Empowering Veterans: Join the VA as a Peer Specialist in Syracuse

The journey to mental health recovery is a profound path, and for many Veterans, the support of someone who has 'been there' is transformative. The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is looking for compassionate, certified Peer Specialists to join their research team in Syracuse, New York. If you are a Veteran in recovery, this role offers a unique opportunity to turn your personal journey into a powerful tool for helping others thrive.

Job Responsibilities

As a Peer Specialist, you are a vital link in the interdisciplinary care team. Your responsibilities will include:

Mentorship: Coaching Veterans through the challenges of recovery by modeling effective coping techniques.
Advocacy: Assisting Veterans in identifying their wellness goals and navigating VA resources.
Research Support: Documenting progress, reporting concerns to the clinical team, and ensuring that research protocols are followed.
Community Outreach: Providing a space for peer groups to discuss their journeys and combat negative self-talk.

Requirements

This position requires a specific background to ensure the highest quality of support:

You must be a Veteran.
You must be certified as a Peer Specialist.
You must have at least one year of personal experience in mental health or substance use recovery.
Must be able to pass a background investigation and follow all safety protocols.

Comparison: Grade Levels & Requirements

Grade Level	Experience Required	Education Substitution
GS-6	1 Year Specialized	6 Months Graduate Study
GS-7	1 Year Specialized	1 Year Graduate Study
GS-8	1 Year Specialized	1.5 Years Graduate Study
GS-9	1 Year Specialized	2 Years Graduate Study / Masters

Salary Overview

This position offers a competitive salary range from $45,409 to $80,243 annually, depending on your qualifications and the grade level for which you are selected.

Benefits

Working for the VA comes with significant benefits, including access to a structured career ladder, federal retirement planning, and the intrinsic reward of making a difference in the lives of fellow service members.

Application Tips

Keep it Concise: Your resume must be two pages or less to comply with federal hiring standards.
Use the Builder: Utilize the USAJOBS resume builder to ensure you include all required competencies.
Submit All Documentation: Do not forget your DD-214, peer certification, and any relevant transcripts.

This role is more than just a job; it is a chance to give back to the military community while developing your own professional career. If you are ready to use your recovery experience to inspire change, we encourage you to apply.

Why This Peer Specialist Job Matters

Empower fellow Veterans by sharing your journey of recovery and wellness. Join the VA’s Syracuse research team as a Peer Specialist and make a lasting impact.

Peer Specialist Job Overview

The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking a dedicated Peer Specialist for the Office of Research and Development in Syracuse, NY. This unique role invites Veterans who are personally managing their own mental health recovery to provide guidance, mentorship, and advocacy to other Veterans participating in critical health research trials. You will serve as an integral member of an interdisciplinary team, bridging the gap between clinical care and lived experience to improve Whole Health outcomes.

Requirements for Peer Specialist

Must be a U.S. Citizen.
Must be a Veteran (discharged under conditions other than dishonorable).
Minimum 1 year of recovery from a mental health condition (mental illness or substance use disorder).
Must possess a current, unrestricted peer specialist certification from a not-for-profit entity or State.
Must be proficient in basic written and spoken English.
Ability to pass a background/security investigation.
Participation in the annual seasonal influenza vaccination program.
Must submit a signed statement self-certifying status as a Veteran in recovery.

Preferred Qualifications for Peer Specialist

Previous professional experience as a VA peer support apprentice.
Demonstrated history of active community involvement or volunteerism.
Experience in psychiatric therapy support or as a recovery advocate.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive Federal salary and career ladder advancement.
✓Opportunities for annual leave accrual based on service credit.
✓Professional development within a leading research environment.
✓Health and wellness support systems for staff.
✓Meaningful work serving the Veteran community.

💡 How to Apply Peer Specialist Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Peer Specialist Job

Ensure your resume is concise, results-oriented, and does not exceed two pages.
Gather your Peer Specialist Certification and DD-214.
Create or update your USAJOBS account.
Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
Upload all required supporting documents, including transcripts and SF-50 forms if applicable.
Review your application package for accuracy before the submission deadline.

💡 General Tips

Use the USAJOBS resume builder to ensure your formatting meets the two-page limit.
Be specific about your recovery experience and how your advocacy has helped others.
Save your resume as a PDF to ensure all formatting is preserved.
Highlight your volunteer or paid peer-to-peer work clearly with relevant hours per week.
Double-check that your certification documents are current and attached.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary focus of this Peer Specialist role?

This position focuses on assisting Veterans within VA research trials. You will use your lived experience to help peers set recovery goals, model healthy coping techniques, and advocate for their own wellness.

Is telework available?

Yes, this position is eligible for ad-hoc telework, which will be discussed during the interview process.

Can I apply if I am not a Veteran?

No, this position is strictly reserved for Veterans who meet the statutory requirements, including having personal experience with mental health or substance use recovery.

What hours will I work?

The schedule varies based on research project needs, typically requiring 10 hours per week.

Is this a permanent position?

This is a term appointment not to exceed four years.

Job from Veterans Health Administration

The Office of Research and Development at the Syracuse VA is dedicated to advancing the health and well-being of those who have served. By participating in cutting-edge research trials, this agency aims to improve Whole Health outcomes for Veterans through innovative peer-led support programs.