What are the responsibilities and job description for the Veterans Service Officer I position at St. Louis County, MN?
Kind of Work
We are seeking a dedicated Veterans Service Officer (VSO) for our Duluth, Minnesota office to assist veterans, service members, and their families in accessing the benefits and services they have earned. As a VSO you will provide expert guidance on federal, state, and local benefits, including compensation, pension, healthcare, and state benefit programs. Responsibilities include interviewing clients, preparing and submitting claims, advocating on their behalf, and connecting them with appropriate community resources. Strong communication, problem-solving, organizational skills, attention to detail and customer service skills are essential. A passion for serving veterans and their families is highly preferred.
The salary range reflected above is the normal hiring range for 2025. The full salary range, including longevity pay, is $29.02 - $41.01 per hour.
This position is based and will work out of the Duluth, Minnesota location.
This position is part of the Civil Service Basic Unit Employees Collective Bargaining Agreement represented by Council 5 of AFSCME.
St. Louis County does not participate in E-Verify. All employees must be continuously authorized to work in the United States, for St. Louis County, on a full-time basis. St. Louis County does not provide sponsorship for employment visas.
Distinguishing Features of Work
An employee in this class is responsible for providing assistance to veterans and their dependents by identifying and explaining state and federal veterans benefit programs; assisting with preparing applications and case records; and serving as liaison for clients in their dealings with benefit providers. Duties include interpreting program eligibility criteria, coordinating administration of claims and assisting clients in resolving problems in the receipt of their benefit entitlements. The work is performed within the established parameters of state and federal program regulations and policies, and under the direction of assigned supervisory staff.
Work Environment
These work environment factors are general in nature and may vary depending on the specific position being filled. CONSTANT: Work inside. FREQUENT: Near vision; hear within 5 feet; sit; work alone and around others; talk/speak; and customer/public contact. OCCASIONAL: Lift and carry up to 20 pounds; midrange and far vision; use fingers; grasp; stand; and clients with behavioral challenges.
Selection Process
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS (Pass/Fail)
Supplemental questions will be 100% of the scoring process:
Points will be awarded based on the applicants answers to supplemental questions 13-15 & 24.
Experience beyond ten years may be included on the application for purposes of meeting minimum qualifications or informing the hiring authority of your complete employment history.
Please Note: When answering the supplemental questions on the website, the webpage may time out after 30 minutes. It's recommended you draft your answers in a separate document and copy/paste the answers into the application when you're finished writing. Failure to answer and save all of the questions on the "Supplemental Questions" page within 30 minutes may result in the deletion of your answers by the application system.
Tentative Recruitment & Screening Process Schedule
The essential functions for this position are listed under the "ILLUSTRATIVE EXAMPLES OF WORK" on the specification, available in the Human Resources Department or online at www.stlouiscountymn.gov/jobdescriptions.
Veterans Preference
If you are eligible to apply for Veterans Preference, please attach to your application a copy of document(s) listed for the option that applies to you:
Physical-medical Standards
Qualified applicants must be able to perform the essential functions of the position with or without reasonable accommodation. Applicants selected must meet the physical requirements for the position.
Drug Testing
Applicants selected for appointment must take and pass a drug test.
Background Check
Applicants selected for appointment to a position with St. Louis County are subject to a background investigation.
Employment Eligibility Verification
All new employees must submit documentation verifying identity and employment eligibility within three days of their first day of employment.
Probationary Period
Appointees to the position must successfully complete a twelve-month probationary period prior to being certified for permanent employment.
Non-discrimination
St. Louis County is an equal opportunity and veteran-friendly employer.
Eligible St. Louis County employees earn a competitive salary and benefits package, including:
01
Please type or clearly print your name.
02
The information you provide related to your education, training, and experience is subject to verification. I understand that giving false information, failing to accurately represent myself, or not providing required documentation as listed on the job announcement will result in disqualification.
Are you legally authorized to work in the United States for St. Louis County?
All employees must be continuously authorized to work in the United States. St. Louis County does not provide sponsorship for employment visas, and it does not currently participate in E-Verify. Will you now, or will you in the future, require sponsorship for employment visa status (e.g. H-1B visa status) to work legally for St. Louis County in the United States?
Do you have a valid driver's license?
Select your highest level of education.
