Veterans Affairs School Certifying Official

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Competitive salary
• Health insurance
• Paid time off

Position Summary


The Veterans Affairs School Certifying Official (SCO) serves as the primary liaison between the institution and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) regarding the administration of education benefits for eligible veterans, active-duty service members, reservists, National Guard members, and their dependents. The SCO is responsible for ensuring compliance with VA regulations, accurately certifying student enrollments, maintaining student records, and providing exceptional customer service and guidance to students utilizing VA education benefits.


ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES


VA Education Benefits Administration

• Process and certify student enrollments, changes in enrollment status, withdrawals, graduations, and terminations through the VA's enrollment management systems.
• Maintain compliance with all VA regulations, policies, and reporting requirements.
• Monitor student eligibility and academic progress for continued receipt of VA educational benefits.
• Review student documentation and maintain accurate records in accordance with federal and institutional requirements.
• Ensure timely submission of certifications and adjustments to prevent benefit interruptions.
• Student Advising and Support
• Counsel prospective and current students regarding VA education benefits, including: 
• Post-9/11 GI Bill (Chapter 33)
• Montgomery GI Bill (Chapters 30 and 1606)
• Veteran Readiness and Employment (Chapter 31)
• Survivors' and Dependents' Educational Assistance (Chapter 35)
• Explain eligibility requirements, payment processes, housing allowances, and enrollment obligations.
• Assist students in resolving VA-related issues and obtaining necessary documentation.
• Complete all required SCO annual training
• Attend Veteran Affairs webinars
• Other duties as assigned

Compliance and Record Management

• Maintain accurate and confidential student records in compliance with: 
• VA regulations
• FERPA guidelines
• Institutional policies
• Prepare for and participate in VA compliance surveys, audits, and inspections.
• Track student attendance, progress, leave of absence requests, and program completion requirements as applicable.
• Ensure all records are retained according to federal and institutional retention policies.

Communication and Collaboration

• Serve as the primary point of contact between the institution and VA representatives.
• Collaborate with administration to ensure proper reporting and compliance.
• Provide training and updates to staff regarding VA education benefit requirements and policy changes.
• Maintain current knowledge of federal regulations, VA guidance, and certification procedures.

Reporting and Data Management

• Generate reports related to veteran student enrollment and benefit utilization.
• Reconcile tuition and fee payments received from the VA.
• Monitor pending certifications and resolve discrepancies in a timely manner.
• Assist with institutional reporting requirements related to military-affiliated students.

QUALIFICATIONS


Required Education and Experience

• Associate degree required; Bachelor's degree preferred.
• Minimum of two years of experience in higher education administration, registrar services, military student services, or related field.
• Experience working with VA education benefits or federal compliance programs preferred.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of VA education benefit programs and certification processes.
• Understanding of FERPA and student records management.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple deadlines and maintain accuracy in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise sound judgment.

Proficiency with: 

• Microsoft Office Suite
• VA enrollment and certification platforms

Physical Requirements

• Ability to sit and work at a computer for extended periods.
• Ability to communicate effectively in person, by phone, and electronically.
• Occasional lifting of office materials up to 20 pounds.

Work Environment

• Office or remote setting with frequent interaction with students, faculty, staff, and external agencies.
• Mandatory attendance at training sessions, conferences, or compliance workshops.

Compensation:  47000 to 52000. Depends on experience and/or needed insurance benefits.

Flexible work from home options available.