Veterans Service Coordinator

Veterans Services Coordinator

Under the direction of the Veteran Services Manager, the Veterans Services Coordinator advises and assists veterans as well as their dependents in understanding and obtaining the benefits to which they are entitled under Federal, State and local legislation. Carries a client caseload as well as creates service plans, provides information about available services, and provides referrals to appropriate resources. This position requires a unique understanding and knowledge of Texas Veteran Benefits, Texas Veterans Commission's and Veteran Administration guidelines.

Duties & Responsibilities:

• Serve as the Precinct's liaison to veteran's services organizations creating collaborations that identify and address the needs of veterans and military families in Harris County Precinct 2.
• Informs veterans of the rights and benefits to which they are entitled to as well as answers questions posed.
• Completes and files applications for clients, to include those who are homebound, by conducting home visits, phone appointments or another method of communication.
• Assist veterans/dependents in appealing denied claims to the local VA regional office, the local decision review officers, or the board of veterans appeals in Washington D.C.
• Assist veterans/dependents in applying for available federal benefits from the United States Department of Veterans Affairs Regional Office by initiating, reopening, and reviewing claims.
• Provides resources for workforce, mental health, and supportive services to veterans and their dependents.
• Attend workshops, public speaking events, seminars, and conferences and confer with professionals and organizations in order to keep up to date on the latest changes in Federal and State laws and regulations.

Harris County is an Equal Opportunity Employer. If you need special services or accommodations, please call View phone number on click.appcast.io or email View email address on click.appcast.io. This position is subject to a criminal history check. Only relevant convictions will be considered and, even when considered, may not automatically disqualify the candidate.

Requirements:

• Education: High School Diploma
• Experience: Three years of experience in a professional office environment related to veteran issues, benefits, care, and resources is preferred. Previous military experience strongly preferred.
• Certifications and Training: Must be able to be certified and/or accredited by the Texas Veterans Commission and Veterans Administration to assist veterans and their dependents to file claims before the Department of Veteran Affairs within 120 days of employment. Must complete 15 hours of annual training given by the Texas Veterans Commission and maintain certification as a Veterans County Service Officer. Must be able to obtain CPR/First Aid and AED certification within 90 days of employment.
• Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: Must have strong written and verbal communications skills. Proficient working knowledge of computers and related software comprised of Microsoft Office. Working knowledge of Veteran Administration benefit programs and application process. Work to create a safe, secure and healthy work environment for fellow employees. Work with staff to accomplish all goals. You will be required to demonstrate a high level of professionalism, with excellent communication skills. You must have the ability to take initiative and possess skills for problem solving and conflict resolution. You also must be efficient and detail-oriented with a strong client/constituent focus.
• Note: Qualifying education, experience, knowledge and skills must be documented in your job application. You may attach a resume to the application as supporting documentation but ONLY information stated on the application will be used for consideration. "See Resume" will not be accepted for qualifications.

Preferences:

• Bachelor's degree in Human Services, Social Work, Communications or similar studies preferred.

General Information:

• Hours: This is a full-time position. Days and hours are typically Monday through Friday, 8:00AM to 4:30PM. Hours may vary based on business needs of the department and some weekends, evening hours or holidays may be required during special events.
• Location: 16003 Lorenzo Street, Channelview, TX 77530
• Work Environment: This job operates in a clerical, office setting. This role routinely involves standard office equipment such as computers, phones, photocopiers, filing cabinets and fax machines. Noise level in the work environment is usually average.
• Physical Demands: This is largely a sedentary role; however, some filing is required. This would require the ability to lift files of up to 50 lbs., open filing cabinets and bend or stand as necessary.

Employment may be contingent on passing a drug screen and meeting other standards. Due to a high volume of applications positions may close prior to the advertised closing date or at the discretion of the Hiring Department.