I understand that I am required to attach copies of unofficial transcript(s) to my application, or equivalent proof of attendance, to be awarded credit for any claimed educational qualifications. Note: By answering "No," we will not be able to accept your application.
Are you a resident of the state of Minnesota? (As required by MN Statute 197.601 QUALIFICATIONS OF COUNTY VETERANS SERVICE OFFICERS.)
Are you a citizen of the United States? (As required by MN Statue 197.601 QUALIFICATIONS OF COUNTY VETERANS SERVICE OFFICERS)
MN Statute 197.447 states the following: "The word "veteran" as used in Minnesota Statutes, except in sections 136F.28, 196.21, and 243.251, means a citizen of the United States or a resident alien who has been separated under honorable conditions from any branch of the armed forces of the United States after having served on active duty for 181 consecutive days or by reason of disability incurred while serving on active duty, or who has met the minimum active duty requirement as defined by Code of Federal Regulations, title 38, section 3.12a, or who has active military service certified under section 401, Public Law 95-202. The active military service must be certified by the United States secretary of defense as active military service and a discharge under honorable conditions must be issued by the secretary." Are you a veteran, as defined by Minnesota statute 197.447?
I have attached my DD214 and understand that by answering "No," we will not be able to accept my application.
SME Explanation: Questions 13-15 & 24 will be reviewed by a Subject Matter Expert (SME). The questions will be scored and used to help determine 100% of your score. For each question please list the organization(s) and/or employers where you gained the experience. All information listed must also be supported in the work experience section of your application. I have read and understand the instructions given above and acknowledge that I understand my score is derived 100% from my answers to supplemental questions 13-15 & 24.
Please describe your paid verifiable experience in providing services to military veterans.
14
Please describe your paid work experience working with veteran's organizations such as the American Legion, VFW, VA Hospital, and the VA Regional Office.
15
Describe your experience working as part of a collaborative (multi-agency) effort.
16
For questions 17-23 please indicate your level of expertise in each of the following components of the Veterans Services Officer I position. We recognize that there may be several in which you likely have had little or no exposure. This is to be expected.
17
Knowledge of the principles, policies, laws and regulations governing state and federal veterans' benefit programs.
Knowledge of the terminology, symptoms and occupational consequences of common diseases and disabilities.
Ability to plan, implement and administer an effective plan for assisting veterans with available benefits, and monitor the program for efficiency and conformance.
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with co-workers, community officials, County Board members, State Veterans Administration officials, the public and other contacts associated with veterans' benefits.
Ability to prepare and direct the preparation of accurate and comprehensive records and reports in support of veterans' claims and appeals.
Ability to communicate effectively in oral and written presentation.
Ability to effectively explain, interpret and advise veterans of division policies, laws and regulations as they are applied to various veterans benefits.
For each question above that you answered either "Fully Competent" or "Expert Status," please describe in more detail your level of proficiency in that area.
25
I certify that my responses to the questions above are true and accurate to the best of my knowledge.
We are seeking a dedicated Veterans Service Officer (VSO) for our Duluth, Minnesota office to assist veterans, service members, and their families in accessing the benefits and services they have earned. As a VSO you will provide expert guidance on federal, state, and local benefits, including compensation, pension, healthcare, and state benefit programs. Responsibilities include interviewing clients, preparing and submitting claims, advocating on their behalf, and connecting them with appropriate community resources. Strong communication, problem-solving, organizational skills, attention to detail and customer service skills are essential. A passion for serving veterans and their families is highly preferred.
The salary range reflected above is the normal hiring range for 2025. The full salary range, including longevity pay, is $29.02 - $41.01 per hour.
This position is based and will work out of the Duluth, Minnesota location.
This position is part of the Civil Service Basic Unit Employees Collective Bargaining Agreement represented by Council 5 of AFSCME.
St. Louis County does not participate in E-Verify. All employees must be continuously authorized to work in the United States, for St. Louis County, on a full-time basis. St. Louis County does not provide sponsorship for employment visas.
Distinguishing Features of Work
An employee in this class is responsible for providing assistance to veterans and their dependents by identifying and explaining state and federal veterans benefit programs; assisting with preparing applications and case records; and serving as liaison for clients in their dealings with benefit providers. Duties include interpreting program eligibility criteria, coordinating administration of claims and assisting clients in resolving problems in the receipt of their benefit entitlements. The work is performed within the established parameters of state and federal program regulations and policies, and under the direction of assigned supervisory staff.
