Deputy Commissioner - Veterans' Benefits & Services

Overview

Brief Job Description (essential functions of the job):

Serves in the capacity of the Chief-of-Staff and maintains the effective and efficient operations of the department. In the event of the Commissioners absence , the Deputy Commissioner shall carry out the duties assigned, including special events and cabinet meetings . Under the general direction of the Commissioner, exercises power and duties for the distribution of State and City benefits to veterans and their dependents in the City of Boston; interprets pertinent laws and makes decisions concerning the eligibility of applicants for veterans benefits in accordance of applicable laws; assigns and supervises the work of the investigators; oversees all procedures and transactions within the grave registration and application sections.

Responsibilities

Develop, maintain, train and monitor compliance with annual personnel performance and evaluation systems. Advise employees on all requirements of the Fair Labor Standards Act and Massachusetts Fair Wage and Hour Law, including the development and administration of a policy on the use of compensatory time in lieu of overtime. Provide guidance to managers and personnel officers regarding best practices for personnel management and identify personnel matters that may relate to federal or state employment laws or union contractual provisions. Research and maintain personnel policies and review and update existing city-wide personnel policies. Review and distribute new and/or changed policies regarding employee unions. Administer/monitor the City's Attendance Policy, Medical Leave Policy and Military Leave Policy. Train senior staff and personnel officers of their roles and responsibilities under the above named policies. Work in conjunction with the Workers' Compensation Unit to ensure implementation of relevant aspects of Medical Leave and Light Duty policies. Participate in outreach and special events to inform the general public of veteran laws, benefits and services. Supervise administrative staff, volunteers, and interns. Perform related work as required.

Minimum Entrance Qualifications

Must be a veteran as defined in clause 43 of section 7 Chapter 4 of the Massachusetts General Law as amended. At least five (5) years of full-time, or equivalent part-time, administrative experience with at least two (2) years in a supervsiory capacity. BA in Human Resource Management, Public or Business Administration or related field strongly preferred and may be substituted for two (2) years of the required experience. MA or graduate level certification in Human Resources or related field preferred and may be substituted for three (3) years of the required experience. Ability to exercise critical thinking, discretion and confidentiality in all workplace matters. Thorough knowledge of Chapters 115,118 and 483 of the Massachusetts General Law as amended and federal claims. Ability to apply laws, rules, regulations, specifications and standards governing veterans’ benefits. Ability to effectively plan, organize, supervise and review the work of subordinates. Excellent verbal and written communication skills. Applicants must possess strong computer skills and have proficient knowledge and experience using Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook programs) and Google Suite. Ability to manage presentations,social/media sites, data capturing systems and perform desktop publishing. Ability to exercise good judgment and focus on detail as required by the job.

Boston Residency Required

Terms

Union/Salary/Grade: Non-union/MM2-8

Hours: 35