Empowering Veterans: Careers as a Peer Specialist with the VA
Are you a Veteran who has navigated the challenges of mental health or addiction recovery? Are you looking to turn that personal journey into a career that changes lives? The VA Portland Health Care System is currently seeking passionate, experienced individuals to fill the role of Peer Specialist. This position offers a unique opportunity to serve your community by providing the exact kind of support that only a peer can offer.
Job Responsibilities
As a Peer Specialist, you act as a bridge between the clinical team and the Veteran. Your core duties will include:
- Mentorship: Using personal recovery stories to coach Veterans on self-management.
- Support: Assisting Veterans in setting personal goals and practicing new skills.
- Advocacy: Helping Veterans navigate the complexities of healthcare and community support systems.
- Monitoring: Tracking progress and reporting behavioral changes to the interdisciplinary team.
Requirements
To be eligible for this role, you must meet the following criteria:
- Veteran Status: You must be a Veteran discharged under conditions other than dishonorable.
- Certification: Hold a valid, current Peer Specialist certification.
- Recovery Experience: At least one year of personal recovery from a mental health condition or substance use disorder.
- Documentation: Provide a copy of your DD-214 and certification.
Grade Level Qualifications
| Grade Level | Key Requirement | Responsibilities |
|---|---|---|
| GS-06 | 1 year specialized experience | Work under close supervision. |
| GS-07 | 1 year specialized experience | Some autonomy with supervisory check-ins. |
| GS-08 | 1 year specialized experience | Independent work on routine tasks. |
| GS-09 | 1 year specialized experience | High independence and clinical team influence. |
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary range of $48,927 to $86,461 per year. Beyond the salary, the VA provides a robust benefits package, including comprehensive health insurance, federal retirement programs, and the opportunity to grow within a long-term career ladder.
Application Tips
- Resume Precision: Keep your resume to two pages, focusing on clear, result-oriented achievements.
- Assessment Prep: You will be required to take an online assessment. Use the resources provided on the USA Hire portal to prepare.
- Eligibility Documents: Always include your SF-50 and DD-214 to avoid delays in processing.
Serving as a Peer Specialist is more than just a job; it is a way to give back to the community that understands you best. If you are ready to use your experience to guide others, we encourage you to apply for a role with the VA Portland Health Care System today.
Why This Peer Specialist Job Matters
Turn your personal recovery journey into a powerful tool for change—join the VA Portland Health Care System as a Peer Specialist and help your fellow Veterans navigate their path to wellness.
Peer Specialist Job Overview
The VA Portland Health Care System is seeking dedicated Peer Specialists to join our multidisciplinary teams in Fairview, Oregon, and Vancouver, Washington. In this vital role, you will use your personal experience in mental health or addiction recovery to support Veterans in identifying their wellness goals, building coping strategies, and connecting with essential community resources. You will work in diverse settings, including clinical environments and outreach locations, to provide the hands-on, empathetic advocacy that our Veterans deserve.
Requirements for Peer Specialist
- Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Must be a Veteran (discharged under conditions other than dishonorable).
- Possess a full, current, and unrestricted Peer Specialist certification.
- Valid, unrestricted state driver's license and safe driving record.
- Minimum of 1 year of personal recovery from a mental health condition or substance use disorder.
- Proficiency in basic written and spoken English.
- Must pass agency Government Vehicle Drivers physical examination.
- Selective Service registration for males born after 12/31/1959.
- Must complete a 1-year probationary or 2-year trial period.
Preferred Qualifications for Peer Specialist
- Demonstrated experience in peer counseling or recovery advocacy.
- Ability to work independently with an interdisciplinary treatment team.
- Strong communication skills for documenting observations and treatment progress.
- Experience in community outreach, crisis intervention, or residential care settings.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- âś“Comprehensive federal health insurance options.
- âś“Generous paid time off, including sick leave and federal holidays.
- âś“Federal retirement pension plan and Thrift Savings Plan (401k-style).
- âś“Opportunities for professional growth and career ladder promotions.
- âś“Access to a vast network of VA career development services.
đź’ˇ How to Apply Peer Specialist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Peer Specialist Job
- Review the full announcement details on USAJOBS.
- Prepare a resume that clearly outlines duties, hours worked, and specific dates of employment.
- Gather required documentation, including DD-214 and Peer Specialist Certification.
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Complete the online application questionnaire and required assessments.
- Submit your application package by the 11:59 PM ET deadline on September 30, 2027.
đź’ˇ General Tips
- Ensure your resume is limited to two pages to comply with federal requirements.
- Be specific—do not leave room for assumptions. Detail your recovery work experience clearly.
- Use the USAJOBS resume builder to ensure all necessary fields are included.
- Set aside at least three hours to complete the required online assessments.
- Upload documents as PDF files to maintain formatting integrity.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary requirement for this position?
You must be a Veteran who is currently in recovery and holds a valid, state-issued Peer Specialist certification.
Can I apply if I am not currently working for the VA?
Yes, this position is open to various eligible candidates, including Veterans, competitive service employees, and those eligible under special hiring authorities.
What does a Peer Specialist do daily?
You will assist Veterans in goal setting, model effective coping techniques, monitor progress, facilitate support groups, and help navigate VA and community resources.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is dedicated to fulfilling President Lincoln’s promise to care for those who have served in our nation's military. The VA Portland Health Care System is a high-complexity facility providing comprehensive medical, residential, and community-based care. We pride ourselves on a whole-health approach that honors the dignity and experience of every Veteran we serve.