What are the responsibilities and job description for the Veterans Services Officer position at Union County, OH?
DESCRIPTION
The Union County Veterans Service Commission is seeking a dedicated and experienced professional to serve as a Veterans Services Officer. This role is ideal for an individual who is passionate about advocating for veterans and their families and who brings both technical expertise and a collaborative, service-oriented approach to public service.
Under direction of the Executive Director, investigates applications for assistance to determine eligibility for federal and local benefits and services; provides assistance and counseling to veterans and their families in obtaining benefits.
This position makes a meaningful impact while serving veterans in astable and mission-driven public service environment. Interested candidates who meet the below requirements are encouraged to apply.
QUALIFICATIONS
Completion of secondary education and courses in computer sciences, social work, or related fields, plus two (2) years of social services experience, or equivalent; possession of an Honorable Discharge (DD Form 214) from the U.S. Armed Forces or spouse/child of a veteran honorably discharged from the U.S. Armed Forces.
LICENSURE OR CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS:
Possession of a valid Ohio driver's license; must be and remain insurable under the county's vehicle insurance policy; completion of "New" Veteran Service Officer School (ODVS); completion of eighteen (18) months or required period of time of Veteran Service Officer Training; obtain accreditation from the Ohio Department of Veterans Services (ODVS); obtain accreditation from military service organjzations.
EQUIPMENT OPERATED: The following are examples only and are not intended to be all inclusive:
Personal computer/laptop, scanner, calculator, copier, fax machine, and other modern office equipment; motor vehicle.
INHERENTLY HAZARDOUS OR PHYSICALLY DEMANDING WORKING CONDITIONS:
The employee: is exposed to environmental conditions which may result in injury from fumes, odors, dusts, mists, gases, and/or poorly ventilated work areas ( e.g., toner, correction fluid); has contact with potentially violent or emotionally distraught persons; has exposure to hazardous driving conditions.
Note: In accordance with the U.S. Department of Labor physical demands strength ratings, this is considered sedentary work.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
(1) Interviews veterans and/or dependents to obtain and provide information and determine eligibility for participation in Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) benefit programs and services (e.g., insurance, loan application, education benefits, pensions, compensation, financial assistance, etc.); reviews medical and service records (e.g., O.R.C. 5901 and U.S. Code, Title 38).
(2) Assists eligible veterans and/or relatives with the completion of applications and other documentation necessary to facilitate participation in Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and/or state benefit programs and services.
(3) Responsible for tracking and maintaining individual client & client records; prepares reports concerning all claims filed with the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA); reports the status (open, closed, pending and appeals, etc.) of VA claims to the Deputy Director and /or Veterans Service Commission (VSC).
(4) Operates computer and scanner equipment to file VA claims; enters/retrieves data in veterans office programs; updates existing files.
(5) Attends all Ohio Department of Veterans Services (ODVS) and Federal (VA) required meetings and training events necessary to maintain proficiency to perform the essential functions of the position; Attend all required schools, conferences, quarterly training events to maintain a current working knowledge of law changes, operational procedures, etc.; maintains certifications necessary to perform the essential functions of the position; maintains records.
(6) Visits veterans and/or dependents in home, hospitals, and nursing homes; participates in other outreach programs and activities.
(7) Meets all job safety requirements and all applicable OSHA safety standards that pertain to essential functions; attends all state training to maintain certifications necessary to perform the essential functions of the position.
(8) Demonstrates regular and predictable attendance.
OTHER DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
(9) Performs other job-related (additional) duties as required by Executive Director and/or VSC.
MINIMUM ACCEPTABLE CHARACTERISTICS
Knowledge of: computer science; program software; veterans service laws and/or regulations; *agency policies and procedures; public relations; office practices and procedures; records management; human relations; case management; social services policies, programs, rules, and regulations.
Skill in: computer operation.
Ability to: interpret a variety of instructions in written, oral, picture, or schedule form; calculate fractions, decimals, and percentages; prepare accurate documentation; communicate effectively; understand a variety of written and/or verbal communications; gather, collate, and classify information; develop and maintain effective working relationships; travel to and gain access to work site.