Veterans Services Officer
About The Position
The Veterans Services Officer (VSO) manages the daily operations of the Anson County Veterans Services Office and provides professional guidance to local Veterans and their dependents regarding federal, state, and local benefits. The VSO advises clients on their rights and entitlements, assists in completing required forms and documentation, and forwards claims to the to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (USDVA). The VSO serves as the federally accredited representative for Veterans and claimants in preparing, presenting, and prosecuting claims before the USDVA under Chapter 38 of the Code of Federal Regulations. The employee interprets and applies benefit requirements for pensions, compensation, medical care, education, home loan guarantees, death benefits, and other entitlements. The employee manages departmental operations, develops annual budget needs, and establishes public education and outreach initiatives, including presentations to civic groups and participation in community events. The VSO maintains the Wadesboro office, manages records, schedules, and supplies, and coordinates referrals to county, state, federal, or private resources. Work requires close collaboration with the NCDMVA District Officer to ensure proper submission of claims and adherence to accreditation standards. The position demands ongoing review of VA regulations, state directives, and annual training to maintain competency. Employees routinely prepare correspondence, statements, and documentation supporting claims and appeals. The role involves extensive public contact and requires exceptional communication skills. Work is performed under the general supervision of the County Manager and is evaluated through conferences and periodic performance reviews.
Requirements
- Thorough knowledge of VA benefits, laws, regulations, and claims procedures.
- Working knowledge of state and federal Veterans programs and services.
- Knowledge of community agencies and support networks.
- Knowledge of VA medical services and benefits administration.
- Knowledge of North Carolina Veterans laws and regulations.
- Working knowledge of medical terminology.
- Skill in using computers, office software, and standard office equipment.
- Ability to communicate clearly and professionally, both orally and in writing.
- Ability to conduct effective claimant interviews.
- Knowledge of Department of Defense retirement procedures.
- Knowledge of National Archives processes and record retrieval procedures.
- Bachelor’s degree in Public Administration, Human Services, or a related field, and at least two years of progressively responsible experience in an applicable field; or
- Associate degree in Administrative Office Technology, Human Services, or a related field, and at least five years of progressively responsible experience in an applicable field.
- Must obtain accreditation through the NC Division of Veterans Affairs within six months of hire.
- Must complete TRIP (Training, Responsibility, Involvement in Preparation of Claims) through NCDMVA within six months.
- Must obtain required federal background clearance and a PIV card to access USDVA claims systems within six months.
- Must attend ongoing training to maintain accreditation and competency.
Responsibilities
- Develops, projects, and manages annual budget needs.
- Plans and conducts public awareness and outreach programs.
- Provides advice and handles the most complex claims, appeals, and benefit cases.
- Represents Veterans as an accredited representative before federal VA officials and judges, as authorized by NCDMVA.
- Interviews claimants to assess eligibility for benefits and services.
- Interprets VA laws and regulations and applies them across multiple service eras.
- Assists Veterans and dependents in preparing and submitting applications for federal, state, and local benefits to the USDVA and Department of Defense.
- Prepares reports and presents departmental updates to the Board of County Commissioners.
- Drafts letters requesting medical records, documentation, or congressional assistance.
- Organizes community outreach events and speaks to civic and Veterans organizations to increase awareness of available services.
- Works collaboratively with local Veteran organizations (e.g., VFW, DAV, Veterans Council, Marine Corps League) to coordinate support and community engagement.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
