Employee Benefits Specialist

Job Summary The purpose of this class is to perform a variety of advanced and complex clerical work in the preparation and maintenance of department records; to perform a variety of clerical tasks as assigned; and to provide professional and courteous customer service at all times. This position typically provides performance of in-depth interviews with veterans and their family members to determine and apply for any benefits they might be entitled. The class is given a general outline of work to be performed and is free to develop work methods and sequences; work is reviewed periodically by supervisor. Essential Job Functions Develops client relationships in order to perform in-depth personal interviews with veterans and their dependents. Answers complex questions, applying VA laws and regulations. Assists veterans and their dependents in filing for applicable benefits. Assists veterans in ordering military records, medical records, etc. via the internet. Interact with local, state and federal agencies in assisting veterans and their dependents. Maintains VA certification training by attending seminars out of town, which may involve overnight travel. Assists military retirees with pay related issues related to current law. Exercises extreme confidentiality with PII including DD-214’s, medical records and service records. Prepares affidavits of documents and maintains document files and case correspondence. Collects information about individuals or clients using interviews, case histories, observational techniques and other assessment methods. Interviews individuals and researches public databases in order to obtain information. May attend and represent the organization at internal and external meetings. Operates a personal computer and appropriate software packages or its equivalent pertaining to departmental activities. Performs other related job duties as assigned. Qualifications High school diploma or GED is required. Experience: Requires at least five (5) years of related experience working veterans' benefits with veterans and their families. Veterans' benefits is a wide range of benefits to veterans and their families, including disability compensation, pension, education and training, health care, home loans, insurance, Veteran Readiness and Employment, and burial. Special Qualifications: Must possess a valid state driver’s license. Must obtain VA Certification and TRIP training within twelve (12) months of employment. Work Environment Work is performed in a safe and secure work environment that may periodically have unpredicted requirements or demands. Position Type and Expected Hours of Work This is a full-time position; typical work hours and days are Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Some flexibility in hours is allowed, but employees must be available during the “core” work hours of 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. and must work 40 hour each week to maintain full-time status. Employees must be available to work evenings, weekends and holidays during emergencies or as requested. E.E.O. Statement E.O.E. Dorchester County does not discriminate based on race, color, national origin, gender, religion, age, disability or military service in employment or the provision of services. #J-18808-Ljbffr