Veterans Services Officer (Director of Community Services)

Shelby County•Memphis, TN

10d•Onsite

About The Position

This in-office based position that reports to Deputy Administrator of Veteran Services and serves as the county’s official advocate for veterans, dependents, and survivors, assisting them in obtaining benefits and services from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), the Tennessee Department of Veterans Services (TDVS), and other agencies and fosters positive relationships` between Shelby County Government and other agencies that serve veterans. Performs other related duties as assigned.

Requirements

Three (3) years’ work experience in social services, administration, community outreach; AND
Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in social sciences, or related field; OR
Must be an honorably discharged veteran of the U.S. Armed Forces.
Must comply with state and federal accreditation standards to include: able to attain Veterans Services Officer (VSO) accreditation status through the Tennessee Department of Veterans Services within 90 days from date of hire and meet and maintain federal requirements to obtain a Personal Identification (PIV) card.
An equivalent combination of education and/or experience.
PROOF OF EDUCATION, TRAINING, AND/OR EXPERIENCE IS REQUIRED.
Ability to adapt to evolving work environments.
Ability to type a minimum of 40 w.p.m.
Ability to communicate complex information clearly and effectively.
Ability to collaborate with cross-functional teams to achieve goals.
Knowledge and skill in Microsoft Office Suite software applications (Outlook, Word, Excel).
Must be able to travel locally and out-of-town for mandatory training purposes.
Must be able to work occasional evenings and weekends.

Responsibilities

Assists veterans, dependents and survivors with preparing, filing and tracking disability, pension and appeals claims through the Department of Veterans Affairs.
Conducts research to maintain current knowledge of policies related to veteran rights and benefits.
Performs data collection, analysis and reports as required.
Makes house-calls to assist veterans who are not able to travel or participate in virtual appointments.
Makes appropriate referrals for veterans to outside agencies as appropriate (such as military discharge upgrades, housing, mental health, employment assistance).
Conducts community outreach to include public presentations and participation in community events to make veterans aware of potential benefits.
Builds and maintains positive partnerships with local organizations to support veterans’ needs.
Volunteers with at least one veteran-centered organization as approved by supervisor.
Operates and manages all office functions independently.
Extends condolences on behalf of the mayor of all known deceased veterans as applicable. and/or develops opportunities to honor veterans.
Performs other related duties as required or directed.