What are the responsibilities and job description for the Veterans Affairs Claims Specialist position at City of Springfield, MA?
Position Purpose/Summary
Responsible for assisting eligible veterans, service members, and their families in preparing, submitting, and managing claims for benefits through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). This position will interpret complex federal regulations, verify documentation, and advocate on behalf of claimants to ensure they receive the benefits to which they are entitled. Work is performed under the supervision of the Veterans Services Director. No supervision is exercised over other staff.
Essential Functions
- Prepare, review, and process claims for VA benefits, including disability compensation, pension, education, healthcare, and survivor benefits.
- Collect and evaluate medical records, service documents, and supporting evidence to ensure accuracy and completeness of claims.
- Serve as a liaison between veterans and the VA, ensuring claims are properly developed, submitted, and tracked through the adjudication process.
- Provide guidance and counseling to veterans and their dependents regarding available benefits, claim status, and appeal options.
- Maintain detailed case files and ensure data integrity in all electronic and paper records.
- Participate in veteran outreach events and assist in educating the community about available VA benefits and services.
- Performs related work as required.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
- Thorough knowledge of statutes, ordinances, and regulations pertaining to veteran’s benefits.
- Thorough knowledge of VA laws, regulations, and procedures to ensure compliance and proper claims handling.
- Considerable knowledge of the philosophy, practices, procedures and techniques of professional social work in the public sector.
- Considerable knowledge of public assistance programs and related laws.
- Considerable knowledge of the functions of private social agencies and other community resources.
- Considerable knowledge of the causes of public dependency and family insecurity, including economic, social, health, and psychological problems.
- Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with applicants, recipients, subordinates, other agencies, and the general public.
- Ability to express oneself clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing.
- Skill in dealing effectively with, and eliciting information from, persons under considerable emotional and economic stress.
Education and Experience
- Bachelor’s degree in Public Administration, Social Work, Human Services, or a related field and a minimum of one (1) year of related experience; OR any equivalent combination of five (5) years education and/or relevant volunteer or work experience.
- Prior experience working with the Department of Veterans Affairs or in a military/veteran related environment preferred.
- Ability to receive accreditation through the State Executive Office of Veterans Services (EOVS) within the first six (6) months of employment.
- Ability to receive national accreditation through the National Association of County Veteran Service Officers (NACVSO) within the first two (2) years of employment.
NOTICE: The following benefits are contingent upon hours worked and bargaining vs. non-bargaining agreements.
Medical/Dental/ Vision
75% City Subsidized
All health insurance plans include Dental and Vision
Retirement
Available to employees working 20 hours per week
Paid Vacation
Earned vacation time can be taken after 6 months of service. Earned time is accrued.
Paid Holidays
All City employees receive 11 paid holidays per year.
Paid Sick Time
Full time employees are immediately eligible to begin accruing 1 1/4 days per month which can be taken after 6 months of service. Supplemental Long Term and Short disability coverage is available to employees at the employee cost.
Paid Personal Days
Use up to 3 of your accrued sick days as Personal days. Personal days cannot be rolled over into the next calendar year.
Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
A means for eligible employees to balance work and family responsibilities by taking unpaid leave for authorized reasons.
Training
On the job and instructor led courses available
Employee Assistance Program
Free, confidential and personal assistance to employees and their families to resolve issues that affect their personal lives as well as job performance.
Direct Deposit
Easy, convenient, and free!