Empowering Recovery: Peer Support Specialist Opportunities at the VA

The journey to mental health and addiction recovery is a profound, personal experience. At the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), we recognize that this experience is one of the most valuable assets a person can bring to a clinical team. We are currently seeking a compassionate and dedicated Peer Support Specialist to join the VA Maine Healthcare System in Augusta. This role is more than just a job; it is an opportunity to use your own story of resilience to guide fellow Veterans toward their own personal wellness.

Job Responsibilities

As a Peer Support Specialist, you will act as a bridge between clinical staff and the Veterans we serve. Your duties will be diverse and impactful:

Mentorship: Assist Veterans in articulating their recovery goals.
Support: Model effective coping techniques based on your personal recovery experience.
Advocacy: Help Veterans navigate VA and community resources.
Collaboration: Serve as a fully vested member of an interdisciplinary treatment team.
Monitoring: Observe and report on behaviors, progress, and potential risks to the treatment team.

Requirements

This position is restricted to Veterans who meet specific statutory requirements. Candidates must:

Possess valid Peer Specialist certification.
Have at least one year of personal experience in recovery.
Be able to document all experience clearly on their resume.
Meet standard federal English language proficiency requirements.

Level	Education Substitution	Experience Requirement
GS-6	6 months graduate education	1 year specialized experience
GS-7	1 year graduate education	1 year specialized experience
GS-8	1.5 years graduate education	1 year specialized experience
GS-9	2 years graduate education / Master's	1 year specialized experience

Salary Overview

This position offers a competitive salary range from $45,409 to $80,243 per year, depending on qualifications, experience, and the assigned grade level. The VA provides clear pathways for career growth and potential promotions.

Benefits

Employees of the VA enjoy a robust benefits package, including:

Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
Generous paid leave, including vacation and sick days.
Federal retirement plans and investment opportunities.
A workplace culture that emphasizes work-life balance.

Application Tips

To maximize your chances of success, follow these steps:

Resume Length: Keep your resume to exactly two pages or less.
Detail is Key: Clearly state your job title, duties, dates of employment (month/year), and hours worked per week.
Certification: Ensure your Peer Specialist Certification is clearly visible in your application package.
Documentation: Don't forget your DD-214 and any relevant SF-50 forms.

If you are a Veteran who has walked the path of recovery and is now ready to light the way for others, we invite you to apply. This role offers the chance to make a meaningful difference within the VA healthcare system. Your resilience is your greatest qualification.

Why This Peer Support Job Matters

Transform your personal journey into a powerful tool for healing—join the VA Maine Healthcare System as a Peer Support Specialist and empower fellow Veterans on their path to recovery.

Peer Support Job Overview

The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking a dedicated Veteran to serve as a Peer Support Specialist in Augusta, Maine. This role is uniquely designed for individuals who have lived experience with mental health or substance use recovery and wish to leverage that insight to guide others. You will function as a vital member of an interdisciplinary treatment team, providing mentorship, coaching, and advocacy to help Veterans achieve their wellness goals.

Requirements for Peer Support

Must be a Veteran discharged under conditions other than dishonorable.
Must have at least 1 year of personal recovery from a mental health condition or substance use disorder.
Must possess valid certification as a Peer Specialist from a not-for-profit entity or State.
Must demonstrate proficiency in basic written and spoken English.
Must provide a copy of DD-214.
Must meet Time-In-Grade requirements if currently or formerly employed in the Federal service.
Must submit transcripts if using education to meet qualification requirements.

Preferred Qualifications for Peer Support

Strong interpersonal skills to mentor and counsel peers.
Ability to work effectively within an interdisciplinary team environment.
Demonstrated experience in recovery advocacy or psychiatric support roles.
Excellent communication skills for both group and individual settings.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Comprehensive federal health insurance and retirement plans.
✓Generous paid vacation and sick leave.
✓Predictable and flexible scheduling options.
✓Opportunities for professional growth and leadership.
✓Access to a supportive, mission-driven work environment.

💡 How to Apply Peer Support Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Peer Support Job

Review the full job announcement details and requirements.
Create or log in to your account on the official USAJOBS portal.
Prepare a two-page maximum resume focusing on relevant competencies.
Complete the required online application questionnaire.
Attach all necessary documentation, including your Peer Specialist Certification, DD-214, and relevant SF-50 forms.
Submit your application package before the closing date of July 23, 2026.
Monitor your email for status notifications and instructions regarding potential USA Hire Assessments.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume is no longer than two pages to remain eligible.
Be specific and clear about your experience; do not assume the hiring team knows your duties.
Include hours worked per week and exact start/end dates for all experience listed.
Upload documents in PDF format to maintain formatting integrity.
Take advantage of the resume builder tool on the application portal to ensure compliance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is eligible to apply for this position?

This position is strictly limited to Veterans who have personal experience with recovery from a mental health or substance use condition and hold a valid Peer Specialist certification.

What is the work schedule for this role?

The position operates on a standard Monday through Friday schedule, typically from 7:30 am to 4:00 pm.

Can I apply if I do not have a Peer Specialist certification?

This specific announcement requires certification. However, the VA often posts a Peer Support Apprentice announcement for those working toward their certification.

Is this a remote position?

No, this is an onsite position located in Augusta, Maine.

Can I use volunteer experience to qualify?

Yes, volunteer experience is considered as long as it is documented with the same level of detail as paid work.

Job from Veterans Health Administration

The Veterans Health Administration is the largest integrated health care system in the nation. Our mission is to fulfill President Lincoln’s promise to care for those who have served in our military, as well as their families and survivors. We operate under the "I CARE" values: Integrity, Commitment, Advocacy, Respect, and Excellence. Joining the VA means becoming part of a culture that prioritizes the health and dignity of our Veterans.