Veterans Services Counselor

Flagler County Job Opportunity

Flagler County is dedicated to enriching the lives of those we serve and strives to deliver a vibrant and prosperous community with a focus on providing exceptional quality of life. As we work together to put the needs of our community first, we are also dedicated to our employees, investing in competitive compensation and comprehensive benefit plans – to take care of you and your family now, and in the future. And with continuing education and advancement opportunities, you can build a long, successful career with us. You'll thrive in an environment where we build a culture of innovation by encouraging collaboration and empowering staff to facilitate positive outcomes. We understand the importance of work/life balance, having flexible work schedules and the ability to afford health insurance. That's why our benefits are known to be some of the best around! We offer a robust benefit package that includes low-cost health insurance, no cost onsite wellness center and gym, retirement in the Florida Retirement System, County paid basic life insurance, 13 paid holidays, generous personal leave, tuition reimbursement, longevity pay, and wellness programs to support a happier, healthier you. At Flagler County we aspire to be the catalyst that makes us an employer of choice.

Position Summary

Provides compassionate, knowledgeable assistance to veterans, their dependents, and families of deceased veterans by conducting interviews, counseling, processing claims, and connecting clients to federal, state, and local benefits and services through the Veterans Services Office.

Essential Functions

• Conducts interviews, counsels and assists veterans and their dependents and the dependents of deceased veterans.
• Advises clients of other benefits or services for which they may be eligible and facilitates the delivery of those benefits or services.
• Assists veterans in claims applications.
• Utilizes computer software programs to track and update veterans' claims and benefits.
• Coordinates veterans' services with local agencies/veteran centers.
• Coordinates and administers VA work-study program.
• Performs follow-up work on veterans' claims for the most optimum result.
• Accomplishes operationally related work as required.
• During emergencies, all employees are considered essential personnel and may be required to perform alternate duties.

Minimum Qualifications

• Must possess a two-year associate's degree from an accredited institution OR a high school diploma/equivalency plus four years of administrative experience.
• Must qualify as a veteran under Florida Statute 1.01(14) or be the surviving spouse of such a veteran.
• Must possess or have ability to obtain Florida Division of Veterans Affairs/ Department of Veterans Affairs certification within 1 year from date of hire.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Proficiency with Microsoft Windows-based applications, databases, and case management software and when trained, VA Benefit Management System.
• Knowledge of VA laws, regulations, procedures, and benefits programs for veterans and dependents.
• Knowledge of federal, state, and local veterans' benefits and human services programs.
• Knowledge of modern office practices, including data entry, record-keeping, and confidentiality standards.
• Ability to build and maintain effective, empathetic working relationships with clients, colleagues, agencies, and stakeholders.
• Excellent verbal and written communication abilities, including clear documentation and client interaction.
• Strong interviewing, counseling, and active listening skills.

Physical Demands

Physical Demand: Sedentary 10 lbs. maximum lifting. Occasional lifting, carrying, pushing, and pulling. Some occasional walking or standing may be required. Expressing or exchanging ideas by spoken word or perceiving sound by ear. Good eyesight for production or safety of self and others.