Assistant Veterans Services Officer

Assistant Veterans Services Officer

Veterans Services

PG: 10

Starting Salary: $19.72 hourly.

Must be able to perform the essential functions of the position, with or without reasonable accommodation. Essential functions and job-related requirements, including physical and cognitive demands, are described below. This job description outlines the general scope of duties and responsibilities and is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all tasks that may be assigned.

MAJOR FUNCTION

Provides administrative support for Veterans Services Officers and the division by assisting veterans, dependents, and survivors with accessing benefits under federal and state statutes. This role facilitates service coordination, handles intake and scheduling, and manages documentation and communications to ensure efficient operation and client support.

ILLUSTRATIVE DUTIES

Client Support

• Conducts in-person and telephone prescreening interviews with veterans and dependents to determine eligibility and service needs.
• Assists clients in completing necessary statements and forms, including e-benefits applications.
• Refsers clients to appropriate agencies and coordinates appointments with Veterans Services Officers.
• Coordinates services with the Department of Veterans Affairs and various public and nonprofit organizations for eligible clients.
• Provides exceptional customer assistance and responds to inquiries through multiple communication channels.

Administrative Functions

• Schedules appointments and maintain calendars for Veterans Services Officers.
• Establishes and maintains a comprehensive and organized filing system for administrative and general records.
• Composes, edits, and types of correspondence, memos, reports, emails, and various official documents.
• Performs general clerical tasks including vendor communication and internal coordination.

Technical and Data Management

• Maintains and updates databases using multi-application computer programs.
• Enters and manages data using systems such as Adobe Pro, VetPro, and document management platforms.
• Attends training workshops and seminars to stay current with federal regulations, policies, and veteran issues.

Other Duties

• Participates in the County’s Disaster Preparedness Plan as required.
• Performs related duties as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE, ABILITIES AND SKILLS

Knowledge of:

• Laws, rules, and regulations governing veterans’ benefits under federal and state statutes.
• Federal directives and current issues concerning veterans.

Skills in:

• Typing, editing, and composing professional documents.
• Using Microsoft Windows-based systems and multi-application software.
• Operating document management and video conferencing software.

Ability to:

• Communicate effectively and professionally both orally and in writing.
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with veterans, family members, agencies, and the general public.
• Utilize computer-based programs such as Adobe Pro and VetPro independently.
• Lift, move, or maneuver equipment and/or supplies weighing up to thirty (30) pounds.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Graduate of an accredited high school or possess an acceptable equivalency diploma and have two years of experience in customer service or related field, or an equivalent combination of training, education, and experience.
• Must be a veteran who served in the active military, naval, air, or space service, and who was discharged or released under conditions other than dishonorable as defined in Title 38, U.S.C.
• Must have a valid driver’s license and be able to secure a valid Florida driver’s license at the time of employment within this classification.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

• In accordance with Florida Statute Chapter 292.11, the employee must attend the Veterans Service Officer training course upon appointment and successfully pass the course test to receive accreditation from the Florida Department of Veterans Affairs (FDVA) and access the Veterans Benefits Management System (VBMS).
• Must pass the FDVA examination during the initial six (6) month probationary period or may be subject to termination.
• Required to attend periodic training refresher courses and successfully complete all courses and accreditation examinations administered by national service organizations.
• Must provide own daily transportation and maintain at least the minimum personal injury protection (PIP) insurance required for performing work duties.
• Must be available to work at various locations throughout Polk County.
• Proof of military service (DD214) must be provided for veterans' preference consideration prior to the job posting’s closing date.

All employees will be required to work before, during, or after an emergency. During an emergency, employees may temporarily be assigned to work and perform duties outside the normal scope of their position, location and work schedule to fit the needs of the County and its citizens.