What are the responsibilities and job description for the Peer Specialist Vets position at Mental Health America of Dutchess County?
Full Time 35 hrs per week
Duties: The Peer Specialist will support delivery of VA-approved wellness and suicide prevention programming for the SSG Fox SPGP. This position is governed by 38 CFR 78.70 and 38 U.S.C. 7402(b)(13). Peer Specialists must be Veterans trained in peer support with similar lived experiences related to suicide or mental health. They serve as Peers and interdisciplinary team members, helping participants understand available resources for suicide prevention.
Regulatory Framework & Minimum Qualifications (38 CFR 78.70 / 38 U.S.C. 7402(b)(13)):
- Veteran as defined under 38 U.S.C. 101(2)
- Recovered from, or actively recovering from, a mental health condition
- Meets ONE of the following credential requirements:
○ Certified by a VA-recognized not-for-profit entity as meeting peer support specialist criteria established by the VA Secretary; OR
○ Certified by a State as having satisfied relevant State requirements for a peer support specialist; OR
○ Has completed peer support training, is actively pursuing required credentials, and operates under direct supervision of an individual meeting 38 U.S.C. 7402(b)(13)
- Preferred: prior experience with Veteran populations, VA services, or community wellness programming
Qualifications:
- Must be a Veteran as defined under 38 U.S.C. 101(2)
- High School Diploma or GED required; Associate’s Degree preferred
- Must obtain Peer Specialist Certification within 6 months of hire; active credential pursuit must remain documented
- Self-starting, motivated individual able to work flexible hours across Dutchess and Orange Counties
- Excellent interpersonal, communication, and organizational skills required
- An understanding of the population being served, its needs, intervention strategies, culture, and available services
- Preferred: prior experience with Veteran populations, VA services, or community wellness programming
Pay: $19.00 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Bereavement leave
- Dental insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Employee discount
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
Salary : $19