Job Title

Position Overview: The Veteran Services Officer I assists veterans and their dependents in accessing services and applying for a full range of federal and state benefits to which they are entitled due to military service. This role involves evaluating and preparing claims, interpreting complex laws and regulations, and serving as a liaison between veterans and various agencies. The position requires clear communication, strong analytical skills, and compassionate client support, all within the framework of state and federal statutes. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES: Client Support and Claims Processing: * Advise and assist veterans and their dependents in presenting claims for compensation, pensions, medical care, burial, education, insurance, vocational rehabilitation, loans, job counseling, and other entitlements. * Prepare claim forms, assemble supporting documentation, and develop case briefs. * Contact medical professionals and others to gather official documentation for claims. * Represent veterans before officials to support claims. * Input daily case activity into the computer system accurately. Community Outreach and Communication: * Maintain communications with the veteran community, veteran organizations, and civic/business groups. * Prepare and deliver presentations to civic groups on veteran-related matters when assigned. * Contact employers regarding job opportunities for disabled veterans. Training and Compliance: * Attend veteran affairs conferences, conventions, and mandatory recertification training to remain current on benefits-related laws. * May assist in developing training content for internal use. Disaster Response and Additional Duties: * Support the County's Special Needs Shelter operations during declared disasters. * Perform other related duties as assigned, including working across functional areas to ensure operational continuity. PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: The role requires good vision and hearing (with or without correction), dexterity of hands and fingers, frequent standing, occasional walking, and the ability to lift up to 30 pounds. ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS AND WORK HAZARDS: Work is primarily conducted indoors in a sedentary office environment, with occasional offsite visits to Assisted Living Facilities and Nursing Homes for claimant counseling. The position involves minimal exposure to hazards, and no specialized safety equipment is required. SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION: This job description is not intended to be and should not be construed as an all-inclusive list of all the responsibilities, skills or working conditions associated with the position. While it is intended to accurately reflect the position activities and requirements, Management reserves the right to modify, add or remove duties and assign other duties as necessary that are a logical assignment to the position. EMERGENCY RESPONSE/RECOVERY ACTIVITIES: County employees are considered essential personnel in providing and continuing services to our community during and following a disaster, such as a hurricane, or in other emergency situations. As a requirement of County employment, County employees are subject to being required to remain at work during an event, respond to a recall immediately following an event and/or immediately reporting to work when an all clear is declared by the County Administrator. During these types of events, County employees may temporarily be assigned to work and perform duties outside the normal scope of their position, location, and work schedule to fit the needs of the County and its citizens. ADA STATEMENT: A qualified employee or applicant with a disability may be afforded a reasonable accommodation to perform the essential job functions of a position in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. EEO STATEMENT: St. Lucie County BOCC is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, or any other protected characteristic. We encourage all qualified candidates to apply. Candidates should possess a solid foundational background that demonstrates their ability to engage with the responsibilities of the role effectively. * Honorably Discharged Veteran as defined in Title 38, U.S.C. (or surviving spouse of a 100% permanent and totally disabled veteran) with at least 18 months of active duty. * Graduation from an accredited two (2) year college or university is required.  A high school diploma and four (4) years of relevant experience or training may substitute for college degree. * Minimum of one year of experience in a public-facing customer service role. * Knowledge of federal and state laws governing veteran's benefits. * Strong oral and written communication skills. Bilingual preferred though not required. * Ability to exercise sound judgment, maintain confidentiality, and work with discretion. * Proficient Microsoft Office Suite. * Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work collaboratively in team settings. * Ability to maintain effective relationships with veterans, dependents, coworkers, and the general public. * Self-directed and able to work with minimal supervision. * Must possess and maintain a valid Florida Driver's License and a good driving record. Pay Grade G07 Driving Position - Operating County vehicles and/or equipment is a primary function of this position. PRE-EMPLOYMENT SCREENING: This position requires a physical, drug testing, driver's license verification and level 1 background screening.