Job Description
See job requirements for full description of the job.
Job Requirements
PURPOSE
The purpose of this position is to be a hands-on navigator for Freedom Scholarship recipients who are working toward successful completion of requirements and conditions of continued program eligibility. This aspirational position allows for the right candidate to contribute quickly and grow as the organization grows and matures. Assuring technical accuracy of status for each scholarship recipient to fairly and equitably meet compliance and closure of program requirements is critical to the sustainability of scholarship services. The scope of work is statewide with concentrated assignment coverage to a portfolio of scholarship recipients in final stages of compliance with program requirements.
JOB SUMMARY
The Recipient Services Specialist is responsible for managing and supporting a portfolio of South Dakota Freedom Scholarship program recipients. They will develop and build relations with scholarship recipients, who are selected by universities, to navigate their full compliance with the program. Acting in partnership with Scholarship leaders and staff, the Specialist will continuously evaluate the South Dakota Freedom Scholarship Program activities to track outcomes and identify opportunities for growth and improvement in implementation and oversight of the program.
TYPICAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
• Act as liaison and direct contact to assigned scholarship recipients to assure understanding, reporting, accountability, and compliance with scholarship award requirements.
• Communicate, facilitate, interpret and monitor scholarship policies, procedures, and operations to ensure compliance of the program for assigned scholarship recipients.
• Maintain detailed records of assigned portfolio, communicating status and coordinating processes with eligible institutions of higher education and financial servicing partners.
• Contribute technical assistance and advice toward outcomes and impact evaluation and continuous program improvement.
• Answer technical questions about the South Dakota Freedom Scholarship program from eligible higher education institutions and program partners.
• Contribute information that supports continuous process improvement of the South Dakota Freedom Scholarship program.
• Monitor scholarship awarding to ensure the South Dakota Freedom Scholarship program funds operate within program guidelines.
• Contribute information and guidance to ensure that admission and financial aid representatives from eligible institutions have vital information and materials they need to partner in program implementation and monitoring
• Perform other duties as determined by the South Dakota Freedom Scholarship Executive Director.
JOB REQUIREMENTS/SKILLS
• Bachelor’s degree in education, business, finance or related field is preferred.
• Experience in management of CRM (customer management system) technology applications is preferred.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills, including strong listening skills and conflict communication skills are required.
• Understanding, experience, and proficiency in learning new software and applications are preferred.
• Independence in work, with high organization, and ability to work with minimal supervision is required.
• Ability to work as a team player in a defined culture with a commitment of service to the program is required.
• Willingness and commitment to embrace rapid development and growth of the scholarship program.
WORK ENVIRONMENT AND PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
Standard office environment. Potential for recurring early/late hours (weekend/early morning/evening meetings). Hybrid work environment may require travel to Hosmer office or other locations for initial training as well as ongoing team building. Minimal physical exertion is required. The position does not contain physical elements beyond the handling of everyday objects and materials.
Overview: South Dakota Workforce Scholarships
SDWS is a 501c3 public charity registered in the State of South Dakota.
Mission, Vision & Values
Our Mission
South Dakota Workforce Scholarships (SDWS) supports the State of South Dakota by administering scholarship programs that help individuals pursue post-secondary education and transition to and remain in the South Dakota workforce.
Our Vision
We envision a South Dakota where postsecondary scholarships lead to sustained educational attainment and a strong, skilled workforce- allowing individuals to thrive and communities across the state to grow.
Our Values
Integrity & Public Trust – We act ethically, avoid conflicts of interest, and carry out our work in a manner that earns and maintains the trust of the public and our partners.
Confidentiality & Respect – We safeguard personal information and treat applicants, recipients, institutions, and partners with dignity and respect.
Fairness & Consistency – We administer scholarships using clear, consistent processes that respect the roles and responsibilities of all stakeholders.
Service & Professionalism – We communicate clearly, respond thoughtfully, and provide accurate, timely support in carrying out our work.
Accountability – We take responsibility for both our work and its outcomes, using experience and insight over time to strengthen program effectiveness and fulfill our public purpose.