Launch Your Career as a Peer Support Apprentice at the VA

Are you a Veteran who has navigated the challenges of mental health or substance use recovery? Do you find fulfillment in helping others reclaim their independence and well-being? If so, the Aleda E. Lutz VA Medical Center in Saginaw, Michigan, has an incredible opportunity for you to turn your lived experience into a professional career.

The Role: Peer Support Apprentice

As a Peer Support Apprentice, you are not just an employee; you are a beacon of hope. This time-limited position provides the structure, training, and supervision needed to develop the skills required to become a certified Peer Specialist. You will work alongside doctors, nurses, and social workers to provide holistic support to Veterans.

Core Responsibilities

Mentorship: Model recovery tools and coping techniques.
Support: Help Veterans set personal wellness and recovery goals.
Advocacy: Assist Veterans in navigating their treatment plans.
Teamwork: Contribute to an interdisciplinary team environment.

Feature	Details
Location	Saginaw, Michigan
Salary Range	$40,736 - $52,957
Closing Date	November 6, 2026
Education	High School Diploma/Equivalent (Apprenticeship based)

Requirements

To be eligible, you must be a Veteran with at least one year of personal experience in recovery. You must also demonstrate an active pursuit of professional certification. Excellent written and spoken English is a must, as is the ability to maintain professionalism in a fast-paced medical environment.

Benefits of Working at the VA

Beyond the emotional reward of supporting fellow Veterans, you will enjoy:

Stable federal employment.
Generous paid time off.
Access to professional training and certification programs.
A supportive culture that promotes whole-health and wellness.

Application Tips

Watch the Length: Your resume must be two pages or less.
Include Your DD-214: This is mandatory for verification of Veteran status.
Be Specific: Detail your recovery journey and any volunteer or work experience that highlights your ability to mentor others.

Serving those who have served is a noble calling. By becoming a Peer Support Apprentice, you can use your story to inspire others, build a stable career, and contribute to the vital mission of the VA. Apply today and start your journey.

Why This Peer Apprentice Job Matters

Turn your personal journey into a professional calling and empower fellow Veterans as a Peer Support Apprentice at the Aleda E. Lutz VA Medical Center.

Peer Apprentice Job Overview

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is seeking a dedicated Peer Support Apprentice to join the Aleda E. Lutz VA Medical Center in Saginaw, Michigan. This unique role is designed for Veterans who have successfully navigated their own mental health recovery and are passionate about helping others do the same. As an apprentice, you will receive the mentorship and training necessary to obtain professional Peer Specialist certification. You will work within an interdisciplinary team, acting as a mentor, advocate, and guide for Veterans seeking wellness, resiliency, and community independence.

Requirements for Peer Apprentice

Must be a U.S. Citizen.
Must be a Veteran (served in active military, naval, air, or space service with a discharge other than dishonorable).
Must have at least one year of personal recovery from a mental health condition or substance use disorder.
Must be actively pursuing Peer Specialist certification.
Proficiency in basic written and spoken English.
Ability to complete a one-year probationary period.
Must participate in the seasonal influenza vaccination program.
Registration with the Selective Service for males born after 12/31/1959.

Preferred Qualifications for Peer Apprentice

Demonstrated ability to model effective coping techniques.
Strong communication and problem-solving skills.
Active participation in community organizations or Veteran support groups.
Experience managing personal recovery while maintaining independent living and consistent employment or volunteer work.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive Federal Salary.
✓Generous Paid Time Off (Annual and Sick Leave).
✓Predictable and flexible scheduling.
✓Federal career advancement opportunities.
✓Comprehensive health and wellness resources.
✓Supportive work environment dedicated to Whole Health.

💡 How to Apply Peer Apprentice Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Peer Apprentice Job

Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
Prepare a resume that is strictly two pages or less.
Complete the occupational questionnaire.
Upload required documents, specifically your DD-214.
Submit your application package before the deadline on November 6, 2026.

💡 General Tips

Keep your resume concise: USAJOBS strictly enforces a two-page limit.
Use the resume builder tool to ensure your formatting meets requirements.
Clearly articulate your recovery journey and how it has prepared you to mentor others.
Ensure all uploaded documents are in a readable format like PDF.
Submit your application well before the deadline to avoid technical issues.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary role of a Peer Support Apprentice?

You will function as a member of a multidisciplinary team, using your personal recovery experience to coach, mentor, and support other Veterans in their own wellness journeys.

Is Peer Specialist certification required immediately?

No, this is an apprenticeship. You are required to pursue and obtain your certification during your employment. Failure to do so by the specified deadline may lead to termination.

What if I don't have my Peer Specialist certification yet?

*A: That is exactly what this apprenticeship is for! You will be given the time and training to achieve certification.*

Can I work remotely?

*A: No, this position is onsite to ensure direct patient contact and team collaboration.*

Job from Veterans Health Administration

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is committed to the mission of honoring America's Veterans. Through the 'I CARE' values—Integrity, Commitment, Advocacy, Respect, and Excellence—the VA provides compassionate, whole-health care. By joining our team, you become part of a community that values your unique perspective and dedication to service.