Empower Veterans: Become a Peer Specialist at the Alexandria VA
Are you a Veteran who has navigated the challenges of recovery and wants to help others do the same? The Alexandria VA Health Care System is looking for passionate individuals to join our team as a Peer Specialist. This is more than just a job; it is a chance to use your lived experience to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those who have served our nation.
Job Responsibilities
As a Peer Specialist, you will act as a bridge between Veterans and the clinical team. Your primary duties include:
- Assisting Veterans in setting recovery and wellness goals.
- Modeling coping techniques and self-help strategies.
- Providing support in community settings, such as homes and outpatient clinics.
- Documenting progress and communicating effectively with the interdisciplinary treatment team.
- Assisting with transportation to medical and housing appointments.
Comparison of Grade Levels
| Grade Level | Responsibility Level | Supervisory Oversight |
|---|---|---|
| GS-6 | Entry level support | Close monitoring |
| GS-7 | Routine recovery work | Minimal oversight |
| GS-8 | Non-routine tasks | Spot-check review |
| GS-9 | High independence | Independent professional judgment |
Requirements
To be eligible, you must meet several key criteria, including:
- Veteran Status: You must have served in the active military and have a discharge other than dishonorable.
- Recovery Experience: You must have at least one year of personal recovery experience.
- Certification: You must hold a current, unrestricted Peer Specialist certification from a recognized entity.
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary range of $45,409 to $80,243 per year. Employees enjoy a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off. The role also features a career ladder, allowing for promotion to the full performance level (GS-9) without further competition as you meet regulatory and performance requirements.
If you have the heart to serve and the experience to guide others, we invite you to apply. This role offers the chance to build a fulfilling career while directly contributing to the well-being of the Veteran community in Alexandria. Review the requirements, prepare your two-page resume, and submit your application today.
Why This Peer Specialist Job Matters
Turn your personal journey into a powerful tool for healing as a Peer Specialist with the VA in beautiful Alexandria, Louisiana.
Peer Specialist Job Overview
The Alexandria VA Health Care System is seeking a dedicated Peer Specialist to join our interdisciplinary team. As a Veteran who has navigated your own recovery, you will provide vital support, mentorship, and advocacy to fellow Veterans working toward mental health and wellness goals. This position is a unique opportunity to use your lived experience to model recovery, facilitate peer support, and help others navigate the path toward self-management and personal health.
Requirements for Peer Specialist
- Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Must be a Veteran discharged under conditions other than dishonorable.
- Must possess a current, full, and unrestricted Peer Specialist certification.
- Must demonstrate at least 1 year of personal recovery experience from a mental health condition or substance use disorder.
- Must be proficient in basic written and spoken English.
- Must pass a pre-employment physical examination.
- Must possess a clean driving record and be able to operate a government vehicle.
- Selective Service registration for males born after 12/31/1959.
Preferred Qualifications for Peer Specialist
- Prior experience as a recovery mentor, advocate, or psychiatric therapy aide.
- Ability to work independently with minimal supervision at higher grade levels.
- Demonstrated experience in crisis intervention and supportive counseling.
- Strong communication skills for interdisciplinary team collaboration.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive health insurance options.
- ✓Generous paid time off, including federal holidays.
- ✓Retirement savings plans with agency matching.
- ✓Opportunities for career ladder promotion.
- ✓Access to VA wellness and professional development resources.
💡 How to Apply Peer Specialist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Peer Specialist Job
- Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare a resume that is strictly limited to two pages.
- Gather required documentation, including your DD-214, Peer Specialist Certification, and current SF-50 (if applicable).
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Upload all necessary documents and submit your application package before the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume clearly highlights your relevant experience, including dates, hours per week, and specific duties.
- Save your resume as a PDF and keep it to exactly two pages to avoid disqualification.
- Use the USAJOBS resume builder to ensure your format meets agency standards.
- Double-check that your Peer Specialist certification is valid and attached.
- Submit your application well before the deadline to avoid technical issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible to apply for this position?
This position is restricted to Veterans who have recovered or are recovering from a mental health condition and hold a valid Peer Specialist certification.
What is the two-page resume requirement?
As of September 2025, federal agencies require resumes to be no longer than two pages. Resumes exceeding this limit will result in disqualification.
Will I be required to travel?
Yes, this role is community-based and may require you to travel to Veterans' homes, community centers, or other outreach locations, necessitating a clean driving record.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Department of Veterans Affairs is dedicated to fulfilling President Lincoln's promise: "To care for those who have served in our nation's military." In the "Heart of Louisiana," the Alexandria VA Health Care System offers a supportive, professional environment where employees are valued for their dedication to Veterans' whole health. Alexandria is known for its high quality of life, access to beautiful national forests, and growing business opportunities.