Veterans Benefits Specialist

Under the general supervision of the Veterans Service Officer, the Veterans Benefits Specialist provides services (interviewing, claims development and advocacy) to military Veterans and their dependents regarding all state and federal Veterans benefits.

This position is Monday - Friday 8am to 4:30pmThe following duties are most critical for this position. These are not to be construed as exclusive or all-inclusive. Other duties may be required and assigned. 

• Conducts interviews with Veterans and/or dependents to determine clients' needs and desires; then completes the appropriate benefit application(s) and other required forms.
• Provides direct client assistance with regard to the interpretation of complex eligibility criteria, application preparation, and the gathering and analyzing of supporting documentation for state and federal Veterans benefits.
• Advises clients on their legal Veterans Administration entitlements by independently interpreting state & federal statutes, codes and regulations.
• Maintains client records, and uploads records to VetraSpec Software database for accurate record tracking.
• Accurately tracks claims for timeliness and prepares statistical reporting on claims activity.
• Drafts correspondence to clients, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, the Wisconsin Department of Veterans Affairs, and other governmental and non­governmental offices.
• Using state and federal guidelines, prepares and develops claims for VA service connected compensation or nonservice connected disability pension benefits.
• Conducts Veterans Benefits Briefings to Civic Organizations, Veteran Service Organizations, Colleges/Schools, Assisted Living Facilities, Nursing Homes, and Special Benefits Fairs.
• Advises clients in the Board of Veterans Appeals Process and the Court of Appeals for Veterans Claims being particularly conscious of filing deadlines and attorney referrals.
• Counsels clients who may be dealing with sensitive issues of mental illness, alcohol, or other drug abuse, post-traumatic stress disorder, military sexual trauma, bereavement, homelessness, and/or financial distress with respect and dignity.

• High School graduate, G.E.D. , or equivalency.
• Active PIV Card preferred or ability to obtain accreditation within 1 year of hire
• WDVA Accreditation preferred or ability to obtain accreditation within 3 months of hire 

• Knowledge of and ability to use modern office practices, procedures, and equipment with a variety of computer software programs; ability to learn new software programs or changes to existing programs.
• Experience working with Veterans and/or their families preferred.
• Knowledge of the goals, policies, and procedures of the Veterans Office.
• Knowledge of all pertinent laws, statutes, codes, regulations, and terminology.
• Ability to maintain composure and effectively use tact and diplomacy with clients, co­workers, internal and external agencies, and the general public.
• Ability to maintain complete accurate records and prepare clear comprehensive reports.
• Ability to work independently, budgeting time, completing tasks and managing schedule. Ability to effectively communicate in English, verbally and in writing with tact and demeanor with all types of clients.
• Ability to understand and interpret complex commands both written and oral.
• Demonstrates professionalism and compassion, always maintaining client's dignity and respect.

Work Environment:  Primarily sedentary office work with extended computer use and meetings and occasional offsite work events. Mainly an office setting assisting others via in person or phone.

OUTAGAMIE COUNTY IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER. IN COMPLIANCE WITH THE AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT, THE COUNTY WILL PROVIDE REASONABLE ACCOMMODATIONS TO QUALIFIED INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES AND ENCOURAGES BOTH PROSPECTIVE EMPLOYEES AND INCUMBENTS TO DISCUSS POTENTIAL ACCOMMODATIONS WITH THE EMPLOYER.

Salary : $50,357 - $65,707