This is to inform you that VA is in the process of hiring and training 800 Peer Specialists in the coming year. Additionally, VA has awarded a contract to the Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance to provide certification training for Peer Specialists. All Peer Specialists are expected to be hired by Dec. 31, 2013, and will work as members of mental health teams. Currently there are job openings in 33 states.
The grades for these positions are GS-6 through GS-9; however, a Veteran who meets all the qualifications listed below except for the certification could enter into VA employment as a Peer Support Apprentice, GS 5, and VA will pay to get the Veteran certified during his/her first year of employment. The following are the required qualifications for this position:
PHYSICAL AND MEDICAL REQUIREMENTS
Basic Requirements for Peer Specialists, GS 102-6/9:
(1) be a Veteran who has recovered or is recovering from a mental health condition; and, exercise patience, and control emotions, with reasonable accommodation, if necessary, without endangering the health and safety of the applicant or others. (See also VA Directive and Handbook 5019)
CERTIFICATION
Be certified by-
(1) a not-for-profit entity engaged in peer specialist training as having met such criteria as the Secretary shall establish for a peer specialist position; or
(2) complete State requirements for a peer specialist position.
LENGTH OF EXPERIENCE AS A CONSUMER OF MENTAL HEALTH RECOVERY SERVICES
(1) Veterans eligible under 38 U.S.C. 7402(b) (13) must have a minimum of 1 year in personal recovery from a mental health condition; and
(2) be discharged under honorable conditions.
Mental health care providers seeking opportunities to serve our Nation’s Veterans can find additional information online at www.vacareers.va.gov and www.usajobs.gov.
Jobs are currently open at VA Medical Centers in the following states: AL,AR,CA,CO,FL,GA,IL,IN,IA,KY,LA,ME,MD,MI,MS,MO,NV,NJ,NY,NC,OH,OK,OR,PA,SC,TN,TX,UT,VT, VA, WA, WV and WI.
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