Embark on a Rewarding Career: Peer Specialist Apprentice at the VA
Are you a Veteran who has navigated the challenges of recovery and is now looking for a way to give back? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) in Ann Arbor is offering a unique opportunity to join our interdisciplinary team as a Peer Specialist Apprentice. This role is not just a job; it is a chance to use your lived experience to guide others toward a healthier, more stable future.
Job Responsibilities
As a Peer Specialist Apprentice, you will serve as a role model and mentor. You will work within our Substance Use Disorders programs, assisting Veterans in:
- Articulating and achieving their recovery goals.
- Modeling effective coping techniques and self-help strategies.
- Advocating for their needs within the healthcare system.
- Participating in interdisciplinary team meetings.
- Observing and reporting changes in treatment progress to clinical staff.
Comparison: Apprentice vs. Permanent Peer Specialist
| Feature | Peer Specialist Apprentice | Certified Peer Specialist |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Goal | Learning & Certification | Clinical Support & Mentorship |
| Supervision | Close, ongoing guidance | Independent/Semi-independent |
| Certification | In-progress | Required/Complete |
| Status | Time-limited | Permanent |
Requirements
To be considered for this vital role, applicants must:
- Be a U.S. Citizen.
- Be a Veteran (discharged under conditions other than dishonorable).
- Demonstrate at least one year of continuous personal recovery.
- Show the ability to maintain independent living and healthy relationships.
- Commit to obtaining official Peer Specialist certification.
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary range of $44,932 to $58,413 per year. Beyond the paycheck, the VA provides an robust federal benefits package, including:
- Comprehensive health insurance.
- Generous vacation and sick leave accrual.
- Federal retirement programs.
- Professional development and paid training for certification.
How to Apply
The application process is handled through the USAJOBS portal. Ensure you have your DD-214 and a clean, two-page resume ready. Follow the prompts carefully, and be prepared to complete the mandatory online assessment which evaluates key competencies for the role.
If you have navigated your own recovery and have a heart for service, this is your opportunity to turn those experiences into a career. Join the VHA in Ann Arbor and help us honor America’s Veterans by providing the support they deserve.
Why This Peer Specialist Apprentice Job Matters
Transform your personal recovery journey into a rewarding career path as a Peer Specialist Apprentice with the Department of Veterans Affairs in Ann Arbor.
Peer Specialist Apprentice Job Overview
The Veterans Health Administration is seeking a dedicated Veteran to join our Substance Use Disorders team as a Peer Specialist Apprentice. This unique, time-limited position serves as a bridge for Veterans transitioning into clinical support roles. You will leverage your personal recovery experiences to inspire hope, mentor fellow Veterans, and assist them in navigating their wellness journeys. Throughout this apprenticeship, you will receive expert mentorship and clinical training, with the ultimate goal of earning your professional Peer Specialist certification and transitioning into a permanent role within the VHA healthcare system.
Requirements for Peer Specialist Apprentice
- Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Must be a Veteran discharged under conditions other than dishonorable.
- Minimum of 1 year in recovery from a mental health condition or substance use disorder.
- Must actively pursue and obtain Peer Specialist certification within the designated timeframe.
- Proficiency in basic written and spoken English.
- Must complete a 1-year probationary period.
- Ability to perform sedentary duties with occasional light physical activity.
- Must provide a copy of DD-214.
- Participation in the annual seasonal influenza vaccination program.
Preferred Qualifications for Peer Specialist Apprentice
- Experience living independently and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
- History of consistent employment or significant volunteer service.
- Demonstrated ability to maintain meaningful social connections.
- Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to model effective coping techniques.
- Proven experience in self-advocacy and supporting others in their recovery.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary structure
- ✓Comprehensive health insurance options
- ✓Retirement savings plans (FERS/Thrift Savings Plan)
- ✓Paid annual and sick leave
- ✓Professional development and certification training
- ✓Supportive work environment dedicated to Whole Health
- ✓Opportunities for career advancement within the VA system
💡 How to Apply Peer Specialist Apprentice Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Peer Specialist Apprentice Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare a resume that specifically highlights your recovery journey, skills, and work history (maximum 2 pages).
- Complete the online application and mandatory questionnaire.
- Submit all required documents, including your DD-214 and any relevant SF-50s.
- Monitor your email for a link to the mandatory online assessment.
- Complete the assessment within the designated timeline to maintain eligibility.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume is no more than two pages long to comply with federal requirements.
- Clearly define your recovery experience and how you maintain it.
- Use the USAJOBS resume builder to ensure you meet all formatting recommendations.
- Save your resume as a PDF to preserve formatting and page limits.
- Double-check your responses to the online questionnaire; inconsistencies can affect your rating.
- Review the USA Hire Applicant Resource Center for sample assessments.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a permanent position?
This is a time-limited apprenticeship designed to help you gain the necessary experience and certification. Upon successful completion of training and requirements, you may be eligible for a permanent Peer Specialist position.
What happens if I fail to get certified?
Certification is a condition of employment for this role. Failure to obtain the required certification by the deadline set by your supervisor will lead to removal from the position and potentially termination.
Do I need a degree for this position?
No, there is no educational substitution required for this grade level. We value your lived experience above all.
Is there a probationary period?
Yes, all new appointees must serve a one-year probationary period to evaluate performance and professional growth.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is dedicated to fulfilling President Lincoln’s promise to honor America’s Veterans. We operate under a "Whole Health" model of care, which empowers Veterans to take charge of their well-being. By fostering healing environments and strong community connections, the VHA provides life-changing support for those who have served our nation.