials Supervisor. Regular and consistent attendance is required.
About the District
Pierce College is a high-performing, mission-driven, data-informed, student-focused district committed to equity, diversity, and inclusion. For nearly 60 years, Pierce College has developed a national reputation for academic excellence and support services to ensure student success. The district is proud of the many awards and recognitions it has received. Pierce College is an Achieving the Dream Leader College of Distinction and was the 2017 recipient of their prestigious Leah Meyer Austin Award, given for measurable improvements in student outcomes.
Named as a Top 5 Finalist and a Rising Star for the 2019 Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence, Pierce College Fort Steilacoom was recognized for exceptional achievements in student learning, certificate and degree completion while in community college and after transferring to a four-year institution, employment and earnings rates after graduation, and access for and success of minority and low-income students. Pierce College District was named as a Top 10 finalist for the 2021 Aspen Prize and a Top 25 for 2023. Pierce is also one of 30 original AACC Guided Pathways colleges and one of first five College Spark Washington pathways colleges. We have bold goals to have all students on a career pathway to increase completion rates for all students and to close achievement gaps by 2027. Take a peek with aerial campus views!
Pierce College Fort Steilacoom
Located on a beautiful 140-acre site adjacent to a 340-acre community recreational park and Waughop Lake.
Pierce College Puyallup
Located on an expansive site with 125-acres of wooded land with beautiful hideaways.
Pierce College at JBLM
Located at the Joint Base Lewis-McChord military sites, serving many of our military and active-duty families that are serving our country.
Our colleges enjoy a strong presence in the communities in which they serve and participate in numerous partnerships with business, community, government, and educational organizations.
Essential Functions
The Student Financials Specialist (Fiscal Specialist 2) - Veterans Benefits Ch. 31/33 will be responsible for the following, but not limited to:
Primary assigned area: Veterans Benefits - Chapters 31/33
Designated backup areas: Military Tuition Assistance and Non-military Third-party Sponsorships
Duties Specific to Primary Assigned Area (Veterans Benefits - Ch. 31/33)
Ensure all third-party sponsors maintain current written authorization agreements containing required billing information and verifying that payment is made directly to the institution.
Administer claims, billing, payment processing, and account maintenance in accordance with established procedures and requirements for Veterans Affairs and other third-party agency platforms.
Collaborate with the Veterans Affairs Department to ensure eligible students are accurately added to or removed from third-party sponsorship accounts within ctcLink and that student and third-party accounts are properly maintained for claims, billing, and payment processing.
Process debt letters and coordinate the return of funds to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs in accordance with applicable regulations and timelines.
Coordinate with Follett Bookstore to obtain required documentation and invoices, process Tungsten invoices, and facilitate payment for approved books and supplies.
Reconcile third-party accounts within ctcLink to ensure account balances are accurately cleared upon receipt of payment; research discrepancies and take appropriate corrective action to resolve identified issues.
Communicate with students regarding account adjustments, including charges returned to student accounts due to changes in eligibility or non-funding by the Department of Veterans Affairs.
Independently develop and implement processes for monitoring Veterans Affairs and third-party claims and billing activities to ensure timely and accurate payment of student and sponsored charges.
Apply authorized waivers and account adjustments to student accounts in accordance with institutional policies and sponsor requirements.
Coordinate with the Refund Specialist to process refunds and returns of funds as required.
Duties Performed by All Student Financials Specialists
Ensure compliance with applicable state, federal, Office of Financial Management (OFM), and institutional regulations, policies, and procedures related to student receivables, refunds, billing, collections, recordkeeping, and financial transactions.
Independently complete comprehensive audits, reconciliations, and reviews of student accounts within assigned area(s) and as directed by the supervisor; ensure the accuracy and integrity of financial records; independently resolve discrepancies in a timely manner; and seek supervisor support when corrective actions may adversely impact other fiscal areas.
Work within established deadlines and strict regulatory timelines to process transactions, maintain records, and fulfill reporting requirements.
Evaluate student financial processes, identify operational issues, and recommend procedural improvements that enhance efficiency, accuracy, compliance, and customer service.
Provide high-quality customer service district-wide to students, employees, and external partners by answering questions related to student account balances, reconciliations, billing, payments, refunds, sponsorships, and other Student Financials functions.
Prepare, modify, maintain, and distribute reports, spreadsheets, correspondence, and other documentation to support reporting, recordkeeping, compliance, and operational needs.
