Compliance Officer

American Public Education, Inc. (APEI)

Compliance Officer focusing on audits and training for regulatory compliance in higher education. Supporting legal and policy compliance across University operations with a commitment to service-minded education.

Posted 5/5/2026full-timeRemote • 🇺🇸 United StatesMid-LevelSeniorWebsite

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Internal Audit Program - 70% Assist in developing and planning internal audit programs; carries out responsibilities to meet the goals and mission of the Legal and Regulatory Compliance department.
Perform independent internal audits, reviews and investigations across operational areas of the University, primarily within the employee’s area of expertise.
Audits can be planned or on an as needed basis and are performed on-site at various locations or remotely.
Conduct training for faculty and staff on regulatory topics, internal controls/policies, and other legal and compliance concerns.
Assist in development, implementation, maintenance of and adherence to policies, procedures, and practices concerning compliance with applicable laws, regulations and accreditation standards.
Responsible for verifying accuracy of own work as well as the work of other employees; ensures compliance with plans, policies and procedures prescribed by University leadership.
Analyze results of audit work and prepares working papers to support conclusions.
Coordinate compliance information and information/records requests for internal audits and external requests for information.
Assure follow up of internal audit findings to ensure adequacy and timeliness of correction.
Evaluate the adequacy and effectiveness of internal procedures, systems and controls.
Regulatory/Policy Work - 20% Maintain knowledge of current state and federal laws, regulations and accreditation standards relating to higher education and corporations.
Maintain knowledge of institutional standards across operational areas of the University, including program-specific standards.
Assist in the administration of the University’s student background screening, drug testing and/or immunization process.
Ensure accurate and effective representation of the University and follow-through with prospective students, enrolled students, community members, and education officials.
Embodies the spirit of the University’s mission and vision in daily activities.
Develop collaborative relationships with University employees and management.
Provide constructive input to assist the University in decision-making and growth.
Implement and supports policy and procedural changes.
Participate in licensing and accreditation processes.
Other - 10% Perform special compliance and audit related projects as needed within the Compliance and Legal Department and in some cases across other departments.
Contribute to the University’s planning and growth by serving on special task forces, committees and other developmental committees as requested.
Support the team effort for campus and University effectiveness.
Participate in campus and University activities, including meeting professional development standards.
Maintain a professional image, attitude and work area. Performs other duties as assigned.

Requirements

What you’ll need

Four years of work experience conducting audits, reviews, research and working with regulatory standards.
Experience in higher education is desirable, but not required.
Strong attention to detail.
Strong writing and communication skills.
Knowledge of federal state or other prescribed standards.
Able to build and maintain effective professional working relationships and rapport with leaders and employees across various locations and departments.
Ability to conduct effective training sessions for University staff and faculty.
Advanced computer and software skills.
The ability to make independent judgments and decisions.
If supporting Financial Aid: The equivalent of 3 years of experience working in a University or University financial aid office.
Knowledge of Federal and State regulations, policies and procedures relating to awarding and administering financial aid.
Experience with CampusVue/CampusNexus.

Benefits

Comp & perks

Equal opportunity employer

ATS Keywords

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Hard Skills & Tools

internal auditregulatory compliancepolicy developmentdata analysistraining developmentaudit reportingbackground screeningdrug testingfinancial aid administrationaccreditation processes

Soft Skills

attention to detailwriting skillscommunication skillsrelationship buildingindependent judgmentdecision makingcollaborationprofessionalismconstructive feedbackteamwork