Launch Your Federal Career as a Veterans Claims Examiner in Buffalo
Are you looking for a career that combines public service with meaningful, analytical work? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is seeking a motivated Veterans Claims Examiner (VCE) to join the team at the Buffalo Regional Benefit Office. This position offers a unique chance to support the men and women who have served our country while developing essential skills in law, administration, and policy.
About the Veterans Benefits Administration
The Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA) is dedicated to fulfilling President Lincoln’s promise: "To care for him who shall have borne the battle, and for his widow, and his orphan." The Buffalo Regional Benefit Office is part of this nationwide mission, delivering education benefits and vital services to Veterans and their families. Our culture is built on the "I CARE" core values: Integrity, Commitment, Advocacy, Respect, and Excellence.
Job Responsibilities
As a VCE, you will act as a subject matter expert, guiding claimants through the often-complex world of education benefits. Key duties include:
- Adjudicating Claims: Evaluating and authorizing settlement of education benefit claims.
- Analysis: Interpreting federal laws, regulations, and policies to make informed, fair decisions.
- Communication: Acting as the primary point of contact for Veterans and their advocates, explaining complex processes in understandable terms.
- Documentation: Drafting official decisions, letters, and notices while maintaining accurate electronic case files.
Qualifications
To qualify for the GS-07 level, you must demonstrate a foundation of specialized experience or educational achievement:
| Qualification Type | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Specialized Experience | One year equivalent to GS-05 level in analyzing evidence and interpreting regulations. |
| Education (Graduate) | One full year of graduate-level study in a relevant field. |
| Education (Undergrad) | Bachelor’s degree with Superior Academic Achievement (3.0+ GPA). |
| Combination | A calculated mix of partial experience and partial education. |
Salary and Benefits
This role offers a competitive federal salary range of $52,766 to $68,597 per year. In addition to a stable income, you will enjoy:
- Comprehensive Health Coverage: Top-tier medical, dental, and vision plans.
- Retirement Security: Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) and the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
- Work-Life Balance: Generous annual and sick leave accrual and federal holidays.
Application Tips
Applying for a federal job requires precision. Follow these tips to succeed:
- Strict Page Limit: Your resume must be no longer than two pages. Use the USAJOBS resume builder to simplify this.
- Detail is Key: Include start/end dates (month/year) and federal grade levels for every past position listed.
- Documentation: Have your transcripts and relevant SF-50s ready before starting your application.
- Practice: Utilize the USA Hire assessment resources available online to prepare for the competency-based tests.
A career with the Veterans Benefits Administration is more than just a job; it is a commitment to those who sacrificed for our nation. If you are detail-oriented, analytical, and passionate about service, we encourage you to apply before the September 8, 2026, closing date. Your next chapter begins in Buffalo.
Why This Veterans Claims Examiner Job Matters
Launch a rewarding career at the Department of Veterans Affairs in Buffalo, where your analytical skills directly impact the lives of those who served our nation.
Veterans Claims Examiner Job Overview
The Buffalo Regional Benefit Office is seeking a dedicated Veterans Claims Examiner to join the Education Division. In this vital role, you will serve as the primary subject matter expert and decision-maker regarding education benefits for Veterans and their families. You will play a crucial part in the Veterans Benefits Administration's mission to provide compassionate, high-quality service by meticulously evaluating claims and ensuring beneficiaries receive the support they have earned.
Requirements for Veterans Claims Examiner
- U.S. Citizenship is required.
- Males born after 12/31/1959 must be registered with the Selective Service.
- Must undergo a background and security investigation.
- Completion of a one-year probationary period is required.
- Must be able to provide required identification for the I-9 process, ensuring compliance with REAL ID standards.
- Must possess one year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the GS-05 level, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
Preferred Qualifications for Veterans Claims Examiner
- Completion of one full year of graduate-level education.
- Possession of a Bachelor's degree with Superior Academic Achievement (3.0 GPA or higher).
- Strong ability to interpret complex laws, regulations, and policy manuals.
- Demonstrated experience in evaluating evidence and conducting detailed research to resolve discrepancies.
- Proficiency in electronic file management and monitoring case files for legal compliance.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance options.
- ✓Competitive retirement plans, including the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
- ✓Generous paid vacation (annual leave) and sick leave accrual.
- ✓Federal holiday pay.
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and promotion potential up to GS-09.
- ✓Situational/ad-hoc telework options.
💡 How to Apply Veterans Claims Examiner Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Veterans Claims Examiner Job
- Review the full announcement and prepare a resume limited to exactly two pages.
- Create or update your USAJOBS profile.
- Gather required documents including transcripts, SF-50s (if current/former federal employee), and DD-214 (for veterans).
- Click the Apply Online link and complete the required questionnaire.
- Submit your full application package before the deadline.
- Complete the mandatory USA Hire Assessments within the provided timeframe if prompted via email.
💡 General Tips
- Save your resume as a PDF to ensure formatting integrity.
- Ensure your resume includes start/end dates (month/year) and federal grade levels for each position held.
- Avoid general summaries; focus on results-oriented, specific language that aligns with the job duties.
- Use the USAJOBS resume builder to ensure you meet the strict two-page limit.
- Double-check that your resume is 5MB or smaller.
- Apply well before the closing date to avoid technical delays.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is telework allowed for this position?
This position is eligible for situational (ad-hoc) telework only. It is not a fully remote or recurring telework position; employees must report to the Buffalo office as scheduled.
What is the promotion potential?
The position starts at the GS-07 level with promotion potential to GS-09. Promotion is not guaranteed and is subject to performance, regulatory requirements, and management approval.
Can I submit a resume longer than two pages?
No. Per recent federal policy, resumes exceeding two pages will result in disqualification. Please use the USAJOBS resume builder to adhere to this requirement.
Is this a remote position?
No, this is an on-site position in Buffalo, NY, with only situational ad-hoc telework available.
Can I use a diploma instead of a transcript?
No, a transcript showing coursework and credits is required to verify your education.