Assistant Veteran Services Officer

at  Martin County Board of County Commissioners

SUMMARY

This is specialized social service work in assisting Veteran Service Officers, veterans, and their dependents to apply for benefits under Federal and State laws and referring to local services. An employee in a position is responsible for assisting in interviewing and assessing veterans, their dependents; and assisting the Veteran Service Officers. Under specific direction, performs skilled office and clerical work as a major function. Work requires knowledge of office operations and includes significant internal and external high-level contacts.
In the event of a natural or man-made disaster that may threaten the area, the employee will be required to perform emergency duties as directed.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

(Note: The knowledge, skills, and abilities identified in this class specification represent those needed to perform the duties of this class. Additional knowledge, skills and abilities may be applicable for individual positions. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.)
Knowledge of all laws and regulations pertaining to veterans’ benefits and the policies for processing claims under the appropriate laws.
Knowledge of departmental and county policies and procedures and related federal, state, and local guidelines.
Knowledge of all entities established for the purpose of providing veteran assistance, including the Veterans’ Administration, veterans’ organizations and various State and local veterans’ offices.
Ability to communicate clearly and concisely, orally and in writing.
Ability to analyze facts and to exercise sound judgment.
Ability to obtain and maintain required records.
Ability to utilize computer-based programs such as Adobe Pro and VetPro.
Skill in the analysis of problems and the development and implementation of solutions.
Skill in utilizing document management software and video conferencing software.
Skill in the preparation of clear and precise administrative reports.
Skills in oral and written communication.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

Graduation from high school or possession of an acceptable equivalency diploma and (1) one year of experience in customer service, preferably in a social service and/or veteran service environment.
Must be a veteran as defined by Florida Statute 1.01(14) and who was separated from such service under honorable conditions, or the surviving spouse of any such veteran.
A copy of DD Form 214.
Additional qualifying education and/or experience which provide the necessary knowledge, skills and abilities may be substituted one for the other on a year for year basis.

(Note: The listed duties are illustrative only and are not intended to describe each and every function, which may be performed in the job class. The omission of specific statements does not preclude management from assigning specific duties not listed herein if such duties are a logical assignment to the position.)
Performs administrative work and provide administrative support services for Veteran Service Officers and the Division: Answering phones, scheduling appointments, prosecuting purchase orders, creating, and reconciling travel vouchers.
Assists Veteran Service Officers and the Division with community outreach efforts to educate the public about services on periodic basis. Representing the BOCC with community engagement and advocacy.
Responsible for working with the community on the Veterans Day Parade, Memorial Day Parade and ensure proper veteran representation at the BOCC meetings (to highlight a local veteran).
Assesses and evaluates benefits options for veterans, widows, and dependents; determine the client’s Power of Attorney before setting them an appointment.
Assist the Veteran Service Officer with providing claims status to veterans and/or directing them to the appropriate VA department. Schedule veterans for appeals and prepare the allocated room.
Provide statistical analysis using Vetpro, VBMS, and locally established programs.
Refers veterans and their dependents to other Federal, State and local agencies when services sought or needed are not included in the scope of Federal or State laws and regulations regarding veterans’ benefits.
Maintains relationship with Workforce Alliance and, Florida Department of Veterans’ Affairs.
Assist Veteran Service Officers with tracks claim processes.
Supervised review of federal letters received by walk-in claimants.
Assist Veteran Service Officers with research related laws and regulations to formulate appeals.
Performs other duties as assigned.
Performs work related to this job description as required.