VVFS Veteran Peer Specialist

Title: VVFS Veteran Peer Specialist

State Role Title: Prog Admin Specialist I

Hiring Range: $52,000-$58,000

Pay Band: 4

Agency: Dept of Veterans Services

Location: VVFS-Virginia Community Resource -Petersburg 

Agency Website: www.dvs.virginia.gov

Recruitment Type: General Public - G

Job Duties

The Virginia Department of Veteran Services is seeking a Veteran Peer Specialist to serve in the VA Veterans & Family Support (VVFS) department. The purpose of the Veteran Peer Specialist (VPS) position is to provide individualized peer coaching and advocacy services to veterans, members of the National Guard and Reserves, and transitioning service members throughout an assigned VVFS Region.

The VPS works alongside veteran peers to inspire and support individuals in their personal management of daily living and behavioral challenges. The VPS provides hope, support, knowledge, coaching, role modeling, connection, navigation, and more via the connection of similar personal experience as a military service member or veteran.

The VPS will report to the applicable VVFS Regional Director. ​​​​The VPS duties are directed by the VVFS SOP and under the guidance of the VVFS Peer Services Director. This position is eligible for one day of telework per week.

Minimum Qualifications

U.S. Military experience required.

Minimum of one-year, post-military experience, addressing personal challenges related to post-traumatic stress, traumatic brain injury, transition from military to civilian environment and/or other military service-related concerns.

Knowledge and experience related to human services and/or behavioral healthcare field.

Professional knowledge and/or personal experience in behavioral health and supportive services for veterans, service members, dependents and caregivers.

Knowledge of human rights, ethical and legal concerns related to providing care coordination services.

Knowledge of suicide interventions and mandatory reporting requirements.

Ability to communicate (written and oral) clearly and effectively. Experience in public speaking and delivery of subject matter trainings related to SMVF population.

Ability to engage SMVF population, develop professional relationships, and advocate for those individuals receiving services.

Excellent client service skills. The ability to demonstrate creativity in developing strategies to resolve barriers to treatment and supportive services access.

Excellent knowledge of computers and word processing skills.

Excellent organization and record keeping skills.

Ability to work independently and efficiently.

Ability to work in a team model. Maintain effective inter/intra-agency working relationships.

Additional Considerations

Work experience in human services and/or behavioral healthcare field required. Related field or combination of education, training, or experience may substitute.

Experience related to programs and services for veterans preferred.

Valid driver’s license and an acceptable driving record must be maintained throughout employment.

Must complete required position training related to Peer Support Services within 6 months of hire.

Must complete all DVS agency and VVFS program training requirements within 6 months of hire

Special Instructions

You will be provided a confirmation of receipt when your application and/or résumé is submitted successfully. Please refer to “Your Application” in your account to check the status of your application for this position.

VDVS accepts submissions of on-line applications only. Faxed, mailed, or emailed applications will not be considered. Applications are accepted until 11:59 P.M. on the job closing date. Applications and/or resumes should include relevant work history which includes your specific qualifications for the position you are seeking.
The decision to interview an applicant is based solely on the information received for this position from either the electronic applications and/or resume. RMS provides confirmation or receipt when your application and/or resume is submitted successfully. Please refer to “Your Application” in your RMS account to check the status of your application.
It is the policy of VDVS to provide equal opportunity for all applications and employees regardless of race, colo