Fiscal Specialist 2

Internal • Bellingham, WA

1d

About The Position

Working under general direction, the Billing Specialist performs a variety of complex fiscal administrative support functions such as analyzing, auditing, processing, tracking, posting and reconciling university account ledgers in the University’s billing system. This position is responsible for using accounting concepts to correct financial data recorded in the University’s billing system. The position requires the ability to learn quickly, think outside the box and demonstrate a high level of self-motivation while providing the highest level of attention to detail and accuracy. This position reports to the Billing Unit Supervisor under the general direction of the Director. The position serves the entire university by providing best in class service to faculty, staff, students and outside entities while complying with State and Federal regulations and University policies and procedures.

Requirements

• High school graduate or equivalent
• Three years' work experience in billing, accounts receivables, and/or collections; or equivalent education/experience
• 2 years demonstrated experience working customer service including escalations.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Demonstrated ability to work independently, prioritize and multi-task to meet deadlines in a work environment with frequent interruptions
• Demonstrated ability to complete administrative tasks with attention to detail and a high level of accuracy
• Three years lead or supervisory experience
• Demonstrated proficiency with MS Excel, Word or similar applications
• Demonstrated ability to effectively provide service to a diverse population
• All employees must comply with our Immunization policies, including Proof of Rubeola Measles Immunity within 60-days of hire. Please reach out to [e-mail] if you need information regarding medical or religious exemption and applicable accommodations.

Nice To Haves

• Bachelor's degree
• One year experience with higher education student financial aid
• One year experience in financial systems specific to higher education
• One year experience working with state and federal regulations
• Experience with website editing and maintenance

Responsibilities

• Contract Agency Billing Manage the University third-party agency contract billing program. This position is responsible for: Establishment and fulfillment of contractual commitments of third parties for payment of qualified student's tuition and fees as well as other institutional charges. Typical third parties or agencies consist of native American tribes, armed services for active duty, DSHS, Employment Security, and international agencies such as Saudi Arabia and Kuwait. Establish and initiate contracts with third party entities interested in paying a portion of a student's educational expenses. Analyze individual contract agreements for compliance with State and Federal regulations and University policy. Analyze individual contract agreements for compliance with State and Federal regulations and University policy. Consult with contracted agencies to rectify any irregularities and take corrective action. Review the student records to ensure the supported students meet university requirements associated with enrollment and registration statuses. Identify any issues and resolve them with the student or supporting agency. Calculate the value of institutional expenses to be covered and obtain approval for funding. Interpret sponsorship letter from the agency regarding the student award and verify that the funded amount aligns with allowable tuition and fee charges. Apply the awarded funding to the student's account. Prepare invoices for all third-party agencies. Reconcile agency payments. ~ 400 students, $1.3M annually
• University Waivers and Exemptions Manage the application of the University Waivers for all departments offering waiver assistance. Apply exemptions and maintain application of the following waivers: Tuition Assistance waivers, Research and Sponsored Programs, Staff and State Employee waivers, student exchange and Veteran Affairs. Ensure accuracy and timely application of benefits. Waivers and exemptions apply to approximately 1,000 students and total about $9.2M annually. Analyze, modify, and apply knowledge of student account ledger and university program relationships; provide data, and audit trails; maintain and apply internal controls and implement them within the University finance systems. Identify and perform account adjustments, release deposits, and correct account irregularities in coordination with campus departments and external agencies. Approximately $1.7M in adjustments annually. Provide backup for Title IV refunding and award analysis in compliance with federal regulations. Make recommendations for the development and implementation of procedures as a result of regulatory or technological changes. Independently advise the Western community regarding applicable policy and procedures, as well as state and federal regulations, and recommend a course of action. Exercise independent judgment in interpreting and applying rules and regulations to resolve issues. Respond to inquiries regarding student account balances, billing statements, financial aid disbursements, direct deposit student refunds, and qualified tuition expense questions by phone, in person, and written correspondence.
• Lead/Train/Support Student Staff Support a 10+ member team of student employee staff who serve the campus in the areas of account analysis, records research, payments, social media outreach and website content. Develop and maintain the student position desk manual. Determine appropriate tasks and maintain updated position descriptions for student positions. Maintain continuous training program, update and train staff as each position evolves. Provide next level support for escalated contacts from students, parents and other third-party entities. Assist staff to resolve inquires regarding account issues, application of payment, financial aid benefits and registration concerns. Participate in the student employee recruitment program, including the interview and hiring process.
• Other Related Duties Prepare fiscal reports to audit and reconcile student accounts for accurate charges and payments. Such reports include mandatory fee reconciliation and other student account transaction reports. Maintain and modify spreadsheets related to AmeriCorps funding requests and communicate with necessary stakeholders to ensure proper application and collection of funds.
• Website Maintenance Ensure website has the most up to date and accurate information. This includes state and federally regulated information, training videos, and university tuition charts. Ensure all text, charts and titles comply with ADA requirements

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: High school or GED