Wounded Warrior Project’s (WWP) Benefits Training Specialist will advocate for WWP’s constituency through direct disability claims representation before the Department of Veteran Affairs (VA) and Department of Defense (DOD). The Training Specialist will lead, create and provide oversight of the training programs for the Benefits Service Team as well as develop and enhance training curriculum that meets the standard established by the Department of Veteran Affairs for establishing and maintaining WWPs certification as an accredited organization. The position will enhance the effectiveness and consistency of WWP training initiatives to ensure that WWP Benefits Liaisons and Senior Benefits Liaisons are providing service with the utmost technical skill set and customer service. The Training Specialist will create and implement short and long term training initiatives to ensure that WWP is meeting the needs of our constituency and leading innovation in the VA/VSO community. He/she will utilize technical skill sets and collaborate with WWP programs/community partners, meeting the strategic objectives of WWP. The Specialist will also access WWP and VA data systems to provide quality reviews, identify training needs, and implement individual training plans for Benefits Services teammates.
- Utilize technical expertise to advocate for and represent the most complex and extraordinary claims before the Department of Veteran Affairs and Department of Defense
- Lead and manage the implementation of mandatory developmental and technical training programs
- Oversee the consistency and quality among WWP training programs
- Provide quality claim reviews utilizing WWP and VA data systems to identify and implement training programs for the WWP Benefits Team to include individual training plans
- Maintain the inventory of WWP training assets and advise how the assets can be effectively utilized and updated to achieve training objectives
- Utilize technical expertise to assist in achieving the strategic objectives and priorities of WWP through programmatic collaboration
- Utilize technical expertise to assist in WWP advocacy initiatives, influencing decisions for the benefit of the warrior and family population
- Identify consolidated training needs throughout the Service Program and develop/determine training requirements.
- Knowledge of and skill in applying learning theories, principles, and methods
- Perform analysis and research for a variety of training initiatives
- Utilize a wide variety of learning methods including technology based methodologies such as distance learning and computer based instruction
- Train, develop and mentor benefits staff based upon their individual learning needs. Prepare and implement individual training plans for benefits staff.
- Remain current on all VA regulations and statutes pertaining to disability benefits and healthcare.
- Remain current on all DOD regulations pertaining to benefits and healthcare.
- Maintain and update all WWP electronic tracking systems to include, but not limited to Salesforce
- Develop relationships that will foster and engage warriors and caregivers with all WWP programs
- Maintain yearly VA laws and regulations certification
- Lead, oversee, conduct or arrange for ongoing technical training and development classes for benefit staff
- Develop and organize training manuals, multimedia visual aids, and other educational materials
- Plan and implement training initiatives to include, but not limited to, classroom training, mentoring, demonstrations, on-the-job training, meetings, conferences, and workshops
- Analyze training needs to develop new training programs or modify and improve existing programs
- Maintain testing and evaluation procedures
- Other related duties as assigned
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
- Extensive knowledge and experience involving all DOD programs, VA laws and regulations
- Excellent presentation skills; focus on public presentation with the use of a variety of multi-media
- Knowledge of principles and methods for curriculum and training design, teaching and instruction for individuals and groups, and the measurement of training effects
- Excellent organizational, written and oral communication skills
- Self-motivated, positive, outgoing, personable and able to relate well with diverse populations and age groups
- Demonstrated commitment to the organization and able to timely complete required assignments
- Ability to take initiative, multi-task and work well under pressure
- Effectively manage multiple priorities with a strong attention to detail in a fast paced environment
- Organized; be diligent, and able to troubleshoot, problem-solve and prioritize
- Strong organizational and time management skills with a highly developed attention to detail
Education & Experience Requirements
- Minimum of eight years’ experience as a veterans benefits advocate, or equivalent required
- Three (3) years’ experience in developing and maintaining relevant training program curricula required
- Minimum of (2) years’ experience in the use of Salesforce and VA data system
Certifications & Licensure
- Ability to be accredited by the Dept. of Veterans Affairs