Embark on a Meaningful Career as a Peer Support Apprentice with the VA

Are you a Veteran with a passion for helping others navigate their own paths to wellness? The Sioux Falls VA Health Care System is offering a life-changing opportunity to join our team as a Peer Support Apprentice. This role is uniquely designed for those who have walked the path of recovery and are now ready to mentor fellow Veterans in achieving their personal health goals.

About the Sioux Falls VA Health Care System

The Sioux Falls VA is a proud member of the VA Midwest Healthcare System. We are committed to President Lincoln’s promise: "To care for those who have served in our nation's military and for their families, caregivers, and survivors." As a teaching hospital utilizing state-of-the-art technology, we provide comprehensive care—ranging from primary and tertiary medical services to psychiatry and long-term care. Joining our team means you will be part of a Whole Health System of care that prioritizes personalized health plans and compassionate service.

Job Responsibilities

As a Peer Support Apprentice, you are a vital member of our interdisciplinary team. You will function as a role model, using your own recovery experiences to coach, advocate, and support Veterans. Your daily tasks will include:

Modeling effective coping techniques and self-help strategies.
Assisting Veterans in identifying and pursuing personal wellness and recovery goals.
Observing and reporting changes in Veteran behavior to the treatment team.
Facilitating group meetings and providing a forum for shared experiences.
Assisting in crisis interventions under the guidance of clinical staff.

Comparison: Apprentice vs. Certified Specialist

Feature	Peer Support Apprentice	Certified Peer Specialist
Experience Level	Entry-Level	Proficient/Certified
Certification	In-Progress	Fully Certified
Supervision	Close Supervision	Clinical Oversight
Primary Focus	Learning & Skill Development	Independent Practice

Requirements

To be considered for this role, you must meet the following criteria by the application closing date of November 6, 2026:

Veteran Status: You must provide a copy of your DD-214.
Recovery Experience: You must have at least one year of personal experience in recovery from a mental health or substance use disorder.
Driving Standards: You must possess a valid, unrestricted driver's license and pass a physical exam.
Commitment: You must be willing to pursue and obtain State or VA-approved Peer Specialist certification.
Citizenship: Applicants must be U.S. Citizens.

Salary and Benefits

This position offers a competitive salary ranging from $40,736 to $52,957 per year. Beyond the paycheck, the VA offers an incomparable benefits package, including comprehensive health coverage, retirement programs, and the added benefit of living and working in a state with no state income tax.

Application Tips

Keep it Short: Ensure your resume is exactly two pages or fewer.
Be Specific: Detail your duties and hours worked per week to ensure you receive proper credit for your experience.
Use PDF: Always upload your resume as a PDF to ensure your formatting remains professional.

If you are ready to turn your personal journey into a tool for empowerment, we want to hear from you. The Peer Support Apprentice role is more than just a job; it is an opportunity to honor your fellow Veterans by providing the hope and guidance that only a fellow service member can offer. Apply today to begin your journey at the Sioux Falls VA.

Why This Peer Support Apprentice - Community Based Job Matters

Turn your personal recovery journey into a rewarding career supporting fellow Veterans in Sioux Falls.

Peer Support Apprentice - Community Based Job Overview

The Sioux Falls VA Health Care System is seeking a dedicated Peer Support Apprentice to join our interdisciplinary team. This unique, time-limited role is designed for Veterans who have successfully navigated their own recovery and are passionate about guiding others toward wellness, resiliency, and community independence. You will receive structured supervision and training to work toward professional certification as a Peer Specialist, helping Veterans articulate their recovery goals and navigate the complexities of their healthcare journey.

Requirements for Peer Support Apprentice - Community Based

Must be a U.S. Citizen.
Must be a Veteran (discharged or released under other than dishonorable conditions).
Minimum of one year in recovery from a mental health condition or substance use disorder.
Must possess a valid, unrestricted state driver's license.
Must pass an agency-conducted physical examination for government vehicle operation.
Must participate in the annual seasonal influenza vaccination program.
Must commit to completing State or VA-approved Peer Specialist certification training within the required timeframe.
Must be proficient in basic written and spoken English.
Must successfully complete a background and security investigation.

Preferred Qualifications for Peer Support Apprentice - Community Based

Demonstrated ability to manage health symptoms and maintain a stable, independent, and healthy lifestyle.
Strong interpersonal skills with a commitment to self-advocacy and community engagement.
Experience in volunteer work or community organizations that reflects a commitment to service.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive Federal Salary
✓Comprehensive Health Insurance Coverage
✓Retirement Savings Plans
✓Paid Federal Holidays and Leave
✓State Income Tax Advantages
✓Structured Professional Development and Training
✓Opportunities for Career Advancement into Permanent Roles

💡 How to Apply Peer Support Apprentice - Community Based Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Peer Support Apprentice - Community Based Job

Log in or create an account on USAJOBS.
Prepare a concise, two-page resume highlighting relevant recovery experience and skill sets.
Gather required documentation, including your DD-214.
Submit your application, including the online questionnaire, before the November 6, 2026 deadline.
Complete the required online USA Hire Assessment upon receiving the email notification.
Monitor your application status through the USAJOBS dashboard.

💡 General Tips

Use the USAJOBS resume builder to ensure your resume meets the strict two-page limit.
Focus on results-oriented language that showcases how your recovery experience translates to professional support.
Clearly list your hours worked per week for all previous roles to ensure accurate service credit.
Save your resume as a PDF to preserve formatting and page count accuracy.
Complete the assessment early to avoid technical delays near the closing date.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if I do not have a Peer Specialist certification yet?

This position is an apprenticeship. You will be provided with the training and support necessary to earn your certification while on the job.

Is this a permanent role?

This is a time-limited position (NTE 13 months). However, upon successful certification and meeting time-in-grade requirements, you may be eligible for a permanent Peer Specialist position.

What defines 'successful recovery' for this role?

It involves managing symptoms, living independently, maintaining employment or significant volunteer activity, and engaging in healthy social or community relationships.

Do I need a formal degree to apply?

No, there is no educational substitution required for this grade level. The focus is on your lived experience and your commitment to the certification process.

Can I work remotely?

No, this is an onsite position that requires active engagement with Veterans at the medical center and in community settings.

Peer Support Apprentice - Community Based Job

Veterans Health Administration