Director of Veterans Services

The full Director of Veterans Services job description () contains more information about this role.

• Receive and process applications for benefits under MGL Ch.115, ensuring accurate documentation and appropriate referrals.
• Receive applications for assistance, obtaining proper documentation for favorable action, and make proper referrals of applicants to other agencies.
• Assist Veterans and/or surviving spouses/dependents in determining proper documentation required to support a claim.
• Provide compassionate support, counseling, and advocacy to Veterans and their families, ensuring their needs are understood and addressed with dignity and respect.
• Process claims for VA medical care, insurance, Pension, Compensation, Burials and any other federal benefits deemed necessary.
• Maintain strict confidentiality of all veteran and dependent conversations, office visits, records, and documents in accordance with applicable laws and ethical standards.
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with state agencies, private organizations, other departments and the general public.
• Collaborate with and refer Veterans to various social service agencies (including Massachusetts Department of Veterans Services (MDVS)) to determine alternative sources of income, employment, housing, education, mental health, quality of life issues, etc.
• Plan, coordinate, and lead annual community events including the Memorial Day and Veterans' Day activities.
• Serve as Burial Agent for the City to maintain accurate records of deceased veterans in our community.
• Coordinate the placing of flags in community cemeteries, recruit volunteers for flag placement, and order supplies needed.
• Develop and manage the annual budget for Veteran services department/programs; identify funding opportunities and prepare grant applications to secure additional resources.
• Attend meetings/seminars beneficial in the proper disposition of Veterans' claims and meetings of other aligned groups.
• Oversee personnel functions of the department, including hiring, training, reviewing performance, etc.
• Attend seminars and training programs conducted by the Department of Veterans Services, the Massachusetts Veterans Services Agents Association, and other so authorized, to maintain proficiency and keep abreast of changes in law, regulations and procedures.

• Must be a Veteran as defined by MGL Ch.115, Section 1.
• High school diploma or equivalent, degree in higher education with a concentration in Human Services, Social Work, Public Administration, or closely related field is preferred.
• Three (3) to Five (5) years of related working experience in program management, Veteran affairs, or human services; previous experience working with Veterans population and/or Veteran affairs strongly preferred.
• Any equivalent combination of education and experience as deemed appropriate.
• Valid driver's license, class
  
  D.
• Possess extensive working knowledge of relative laws pertaining to Veterans to assist, advise, and advocate for Veterans and/or their dependents in matters pertaining to federal benefits.
• Ability to handle sensitive information with utmost confidentiality, discretion, and professionalism.
• Demonstrated ability to exercise patience, empathy, and well-developed listening and counseling skills.
• Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills; ability to work with individuals from diverse backgrounds with professionalism and empathy.
• Ability to maintain professional working relationships with other employees and departments within the City.
• Previous experience managing budgets and supervising personnel.
• Certification as a Veterans' Service Officer (must obtain this certification within ne year).