Head Administrative Clerk/Veterans Benefit Specialist

Overview
Brief (essential functions of the job):
Under the supervision of the Deputy Commissioner of Veterans Benefits and Services, the Head Administrative Clerk will perform clerical and administrative work of moderate to considerable difficulty.
Responsibilities

• Interviews applicants for veterans’ benefits making thorough investigations as to the legality and need for relief.
• Processing payments, and/or related duties.
• Conducts needs assessment for benefits other than Chapter 115 and refers to partnering agencies; processes and tracks referral and conducts periodic check-ins to update the client’s benefits status.
• Engages in the determination of eligibility and need of veterans and their dependents under M.G.L Chapter 115, as amended.
• Coordinates with employers regarding work opportunities; communicates with outside organizations for welfare, unemployment and related issues.
• Coordinates the communication between caseworkers and veterans.
• Perform duties which may include: creating and maintaining case files; interviewing veterans and families; determining eligibility.
• Keeps records on action taken on cases and submits monthly reports on all active cases.
• Performs related work as required.
• May conduct home visits and/or field investigations.
• Performs extensive research of applicants including address (es), employment status, service dates, discharge types, dependent information, and related information.
• Prepares and reviews financial reports for qualified applicants and a variety of records.
• Verifies completeness and accuracy of information; evaluates the needs and requirements of applicants and submits recommendations for amount of benefits to be granted in accordance with provisions of the law.

Minimum Entrance Qualifications

• Veteran status preferred.
• Ability to exercise good judgment and focus on detail as required by the job..
• Applicant must possess strong computer skills and have proficient knowledge and experience using Google applications (Gmail, Google Drive, Google Calendar) and Microsoft Office suite (Word, Outlook and Excel programs).
• Must have the ability to deal effectively and courteously with the general public various governmental agencies.
• At least 4 (four) years full time or equivalent part time office experience. Successfully completed education at a recognized non-degree granting business school beyond high school may be substituted for one (1) year of the required experience. A bachelor’s degree may be substituted for two (2) years of the required experience.
• Knowledge of federal and state laws regarding veterans’ benefits, wartime service and awards, and alternative public assistance laws. In addition to administering public assistance benefits under M.G.L. Chapter 115, the Veterans’ Benefits Specialist shall also assist veterans in processing and obtaining federal benefits such as and not limited to compensation and pension

Must successfully clear a Criminal Offenders Record Information (CORI) check with the City of Boston.
Boston Residency Required
Terms:
Union/Salary Plan/Grade: SEIU / RL-15
Hours per week: 35