Title: Veterans Affairs Specialist
POSITION SUMMARY
Administers the College’s Veterans Affairs programs.
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS/JOB DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Serves and supports veteran students and dependents using military educational and other benefits. Evaluates students’ eligibility for benefits, advises students on potential programs for which they may qualify and provides guidance on maintaining benefits. Ensures students are informed about current VA rules, regulations regarding educational benefits and the monthly housing allowance (MHA).
Serves as the College’s School Certifying Official (SCO). Submits benefit certifications and maintains enrollment changes via Enrollment Manager web-based software. Certifies and processes State and Federal tuition assistance for military connected students, including Tennessee Strong, MyCAA and ArmyIgnited. Acts as a liaison between the College and state/federal agencies to facilitate the institution’s veteran affairs program.
Regularly audits records to ensure compliance with Department of Veterans Affairs rules and regulations. Prepares and submits various reports to institutional, state and federal agencies. Attends recruiting events both on and off campus to promote the College’s VA programs and benefits to students. Raises faculty and staff awareness concerning veteran students and VA programs at the College and provides training as needed. Assists with the College’s graduation ceremony. Retrieves students' JSTs transcripts and places them in the student file for processing. Recruit, train, develop, supervise, and manage the VA Student Workers.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
Associate’s degree
At least one year of experience in veteran affairs, admissions, records, or a customer service-focused office. Military service is considered equivalent experience.
Willingness and ability to obtain VA School Certifying Official (SCO) certification within one year of hire.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
Current VA School Certifying Official (SCO) Certification.
Experience using Enrollment Manager or similar student information systems.
Familiarity with VA education benefits (e.g., Chapters 33, 30, 35, 1606).
Understanding of federal and state tuition assistance programs for military-connected students.
Experience supporting students in a higher education setting.
Experience reconciling student or customer records, including resolving discrepancies and ensuring data accuracy.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES
Knowledge of, or ability to learn, federal laws, rules and regulations as they apply to VA educational and other benefits. Effective oral and written communication skills. Ability to evaluate situations and make decisions. Ability to establish & maintain effective working relationships with a wide range of population.
Open Until Filled: Yes
Rate of Pay: $40,911.00 - $49,101.00 annually, depending on experience
Special Instructions to Applicants: Unofficial transcripts are acceptable for the application process. Official transcripts are required upon hire. Applicants may be subject to a background check.
Nashville State offers flexible work arrangements for positions that qualify.