Charter School Funding Lead Analyst (Financial Analyst IV)

MISSION : The Texas Education Agency (TEA) will improve outcomes for all public-school students in the state by providing leadership, guidance, and support to school systems. Core Values :

• We are Determined : We are committed and intentional in the pursuit of our main purpose, to improve outcomes for students.
• We are People-Centered : We strive to attract, develop, and retain the most committed talent, representing the diversity of Texas, each contributing to our common vision for students.
• We are Learners : We seek evidence, reflect on success and failure, and try new approaches in the pursuit of excellence for our students.
• We are Servant Leaders : Above all else, we are public servants working to improve opportunities for students and provide support to those who serve them. New hires, re-hires, and internal hires will typically receive a starting salary between the posted minimum and the average pay of employees in their same classification. Offers will be commensurate with the candidate's experience and qualifications and will thoughtfully consider internal pay equity for agency staff who perform similar duties and have similar qualifications. The top half of the posted salary range is generally reserved for candidates who exceed the requirements and qualifications for the role. The maximum of the salary range is reserved for candidates that far exceed the required and preferred qualifications for the role. POSITION OVERVIEW : We are seeking a detail-oriented and analytical professional to join our State Funding unit. The Charter School Funding Lead Analyst reports to the Foundation School Program (FSP) Operations Manager in the State Funding, Forecasting & Fiscal Analysis Division and performs advanced (senior-level) financial analysis and regulatory work to support the implementation of the Foundation School Program (FSP) for charter schools. This individual contributor role ensures accurate funding distribution by applying applicable state funding statutes and regulations, collaborates closely with internal teams to maintain compliance and operational efficiency, and may assign or supervise the work of others. The ideal candidate will understand advanced financial concepts, be skilled in intermediate to advanced Microsoft Excel functions, and possess excellent written communication skills to clearly explain complex charter school state funding topics in presentations and documentation. This position involves analyzing and interpreting financial data, applying statutes and regulations to develop accurate funding methodologies, and providing expert guidance to charter schools and stakeholders. The work requires exceptional attention to detail, strong analytical skills, and the ability to explain complex funding concepts clearly. You will also collaborate with State Funding leadership and mentor junior analysts to ensure accuracy and consistency across processes. Flexible work location within the state of Texas may be considered for qualified candidates. Please note that a resume and tailored cover letter are required attachments for applying to this position. Incomplete applications will not be considered. Additionally, applicants who are strongly being considered for employment must submit to a national criminal history background check. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS : Job duties are not limited to the essential functions mentioned below. You may perform other functions as assigned. 1. Financial Analysis and Process Control : determines the cost of operations for various Foundation School Program (FSP) allotments by applying relevant statutes and regulations to ensure charter schools receive appropriate funding; collects and reviews attendance estimates and data to validate funding eligibility, calculates annual and monthly allotments and updates Summary of Finance (SOF) reports; and processes outstanding balances and verifies accelerated payment schedules for charter schools 2. Compliance and Transparency : applies funding formulas in accordance with the Texas Education Code and Texas Administrative Code, implementing changes as needed; maintains and updates the Charter School Estimate of State Aid template and trains charter school personnel on its effective use; develops and maintains rules, web content, correspondence, manuals, presentations, and standard operating procedures to support compliance; responds promptly and accurately to inquiries received through the Charter School Finance mailbox to ensure timely and effective communication 3. Strategy and Process Improvements : assists in developing automated accounting applications, including the Foundation School Program System; compiles software change requirements and prioritizes system enhancements to improve functionality and performance; conducts testing to ensure system accuracy and usability 4. Team Leadership : collaborates with team members to effectively accomplish assignments and communicate progress goals; evaluates team members' strengths and areas for improvement and coaches them to enhance performance; shares expertise and trains team members on key processes, systems, and tools related to charter school funding and FSP; updates training materials and fosters knowledge to ensure consistent performance and coverage across the team 5. Coordination and Collaboration : coordinates FSP activities between the agency, other agencies, school district administrators, legislators and other stakeholders; performs bill analyses and prepares cost estimates that determine the financial impact of school finance legislation; provides targeted technical training and support to charter school personnel, including superintendents, business managers, and data administrators, at conferences and virtual forums such as Zoom or Microsoft Teams