Veteran Peer Support Specialist

LOCATION:

Anchorage

OPENING DATE: 12/31/2025

SALARY: DOE: $28.95 to $31.65

The Peer Support Specialist functions as an interdisciplinary team member, assisting program staff, behavioral health clinicians and other community health professionals/non-professionals in a Veteran Affairs (VA) suicide prevention program. Peer specialists perform a variety of healing and supportive tasks that include assisting Veterans, active duty military, and their family members in articulating their goals for mental wellbeing, personal wellness, learning, practicing new skills, and monitoring their progress.

They support veterans by modeling effective coping techniques and self‑help strategies based on the specialist’s own lived experience, advocating for effective services, and collaborating with APIA staff while attending required project and division meetings.

High School Diploma or equivalent, BS in Human Services preferred. Must be a military veteran who has lived experience receiving behavioral health or substance misuse recovery services, is committed to their own recovery, and is willing to help fellow veterans and active duty service members in their recovery journey. Existing knowledge of Veteran resources is strongly preferred.

Preferred skills:
Mental Health First Aid, S.A.V.E. or QPR Gatekeeper Trainer, Trauma Informed Care, Motivational Interviewing, and other culturally relevant practice-based skills. Interest in and knowledge of Native lifestyles is preferred.

Willingness and ability to travel; must manage and coordinate program goals and objectives with minimal supervision. Must have a valid Alaska Driver’s License and be willing to receive training, attend workshops, and meet periodically to enhance job performance and knowledge. Frequent travel to remote locations is required.

* Native preference will be given to qualified applicant pursuant to P.L. 93-638.