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Buddies Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Best Buddies International is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to establishing a global volunteer movement that creates opportunities for one-to-one friendships, integrated employment ...

Do you have more cold-blooded buddies than warm ones? Does the thought of working with hundreds every day fill you with a sense of satisfaction? We're looking for individuals with hands-on experience ...

Buddies information

See Michigan salary details

$16.2K

$39.5K

$74.2K

How much do buddies jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for buddies in Michigan is $39,460.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25,027.00 and $45,665.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a buddy?

Buddies in the workplace are experienced employees assigned to help new hires acclimate to the company culture, processes, and their specific roles. The buddy serves as a go-to person for questions, provides guidance, and helps the new employee build relationships and confidence during the onboarding period. This support system can improve job satisfaction, speed up the learning curve, and foster a more inclusive and collaborative work environment.

What are common challenges faced by individuals working in a buddy or peer support role, and how can they be addressed?

Individuals working in a buddy or peer support role often encounter challenges such as setting healthy boundaries, managing emotional stress, and maintaining confidentiality. It's important to balance empathy with self-care to avoid burnout, and to seek guidance from supervisors if complex issues arise. Regular training, team debriefs, and clear communication protocols can help buddies provide effective support while safeguarding their own well-being.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a buddy, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Buddy, you need strong interpersonal skills, a supportive attitude, and a basic understanding of the needs of those you are assisting, which may be informed by training or experience in mentoring or peer support. Familiarity with communication platforms, scheduling tools, and sometimes first aid certification can be beneficial. Outstanding Buddies possess empathy, patience, and active listening abilities to build trust and foster positive relationships. These skills are important for creating a safe, encouraging environment that helps individuals feel understood and supported.

What is the difference between Buddies vs Mentors?

AspectBuddiesMentors
CredentialsTypically no formal credentials requiredMay have relevant experience or certifications
Work EnvironmentInformal, peer-to-peer supportGuidance-focused, often in professional development settings
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in onboarding, team-buildingUsed in career development, coaching
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding peer support rolesSeeking professional guidance or growth

While Buddies provide informal peer support within teams, Mentors offer more experienced guidance for career development. Both roles foster growth but differ in formality and purpose.

Infographic showing various Buddies job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Full Time, and 60% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $39,460 per year, or $19 per hour.

Make a friend. Make a difference.

Best Buddies Michigan

Troy, MI โ€ข On-site

$13 - $16.75/hr

Other

Re-posted 9 days ago


Job description

๐ŸŒŸ Volunteer Opportunity in Oakland County! ๐ŸŒŸ

Make a friend. Make a difference. ๐Ÿ’™

Looking for a meaningful way to give back? Join Best Buddies Michiganโ€™s Oakland County's Citizens Program and help create a more inclusive community through one-to-one friendships with adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).

Weโ€™re looking for volunteers (ages 18+) who are:

โœจ Passionate about inclusion

โœจ Local professionals, post-college adults, OU grads, or retirees!

โœจ Ready to connect, have fun, and grow

As a volunteer, youโ€™ll be matched in a one-to-one friendship, attend monthly group events, and get ongoing support.

โœ… Must be 18+

โœ… Based in or near Oakland County

โœ… Apply here: Best Buddies Membership Application

Questions? Email lydiagoff@bestbuddies.org ๐Ÿ’Œ

Letโ€™s build a more inclusive Oakland Countyโ€”one friendship at a time. ๐Ÿงก