Veterans' Service Officer (VSO) - City of North Adams - North Adams

 PRIMARY DUTIES

The City of North Adams, in collaboration with the Northern Berkshire Veterans District, seeks a dedicated and knowledgeable Veterans’ Service Officer (VSO) to support and advocate for military veterans and their families. This position is vital in ensuring veterans receive the benefits and services they deserve under state and federal laws.

Primary Responsibilities

The VSO will:

• Provide expert advice, guidance, and assistance to veterans and their dependents in accessing benefits and resources.
• Represent the District at events honoring veterans, including Veterans Day, Memorial Day, and other commemorations.
• Offer services across multiple communities: North Adams, Adams, Williamstown, Cheshire, Savoy, Clarksburg, Florida, and Lanesborough.
• Maintain office locations at City Hall in North Adams, Adams Town Hall, and the Williamstown Municipal Building, with hours approved by the Mayor.
• Develop and maintain informational resources on veterans' rights and benefits, collaborating with state and federal agencies to maximize services.
• Ensure proper oversight of the Veterans Graves Officer, managing gravesite upkeep and flag placement.

Additional Duties

• Administer and verify monthly veteran benefits.
• Process payroll, bills, and payable vouchers for the department.
• Oversee the preparation and management of the state formula grant and the divisional operating budget.
• Reconcile expenditures with city departments and the Massachusetts Executive Office of Veterans Services.
• Organize and coordinate events across the District to honor and support veterans.
• Order and distribute cemetery flags for placement in May and retrieval in November.
• Attend quarterly VSO Association meetings and participate in state conferences (4 days in June and 3 days in October).
• Become VA Accredited to process claims and provide advocacy and referrals as needed.
• Attend relevant educational training and follow-up sessions to maintain proficiency.
• Deliver exceptional customer service and advocacy for veterans and their families.
• Plan and carry out programs/benefits from state and federal agencies to address the economic and medical needs of veterans.

 EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS

The ideal candidate will:

• Must be a veteran with a strong understanding of veterans’ issues and benefits.
• Demonstrate excellent communication and computer skills.
• Exhibit the ability to work effectively with veterans’ groups and district communities.
• Be flexible and skilled in managing time and travel schedules.
• Hold a Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work (preferred).

  PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS

The position requires a moderate amount of walking, standing, sitting, and climbing stairs whenever necessary. Activities also include moderate physical exertion in body movement such as reaching, bending, twisting, grasping, pushing, and pulling of objects. The position requires lifting objects of 40 pounds on a frequent basis, and over 40 pounds occasionally. Fine manipulation is frequently required for computers, typewriters, keyboards, calculators, and other business technology.