Associate Director Veterans Services and Special Programs

Employer: American University

Location: Washington, District of Columbia, United States

Salary: Competitive Salary

Date posted: Dec 16, 2025

Position Type: Administrative, Student Affairs, Enrollment Management, Disability Services, Other Student Affairs

Employment Type: Full Time

Job Details

American University is a student-centered research institution located in Washington, DC, with highly-ranked schools and colleges, internationally-renowned faculty, and a reputation for creating meaningful change in the world. Learn more about American University.

Department: AU Central

Time Type: Full time

Job Type: Regular

FLSA Status: Exempt

Work Modality: Hybrid 02 (On Campus 2 days/Week)

Union: Excluded

Job Description:

Summary:

The Associate Director, Veterans Services and Special Programs is responsible for the management of all veterans’ education benefit programs, including the accurate oversight and certification of military benefits to ensure the receipt of tuition revenue from the VA to AU per academic year. This position also oversees the management of special programs, particularly the health insurance waiver process, and the registration of first-time non degree students.

Ensures adherence to the Department of Veterans Affairs regulations and the Principles of Excellence through the development and maintenance of control systems and procedures. Oversees the accurate maintenance of records to ensure satisfactory audits and federal compliance in accordance with the requirements of the VA and with the University Records Retention Policy, as well as data on university veterans, including enrollment statistics and academic standing. Counsels prospective and returning students receiving VA benefits on the certification process and the efficient use of their VA benefits. Assesses customer service to identify and address issues that may impede quality service. Maintains up-to-date knowledge of laws and program guidelines to ensure compliance. Serves as university expert on veteran education programs and benefit delivery.

The Associate Director supervises two full-time staff members – Assistant Director Veterans Services (responsible for certification benefits and other veterans support services), and Assistant Director, AU Central (oversees the health insurance waiver and non-degree registration processes). This position will also supervise between 2 and 3-VA Work-Study students.

The position is responsible for the day-to-day operations and overall coordination of veterans’ billing and awarding of other federal and institutional aid, the management of the health insurance waiver process and all first-time non-degree registration.

Essential Functions:

1. Processing of benefits and reconciliation of Military Students’ Accounts
   • Responsible for the reconciliation of Student Veteran, Dependents, and Active Duty service members accounts. Investigates, audits, and seeks resolution of debt issues. Works with the offices of Student Accounts, Third Party billing, Financial Aid, and the Registrar’s Office as well as the Veterans’ Administration, the Department of Defense, and the Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment (VR&E) to ensure institutional awards comply with VA regulations...
2. Management of Two Full-Time Staff Members and VA Work Study Students
3. Counseling
4. Establishing University Policies and Procedures Regarding Veterans’ Benefit and Serve as Main Point of Contact for Veterans Benefits at AU
5. Reporting for Veterans Services
6. Management of Special Programs
7. Other Duties as Assigned

Supervisory Responsibility: Supervises two full-time staff positions: Assistant Director Veterans Services and Assistant Director, AU Central. This position will also supervise between 2 and 3-VA Work-Study students.

Competencies: Championing Customer Needs. Making Accurate Judgments and Decisions. Managing Talent. Building and Supporting Teams.

Salary Range: $77,000.00 - $84,000.00 annually.

Required Education and Experience: Bachelor's degree or equivalent. 5 - 8 years of relevant experience.

Preferred Education and Experience: Bachelor's degree.

Additional Eligibility Qualifications: Knowledge of veteran educational benefits. Minimum seven years of progressive experience in academic administration including providing front line student or customer support. Three years of supervisory experience required. Experience working with veteran and military students in a higher education setting. Ability to work effectively and collaboratively with various college and external constituencies. Ability to independently manage the certification and reporting obligations to the VA and other constituencies. Ability to communicate effectively, both written and orally. Ability to supervise staff and student workers. Knowledge of Colleague, VA Once software, Service Now, and Microsoft office suite. Ability to manage certification and reporting obligations with limited supervision.

Benefits AU offers a competitive benefits package including a 200% matching retirement plan, tuition benefits for full-time staff and their families, several leadership development certificates, and has been recognized by the American Heart Association as a fit-friendly worksite. Click here to learn about American University's unique benefit options.