Launch Your Career in Peer Support with the VA
Are you a Veteran who has walked the path of recovery and wants to help others navigate their own? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is offering a unique opportunity in Denver, CO, to join our team as a Peer Support Apprentice. This role is specifically designed to transform your lived experience into professional expertise.
Job Responsibilities
As a Peer Support Apprentice, you will function as a vital member of our multidisciplinary team. Your daily tasks will include:
- Modeling effective coping techniques.
- Assisting Veterans in identifying and achieving recovery goals.
- Facilitating group and individual meetings.
- Helping Veterans navigate mental health and wellness resources.
- Documenting observations to support the clinical treatment team.
Requirements
To be eligible, candidates must satisfy the following criteria:
- Veteran Status: Must be a Veteran with a discharge other than dishonorable.
- Recovery Experience: A minimum of one year in recovery from a mental health or substance use disorder.
- Certification Pursuit: You must actively pursue Peer Specialist certification during your tenure.
Salary and Benefits Comparison
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Position Grade | GS-05 |
| Salary Range | $45,420 - $59,046 |
| Location | Denver, CO |
| Employment Type | Time-Limited Apprentice |
Application Tips
- Resume Limit: Keep your resume to two pages; longer resumes will result in disqualification.
- Documentation: Always provide a clear, readable copy of your DD-214.
- Clarity: Clearly state the hours worked per week for every job listed on your resume.
This position is more than just a job; it is a chance to give back to the community that you are a part of. If you meet the criteria and are ready to grow, apply today to start your journey as a Peer Support professional.
Why This Peer Support Apprentice Job Matters
Turn your personal journey into a powerful career as a Peer Support Apprentice with the VA in Denver, Colorado.
Peer Support Apprentice Job Overview
The VA Eastern Colorado Healthcare System is seeking a dedicated Veteran to join our team as a Peer Support Apprentice. This entry-level position is designed to help you leverage your own lived experience in recovery to provide essential support to fellow Veterans. During this time-limited role, you will receive supervised training to earn your professional Peer Specialist certification. It is a rewarding path for those passionate about advocating for their peers and fostering a supportive, whole-health environment within our community.
Requirements for Peer Support Apprentice
- Must be a military Veteran discharged under conditions other than dishonorable.
- Must have at least one year of personal recovery experience from a mental health or substance use disorder.
- Must be a U.S. citizen.
- Must possess a valid state driver's license.
- Must be proficient in basic written and spoken English.
- Must register with the Selective Service (if male born after 12/31/1959).
- Must pass a background and security investigation.
- Must complete the mandatory online assessment.
Preferred Qualifications for Peer Support Apprentice
- Demonstrated history of living independently.
- Experience engaging in community groups, volunteer organizations, or hobby clubs.
- Capacity to articulate personal recovery goals and model coping skills.
- Strong interpersonal communication and problem-solving abilities.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Health and wellness insurance programs
- ✓Federal retirement benefits
- ✓Annual and sick leave accrual
- ✓Professional certification training
- ✓Career growth and advancement opportunities within the VA system
💡 How to Apply Peer Support Apprentice Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Peer Support Apprentice Job
- Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
- Upload your resume (maximum of two pages) and required documents (including DD-214).
- Submit your application and complete the online questionnaire.
- Complete the required online assessment when notified via email.
- Monitor your status through the USAJOBS dashboard.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume strictly adheres to the two-page limit to remain eligible.
- Use concise, results-oriented language and clearly list your hours worked per week.
- Save your resume as a PDF to preserve formatting.
- Set aside at least three hours for the online assessment; you can save your progress if needed.
- Make sure your DD-214 is legible and shows your character of service.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary goal of this apprenticeship?
The goal is to provide you with the training, supervision, and experience needed to become a fully certified Peer Specialist.
What happens if I do not obtain certification?
Certification is a condition of employment; failure to obtain it by the required deadline may result in removal from the position.
Is this a permanent position?
This is a time-limited apprenticeship. Upon successful certification and completion of requirements, you may become eligible for a permanent Peer Specialist position.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The VA Eastern Colorado Healthcare System (ECHCS) is committed to providing compassionate, world-class care to our nation's heroes. Located in the vibrant Denver metro area, our facility is a hub of innovation, research, and dedicated service. We believe in a holistic, patient-centered approach to healthcare.