Southern Rural Outreach Program SpecialistVSO

Southern Rural Outreach Program Specialist/VSO

About the Role

Our ideal candidate is a veteran who understands the unique experiences of military life and can build strong partnerships to expand our outreach network across Beaver Grand Iron Piute San Juan Sevier and Wayne counties.

Position Information

• Salary: $24.50
• Status: Full-time
• Schedule Code: B - Competitive Career Service (12 month probationary period)
• Work Schedule & Travel: Requires regular travel across the service area and occasional holiday and weekend work for events.
• Background Check: Employment is contingent upon obtaining and maintaining a security clearance if needed.
• Location: Cedar City UT (Counties: Beaver Grand Iron Piute San Juan Sevier and Wayne counties)
• Recruiter: Jill Barela I
• Application Deadline: 10/19/2026
  • *This job posting may close at any time after the minimum advertising period of three (3) business days has passed should a sufficient applicant pool be received. Applicants are encouraged to apply as early as possible.

Key Responsibilities

• Client Advocacy & Case Management
  • Conduct Eligibility Assessments: Interview veterans and beneficiaries to evaluate their eligibility for various state and federal benefit programs under the Veterans Benefits Acts. Provide referrals when appropriate.
  • Manage Claims Processes: Prepare submit and track complex compensation and pension claims ensuring all documentation is accurate and complete.
  • Set Clear Expectations: Educate claimants on their role in the application process the scope of your support and the legal framework governing VA decisions.
  • Maintain Confidentiality: Handle sensitive personal information with care strictly safeguarding Personally Identifiable Information (PII).
• Program Navigation & Education
  • Navigate Digital Platforms: Efficiently utilize and related state and federal systems to process information.
  • Educate on State Benefits: Guide clients through state-specific veteran benefits including tax abatements Veteran Resource Centers in-state tuition legal assistance state park passes Veteran cemetery State Veterans Homes First Times Homebuyer Program Military Retirement Tax while being familiar with partner programs like those offered by the Department of Workforce Services (DWS) etc.
  • Educate on Federal VA Benefits: Provide counseling on disability compensation pensions healthcare Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E) burial benefits housing assistance etc.
  • Explain Complex Eligibility Criteria: Effectively communicate and clarify the statutory eligibility requirements established by the VA for granting Service-Connected Disability (SCD) Burial Benefits and Survivor Pension/Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC).
• Outreach & Communication
  • Community Representation: Attend meetings and serve on committees alongside VA staff and local community partners to promote DVMA programs.
  • Inquiry Resolution: Respond to inquiries from the Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA) Veterans Health Administration (VHA) and congressional offices in a clear timely and professional manner.
  • Position requires occasional weekend work.

Qualifications

• Certification: Ability to become a VA-certified Veterans Service Officer (VSO) within six (6) months of hire.
• Training: Ability to successfully complete all mandatory state and federal training programs within designated timelines.
• Driving Record: A valid drivers license and a clean driving record (demonstrated by a recent DMV printout).
• Technical Proficiency: Strong computer skills including experience with Microsoft Windows Word Excel web navigation and email systems.
• Crisis Management: Ability to work effectively under high-pressure conditionsutilizing active listening and de-escalation techniqueswhile maintaining emotional composure personal well-being and professional effectiveness.

Preferred Qualifications

• Veteran Status: Preference will be given to veterans and disabled veterans who received an honorable discharge.
• Local Knowledge: Residence within Richfield in Sevier County is highly preferred due to the nature of the work and to facilitate outreach across the assigned region.
• Education: College education preferred but will consider High School diploma or equivalent with military service

Knowledge Skills & Abilities

• Veterans Benefits Expertise: Working knowledge of VBA requirements and procedures for processing diverse veteran benefit claims.
• Interpersonal Communication: Ability to active-listen communicate information clearly and deliver engaging public presentations or training sessions.
• Professional Writing: Ability to draft clear concise correspondence and formal responses to government agencies.
• Collaboration & Supervision: Ability to work collaboratively with community agencies and functionally supervise program volunteers.

Why You Should Join Our Team

For more information on the Utah Department of Veterans & Military Affairs click here.

EEO Statement

The State of Utah is committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race color ancestry religion sex national origin sexual orientation age citizenship marital status disability gender identity or Veteran status. We also consider qualified applicants regardless of criminal histories consistent with legal requirements. For accommodations please contact .

Required Experience:

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