Veteran Service Officer

This position supports the agency mission of Serving Those Who Served by providing customer service assistance to veterans and their families in Benton and Franklin Counties. This position aids veterans and their family members with determining eligibility and applying for federal and state veterans benefits as an accredited Veteran Service Officer under the provisions of RCW 73.08. These benefits include service-connected disability compensation, nonservice-connected pension, VA health care benefits, education and vocational rehabilitation benefits, and other federal entitlements that improves a veteran's income and financial stability.

(Any one position may not include all of the duties listed nor do the listed examples include all tasks which may be found in positions of this class):

Provides customer service by assisting with walk-in clients, phone calls, and electronic inquiries.

Performs outreach in the community by visiting senior centers, justice centers, veterans stand downs, community events, and other locations.

Assists claimants with the application process, obtains necessary supporting documentation, follows the progress of the claim through channels and takes whatever action required to expedite the claim, assists clients in preparing appeals where claims have been denied.

Determines primary eligibility and prepares claims for service-connected disabilities and non­service persons; composes letters with all pertinent facts for same.

Directs clients to agencies in the community that may be able to provide additional assistance.

Facilitates Benton and Franklin Counties Veteran's Advisory Board meetings to discuss Veteran's Services activities, needs and suggestions for improved services.

Educates applicants on relevant laws and aides them in making proper claims for benefits or directs them to the proper authority.

Interprets and explains written material and laws to veterans and dependents. Researches grant opportunities and writes grants for additional funding for veteran's services.

Assists veterans in applying for correction of military records and/or an upgrade to characterization of service.

Assists veterans in obtaining necessary medical records and statements from physicians to support their disability claims.

Assists veterans in preparation for appeals hearing.

Ensures timelines are met so the veteran does not lose potential benefits.

Performs other duties as assigned.

EDUCATION AND WORK EXPERIENCE:

High School diploma, GED or equivalent. Bachelor's Degree in Social Services or related field is preferred. Two years of experience in a social service environment with considerable public contact; or any combination of education, training and experience that provides the required knowledge, skills, and ability to perform the job. Military background preferred.

LICENSES, CERTIFICATES AND OTHER REQUIREMENTS:

Must have a valid driver's license.

Must attend Veteran's Service Officer training and attain County Veterans Service Officer (CVSO) credentials within first 6 months of employment.

Knowledge of current laws relating to benefits for veterans and their dependents, programs and activities of state, federal and other agencies rendering services to veterans and their dependents.

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with individuals, groups, and related organizations.

Ability to communicate clearly, tactfully, and professionally with veterans and their dependents and to maintain confidentiality.

Ability to work independently and report to the Benton County Human Services Manager.

Ability to use Microsoft Office programs and general office equipment.