The Vets 4 Hire program, which offers on-the-job learning experiences for veterans, is now approved to offer King County agencies up to a full year of financial support when hiring military veterans into veteran fellowship experiences, doubling the amount previously available.

The program, financed by the Veterans, Seniors & Human Service Levy, reimburses King County departments to cover half of the veteran’s wages up to a maximum of $7,812 after six months of the veteran’s experience. If the department wants to extend the veteran’s experience another six months, up to an additional $7,812 is reimbursed at the one- year mark, based on available funds.

“King County departments identify practical, hands-on learning opportunities in a variety of fields,” said Susan Navetski, the Vets 4 Hire program manager in the Department of Human Resources, “The veteran serves in an intern — or fellow — capacity, either part-time or full-time, and the program is available year-round.”

Pay is based on military rank and education and includes some benefits. This flexibility allows for multiple positions throughout the different King County agencies, departments, and teams, offering veterans diversity in skill-building experiences.

The Vets 4 Hire program team works with the hiring manager and their HR staff to streamline the hiring process by providing access to a current veteran candidate pool and a selection process framework. Continued employment for the veteran is at the department’s discretion.

“Veterans are experienced working with diverse cultures, bring a team-first mentality and leadership skills that they’ve earned through intense training and experience,” according to Navetski. “But even more important is that they tend to have a sense of service for the community. You can’t teach that.”

Funding for this program is limited. If you’re interested in finding out more about the Vets 4 Hire program, contact your department HR or Susan Navetski at 206-477-3271 or by email at susan.navetski@kingcounty.gov.

The Vets 4 HIRE program receives funding from the Veterans, Seniors and Human Services Levy (VSHSL). The VSHSL promotes healthy living, financial stability, social engagement, housing stability and service system access for veterans, seniors, and vulnerable populations.