Veterans Affairs Certifying Official (A)
University of Miami

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The Veteran Affairs Certifying Official (VA SCO) plays a lead role in ensuring the University of Miami follows state and federal regulations as they pertain to the use of VA benefits and funds. The position serves as the primary contact for veterans and dependents of veterans for all information and certification of enrollment and it is the university's direct liaison with VA offices-local, state, and federal.

Fulfilling the duties of this role requires the ability to make independent decisions and an in-depth knowledge of the academic and financial benefit policies and procedures of the federal government (VA), the state of Florida, as well the University of Miami.

The VA SCO develops and implements policies and procedures that ensure all students receiving VA benefits are appropriately advised and that the various VA financial benefits are distributed properly. This position works directly with the VA benefit recipients, with the VA staff, and with a variety of university personnel (Office of Student Accounts, Financial Aid, deans, and program managers) who are directly involved in the delivery of VA benefits.

The VA Certifying Official may supervise 1-2 non-exempt staff and/or 2-3 students.

Salary

$50, 000

Specific Duties

Responsible directly for certification of funding for students using GI Bill Education benefits (as the UM Veterans Affairs School Certifying Official).

• Serves as a School Certifying Official (SCO) for VA education benefits in compliance with VA requirements.
• Ensures certification data in the University database and VA Enrollment Management system is correct and updated, as necessary.
• Maintains appropriate certification records and supporting documents in accordance with VA regulations, VA State Approving Agency Standards (SAA), and University policies.
• Performs audit checks and implements controls to ensure the accuracy of certifications and correspondence to the VA and the maintenance of supporting records.
• Keep the State Approving Agency (SAA) informed of:
  • New programs and changes in current programs
  • Changes in academic policies and procedures
  • Changes of address, phone numbers, certifying officials
  • Any other information required by the SAA.
• Ensure regular and military withdrawals are processed appropriately and any updates to the VA Enrollment Management are completed.
• Prepare for and participate in any/all state or federal audits.

Administer and ensure compliance for the Yellow Ribbon Program for all careers (Undergraduate, Graduate, Medical (MD), and Law).

• Calculate amount to be awarded based on Chapter 33 benefits and/or career award level.
• Ensure payments are posted by the university accurately and timely.
• Ensure VA payments are posted accurately to the student's account.

Counsels and advises students on using their educational benefits and how they are affected by enrollments and/or changes to enrollments.

• Counsels and advises students on UM requirements, processes, and policies.
• Serves as a liaison between the student using VA benefits and the VA to bring about resolutions regarding the use and payment of educational benefits.
• Maintains a working relationship with other departments on campus.

Liaise with campus offices and departments as needed to assist veteran students, such as admissions, academic advising, financial aid, cashier, and bookstore. .

Annually reconcile the University catalog and programs with the VA system to ensure program participation compliance. Investigates and ensures that requested programs of study are evaluated and researched prior to certification.

Design filing systems (physical and electronic) to accurately store all records related to VA benefits awarded and student progress toward degree.

• Ensure filing systems are maintained and up to date.
• Define procedures for record retention and shredding as applicable.
• Ensure protection and security of files and records.
• Ensure efficient use of computer software and hardware used in everyday operations.

Assist and lend unique expertise to other university departments, external partners, and clients.

Supervise VA support staff - organize and coordinate office operations and procedures to ensure organizational effectiveness and efficiency and maintain the highest standard of customer service.

Provide on the job and other training opportunities.

• Attend training via VA conferences and workshops.

Design and implement office policies and procedures.

• Develop and maintain operations and training manual.
• Ensure all publications (e.g., website, forms, bulletin, etc.) are up-to-date and meet all VA and university guidelines.

Required Qualifications

• Knowledge of Veteran's Benefits, specifically academic benefits for veterans and their dependents.
• Knowledge or an ability to interpret and apply related federal, state and local laws, ordinances, rules and regulations.
• Experience working in a university or other large organization that requires working with sensitive/confidential data.
• Ability to deal with crises and manage sensitive information.
• Knowledge of applicable computer applications and basic computer functions.
• Ability to demonstrate effective customer service skills.
• Ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing.
• Ability to demonstrate critical thinking utilizing data, substantiating information, policies, and procedures.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships.
• Ability to perform accurately in a detail-oriented environment.
• Ability to prioritize and organize and perform multiple work assignments simultaneously.
• Ability to compile, review and reconcile data for accuracy, completeness, and compliance.
• Ability to train and supervise employees.

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior experience as a VA School Certifying Official at an institute of higher education, preferably at a larger institution with multiple careers and programs.
• Prior experience with process evaluation and change management.
• Bachelor's Degree in relevant field.
• A combination of relevant experience and education may be considered.

The University of Miami is an Equal Opportunity Employer - Females/Minorities/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities are encouraged to apply. Applicants and employees are protected from discrimination based on certain categories protected by Federal law. Click here for additional information.

Job Status:
Full time

Employee Type:
Staff

Pay Grade:
A7

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