VETERANS SERVICES OFFICER

Job Specifications

Class Code:	SR9
Analyst: CE

Date Originated:	8/90
Dates Revised:	09/94, 2/08

COUNTY OF SANTA CRUZ

VETERANS SERVICES OFFICER

DEFINITION: Under general direction, plan and manage the operations of the Veterans Services Office; participate in a program to provide assistance to veterans and their dependents in obtaining the rights and benefits provided by Federal, State and local legislation; and perform other duties as required.

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS: This single position class reports directly to the Human Services Department  Director  and is responsible for a variety of administrative, coordinative, supervisory, planning and public relations functions relative to the on-going operations of the Veterans Service Office.

TYPICAL TASKS: Plan, direct and administer a comprehensive program to provide assistance to veterans; maintain liaison with Federal and State veteran agencies, local veteran groups, welfare agencies, local and veteran hospitals, employment services, and community groups regarding veterans' rights and benefits; develop and control the program budget; select, train and supervise a staff; interpret local, State and Federal legislation affecting veterans; advise and assist veterans and their dependents to obtain the rights and benefits provided by law regarding pensions, compensation, insurance, education, hospitalization, and rehabilitation; prepare and present speeches to veterans and other civic groups; prepare correspondence and reports.

EMPLOYMENT STANDARDS

Knowledge:

Thorough knowledge of:

• Provisions of Federal, State and local legislation, rules or regulations relating to all veteran benefits programs and applicable court decisions. Working knowledge of:
• Veterans Administration claims and appeal practices and procedures.
• Organizations and activities of the Veterans Administration and other veteran agencies and organizations.
• Interviewing and counseling techniques.
• Principles of administration, supervision and training.
• Community resources and organizations and their functions.

Some knowledge of:

• Budgeting procedures.

Ability to:

• Plan, develop and administer a comprehensive program relating to veteran services.
• Train, supervise and evaluate the work of subordinate staff.
• Interpret laws and regulations concerning the rights and benefits of veterans and their dependents and advise and counsel clients accordingly.
• Interview clients.
• Prepare or assist clients in the preparation of appropriate forms and correspondence.
• Assemble, organize and present in written and/or oral form, comprehensive reports containing alternative solutions and recommendations regarding specific resources, plans and policies pertaining to veterans services.
• Establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with diverse groups/populations, department heads, State, Federal and political contacts.
• Speak before large groups of citizens.
• Prepare and monitor a budget.

Education and Experience: Any combination of education and experience which would provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying, unless otherwise specified. A typical way to obtain the knowledge and abilities would be: Three years of experience in a local, State or Federal government veterans program or a federally recognized veterans service organization counseling veterans on a variety of rights and benefits, at least one year of which must have included administrative responsibilities.

Special Requirements/Conditions:

• License Requirement: Possession of a valid California class C driver license, or the ability to provide suitable transportation which is approved by the appointing authority.
• Other Special Requirements: Must be a veteran in accordance with the California Military and Veterans Code.

PREVIOUS CLASS TITLES: None

Benefit Status: 11
EEOC Job Category: 02
Occupational Grouping: 67
Workers' Comp Code: 0053