What are the responsibilities and job description for the School Certifying Official Program Coordinator position at Montana State University?
The Veteran Support Center at Montana State University serves as a dedicated hub for veteran and military-connected students, offering guidance, community, and benefit assistance in a supportive environment. The Registrar’s Office is a core administrative unit responsible for maintaining academic records, managing registration, supporting curriculum updates, and ensuring the accuracy and integrity of student data across the university. Together, these offices form a collaborative and student-centered ecosystem where accuracy, compliance, and personalized support are central to student success.
Duties and Responsibilities
- Registrar duties
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Data-entry and data-management within the office of the Registrar.
- Processing curriculum changes,
- Student registration changes (add/drop),
- Entering last-dates of attendance for students who stop attending classes,
- Enrollment verifications
- Intent’s to register (readmission) and other duties related to student records management.
- And other processes related to student enrollment and records management.
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Data-entry and data-management within the office of the Registrar.
- VA Education Benefit Certification
- Serve as a School Certifying Official (SCO) for Montana State University under the supervision of the Director.
- Review and certify student enrollment to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs in accordance with VA, State Approving Agency (SAA), and institutional policies.
- Maintain accurate and confidential student records in VA-Enrollment Manager and internal student information systems.
- Monitor registration changes, program adjustments, and graduation certifications to ensure timely benefit updates.
- Assist in maintaining audit-ready files and compliance documentation.
- Collaborate with Financial Aid, Registrar, Student Accounts, and Academic Advising to ensure smooth benefit processing.
- Event Planning & Programming
- Assist with coordination and execution of veteran-related events and programs, such as Veterans Day ceremonies, Military Appreciation Game, and Graduation recognition events.
- Support setup, promotion, logistics, and follow-up.
- Collaborate with campus and community partners to promote awareness and inclusion of veteran and military-connected students.
- Student Support & Center Operations
- Serve as a front-line contact for veteran and military-connected students visiting or contacting the Veteran Support Center.
- Provide guidance on benefit usage, academic processes, and campus resources.
- Assist with general office duties including scheduling, communication, and student outreach.
- Help maintain a professional and organized environment within the Travis W. Atkins Veteran Support Center.
- Support daily operations, inventory management, and coordination with student staff.
- Data, Reporting & Continuous Improvement
- Track and report key student success metrics related to benefit usage, retention, and graduation rates.
- Assist in compiling information for the Military Friendly Survey and internal reports.
- Provide feedback and suggestions for improving services and programming for veterans.
Required Qualifications – Experience, Education, Knowledge & Skills
- Associate’s degree or equivalent combination of education and experience.
- Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
- Excellent interpersonal and written communication skills.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and comfort with data systems.
- Ability to handle sensitive information confidentially.
Preferred Qualifications – Experience, Education, Knowledge & Skills
- Experience working with veteran or military-connected populations.
- Knowledge of VA Education Benefits and School Certifying Official procedures.
- Experience in event coordination, student services, or higher education.
- Familiarity with Banner, VA-ONCE, or other student record systems.
- Military service or direct family connection to a veteran or service member is a plus.
The Successful Candidate Will
- Commitment to service, integrity, and accountability.
- Ability to work collaboratively in a team-oriented environment.
- Empathy and understanding of the unique challenges facing veterans and military-connected students.
- Initiative and adaptability in balancing administrative duties with student engagement.
Position Special Requirements/Additional Information
Physical Demands
- Standard office environment with occasional evening or weekend hours for special events.
- Moderate lifting or setup work during programming activities.
This position has supervisory duties?
No
Posting Detail Information
Number of Vacancies
1
Desired Start Date
Upon completion of a successful search.
Position End Date (if temporary)
Open Date
Close Date
Applications will be:
Screening of applications will begin on 1/16/2026; however, applications will continue to be accepted until an adequate applicant pool has been established.
Special Instructions
This position is not eligible for new sponsorship.
EEO Statement
Montana State University is an equal opportunity employer. MSU does not discriminate against any applicant on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, political ideas, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, marital status, national origin, physical or mental disability, or any other protected class status in violation of any applicable law.
In compliance with the Montana Veteran’s Employment Preference Act, MSU provides preference in employment to veterans, disabled veterans, and certain eligible relatives of veterans. To claim veteran’s preference, please complete the veteran’s preference information located in the Demographics section of your profile.
In compliance with the Montana Veteran’s Employment Preference Act, MSU provides preference in employment to veterans, disabled veterans, and certain eligible relatives of veterans. To claim veteran’s preference, please complete the veteran’s preference information located in the Demographics section of your profile.