Develop, maintain, and update departmental desk manuals, procedures, and process documentation to ensure consistency and continuity of operations.
Cross-train with coworkers in designated backup area(s) and stay current in topics and processes related to those area(s) in order to provide assistance or fill-in coverage as necessary during peak times or periods of staffing vacancy or approved leave.
Provide backup support for front-line Student Financials operations, including cashiering functions, payment processing, customer assistance, and front desk coverage as needed.
Participate in internal and external audits by gathering supporting documentation, responding to inquiries, and assisting with corrective actions as necessary.
Perform special projects and other duties as assigned in support of Student Financials and departmental operations.
Qualifications
Education Required
OR
If qualifying through an education equivalency, applicants must meet the following:
Experience used to meet the education equivalency requirement must be in addition to the minimum experience required for the position.
Education to Experience Equivalencies: For this requirement, six (6) months of qualifying work experience is considered equivalent to the required education.
Experience Required
Minimum two (2) years' experience providing customer service via phone, email and in person.
Minimum one (1) year of experience in a position responsible for timely, accurate fiscal transactions and record-keeping.
Experience working with electronic information management systems/database software.
Experience assisting individuals in problem solving, identifying needs, and exploring options.
Special Requirements
After a conditional offer of employment, the successful candidate must consent to and pass a criminal records background check. Information from the background check will not necessarily preclude employment but will be considered in determining the applicant's suitability to perform in this position.
For roles in finance or those with cash handling requirements, the successful candidate must consent to and pass a credit check after a conditional offer of employment. Information from the credit check will not necessarily preclude employment but will be considered in determining the applicant's suitability to perform in this position.
Must not be in default on any student loans.
Must meet and maintain security standards for military installation access authorization.
Must be able to provide face-to-face service to students on the installation.
Required Competencies
Specialized Assignment Knowledge
Depending on assignment, positions may require specialized knowledge of veterans educational benefits, military tuition assistance programs, third-party sponsorships, student refund administration, collections processes, 1098-T reporting requirements, Return to Title IV (R2T4) regulations, or other Student Financials functions.
Technical Knowledge and Financial Systems
Knowledge of accounts receivable, student financial services, billing, collections, refunds, sponsorship programs, and related accounting principles and practices.
Knowledge of applicable federal and state laws, regulations, policies, and procedures governing student financial transactions, including financial aid, veterans benefits, third-party sponsorships, collections, refunds, and public fund accounting.
Knowledge of financial recordkeeping, reconciliation, reporting, internal controls, and auditing practices.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, particularly Excel, Word, and other business software used to analyze data, maintain records, prepare reports, and support operational functions.
Ability to create, analyze, modify, and maintain spreadsheets, reports, databases, and financial records with a high degree of accuracy and attention to detail.
Ability to learn and effectively use enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems, student information systems, financial management systems, and other technologies used to support Student Financials operations.
Ability to monitor, analyze, reconcile, and validate financial data and generate reports that support operational, compliance, and decision-making needs.
Ability to interpret and explain financial information, policies, procedures, and applicable state and federal regulations to students, employees, and external stakeholders.
Analytical Thinking and Problem Solving
Ability to analyze complex financial transactions, account activity, and reporting data to identify discrepancies, trends, and compliance concerns.
Ability to exercise sound judgment, critical thinking, and independent decision-making within established regulations, policies, and procedures.
Ability to research issues, evaluate alternatives, and implement effective solutions while maintaining data integrity and regulatory compliance.
Ability to identify opportunities for process improvements and recommend practical solutions that enhance efficiency, accuracy, customer service, and operational effectiveness.
Ability to recognize problems, determine root causes, and take appropriate corrective action in a timely manner.
Communication and Collaboration
Strong verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to prepare correspondence, reports, documentation, and procedural materials using clear, professional, and grammatically correct language.
Ability to communicate financial information, policies, procedures, and requirements clearly and effectively to individuals with varying levels of financial knowledge.
Ability to establish and maintain positive working relationships with students, colleagues, campus departments, external agencies, and community partners.
Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team while contributing to shared goals and supporting a positive and inclusive work environment.
Ability to provide training, guidance, and technical assistance related to Student Financials processes and procedures when appropriate.
Customer Service and Interpersonal Effectiveness
Demonstrated commitment to providing equitable, student-centered customer service and creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for individuals from diverse cultural, socioeconomic, educational, and life experiences.
