Veterans Service Specialist

This position provides office support for the Veterans Service Center and supports the Veterans Service Officers. The position is primarily responsible for answering a multi-line telephone system, greeting visitors and clients, and providing benefits information of a routine nature or making appropriate referral for assistance. The work is performed on a personal computer in a Windows environment using Microsoft Office (Word, Excel and PowerPoint) software, in a Local Area Network (LAN) configuration. This position will require an individual who has well-developed interpersonal, communication, organizational, mathematical, typing and computer skills. Other duties, including outreach, may be assigned as needed. Secondarily, this position is engaged in obtaining, compiling, and presenting information pertaining to claims for benefits allowable to veterans and their dependents. This position assists veterans and their dependents by first assessing their needs and then taking appropriate action to file all available benefits on their behalf. Responsibilities include assisting and coordinating with other Veterans Service Officers (VSO) when needed. Position serves as a liaison for veterans and coordinates the activities of Veterans Service Officers with various divisions of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Employees in this class are expected to exercise independent judgment, discretion and initiative in completing assignments and completing various personnel matters. Considerable tact and good communication skills are required due to frequent exposure to the general public and other governmental jurisdictions. Work is performed under the general direction of the Veterans Services Director and is evaluated through the observation of work, training, results of work reports and public feedback. A normal 40 hours work week (M-F, 8am-5pm) is associated with the position. The individual in this position should have significant knowledge of office or work unit procedures, methods and practices as well as be able to perform in a fast-paced, demanding environment in a professional manner, with minimal supervision and direction. Preferred applicant will have five or more years' experience using Microsoft Office products, including Word, Excel and Outlook. The applicant should have a working knowledge of office methods & procedures, ability to establish and maintain a filing system, ability to use a variety of office machines, should possess excellent writing skills, and be highly motivated and able to work independently. Counsels veterans and their dependents and assists them in applying to the Veterans Administration for pension, compensation, burial allowance, medical services, education and housing loans, death benefits and other benefits. Assists veterans with disability applications and with ensuring that necessary records, medical reports, and materials are collected and submitted. Assists veterans and their dependents with a wide variety of paperwork; recommends acceptable documentation and sources to obtain documentation for applications and claims. Interprets, applies, explains, and researches various regulations and benefits. Clarifies problems and claims by contacting national, regional, state and district veteran's representative; discusses options and resolves issues. Establishes and maintains a variety of records, reports and applicant files. Prepares documentation for appeals of benefit denials; may appear with veterans or dependents before administrative agencies or courts. Refers veterans and dependents to other Social Service agencies which provide required assistance. Other duties may be assigned as needed. General knowledge of Federal and State laws, procedures and regulations pertaining to the various veteran service programs and benefits. General knowledge of community organizations, agencies and facilities related to veteran affairs. General knowledge of resources available for and assistance to veterans and their dependents. Ability to understand, interpret and apply technical rules, directives and regulations to specific veteran problems. Ability to solve problems within scope of responsibility. Ability to communicate effectively in written and oral form. Ability to organize and maintain records and reports. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with County officials, veterans and their dependents, a variety of social service agencies, employees and the general public. Bachelor's degree in business administration, human services, social work or related field and some experience in veterans services, military services, human services, or related experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Must have good computer skills and be proficient in MS Word and other related software. Veteran status is preferred. NC Division of Veterans Affairs certification preferred; or must be able to become accredited within six months of hire. Possession of a valid North Carolina driver's license