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State Programs Specialist

Inside Higher Ed, Carrollton, Georgia, us, 30112

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About Us Since 1906, the University of West Georgia (UWG) has been home to those who seek a transformative college experience. UWG is a leading residential, doctoral comprehensive university that offers a broad undergraduate and graduate curriculum based on a liberal arts foundation. Nestled among the pines on a picturesque 645 acres approximately 40 miles west of Atlanta, the university serves more than 16,000 students and offers over 100 programs. UWG is committed to advancing innovative academic programs and a student‑centered business model. It is consistently ranked by U.S. News & World Report, the Princeton Review, and Colleges of Distinction among the top national universities. UWG also provides a regional economic impact of more than $650 million annually and offers a safe, quality, and affordable university experience that connects students to post‑graduate career and leadership opportunities.

Job Summary The State Programs Specialist administers the HOPE, Zell Miller, and Dual Enrollment programs, ensuring full compliance with Georgia Student Finance Commission (GSFC) regulations. This role manages program operations, monitors student eligibility, advises students and university departments, processes state program awards, and oversees application and disbursement procedures. The specialist also performs account reconciliations, monitors monthly expenditures, produces required reports, and maintains student records in accordance with FERPA guidelines.

Responsibilities

Administer and monitor HOPE, Zell Miller, and Dual Enrollment programs in compliance with Georgia state policies and regulations; review and verify student eligibility and ensure adherence to program rules and reporting requirements.

Maintain accurate student and program records, perform reconciliations, and prepare required reports for institutional leadership, state agencies, and program audits.

Serve as the primary point of contact for students, parents, schools, internal departments, and state agencies; provide guidance and training on program policies, compliance standards, and procedural updates.

Support process improvements, assist with the implementation of new state program initiatives, and contribute to outreach efforts promoting awareness of HOPE, Zell Miller, and Dual Enrollment programs.

Required Qualifications Educational Requirements:

Bachelor’s Degree

Required Experience:

1–3 years in a college enrollment management office or 6 months in a college financial aid office; excellent communication skills, strong attention to detail, and proficiency in Microsoft Excel and other quantitative analysis programs preferred. Customer service skills are essential.

Preferred Qualifications Preferred Educational Qualifications:

Bachelor’s Degree

Preferred Experience:

Excellent communication skills, strong attention to detail, accounting or general reconciliation experience, a minimum of two years professional experience with financial aid and knowledge of State Programs.

Compensation $23.56 per hour, paid bi‑weekly.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities The position requires office‑based work with occasional meetings and presentations in other campus locations and off‑campus sites. Travel to off‑campus meetings may be required. Occasional work outside normal scheduled hours is necessary. The applicant must be able to lift heavy boxes and packages as needed. Adequate physical strength and mobility are required for typical office work.

USG Core Values Integrity, Excellence, Accountability, and Respect. The university also supports Freedom of Expression as outlined in USG Board Policy 6.5.

Conditions of Employment Offer of employment is contingent upon completion of a background investigation, including a criminal background check, confirmation of credentials, reference checks, and, if applicable, a satisfactory credit check. Applicants may be subject to a pre‑employment drug test. Offers are made subject to applicable federal and state laws and University policies.

Equal Employment Opportunity The University of West Georgia is an equal employment, equal access, and equal educational opportunity institution. It is committed to recruiting, hiring, training, promoting, and educating individuals without regard to race, color, national or ethnic origin, age, disability, gender, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, or veteran status.

Other Information The mission of the University of West Georgia is to enable students, faculty, and staff to realize their full potential through academic engagement, supportive services, professional development, and a caring, student‑centered community.

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