Ability to respond to inquiries with professionalism, empathy, discretion, and respect while maintaining appropriate confidentiality.
Ability to assess customer needs, explain available options and resources, and assist individuals in navigating complex financial processes and requirements.
Ability to manage sensitive or difficult situations effectively while maintaining positive working relationships and focusing on successful outcomes.
Professionalism and Accountability
Demonstrated commitment to ethical conduct, integrity, accountability, and stewardship of public resources.
Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise discretion when working with sensitive student and financial information.
Ability to manage multiple priorities, organize work effectively, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment with frequent interruptions and competing demands.
Ability to work independently, take initiative, and assume responsibility for assigned projects and outcomes.
Ability to adapt to changing priorities, technologies, regulations, and operational requirements.
Commitment to continuous learning, professional growth, and ongoing improvement of processes, services, and individual performance.
Application Process
Please submit only the required documents listed below. For your privacy, please remove or redact all Personally Identifiable Information (PII), such as Social Security numbers, from your application materials. Additionally, please do not include photographs or external links in your documents.
Meet the required qualifications as outlined in this announcement.
Online Application: Complete the online application profile and apply for the specific job opening.
Cover Letter: Upload (attach) a cover letter that addresses how you meet the required qualifications as outlined in this announcement.
Resume: Upload (attach) detailed résumé of all educational and professional experience.
Transcripts: Transcripts are not required in order to apply for this position; however, if you are selected for an interview, you will be asked to bring copies of unofficial transcripts showing completion of the required level of education and/or coursework. International transcript must include a foreign transcript evaluation. For a list of approved credential evaluation services, visit National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES).
Please note: Certain positions require specific levels of educational attainment, such as a post-secondary degree, licensure, or certification. In order to evaluate applicant materials to determine if the minimum qualifications are met, information regarding your education and experience should be included in your application materials. Unofficial transcripts are acceptable for the application process; official transcripts are required upon hire.
References: Upload (attach) a list of at least three (3) professional references with names, telephone numbers, and e-mail addresses. One of which must be your current or most recent supervisor. Letters of recommendation will not be accepted.
Supplemental Question: Provide a response to the following question.
The Colleges goal is to support all students and to achieve racial and social equity in pursuit of mission. If you were selected for this position, how would you contribute to and support this goal? Please limit your response to a maximum of 500 words.
To learn more about our Equity, Engagement, and Belonging efforts, visit the Equity, Engagement, and Belonging webpage.
Special Note
To ensure consideration, application materials should be received no later than 5:00 p.m. on the closing date.
All correspondence regarding your application status will be sent to the email address associated with your SCHOOLJOBS.COM account. Please make sure to check your spam folder periodically, in the case of an automated, incorrect delivery.
Terms of Employment
The applicant pool for this recruitment may be used to fill future Student Financials Specialist (Fiscal Specialist 2) positions district-wide within Student Financials over the next three months. Potential openings include:
This is a full-time (40 hours per week), classified, overtime-eligible position with Pierce College District. The position is permanent upon successful completion of a six (6) month probationary period.
The position will be based at the Fort Steilacoom campus four (4) days per week and at Joint Base Lewis-McChord one (1) day per week. Work hours are between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, with occasional evening and weekend work as required. Occasional travel to Pierce College campuses or sites may be required. The position may be subject to reassignment between campuses or sites. Regular and consistent attendance is required.
Salary & Benefits
The salary range for this position is $51,600.00 - $61,332.00 annually, depending on qualifications, with periodic increments up to $62,880.00 annually.
However, your paycheck is just part of the total compensation package. There is an outstanding benefits package which is worth an additional value equivalent to about 30% of your salary. A comprehensive health care benefits package for you and your dependents includes medical, dental and vision insurance. Life and long-term disability insurance plans; vacation, sick and personal leave; reduced tuition; and retirement benefits are also provided.
Physical Work Environment
This position is required to work indoors in an open office environment, which requires visual concentration on detail, dexterity, precision, and is subject to frequent noise and interruptions.
Reasonable Accommodation
Applicants with disabilities who require assistance with the application and employment process will be accommodated to the extent reasonably possible. Requests should be made to the District Human Resources Office by calling 253-964-7342. Persons who are deaf or hard of hearing may dial 711 to place a call through Washington Relay, the states free telecommunication access service.
