IDVA-FIELD VETERANS SERVICE OFFICER (COOK)

State of Illinois•Chicago, IL

40d•Onsite

About The Position

This position is a union position; therefore, provisions of the relevant collective bargaining agreement/labor contract apply to the filling of this position. All applicants who want to be considered for this position MUST apply electronically through the illinois.jobs2web.com website. State of Illinois employees should click the link near the top left to apply through the SuccessFactors employee career portal. Applications submitted via email or any paper manner (mail, fax, hand delivery) will not be considered. Posting Identification Number 51777 Why Work for Illinois? Working with the State of Illinois is a testament to the values of compassion, equity, and dedication that define our state. Whether you're helping to improve schools, protect our natural resources, or support families in need, you're part of something bigger-something that touches the lives of every person who calls Illinois home. No matter what state career you're looking for, we offer jobs that fit your life and your schedule-flexible jobs that provide the gold standard of benefits. Our employees can take advantage of various avenues to advance their careers and realize their dreams. Our top-tier benefits and great retirement packages can help you build a rewarding career and lasting future with the State of Illinois. Acts as Service Officer for the Field Services Division within the IL Department of Veterans Affairs whilst managing the operation of a field office, with emphasis on claims and the origination of appeals. Advocates for veterans, retirees, spouses and dependents regarding applicable benefits. Serves as liaison with various county, state, and federal agencies, in establishing veteran's entitlements to benefits, resources and services. Represents the IL Department of Veterans Affairs at various community affairs and public events, explaining the functions of the IL Department of Veterans Affairs. Trains and/or assists in the training of newly appointed Veterans' Service Officers. Performs other duties as required or assigned within the scope of the duties enumerated above.

Requirements

Requires knowledge, skill, and mental development equivalent to two (2) years of college with emphasis in business administration or public administration
Requires an honorable discharge from service in the Armed Forces of the United States(during a recognized period of hostilities). The veteran must have served during a time of hostilities with a foreign country, and must meet one or more of the following conditions:
The veteran must have served a total of at least 6 months
The veteran served for the duration of hostilities regardless of the length of engagement
The veteran was discharged on the basis of hardship
The veteran was released from active duty because of a service-connected disability and was discharged under honorable conditions
Requires ability to pass a background check.
Requires use of agency-supplied equipment (mobile phone, laptop, etc.).
Requires ability to obtain Training, Responsibility, Involvement and Preparation (TRIP) of Claims certification and maintain required training throughout employment.
Requires ability to obtain U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Accreditation within their probationary period. Failure to achieve accreditation will result in termination of employment.
Requires ability to re-accreditation every 5 years while fulfilling the duties of a Veterans Service Officer. Failure to maintain accreditation will be grounds for further training and adverse personnel action.
Requires ability to attend seminars, conferences, and trainings to stay current on methods, tools, ideologies, or other industry related topics relevant to the job duties.
Requires ability to travel in the performance of duties, with overnight stays as appropriate. Requires appropriate, valid drivers' license.
Overtime is a condition or employment, and you may be required to work overtime including scheduled, unscheduled, or last-minute overtime.

Nice To Haves

Extensive knowledge of the department's veterans' programs and the operating policies and procedures
Extensive knowledge of the benefits and services available to veterans, their spouses and family, and the federal and state laws and regulations governing their administration
Working knowledge of office management skills and techniques
One (1) year of experience managing an office efficiently and effectively, to provide services to military personnel, veterans, their dependents and/or survivors, and to maintain records as required by the agency or organization
One (1) year of experience establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with other staff, veterans, dependents, community organizations and other stakeholders in the veteran community
One (1) year of experience preparing and presenting topical speeches to veterans' groups and other interested parties
One (1) year of experience explaining federal and state veterans' legislation to the public
One (1) year of experience analyzing and interpreting service records, private medical records, and reports in terms of establishing entitlement to Veteran's Administration benefits
One (1) year of experience examining, interpreting and explaining complex decisions affecting clientele regarding claims issues, and appropriately advising them of their responsibility in relation to benefit awards
One (1) year of experience making informed decisions in accordance with the laws of the federal and state government governing veterans' benefits and services and expressing related ideas clearly in written and/or oral form.

Responsibilities

Acts as Service Officer for the Field Services Division within the IL Department of Veterans Affairs whilst managing the operation of a field office, with emphasis on claims and the origination of appeals.
Advocates for veterans, retirees, spouses and dependents regarding applicable benefits.
Serves as liaison with various county, state, and federal agencies, in establishing veteran's entitlements to benefits, resources and services.
Represents the IL Department of Veterans Affairs at various community affairs and public events, explaining the functions of the IL Department of Veterans Affairs.
Trains and/or assists in the training of newly appointed Veterans' Service Officers.
Performs other duties as required or assigned within the scope of the duties enumerated above.

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