Veterans Services District Director

Veterans Services District Director

Department of Human Services

Anticipated hiring range $ 84,215 - $96,085

Excellent Benefits Package

This position is until September 25, 2026.

Serves as the primary advocate for veterans & their families and delivers essential benefits and services to the veterans and their eligible dependents residing in Lexington, Bedford, and Carlisle -- pursuant to the Veterans' District agreement authorized by the Executive Office of Veterans Services (EOVS).

• Meets with Veterans and families to discuss personal and family's financial situations and to determine qualifications for Chapter 115 benefits. Compiles documentation. Verifies qualifying application data. Approves and submits applications to the Executive Office of Veteran Services. Administers benefits for qualified customers.
• Reconciles Ch115 benefits with Town Treasurers on the monthly basis to certify funds.
• Analyzes situations. Advises veterans or family on choices of available benefits. Compiles documents and assists with applications for claims. Submits forms to VA.
• Collaborates with governmental agencies coordinating programs, including access to local, state, and federal benefits.
• Conducts outreach to Veterans and families to communicate benefits.
• Remains current on veteran benefits. Participates in training and conferences.
• Supervises Veteran Service Officer. Leads, guides, and directs administrative support staff.
• Retains certification for Veteran Service Officer by successful completion of test.
• Develops, manages, and oversees district's budget for Veteran Services.
• Collaborates with the Town Celebrations Committee and Lex Vets Association to organize Memorial and Veterans Day events.
• Ensures adherence to program regulations. Maintains files in compliance with local, state, and federal statutes.
• Prepares and presents seminars on Veteran Benefits.
• Provides backup support to the Veteran Service Officer.
• Serves as the Veterans' Burial Agent. Collaborates with District Cemetery officials to ensure communities are in compliance with Mass General Law's and policies for internment and care of Veteran graves.
• Performs other similar or related duties, as required or as situation dictates.

Supervision Scope:
Performs varied and responsible functions requiring a specialized working knowledge of Veterans Benefits and the exercise of judgment and initiative, particularly in situations not clearly defined by precedent or established procedures.

Supervision Received:
Works under the broad general guidance of Human Services Director setting and following department rules, regulations and policies. Duties require the ability to plan and perform operations and independently complete tasks, according to prescribed time schedules.

Supervision Given:
Supervises the Veteran Service Officer.

Bachelor's degree in Human Services, Social Work, and/or Public Administration or equivalent plus years of increasingly responsible experience in human services or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience are required. Computer literacy is required.

• Must be a veteran of the United States armed services as specified by the Massachusetts Department of Veterans' Services.
• Must be able to be certified as Veterans Service Officer within 90 days of hire.
• Valid Massachusetts Driver's License is required.
• Must have access to a personal vehicle for travel between the Towns and home visits to Veterans.

Knowledge of local, state and federal Veteran's benefits. Knowledge of financial administration, budget management. Knowledge and skill with principles and practices of record keeping and reporting. Knowledge of administrative office practices and procedures. Knowledge of town government. Knowledge of federal, state and local laws, codes, and regulations required for department operations. Knowledge of marketing, advertising, and communications. Knowledge of best management practices to supervise staff.

Ability to communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing. Ability to interact appropriately and tactfully with customers. Ability to maintain detailed and accurate records. Ability to explain Department regulations, policies and procedures. Ability to work independently. Ability to set and follow detailed timetables. Ability to multi-task. Ability to renew Certification. Ability to maintain confidentiality. Ability to…