DIRECTOR OF VETERANS SERVICES

DIRECTOR OF VETERANS SERVICES
HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES
CITY OF WORCESTER

The City of Worcester is seeking qualified applicants for a Director of Veterans Services for the Division of Veterans’ Services within the Health and Human Services Department. Under the direction of the Commissioner of Health and Human Services, the Director of Veterans’ Services performs administrative and professional work in planning, organizing, and carrying out programs and 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. The Director of Veterans’ Services acts as the Graves Officer in accordance with Chapter 115 section 9. This position prepares and verifies monthly benefits, prepares division payroll and bills and payable vouchers, and prepares and administers the statutory benefit. The Director of Veterans’ Services also prepares and administers the annual division operating budget and reconciles expenditures with auditing and treasury departments and Massachusetts Executive Office of Veterans Services (EOVS).

Bilingual applicants are encouraged to apply.

ESSENTIAL ELEMENTS:

• Prepare and verify monthly benefits for military veterans
• Process Veterans’ Affairs claims
• Prepare Division, bills, and payable vouchers
• Prepare and administer the state formula grant
• Reconcile expenditures with auditing and treasury departments and Massachusetts (EOVS)
• Coordinate veterans’ programs and policies in partnership with local and state organizations
• Provide oversight of monuments installation, upkeep, and maintenance in coordination with the Department of Public Works, Department of Parks & Cemetery and/or local Veteran organizations
• Provide oversight of Worcester veterans gravesites and/or resting places to include cleaning, upkeep and/or removal of brush, weeds, grass, or objects not belonging to the gravesite
• Organize, implement, and coordinate divisional events
• Assist with the preparation and administration of the annual divisional operating budget
• Organize and coordinate events for the division including public ceremonies and parades
• Other duties as assigned

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
• Excellent computer proficiency including the use of websites and social media
• 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 in a professional manner
• Regular onsite attendance is required

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

• Bachelor's degree, in social science, social work, counseling, business/public administration, or related field, AND;
• Three (3) years of relevant experience, OR;
  • An equivalent combination of education, training and five (5) years of relevant experience which provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the essential functions of the job will be considered in lieu of the above-mentioned requirements.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Experience with employee supervision
• Honorably discharged veteran and the ability to obtain VSO certification within six (6) months of hiring
• Proficiency with computers, including Microsoft Office Suite and Online platforms
• A Valid Driver’s license and reliable transportation

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Master’s degree in 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 experience with employee supervision

SALARY RANGE: $80,000- $ 117,000 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, applications received prior to or on FRIDAY, MARCH 20, 2026, will receive preference. 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, Hiring@worcesterma.gov.