Screening & Interview Process
Only those candidates who have complied with the application process and meet the required qualifications will be considered. Following the review of application materials, the most qualified candidates will be contacted for an interview. Check the email account you used for the application process for communication regarding the status of your application. Application materials submitted to Pierce College are the property of the College and will not be returned.
Please Note
This is a competitive selection process. Your application materials will be reviewed and evaluated based on the minimum qualifications listed for the position.
Applicants whose qualifications most closely correspond to the district's needs will be eligible for further consideration. Notification of application status normally occurs 4 to 6 weeks after the closing date. Short notice may be given to applicants to participate in further selection processes which may include written, oral and performance examinations, and final interviews.
Conditions of Employment
Prior to the start of employment, finalist(s) for this position will be subject to a pre-employment background check as a condition of employment. Information from the background check will not necessarily preclude employment but will be considered in determining the applicants suitability and competence to perform in the position.
For roles in finance or those with cash handling requirements, the successful candidate must consent to and pass a credit check after a conditional offer of employment. Information from the credit check will not necessarily preclude employment but will be considered in determining the applicant's suitability to perform in this position.
Applicants considered for this position will be required to disclose if they are the subject of any substantiated findings or current investigations related to sexual misconduct at their current employment and past employment.
Conditional offer letters will be accompanied by a declaration and authorization to release information form to be completed by the applicant. Disclosure is required under Washington State Law RCW 28B.112.080.
An offer of employment will not carry with it any responsibility or obligation on the part of the district to sponsor an H-1B visa. In compliance with the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986, proof of authorization to work in the United States will be required at the time of hire.
Pierce College has adopted a Drug Free Workplace policy. As a condition of employment, employees must agree to abide by the requirements established in that policy.
Bargaining Unit
This position has been designated as a bargaining unit position represented by the Washington Public Employee Association (WPEA).
Equal Opportunity
Pierce College supports and values the dignity of each member of its community and visitors, and is committed to maintaining an environment free from discrimination and harassment. This commitment applies to all levels and areas of operations and programs and is intended to ensure that all students and employees are provided equitable opportunities to realize their goals and to function safely and effectively within the Pierce College environment.
Pierce College recognizes its responsibility under state laws and their implementing regulations to investigate, resolve, implement corrective measures, and monitor the educational environment and workplace to stop, remediate, and prevent discrimination on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, perceived or actual physical or mental disability, pregnancy, genetic information, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, creed, religion, honorably discharged veteran or military status, or use of a trained guide dog or service animal. Pierce College prohibits discrimination against and harassment of members of these protected classes, as well as any additional class(es) protected by local, state, or federal law. Any individual found to be in violation of this policy will be subject to disciplinary action up to and including the possibility of exclusion from Pierce College facilities, dismissal from Pierce College as a student, and/or dismissal from employment, as applicable.
Members of the college community, guests, or visitors who believe they have been the subject of discrimination or harassment should report the incident or incidents to the District Title IX/EEO Coordinator identified below. If the complaint is against that Coordinator, or if for some other reason a report cannot be made to the Coordinator, the complainant should report the matter to one of the alternate designees listed below.
District Title IX Coordinator and District Section 504 Coordinator
Kelly Benson
Pierce College Fort Steilacoom
Cascade Building, Room 237
9401 Farwest Drive SW, Lakewood, WA 98498-1999
253-651-6438
TitleIX@pierce.ctc.edu
District Affirmative Action Officer
Paula Henson-Williams
253-864-3229
PHenson@pierce.ctc.edu
Deputy Title IX Coordinator
District Athletics
Duncan Stevenson
253-964-6612
DStevenson@pierce.ctc.edu
Deputy Title IX Coordinator
Student Conduct
Julie Draper Davis
253-912-2331
JDraperDavis@pierce.ctc.edu
Deputy Title IX Coordinator
Pierce College at Joint Base Lewis-McChord
Ron Burleson
253-912-2242
RBurleson@pierce.ctc.edu
Deputy Title IX Coordinator
EEO/Human Resources
Deena Forsythe
253-964-6586
DForsythe@pierce.ctc.edu
More than Just a Paycheck!
Washington State offers one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation. We have a selection of health and retirement plans, paid leave, staff training and other compensation benefits that you can mix and match to meet your current and future needs.
Insurance Benefits
Employees and families are covered by medical (including vision) and dental insurance. There are multiple medical plans with affordable monthly premiums ranging from $25.00 per month for individual coverage to $483.00 for full family coverage (the state pays dental premiums). Staff are eligible to enroll each year in a medical flexible spending account which enables them to use tax-deferred dollars toward their health care expenses.
