Veteran Service Officer

JOB SUMMARY: The Veteran Service Officer position entails assisting veterans and their dependents in applying for federal, state, and local veteran benefits as well as attending outreach events within the veteran community in Winnebago County. This is primarily a public facing position requiring excellent customer service skills. This position is moderately independent and requires resolving complex issues and requires coordination with other units of federal, state, and local government. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: Represent veteran and dependent clients as their Power of Attorney before the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs to include representing clients before an Administrative Law Judge at the Board of Veterans Appeals. Works with appropriate agencies to secure documents to properly submit claims for veterans and their dependents. Reviews medical documents to determine claim or appeal actions to the Department of Veteran Affairs, state, or local agencies on behalf of veteran or dependents. Writes and maintains accurate and detailed documentation of all case-related activity and ensuring it is uploaded to veterans’ files. Assists eligible applicants with financial assistance applications for VACWC programs and other programs within the state of Illinois. Manage a revolving and active veteran benefits caseload of up to 100 veterans and/or their dependents. Conducts interviews and evaluates veterans and their dependents to determine their needs and qualifications for various benefits and qualifications. Ensures that all Privacy Act and HIPPA laws are adhered to regarding veteran and their dependents information and files. Monitors changes in VA regulations and applicable legislation to ensure the accurate delivery of benefits and services. Serves as an advocate for the veteran and their dependents to ensure they are receiving the best of all benefits and services. Engages with veteran services organizations within the community to speak on behalf of Veterans Services at veteran and group events to educate on the benefits and programs available to the veteran population. Prepare reports as assigned. Perform other related duties as assigned. EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE Bachelor’s degree in related field and 1 year experience as an NACVSO accredited representative or willing to obtain within 6 months; or Associated degree and 3 years’ experience as an NACVSO accredited representative or willing to obtain within 6 months; or • 5 years’ experience providing services to or working with vulnerable adult populations and become NACVSO accredited within 12 months of employment. LICENSES & CERTIFICATIONS National Accreditation of County Veteran Service Officers (NACVSO). PHYSICAL DEMANDS Sitting at a desk for long periods of time, walking short distances, keyboarding, driving long distances (greater than 100 miles) occasionally, and lifting 25 pounds occasionally. SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES: This position has occasional supervisory responsibilities. A designated Veteran Service Officer may serve as interim superintendent in the absence or incapacitation of the Superintendent. JOB REQUIREMENTS: Ability to interpret and adhere to policies & procedures in accordance with company practices. Read, analyze, interpret, and communicate complex documents, issues, and recommendations. Regular attendance Basic math and reading skills; attention to details. Use of basic office equipment (e.g., photocopier, voice mail, ‘fax’ machine, calculator, multiple line telephones, computers etc.) Represent the organization in a professional and positive manner both internally and externally. The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed, and job responsibilities may change at any time due to business needs. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and skills required for the position. Please discuss requests for reasonable accommodations with the hiring manager. Job Type: Full-time Pay: $55,320.00 - $74,652.00 per year Benefits: 401(k) 401(k) matching Dental insurance Employee assistance program Flexible spending account Health insurance Life insurance Paid time off Retirement plan Tuition reimbursement Vision insurance Schedule: 8 hour shift Application Question(s): Are you a Veteran of the United States Armed Forces? Work Location: In person