How can I get a job helping veterans that pays enough to support my family?

SGT Steve Oakes — Mon, 22 Feb 2016 14:23:29 -0500

I am tried of working in the civilian sector. I work for a company that expects us to take the cheapest materials they can find, and make the best product in the world. They also expect us to train the constant stream of new Temps while maintaining regular production numbers.
I have always heard that the best way to be happy and successful in your career is to do something you are passionate about.
So I want a job helping my brothers and sisters that have served our nation.
Any suggestions will be thankfully received.

Response by CSM David Heidke made Feb 22 at 2016 2:49 PM

CSM David Heidke — Mon, 22 Feb 2016 14:49:57 -0500

I would love to see the answers to this. I would be interested too!

Response by SSgt Robert Marx made Feb 22 at 2016 3:06 PM

SSgt Robert Marx — Mon, 22 Feb 2016 15:06:35 -0500

Each state has a number of positions of veteran benefit officers. They are advertised on USAJOBS or the OPM web site. I think they start out at around a GS-05 so qualifications would include a college degree or years in a supervisory position. I have tried for some of the jobs in my state but I have not even had an interview. You can also access them through the Veterans Benefit web site with the VA.

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Feb 22 at 2016 3:33 PM

MAJ Ken Landgren — Mon, 22 Feb 2016 15:33:10 -0500

You need a COA 2 & 3.

Response by MSG Carl Clark made Feb 23 at 2016 12:55 PM

MSG Carl Clark — Tue, 23 Feb 2016 12:55:13 -0500

Hey Sergeant Oakes
Email me [login to see] let's explore this. I might lose the thread otherwise:
Here's some ideas:
1. Try and become part of a Veterans Expeditions type program.
2. If you are a Post 9/11 Era veteran go to college. Your pay check will be from your BAH and maybe VA work study.
3. Become an Uber driver or Livery driver for veterans only and focus on trips to VA appointments. Your office will be your car. You will have a unique opportunity to know your vets, discover their needs and work your smart phone for solutions to their problems.

I have more ideas if you need them.

CC

Response by 1SG Dan Thorstad made Feb 29 at 2016 5:10 PM

1SG Dan Thorstad — Mon, 29 Feb 2016 17:10:06 -0500

The VA regularly hires veterans to become Veterans Service Reps, however, that position doesn't help veterans directly. The biggest impact is working as a County Veterans Service Rep or with your state's Department of Veterans Affairs. I've worked in both and couldn't think of a better way to help our veterans!