County Veterans Services Leader & Advocate

Outagamie County; Appleton (WI); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Outagamie County seeks a Veteran Service Officer to lead the Veterans Service Office, guiding staff and advancing access to benefits for veterans, dependents, and survivors. The role emphasizes confidentiality, collaboration, and high ethical standards.

The officer will coordinate with federal and state agencies, manage program operations, and engage with a broad community to identify unmet needs and deliver practical solutions.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• 3+ years of progressively responsible experience in veterans’ services, veterans’ benefits, case management, public service, benefit programs, or related field.
• Wisconsin resident and eligible for County Veterans Service Officer status.
• Ability to obtain and maintain U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs accreditation.
• Must possess and maintain a valid driver’s license.
• Bachelor’s degree preferred for leadership/advanced roles.

Responsibilities

• Provide vision, direction, and day-to-day leadership for the County Veterans Service Office, ensuring services are responsive, equitable, compliant, and aligned with County priorities.
• Develop, implement, and evaluate office goals, policies, procedures, service standards, and outreach strategies.
• Supervise, coach, train, and evaluate assigned staff; establish clear expectations; foster accountability; and support professional development.
• Build and maintain a collaborative, high-performing team culture centered on customer service, confidentiality, cultural competence, and respect for military service.
• Prepare and manage the department budget; monitor expenditures; identify grant and funding opportunities; and ensure prudent stewardship of public resources.
• Prepare reports, performance measures, and presentations for County leadership, committees, boards, and other stakeholders as assigned.
• Ensure office records, case files, financial documentation, and reporting practices comply with confidentiality, records-retention, and program requirements.
• Represent the County in professional associations, regional collaborations, veteran-service networks, public meetings, and community events.
• Advise and assist veterans, service members, dependents, and survivors in identifying and applying for available federal, state, county, and local benefits; prepare and submit claims and appeals.
• Maintain knowledge of VA and state veteran benefit programs, regulations, and procedures.
• Advocate for veterans and families when navigating complex benefits systems.
• Establish and sustain relationships with federal/state/county/tribal agencies and partners.
• Coordinate with community organizations to identify unmet veteran needs and develop practical service solutions.
• Serve as a visible leader and trusted advocate for veterans’ issues within the County and broader community.
• Promote inclusive outreach to veterans facing barriers to services.

Skills

Leadership

Budget management

Staff supervision

Communication

Confidentiality

Public speaking

Education

High school diploma or GED

Bachelor's degree in Public Administration / Social Work / Military and Veteran Studies

Job description

Outagamie County seeks a Veteran Service Officer to lead the Veterans Service Office, guiding staff and advancing access to benefits for veterans, dependents, and survivors. The role emphasizes confidentiality, collaboration, and high ethical standards.

The officer will coordinate with federal and state agencies, manage program operations, and engage with a broad community to identify unmet needs and deliver practical solutions.