Reentry & Veteran Services Specialist

The Reentry & Veteran Services Specialist ensures compliance with new State of Texas Legislation by coordinating the identification, verification, and support of incarcerated veterans within the Harris County Jail system. The Specialist works with jail intake staff, state and federal partners, and community organizations to guarantee that veteran inmates are properly identified at intake, reported according to state law, and assisted in applying for federal benefits through the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). The role also advances reentry planning and provides support to the Sheriff’s Office by helping veteran inmates prepare for successful reintegration into the community. Essential Duties & Responsibilities Veteran Identification & Verification (SB 2938 Compliance) Coordinate with jail intake personnel to ensure veteran status is investigated and verified during prisoner intake using the Veterans Reentry Search Service (VRSS) or equivalent federal data sources. Work with the Texas Veterans Commission (TVC) to confirm veteran status for all identified inmates. Maintain accurate records and generate daily reports of verified veteran inmates for submission to the TVC, county veterans service officer, and appropriate courts. Veteran Benefits Facilitation Ensure verified veteran inmates receive information and assistance in applying for federal VA benefits and compensation, at no cost to the inmate. Facilitate inmate access to prepaid postcards or other TVC resources to request assistance. Coordinate in-person or video visitation between veteran inmates and the veteran’s county service officer or peer service coordinator as required by law. Reentry & Transition Services Develop reentry planning for veteran inmates, including referrals for housing, employment, mental health, and substance abuse services. Collaborate with Brothers-in-Arms and other veteran-specific programs operating within the Harris County Jail. Track veteran inmate outcomes and maintain data to evaluate program effectiveness and compliance with County, State, and Federal laws and regulations. This Job Description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this position. Management may, at its discretion, assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time. Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, Social Work, Human Services, or a related field preferred. Minimum of 2 years of experience in reentry services or related field. Experience in inmate case management, reentry, chaplaincy, law enforcement, or veterans’ services. Military veteran status is strongly preferred. Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities Strong knowledge of veteran services, VA programs, and community-based supports. Understanding legislation requirements and related correctional intake and reporting processes. Ability to develop collaborative relationships with the Texas Veterans Commission, VA, and community service providers. Strong organizational, reporting, and data management skills. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with diverse populations. Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and database management. Commitment to promoting equity, diversity, and inclusion in reentry efforts. Commitment to maintaining high ethical standards and professional integrity. Flexibility to adapt to changing priorities and emergent situations within the correctional environment. Must pass a thorough background check, including fingerprints, in compliance with the Criminal Justice Information Systems requirements. Work Environment This job operates in a correctional setting. This role routinely uses standard office equipment, such as computers, phones, photocopiers, filing cabinets, and fax machines. Physical Demands This role is sedentary; however, the ability to lift and carry up to 20 pounds is necessary to lift files and/or boxes of files, documents, etc. Position Type and Typical Hours of Work Work hours are normally 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, but may be adjusted with the immediate supervisor’s approval or to meet the needs of the unit. Equal Opportunity Statement Harris County is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, pregnancy, disability, genetic information, or any other protected class in accordance with applicable federal and state laws. #J-18808-Ljbffr Harris County Sheriff's Office