Work Environment
These work environment factors are general in nature and may vary depending on the specific position being filled. CONSTANT: Work inside. FREQUENT: Near vision; hear within 5 feet; sit; work alone and around others; talk/speak; and customer/public contact. OCCASIONAL: Lift and carry up to 20 pounds; midrange and far vision; use fingers; grasp; stand; and clients with behavioral challenges.
Selection Process
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS (Pass/Fail)
- Veteran as defined by Minnesota Statute. (Please refer to Minnesota Statue 197.447)
- Graduation from an accredited college or university with an Associate's degree and meet the statutory qualifications prescribed in Minn. Stat.
- 197.601.
- Possession of a valid driver's license.
Supplemental questions will be 100% of the scoring process:
Points will be awarded based on the applicants answers to supplemental questions 13-15 & 24.
Experience beyond ten years may be included on the application for purposes of meeting minimum qualifications or informing the hiring authority of your complete employment history.
Please Note: When answering the supplemental questions on the website, the webpage may time out after 30 minutes. It's recommended you draft your answers in a separate document and copy/paste the answers into the application when you're finished writing. Failure to answer and save all of the questions on the "Supplemental Questions" page within 30 minutes may result in the deletion of your answers by the application system.
Tentative Recruitment & Screening Process Schedule
- November 26, 2025 - Applicant screening will begin
- Week of December 8, 2025 - Supplemental question scoring to be completed
- Week of January 5, 2025 - Interviews to be conducted
The essential functions for this position are listed under the "ILLUSTRATIVE EXAMPLES OF WORK" on the specification, available in the Human Resources Department or online at www.stlouiscountymn.gov/jobdescriptions.
Veterans Preference
If you are eligible to apply for Veterans Preference, please attach to your application a copy of document(s) listed for the option that applies to you:
- Veteran: DD214 noting character of service.
- Disabled Veteran: DD214 & compensable disability award letter issued within the last 6 months.
- Spouse of Disabled Veteran: DD214 & compensable disability award letter issued within the last 6 months & marriage certificate. (Eligible only if Veteran is unable to qualify because of the disability.)
- Spouse of Deceased Veteran: DD214, Marriage Certificate and Death Certificate.
Physical-medical Standards
Qualified applicants must be able to perform the essential functions of the position with or without reasonable accommodation. Applicants selected must meet the physical requirements for the position.
Drug Testing
Applicants selected for appointment must take and pass a drug test.
Background Check
Applicants selected for appointment to a position with St. Louis County are subject to a background investigation.
Employment Eligibility Verification
All new employees must submit documentation verifying identity and employment eligibility within three days of their first day of employment.
Probationary Period
Appointees to the position must successfully complete a twelve-month probationary period prior to being certified for permanent employment.
Non-discrimination
St. Louis County is an equal opportunity and veteran-friendly employer.
Eligible St. Louis County employees earn a competitive salary and benefits package, including:
- Vacation, Sick and Personal Leave
- Paid Holidays
- Medical Plan
- Dental Plan
- Vision Plan
- Disability Insurance
- Life Insurance
- Flexible Spending Accounts
- Retirement Benefits
- Deferred Compensation
- Training and Advancement Opportunities
- Employee Assistance Program
- Employee Resource Groups
- Employee Wellness Program
- Pet Insurance
01
Please type or clearly print your name.
02
The information you provide related to your education, training, and experience is subject to verification. I understand that giving false information, failing to accurately represent myself, or not providing required documentation as listed on the job announcement will result in disqualification.
- Yes
Are you legally authorized to work in the United States for St. Louis County?
- Yes
- No
All employees must be continuously authorized to work in the United States. St. Louis County does not provide sponsorship for employment visas, and it does not currently participate in E-Verify. Will you now, or will you in the future, require sponsorship for employment visa status (e.g. H-1B visa status) to work legally for St. Louis County in the United States?
- Yes, I will now, or will in the future, require sponsorship for employment visa status (e.g. H-1B visa status) to work legally for St. Louis County in the United States
- No, I will not now, or in the future, require sponsorship for employment visa status (e.g. H-1B visa status) to work legally for St. Louis County in the United States
Do you have a valid driver's license?
- Yes
- No
Select your highest level of education.
