Veterans Service Officer

Klickitat County•White Salmon, WA

6d•Onsite

About The Position

The Veterans Service Officer counsels, advises, and assists military service veterans and their dependents in obtaining benefits provided by county, state, and federal laws. This is a non-exempt, casual, part-time position in the Klickitat County Auditor’s Office, based in White Salmon, Washington, scheduled for 16 hours per week. Compensation is $28.83–$30.58 per hour, depending on qualifications and experience. The first review date is November 13, 2026; the position is open until filled. The position assists veterans and dependents with benefit claims and appeals, access to VA care and outreach programs, and information about their rights under applicable legislation. It investigates eligibility, maintains relationships with veterans’ service agencies, provides reports to the Auditor, and reviews reimbursement claims from local American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars Posts. The employee must obtain U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs accreditation within 60 days.

Requirements

Three years of experience in the veteran service field; college-level coursework or training in public administration or a related area may substitute for up to one year of experience.
Significant knowledge of programs, laws, and rules relating to veterans’ benefits.
Proficiency using computers, including word-processing, spreadsheet, and database applications.
Must be an honorably discharged veteran as defined by RCW 41.04.007.
Valid state driver’s license in the state of residence.
Accreditation through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; the posting also states that accreditation must be obtained within 60 days.
Knowledge of principles, practices, techniques, and related tools or equipment needed to perform the position, including applicable safety and legal requirements.
Equivalent combinations of education, experience, and training may be considered if they provide the knowledge, skills, and abilities required to perform the work.

Responsibilities

Assist veterans and dependents in applying for available federal benefits and appealing denied claims from the VA Regional Office by initiating or reopening claims.
Assist veterans in obtaining necessary inpatient and outpatient care from VA Medical Centers and other available outreach programs.
Advise veterans, survivors, and dependents of their rights under Military Service Benefits Acts and other relevant legislation.
Investigate and interview veterans and their dependents to obtain case histories and determine eligibility for aid and benefits.
Review and file claims for veteran benefits.
Develop and maintain close liaison with other veterans’ service agencies.
Speak at veteran organizations as requested.
Provide the Auditor with the Washington Department of Veterans Affairs’ quarterly status report when received.
Obtain accreditation through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs within 60 days.
Review and report to the Auditor or designee on indigent expense reimbursement claims from Klickitat County American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars Posts for compliance with the county Veteran Assistance Fund Guidelines.
Perform other related duties as assigned.