Embark on a Fulfilling Career: Peer Specialist at the Amarillo VA

Are you a Veteran who has walked the path of recovery and now wants to help others do the same? The Amarillo VA Health Care System is currently hiring a Peer Specialist to join their dedicated interdisciplinary team. This role is a unique opportunity to turn your personal recovery experience into a professional career, providing essential support to fellow Veterans as they navigate their own journeys toward wellness.

Job Responsibilities

As a Peer Specialist, you are a core member of a multidisciplinary team. Your daily tasks include:

Mentoring: Assisting Veterans in setting personal recovery goals.
Coaching: Modeling effective coping techniques and self-help strategies based on your personal experiences.
Advocacy: Empowering Veterans to navigate the VA healthcare system and obtain the services they need.
Crisis Intervention: Handling emergent situations with grace and maturity.
Community Outreach: Meeting Veterans in their homes, shelters, or other community settings.

Requirements

To qualify, you must be a Veteran with at least one year of recovery from a mental health or substance use disorder. You must also hold a valid peer specialist certification from a recognized entity. Additionally, you must be a U.S. citizen and possess a valid driver’s license.

Grade Level Comparison

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

Salary and Benefits

This position offers a competitive salary range of $45,409 to $80,243 per year. Employees also benefit from the robust Federal benefits package, including comprehensive health insurance, retirement planning (FERS), and generous annual leave accrual.

How to Apply

Applications must be submitted via the USAJOBS portal. Ensure your resume is limited to two pages and clearly outlines your relevant skills and experience. Don't forget to attach your DD-214 and your Peer Specialist certification to be considered.

This is more than just a job; it is a chance to give back to the community that understands your story best. If you meet the criteria and are ready to support your fellow Veterans, submit your application today.

Why This Peer Specialist Job Matters

Turn your personal journey into a powerful career as a Peer Specialist with the Amarillo VA Health Care System.

Peer Specialist Job Overview

The Amarillo VA Health Care System is seeking a compassionate Peer Specialist to join our interdisciplinary team. In this role, you will use your lived experience as a Veteran in recovery to mentor and support other Veterans facing mental health and addiction challenges. You will serve as a vital link between Veterans and their treatment team, providing support in various community settings to help them reach their personal wellness goals.

Requirements for Peer Specialist

Must be a U.S. Citizen.
Must be a Veteran (discharged under conditions other than dishonorable).
Must have a full, current, and unrestricted Peer Specialist certification (DBSA, RI International, or State).
Must have at least 1 year of personal recovery experience managing a mental health condition or substance use disorder.
Must possess a valid Driver's License.
Must pass a pre-placement physical examination and background investigation.
Must be proficient in basic written and spoken English.
Male applicants born after 12/31/1959 must be registered with the Selective Service.
Must be able to receive annual seasonal influenza vaccinations or obtain a valid exemption.

Preferred Qualifications for Peer Specialist

Experience in peer support counseling, recovery advocacy, or psychiatric therapy assistance.
Ability to work independently within a multidisciplinary team.
Demonstrated skill in crisis intervention and teaching coping strategies.
Capacity to articulate recovery goals and model effective self-help techniques.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Federal Employee health and life insurance options.
✓Generous paid annual leave (vacation) and sick leave.
✓Federal retirement benefits.
✓Opportunities for professional development and training.
✓Access to a comprehensive VA-wide wellness program.

💡 How to Apply Peer Specialist Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Peer Specialist Job

Create or log in to your account on the USAJOBS website.
Review your resume to ensure it complies with the new two-page limit requirement.
Complete the occupational questionnaire.
Upload required documents, including your DD-214, Peer Specialist certification, and SF-50 (if applicable).
Submit your application package before the closing date of August 12, 2026.

💡 General Tips

Save your resume as a PDF to preserve formatting.
Ensure your resume is no longer than two pages to remain eligible.
Be specific about your recovery journey and how it translates into professional experience.
Double-check that your Peer Specialist certification is clearly visible and documented.
Highlight your experience in mentorship or volunteer support roles.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is eligible to apply for this Peer Specialist position?

This position is strictly limited to Veterans who have recovered or are recovering from a mental health condition or substance use disorder and hold a valid, recognized Peer Specialist certification.

What does the salary range represent?

The salary range of $45,409 to $80,243 per year accounts for the multi-grade career ladder (GS-6 through GS-9). Actual starting pay is determined by your specific qualifications, experience, and education.

Is travel required for this position?

Yes, this is a community-based role. You may need to visit Veterans in their homes, shelters, or other community locations, requiring the operation of a motor vehicle or use of public transit.

Job from Veterans Health Administration

The Department of Veterans Affairs is committed to fulfilling President Lincoln’s promise to care for those who have served in our nation’s military. The Amarillo VA Health Care System provides compassionate, whole-health care to Veterans in the Texas Panhandle and surrounding areas. Amarillo offers a blend of big-city amenities, a low cost of living, and a welcoming, small-town atmosphere.