VETERANS AGENT
HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES
CITY OF WORCESTER
The City of Worcester is seeking qualified applicants for a Veterans Agent for the office of Veterans’ Services within the Health and Human Services Department. Under the direction of the Commissioner of Health and Human Service, the Veterans Agent performs administrative and professional work in planning, organizing and carrying out programs/benefits from state and federal agencies to meet the economic and medical needs of military veterans and their eligible dependents in accordance with State and Federal laws and regulations. This position prepares and verifies monthly benefits, prepares department payroll and bills and payable vouchers; and prepares and administers the state formula grant. Prepare and administer the annual department operating budget; reconcile expenditures with auditing and treasury departments and Mass. Executive Office of Veterans Services. The employee is required to perform all similar or related duties.
Bilingual applicants are encouraged to apply.
REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:
- Working knowledge of applicable State and Federal veteran service programs, regulations, other applicable local, state and federal agencies, and other non-profit programs (i.e. health care systems and social services) that provide support to veterans and their eligible dependents
- Understanding of the needs of veterans experiencing a personal crisis to include, but not limited to
- eviction, unemployment addiction and mental health issues
- Knowledge of office software, Internet, web sites and social media in support of department services and programs
- Ability to prepare and manage budgets and provide oversight of complex Division financials
- Working knowledge of municipal budgetary policies and standard operating practices
- Excellent organizational skills
- Demonstrated proficiency with computers, Microsoft Office Suite and data processing skills with office software including word processing and spreadsheet applications
- Effective counseling and diplomacy skills when dealing with veterans or their spouses/family with sensitive, personal issues
- Skilled in advocacy and mediation; must have empathy with veterans, spouses and other eligible dependents
- Strong math, research and analytical skills
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with veterans, their dependents and families, subordinates, and officials of agencies dealing with veterans' affairs
- Ability to read and interpret and apply Federal, State and local laws and ordinances
- Ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously in a detailed and organized manner in a fast-paced environment
- Ability to meet and communicate with veterans in crisis (mentally and/or physically) in a vulnerable period of their lives
- Ability to handle problems and emergencies effectively; ability to be an advocate for veterans and to communicate clearly, both orally and in writing
- Ability to maintain confidential information
- Ability to maintain, manage, and organize records
- Ability to deal appropriately with clients, City employees, City officials, other governmental agencies, and the public
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:
- Bachelor's Degree, and a minimum of three (3) years of related experience OR;
o An equivalent combination of education & experience that provides the knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the required duties of the position in lieu of the above-mentioned requirements.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills
- Proficiency with computers, including Microsoft Office Suite and Online platforms
- A Valid Driver’s license and reliable transportation
- Experience with employee supervision
- Honorably discharged veteran and have the ability to obtain VSO certification within six (6) months of hiring
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
- Master’s Degree social science, social work, counseling, business/public administration, or related field
- Five (5) years of related experience working with veterans and their dependents
- Two (2) years of management experience
SALARY RANGE: $70,468 - $107,572 annually, exempt, full-time, with an excellent benefits package
To apply, please visit: www.worcesterma.gov/employment or send resume and cover letter to: City of Worcester, 455 Main Street, Room 109, Worcester, MA 01608. OPEN UNTIL FILLED, preference provided to applicants who applied on or before 9/15/2023. Preference is given to Worcester residents. The City of Worcester is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer. Women, minorities, people with disabilities and protected veterans are encouraged to apply.Direct inquiries to: City Hall, Human Resources, Room 109, 508-799-1030, HR@worcesterma.gov.
