What are the responsibilities and job description for the Giles County Government - Veterans Service Officer (VSO) - Part Time position at Giles County Government?
Position Description: Giles County Veterans Service Officer
Position Title:
Veterans Service Officer (VSO)
Reports To:
Giles County Executive (or designated authority)
Position Summary:
The Giles County Veterans Service Officer 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. This is a one-person office and the primary point of contact for all veterans’ services in the county. The position requires strong advocacy skills, administrative ability, and compliance with state and federal accreditation standards.
Work Schedule
- Regular Hours: Monday – Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. (20 hours per week)
- Occasional additional hours for community outreach events or required training.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
- Benefit Counseling and Claims Assistance
- Advise veterans, dependents, and survivors regarding eligibility for federal, state, and local veterans’ benefits.
- Prepare, submit, and track claims for VA benefits including compensation, pension, education, insurance, and burial.
- Assist with appeals and maintain secure case files in accordance with VA and TDVS regulations.
- Outreach and Advocacy
- Serve as the county liaison with the VA, TDVS, and veteran service organizations.
- Conduct outreach to ensure veterans are aware of their benefits, including public presentations and participation in community events.
- Build and maintain partnerships with local organizations to support veterans’ needs.
- Case Management and Recordkeeping
- Maintain accurate, confidential records of client interactions and claims activities.
- Monitor pending claims and provide timely updates to veterans.
- Prepare monthly and annual reports for county and state oversight.
- Program and Resource Coordination
- Refer veterans to appropriate services for healthcare, mental health, housing, and employment assistance.
- Assist in coordinating transportation to VA medical centers as needed.
- Identify gaps in services and propose solutions to county leadership.
- Administrative and Compliance Responsibilities
- Operate and manage all office functions independently.
- Maintain required accreditation through TDVS and VA-recognized organizations.
- Ensure compliance with Tennessee Code Annotated requirements and all applicable policies.
Minimum Qualifications
- Must be an honorably discharged veteran of the U.S. Armed Forces (per TCA §58-3-111 and accreditation policy).
- Accredited or eligible for accreditation as a Veterans Service Officer within one year of hire.
- Strong knowledge (or ability to learn) VA and TDVS benefits programs and claims processes.
- Excellent communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to maintain confidentiality and comply with HIPAA and VA privacy standards.
- Proficiency in computer systems, including VA claim portals and Microsoft Office.
Working Conditions
- Office-based with significant public interaction.
- Occasional travel for training, outreach, or veteran assistance.
- Must complete all required TDVS training and maintain accreditation status.
Performance Measures
- Number and accuracy of claims filed.
- Timely follow-up and case resolution.
- Compliance with state and federal standards.
- Positive feedback from veterans and stakeholders.
Job Type: Part-time
Pay: From $18.11 per hour
Education:
- High school or equivalent (Preferred)
Experience:
- military operations: 8 years (Preferred)
- military administrative: 8 years (Preferred)
Ability to Commute:
- Pulaski, TN 38478 (Preferred)
Work Location: In person
Salary : $18