Veterans Service Officer
About Us
The Veterans Assistance Commission of Cook County (VACCC) is a county-funded government agency dedicated to serving Veterans and their families throughout Cook County. Our mission is to ensure Veterans receive the benefits, services, and support they have earned through military service.
VACCC provides emergency and interim financial assistance for essential needs such as housing, utilities, food, and burial or cremation expenses. Our accredited Veteran Service Officers assist Veterans and their dependents in navigating federal, state, and local benefits, while our Outreach Team connects individuals with community resources that promote long-term stability and well-being.
Although funded by Cook County, VACCC operates independently from both the federal Department of Veterans Affairs and Cook County's administrative structure, allowing us to advocate solely in the best interests of the Veteran community.
Position Summary
The Veterans Service Officer (VSO) serves as a trusted advocate for Veterans and their dependents by providing guidance, benefits counseling, and claims assistance. This role involves interviewing clients, determining eligibility for federal, state, and local Veteran benefits, preparing and submitting claims, maintaining case records, and coordinating with government agencies and community organizations to ensure Veterans receive the services they have earned.
Veterans Service Officers play a vital role in helping Veterans navigate complex benefit systems while providing compassionate, professional support throughout the claims process.
Primary Responsibilities
- Interview and assess Veterans and their dependents to determine eligibility for available benefits and services.
- Assist with the preparation, submission, and follow-up of VA disability compensation, pension, education, healthcare, survivor, and other benefit claims.
- Explain federal, state, county, and local Veteran programs in a clear and understandable manner.
- Maintain accurate and confidential case files using electronic case management systems.
- Advocate on behalf of Veterans with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and other government agencies.
- Coordinate referrals to community organizations and internal Outreach staff for housing, employment, healthcare, financial assistance, and supportive services.
- Monitor pending claims and communicate updates with Veterans throughout the process.
- Participate in outreach events, resource fairs, and community engagement activities to increase awareness of VACCC services.
- Stay current on changes to Veteran laws, regulations, policies, and benefit programs.
- Collaborate with partner agencies and community organizations to improve access to services for Veterans and their families.
Minimum Qualifications
- High School Diploma or GED.
- Six (6) years of experience in human services, counseling, social work, Veteran services, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience.
- Ability to maintain confidential records and manage multiple client cases simultaneously.
- Strong interpersonal, communication, customer service, and advocacy skills.
- Ability to interpret and apply federal, state, and local laws, regulations, and policies.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office and electronic case management or database systems.
Preferred Qualifications
- Prior military service or extensive experience working with Veterans.
- Accredited Veteran Service Officer (VSO) certification or the ability to obtain accreditation.
- Experience with VA claims processing, Veteran benefits, or public assistance programs.
- Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Social Work, Human Services, Public Administration, Criminal Justice, or a related field.
- Knowledge of VA systems, Veteran eligibility requirements, and federal benefit programs.
- Experience providing case management, advocacy, or benefits counseling.
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
Successful candidates will demonstrate:
- Strong knowledge of Veteran benefits and available community resources.
- Ability to interpret federal, state, and local regulations.
- Excellent interviewing and problem-solving skills.
- Professional written and verbal communication.
- Compassion, empathy, and professionalism when working with diverse Veteran populations.
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
- Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with teammates and partner agencies.
Salary
$66,521 – $73,430 annually
Benefits
- Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
- Pension Plan
- Basic Life Insurance
- Deferred Compensation Program
- Paid Vacation, Sick Leave, and Holidays
- Employee Assistance Program
- Voluntary Benefits
- Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) eligibility for qualifying employees
- Hybrid work and flexible scheduling options (where operationally appropriate)