Veteran Service Officer; VSO

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The Lee County Veteran’s Assistance Office is seeking a dedicated and service-driven Veteran Service Officer (VSO) to support local veterans and their families in accessing the benefits and services they have earned.

The VSO provides entry-level counseling and claims assistance to veterans, dependents, and beneficiaries. This role includes preparing and submitting benefit claims, explaining federal and state veterans legislation, consulting with medical providers and agencies, and advocating to ensure clients receive the maximum benefits to which they are entitled.

This position requires sound judgment, strong communication skills, attention to detail, and a strong commitment to serving those who have served. The VSO works under the supervision of the Veteran’s Assistance Commission Superintendent while exercising independent judgment within established guidelines.

Maintain accurate and confidential files for veterans and dependents in accordance with privacy and record retention standards.

Conduct interviews to gather military, social, and medical history necessary for benefit claims.

Prepare, submit, and reopen claims for compensation (service-connected disabilities) and pension (non-service connected disabilities).

Advise veterans, active service members, and their dependents on available benefits and assist with completing required forms.

Assist volunteer service officers in developing evidence and perfecting claims.

Coordinate and correspond with other Veterans Service Officers and agencies regarding entitlement information.

Monitor claim timelines to ensure veterans and dependents do not lose potential benefits.

Consult with medical providers regarding benefit eligibility and documentation needs.

Advise claimants on additional benefits, including Social Security, vocational rehabilitation, and public assistance programs.

Assist with appeals of denied claims, including preparation for and attendance at VA Regional Office hearings when necessary.

Conduct outreach and provide presentations to veteran organizations and community groups to increase awareness of available services.

Assist survivors and funeral homes with death benefits, burial benefits, grave markers, life insurance proceeds, and survivor benefits.

Provide guidance to deployed service members and families regarding available assistance programs.

Maintain required annual certification with the Department of Veterans Affairs (DVA).

Perform related duties to ensure timely and effective delivery of services.

United States citizen and resident of Lee County, Illinois.

Veteran status defined as separation under honorable conditions from any branch of the U.S. Armed Forces after at least 180 consecutive days of active duty service, or separation due to disability incurred during active duty.

Valid Illinois Driver’s License (or ability to obtain).

Certification with the National Association of County Veterans Service Officers (NACVSO) or ability to obtain within six (6) months of hire.

Working knowledge of benefits and services available to veterans.

Ability to build and maintain effective working relationships with veterans, families, community organizations, and government agencies.

Ability to interpret and explain federal and state veterans legislation and analyze military, medical, and social records to establish benefit eligibility.

Education or professional background in counseling, social work, Veterans Affairs, psychology, human services, or related field.

• Participation in the Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund (IMRF) pension system
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays
• Life insurance
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Ongoing training and professional development opportunities

Benefits are subject to eligibility requirements and applicable plan terms.

This position operates primarily in…