Veterans Services Officer

Mecklenburg County • Charlotte, NC

1d • Onsite

About The Position

The Veterans Services Officer advises local veterans and/or their dependents about their rights and entitlements under Federal and State laws. Under general supervision, the officer develops disability benefit claims, ensures pertinent documentation is submitted to the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), and advocates for veterans and dependents seeking disability benefits and assistance with healthcare, education, employment, housing, financial assistance, and other available benefits.

This is a full-time, onsite position at one of three Veterans Services locations in Mecklenburg County, based on business need: Valerie C. Woodard Center in Charlotte, Ella B. Scarborough Community Resource Center in Charlotte, or Huntersville Town Hall. The selected candidate must obtain and maintain U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs accreditation through the Office of General Counsel and successfully complete a Federal Background investigation to obtain accreditation.

The role requires at least two years of experience working with military veterans' services or related human services experience and a high school diploma or equivalent. The candidate must be able to obtain and maintain VA certification within one year of employment, hold a valid North Carolina or South Carolina driver's license, and obtain and maintain County driving privileges. This exempt, salaried position has a stated annual salary range of $57,346 to $71,682. The work environment is an office setting with moderate noise. The position may be required to assist in emergency and/or disaster situations.

Requirements

• At least two years of experience working with military veterans' services or related human services experience.
• High school diploma or equivalent; a combination of relevant education and relevant experience is accepted.
• Ability to obtain and maintain Department of Veterans Affairs certification within one year of employment.
• Valid North Carolina or South Carolina driver's license.
• Ability to obtain and maintain County driving privileges.
• Selected candidate must obtain and maintain U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs accreditation through the Office of General Counsel and successfully complete a Federal Background investigation to obtain accreditation.
• Proficiency in various computer applications, including Microsoft Office Suite.
• Knowledge of State and federal laws, rules, and regulations pertaining to veterans services and benefits and the functioning of the Veterans Administration.
• Knowledge of forms, procedures, and informational sources used in applying for benefits, as well as other State and federal social and rehabilitative services and benefits and services offered by the county and local and private community-based agencies.
• Skills in customer service, mathematical calculations, reading and interpreting legal documents, applying applicable laws and regulations, preparing reports, managing complex caseloads across multiple programs, conducting interviews and research, and managing databases.
• Abilities in customer loyalty and focus, building strategic work relationships, communication, initiating action, quality orientation, and meeting work standards.
• Ability to perform each essential function satisfactorily, with or without reasonable accommodation.

Nice To Haves

• Current accreditation as a Veterans Service Officer (VSO) is highly preferred.
• Associate's degree in a human services field preferred.
• Military service preferred.

Responsibilities

• Interview veterans, their dependents, and other affiliates; evaluate their needs and problems to determine rights, benefits, privileges, or obligations under laws administered by the Veterans Administration.
• Develop and process claims for benefits, including disability compensation and pension, death pension and compensation, dependency and indemnity compensation, life insurance, education, vocational rehabilitation, and other benefits.
• Review service medical records, military personnel records, private medical records, and other documents and sources to gather evidence supporting benefit claims.
• Appear before Veterans Administration Rating Boards, present and answer questions about claims, justify requested action, and appeal unfavorable board decisions.
• Build relationships and work with private medical physicians and specialists to establish referrals for veterans who need diagnosis and treatment to substantiate VA disability claims.
• Present veterans programs to organizations and keep veterans, dependents, and the community informed about legislative actions affecting their rights and privileges.
• Work a flexible schedule to assist veterans and family members at various locations throughout Mecklenburg County.
• Participate in outreach events and engage with veterans, their family members, and community providers when necessary.
• Perform other duties assigned based on business need and the supervisor’s request.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: High school or GED