Veterans Specialist, Categorical

SUMMARY DESCRIPTION

Under direction from the appropriate level manager or supervisor, performs various tasks supporting the daily operations of the assigned area; serves as a School Certifying Official (SCO) for the Veterans Office, working directly with veterans and the Veterans Administration (VA); provides information and assistance to students regarding Veterans Administration benefits. Performs a variety of specialized technical, clerical, and administrative support tasks relative to the assigned area of responsibility.

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS

This is the journey-level class in the Veterans Specialist series. Employees within this class are distinguished from the Senior Veterans Specialist in that the latter serves as a lead worker over lower-level staff and coordinates the daily operations of the assigned area.

REPRESENTATIVE DUTIES

Processes student applications for Veterans benefits; advises applicants of their entitlement, regulations, and policies pertaining to their enrollment; maintains current knowledge of the regulations, policies, and application requirements and eligibility criteria for assigned program; monitors students’ academic progress; assists in the coordination of day-to-day operations of the assigned program or area; establishes and maintains complex, interrelated filing systems; operates a variety of office equipment; participates in updating the program website; maintains a calendar of activities; participates in the selection of temporary staff; attends a variety of meetings, workshops, conferences; assists with budget administration; assists with the planning, preparation, coordination, marketing, logistics, and execution of events; participates in the planning and execution of veteran outreach programs; performs related duties as required.

QUALIFICATIONS

Knowledge of: Federal, state, and institutional regulations related to Veterans Administration (VA) educational benefits; VA systems and platforms; policies and procedures of the Department of Veterans Affairs; pertinent federal, state, and local laws, codes, rules, regulations, policies, and procedures; current office practices, procedures, methods, and computer equipment.

Ability to: Serve as a School Certifying Official (SCO); analyze and verify student eligibility for veterans’ educational benefits; interpret and clearly explain complex veteran benefits regulations; perform a range of administrative and programmatic duties; communicate clearly and concisely; develop, maintain, and foster effective cooperative, collaborative, and inclusive working relationships.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE GUIDELINES

Education/Training: Equivalent to two years of college level course work in finance, accounting, business administration or a related field.

Experience: Two years of increasingly responsible experience in student services or a related field, preferably working with military connected students with an emphasis in veterans’ benefits.