Employees are also covered by basic life and long term disability insurance, with the option to purchase additional coverage amounts. To view coverage choices and how to enroll, please visit the Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB) website.
Retirement and Supplemental Plans
Classified Pierce College 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 Department of Retirement Systems web site.
Employees also have the ability to participate in the state Deferred Compensation Program (DCP) and the State Board Voluntary Investment Program (SBVIP), administered by TIAA-CREF. These are supplemental retirement savings programs (similar to an IRA) 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.
Leave
Classified employees begin accruing 9.33 hours of vacation and 8 hours of sick leave starting their first month of employment. The amount of vacation an employee can accrue increases the longer they work with us (up to a maximum of 16 hours, 40 minutes per month after twenty-five years of service). A maximum of 30 working days (280 hours) of vacation may be accumulated. Employees also receive two personal leave days after four months of employment.
Washington State supports members of the armed forces with 21 days paid military leave per year.
Holidays
Full-time employees are entitled to ten paid holidays and a personal holiday of their choice (may be used after four months of employment).
Tuition Reimbursement
Permanent Classified employees working half-time or more may take space-available classes for $5 per quarter with the Tuition Waiver program (typically after a 6 month probationary period).
Public Service Loan Forgiveness:
At Pierce College, we value the contributions of our employees and strive to support their professional and personal growth. One significant benefit of working with us is our eligibility for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program. As an employee of a qualifying public service organization, you may be eligible to have your federal student loans forgiven after making 120 qualifying payments (10 years). This program is designed to support those who dedicate their careers to public service, giving you the opportunity to significantly reduce your student loan debt while making a positive impact in the community.
Financial Peace of Mind: With Public Service Loan Forgiveness, you can focus on your mission to serve others without the burden of overwhelming student loan debt, allowing you to dedicate your skills and talents to providing quality educational opportunities to a diverse community of learners to thrive in an evolving world.
Flexible Repayment Options: We encourage our employees to explore various repayment plans, including income-driven options that can make monthly payments more manageable during your service as a public employee.
Join Our Dedicated Community Now:
If you are committed to helping Pierce College become an anti-racist institution; ensuring that every student in the Pierce College District feels valued, respected, and inspired to achieve their goals than Pierce College needs you! We provide a brave space for Black, Indigenous, Persons of Color (BIPOC), LGBTQ/QTPOC students, students with disabilities, and all students and staff to seek refuge, and an opportunity for them to cultivate their strengths, intelligence, resilience, and creativity. This role that not only enhances your career but also offers financial benefits through programs like Public Service Loan Forgiveness. We encourage you to apply!
Bargaining Unit
Classified employees of Pierce College are covered by the Washington Public Employees Association (WPEA). For more information, please visit http://www.wpea.org/.
Discounted Health Education Center Membership
Employees of the college receive a discount on Health Education Center membership, which provides access at both campuses to a complete set of cardiovascular and strength training equipment and a full gymnasium at the Fort Steilacoom campus. Personal trainers and physical education classes are also available for an additional fee.
01
The Colleges goal is to support all students and to achieve racial and social equity in pursuit of mission. If you were selected for this position, how would you contribute to and support this goal? Please limit your response to a maximum of 500 words.
02
Cover Letter: Have you attached a cover letter addressing how you meet the required qualifications outlined in this announcement?
03
Resume: Have you attached a detailed résumé outlining your educational and professional experience?
04
Professional References: Have you attached a list of at least three (3) professional references, including names, telephone numbers, and email addresses, with at least one reference being your current or most recent supervisor? Letters of recommendation will not be accepted.
05
Education Requirement: How do you meet the education requirement for this position? Select the option that applies to you.
06
Transcripts: Have you attached unofficial transcripts showing completion of the required level of education and/or coursework?
07
Experience: Do you have at least two (2) years of experience providing customer service by telephone, email, and in person?
08
Experience: Do you have at least one (1) year of experience in a position responsible for timely, accurate fiscal transactions and record-keeping?
09
Experience: Do you have experience working with electronic information management systems and/or database software?
10
Experience: Do you have experience assisting individuals with problem-solving, identifying needs, and exploring available options?
Required Question
Employer Pierce College
Address 9401 Farwest Drive SW
Lakewood, Washington, 98498
Phone 253.964.7342
Website https://www.pierce.ctc.edu/hr