Veteran Services Officer

Department:  Veteran Services Job Status:  Full-Time Rate of Pay:  $22.71 - 31.04 based on experience JOB SUMMARY:  Counsels, advises, and assists veterans and their dependents in obtaining benefits provided for them by County, State, and Federal Law.  Acts as an advocate and case manager for veterans in need of such services.  Assists the director of the office as needed to advocate, educate and grow the programs for Veterans in Van Buren County.  This position reports to the Veterans’ Services Director. ABILITIES, KNOWLEDGE, AND SKILLS: Must possess impeccable Customer Service Experience Must possess a thorough knowledge of state and federal laws and regulations governing the provision of veterans’ services. Exceptional planning, prioritization and organizational skills accompanied by strong attention to detail.Skilled in preparing and writing reports and presentations.     Strong planning, prioritization and organizational skills accompanied by strong attention to detail.Skilled in preparing reports and presentations.  Ability to deliver excellent oral and written communication skills in a manner appropriate to the audience.Exceptional interpersonal and problem-solving skills.Proficient with Adobe, MS Word, PowerPoint, Excel, and Outlook.Ability to complete work online, in the field or in a remote environment.Skill in managing a budget.Work independently and with and team.Excellent customer service skills.  PRINCIPLE DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: The following duties are normal for this position.  These are not to be construed as exclusive or all-inclusive.  Other duties may be required and assigned. Conducts interviews of Veterans and/or their dependents and widows and advises them of their rights under County, State and Federal law.Provides referrals to other agencies to help meet the needs of the clients that cannot be met by the available benefits.Monitors progress of such referrals to ensure services are coordinated and received.Provides assistance and/or files claims for Veterans' benefits.Specifically, VA Health Care, Compensation Claims, Appeals, Aid and Attendance Claims, Care Giver Claims, Dependency and Indemnity Compensation Claims, Burial Services and Pensions.  Monitors all claims filed to assure compliance with all State and Federal law.Provides assistance to Veterans and dependents in the preparation and follow-up of applications for State and Federal benefits.Research medical conditions and obtain necessary medical records from physicians to support claims.  Obtain necessary financial information and corroborating information as needed.Contact and assist survivors of a deceased veteran in obtaining death information.Apply for benefits such as burial in a national cemetery, burial allowances, government grave marker, government life insurance proceeds and survivor benefits. Advise and assist veterans on all phases of government life insurance.Assist a veteran, or the eligible survivor of a veteran, in obtaining Veterans’ Administration home loan benefits.Ensure timelines are met to expedite benefit claims.Assist veterans/dependents in appealing denied claims.Establishes and maintains confidential client files.  Develops and maintains professional relationships with local agencies serving Veterans including: Veterans Administration, Senior and Disabled Services, Adult and Family Services, Michigan Department of Veterans Affairs and others service organizations. Maintains current Veterans publications such as Federal, State and County information and instructions and resource material on V.A.Medical Centers, outpatient clinics and their programs.Coordinates with Van Buren County Transit Veterans’ transportation program to provide services as needed.  Composes correspondence and reports regarding inquiries on other Veterans related matters.   Assists with grant submissions and reporting requirements.Orders supplies and services for the Veterans’ Services Office.Executes an outreach program to provide services to Veterans and their dependents particularly in senior living/adult care facilities in Van Buren County.Assist in Management of Emotional Support Animal Program.Assist in the management and execution of the Van Buren County Horticulture Program.Assist in the Execution of the Veterans Standdown in the Fall.QUALIFICATIONS / EXPERIENCE: Associates Degree and one to three years of experience in a related field; or an equivalent combination of education and experience in veterans’ services, human relations, social service fields or business. Must have a valid driver’s license.Service in the Armed Forces of the United States, with a discharge under honorable conditions is preferred.  Veterans’ Services Officers must complete the National Association of County Veterans’ Service Officer training and Department of Veterans' Services certification process within one (1) year of their initial hire date and continuing Education Units (CEU's) every year thereafter.OTHER REQUIREMENTS: Must be willing to travel as needed.  Employment is dependent on background check, criminal history, and drug screen.  Applicant must complete County application form. SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES: Direct Reports:              None Delegation of Work:       Not applicable Supervision Given:        Not applicable Reports To:                   This position reports to the Veterans’ Services Director WORK LOCATION AND PHYSICAL DEMANDS: The primary work location is in an office environment.  Work may also be done in the community or remotely.  Position is physically comfortable; individual has discretion about sitting (80%), walking (10%), and standing, etc.  Occasional lifting, pushing, climbing, and pulling may be required of around twenty-five pounds.  Occasional evening and/or weekend work may be required.  Send Applications To:        Van Buren County Administration Building                                             219 E. Paw Paw Street, Suite 302                                             Paw Paw, MI 49079                                             Applications are available from Human Resources Division                                             Phone:      (269) 657-8230                                             Website:  https://www.vanburencountymi.gov/Jobs.aspx Or apply online through our Career Portal Van Buren County Government is An Equal Opportunity Employer Powered by JazzHR