Veterans Service Officer

Position Objective

The role of the Pennington County Veteran Service Officer is to ensure that all eligible Veterans and eligible dependents receive their entitled Veterans Administration benefits. The Veteran Service Officer will be responsible for presenting information to the public in various forums, providing outreach to military members and organizations; including but not limited to veterans’ homes, advanced care facilities, and military installations.

• Conduct interviews with veterans and eligible dependents to ascertain their needs and determine eligibility for federal and state benefits through research and review of medical records, military personnel records and additional relevant documentation.
• Support veterans and their eligible dependents in completing application forms and compiling necessary documentation for benefits, which may involve coordinating information across various offices or agencies.
• Communicate with veterans and their eligible dependents concerning benefits, claim status, eligibility matters, follow up on pending claims as required. Identify available resources and offer appropriate referrals by possessing high level knowledge of Veteran Service Organizations and partner organizations.
• Prepare and deliver informative presentations on Federal Veterans Administration and State Veteran benefits to diverse groups, veterans, retirees, and their families across various locations and facilities including Ellsworth Air Force Base.
• Testify before State and Federal Agencies on behalf of veterans and the impact of legislative changes effecting veterans benefits and eligibility.
• Attend the annual South Dakota Department of Veterans Affairs Benefit School.
• Efficiently liaise with area Congressional Field Offices through effective communication to serve as advisors for veteran’s rights and benefits.
• Generate reports, correspondence, and statistical briefings.
• Conduct monthly quality and assurance assessments on claims and relevant documents to ensure 100% accuracy and successful submissions.
• Extensive knowledge and ability to reference and utilize 38 Code of Federal Regulations, Veteran Benefits.
• Obtain accreditation and remain accredited through National Association of County Veterans Service Officers.
• Performs related duties as assigned by Supervisor.
• Maintains compliance with all county policies and procedures.

• Must be a Veteran as required by State Law, DD-214.
• Bachelor’s degree desirable; a combination of education and experience may be considered.
• Must sign a criminal background waiver. Applicant must pass and retain the ability to gain access to secure portions of the jail facility.
• Possession of or ability to obtain a valid driver’s license.

• Ability to safely and successfully perform the essential job functions consistent with the ADA, FMLA, and other federal, state and local standards, including meeting qualitative and quantitative productivity standards.
• Ability to maintain regular, punctual attendance consistent with the ADA, FMLA, and other federal, state and local standards.
• This position frequently remains stationary for long periods of time and needs to occasionally move about inside the office to access file cabinets, office machinery, etc.
• Constantly operates a computer and other office productivity machinery such as a calculator, copy machine and printer.
• Must be able to move up to 20 pounds unassisted, and move 40 pounds with assistance.
• Must be able to communicate clearly and effectively on telephone, in-person and in writing.

• Most work is performed indoors in an office where noise and interruptions often occur.
• Overtime hours may be required to meet project deadlines.
• Some travel may be required for training and meetings.