- Bachelor's Degree
- Master's Degree
- AA Degree
- Degree not received
- HS Diploma or equivalent
- None of the above
I understand that I am required to attach copies of unofficial transcript(s) to my application, or equivalent proof of attendance, to be awarded credit for any claimed educational qualifications. Note: By answering "No," we will not be able to accept your application.
- Yes
- No
Are you a resident of the state of Minnesota? (As required by MN Statute 197.601 QUALIFICATIONS OF COUNTY VETERANS SERVICE OFFICERS.)
- Yes
- No
Are you a citizen of the United States? (As required by MN Statue 197.601 QUALIFICATIONS OF COUNTY VETERANS SERVICE OFFICERS)
- Yes
- No
MN Statute 197.447 states the following: "The word "veteran" as used in Minnesota Statutes, except in sections 136F.28, 196.21, and 243.251, means a citizen of the United States or a resident alien who has been separated under honorable conditions from any branch of the armed forces of the United States after having served on active duty for 181 consecutive days or by reason of disability incurred while serving on active duty, or who has met the minimum active duty requirement as defined by Code of Federal Regulations, title 38, section 3.12a, or who has active military service certified under section 401, Public Law 95-202. The active military service must be certified by the United States secretary of defense as active military service and a discharge under honorable conditions must be issued by the secretary." Are you a veteran, as defined by Minnesota statute 197.447?
- Yes
- No
I have attached my DD214 and understand that by answering "No," we will not be able to accept my application.
- Yes
- No
SME Explanation: Questions 13-15 & 24 will be reviewed by a Subject Matter Expert (SME). The questions will be scored and used to help determine 100% of your score. For each question please list the organization(s) and/or employers where you gained the experience. All information listed must also be supported in the work experience section of your application. I have read and understand the instructions given above and acknowledge that I understand my score is derived 100% from my answers to supplemental questions 13-15 & 24.
- Yes
- No
Please describe your paid verifiable experience in providing services to military veterans.
14
Please describe your paid work experience working with veteran's organizations such as the American Legion, VFW, VA Hospital, and the VA Regional Office.
15
Describe your experience working as part of a collaborative (multi-agency) effort.
16
For questions 17-23 please indicate your level of expertise in each of the following components of the Veterans Services Officer I position. We recognize that there may be several in which you likely have had little or no exposure. This is to be expected.
17
Knowledge of the principles, policies, laws and regulations governing state and federal veterans' benefit programs.
- Expert status: significant experience, could teach this to others
- Fully competent: consider this a core skill
- Reasonably competent
- Some knowledge: still working toward expertise
- Little or no exposure
Knowledge of the terminology, symptoms and occupational consequences of common diseases and disabilities.
- Expert status; significant experience; could teach this to others
- Fully competent; consider this a core skill
- Reasonably competent
- Some knowledge; still working toward expertise
- Little or no exposure
Ability to plan, implement and administer an effective plan for assisting veterans with available benefits, and monitor the program for efficiency and conformance.
- Expert status; significant experience; could teach this to others
- Fully competent; consider this a core skill
- Reasonably competent
- Some knowledge; still working toward expertise
- Little or no exposure
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with co-workers, community officials, County Board members, State Veterans Administration officials, the public and other contacts associated with veterans' benefits.
- Expert status: significant experience, could teach this to others
- Fully competent: consider this a core skill
- Reasonably competent
- Some knowledge: still working toward expertise
- Little or no exposure
Ability to prepare and direct the preparation of accurate and comprehensive records and reports in support of veterans' claims and appeals.
- Expert status; significant experience; could teach this to others
- Fully competent; consider this a core skill
- Reasonably competent
- Some knowledge; still working toward expertise
- Little or no exposure
Ability to communicate effectively in oral and written presentation.
- Expert status; significant experience; could teach this to others
- Fully competent; consider this a core skill
- Reasonably competent
- Some knowledge; still working toward expertise
- Little or no exposure
Ability to effectively explain, interpret and advise veterans of division policies, laws and regulations as they are applied to various veterans benefits.
- Expert status: significant experience, could teach this to others
- Fully competent: consider this a core skill
- Reasonably competent
- Some knowledge: still working toward expertise
- Little or no exposure
For each question above that you answered either "Fully Competent" or "Expert Status," please describe in more detail your level of proficiency in that area.
25
I certify that my responses to the questions above are true and accurate to the best of my knowledge.
- Yes
- No
- Required Question
Salary : $29 - $41
