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Chemical Dependency Jobs in Rochester, NY (NOW HIRING)

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Chemical Dependency information

See Rochester, NY salary details

$15

$26

$46

How much do chemical dependency jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for chemical dependency in Rochester, NY is $26.17, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.31 and $27.26 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Chemical Dependency Counselor, you need knowledge of addiction theories, counseling techniques, and usually a relevant degree or certification in substance abuse counseling. Familiarity with case management software, assessment tools, and adherence to confidentiality regulations like HIPAA are typically required. Strong interpersonal skills, empathy, active listening, and resilience are crucial soft skills for supporting clients through recovery. These competencies are essential to effectively guide individuals toward sobriety, ensure ethical practice, and foster a supportive therapeutic environment.

What is the difference between Chemical Dependency vs Substance Abuse Counselor?

AspectChemical DependencySubstance Abuse Counselor
CredentialsCertification (e.g., CADC), relevant degreesCertification (e.g., CADC), relevant degrees
Work EnvironmentRehabilitation centers, clinics, hospitalsRehabilitation centers, outpatient clinics, community programs
Industry UsageFocuses on addiction to chemicals/substancesFocuses on counseling and treatment of substance abuse

Both roles require similar credentials and often work in similar environments within the addiction treatment industry. While Chemical Dependency specialists may focus more on the medical and physiological aspects of addiction, Substance Abuse Counselors emphasize counseling and behavioral therapy. Understanding these differences helps individuals choose the right career path or treatment provider.

What is a chemical dependency counselor?

A chemical dependency counselor is a trained professional who helps individuals struggling with substance abuse or addiction to drugs and alcohol. They provide support, education, and treatment planning to help clients overcome addiction and maintain recovery. Chemical dependency counselors work in various settings such as rehabilitation centers, hospitals, and community organizations, and often collaborate with other healthcare professionals. Their responsibilities include conducting assessments, facilitating group and individual therapy, and developing recovery plans tailored to each client's needs.

What are some of the common challenges faced by professionals in chemical dependency counseling roles, and how can they be managed?

Professionals working in Chemical Dependency counseling often encounter challenges such as managing client relapse, maintaining professional boundaries, and coping with emotional stress from witnessing clients' struggles. Building a strong support network among colleagues, attending regular supervision, and engaging in ongoing professional development are important strategies for managing these challenges. Additionally, counselors often collaborate closely with multidisciplinary teams, including medical staff and social workers, to ensure holistic care for clients. This collaborative environment helps share the workload and provides more comprehensive support for both clients and staff.
Infographic showing various Chemical Dependency job openings in Rochester, NY as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,427 per year, or $26.2 per hour.

Registered Nurse - Inpatient Chemical Dependency

Rochester Regional Health

Rochester, NY • On-site

$38.67 - $51.92/hr

Other

Posted 14 days ago


Rochester Regional Health rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 218 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

306th of 887 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Job Title: Registered Nurse

Department: Greece Inpatient Chemical Dependency

Location: Unity Hospital

Hours Per Week: Full Time - 36 Hours

Schedule: Nights; 12-hour shifts; every other weekend and holiday. On-call requirements.

SUMMARY:

As a Registered Nurse (RN), you’re the engine and the heart of patient care at Rochester Regional Health. You make a positive difference every single day in the lives of our patients, their family members and visitors – going above and beyond to meet their needs with courtesy, kindness, respect and compassion.

Greece Inpatient Clinic

The most intensive form of rehabilitation treatment available, inpatient rehabilitation accommodates both the physical and psychological needs of all individuals in recovery – all in a safe environment allowing patients to focus on their recovery. As part of our patient-centered approach, we provide coordinated mental and medical care to best meet patients’ needs.

CLINICAL LADDER LEVEL I-IV

The RN level will be determined at the time of hire based on the candidate’s qualifications and ability to meet Clinical Ladder requirements. An established compensation add-on is applied to each RN level.

Level expectations include:

  • RN Level II: Minimum 6 months RN experience; AAS in Nursing; completion of Clinical Ladder requirements within 12 months, including 3 activities per pillar (Leadership, Quality, Organizational Contribution), 9 CEUs, and 6 flex items.

  • RN Level III: Minimum 1 year RN experience; AAS in Nursing; demonstrated clinical and leadership skills; preceptor and/or charge experience; completion of 4 activities per pillar, 12 CEUs, and 15 flex items.

  • RN Level IV: Minimum 1 year experience in the specialty hired into; BS in Nursing required; expanded leadership role (charge, preceptor, mentor); completion of Clinical Ladder requirements within 12 months, including 5 activities per pillar, 15 CEUs, and 20 flex items.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Provides high-quality, patient-centered, clinical care

  • Performs initial and ongoing assessment of the patient, utilizing appropriate data (i.e. physical, psychological, educational and risk-screen data appropriate for the chronological / developmental age of the patient).

  • Communicates and documents assessment of patient with the interdisciplinary team. Utilizes all available resources in order to meet the needs of the patient and family.

  • Develops and documents plan of care, treatment and services which is individualized and appropriate for the patient needs, strengths, limitations and goals.

  • Complies with organizational policies, procedures and protocols including policies governing safety, medication administration and documentation.

  • Revises plan of care based on ongoing evaluations and updates documentation appropriately.

  • Completes at least one clinical research utilization (CRU) form for submission to Nursing Research Department utilizing a research article from the last 5 years from research performed in the United States.

  • Completes a minimum of 5 nationally approved contact hours (CNE or CEU) per year.

  • Completes mandatory in-services and health screens in timely manner.

  • Maintains Basic Life Support (BLS) certification.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Diploma or Associate’s Degree in Nursing

  • Registered Nurse license in New York State.

  • Basic Life Support (BLS) certification.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing preferred.

  • At least 6 months experience preferred.

EDUCATION:

AS: Nursing (Required)

LICENSES / CERTIFICATIONS:

BLS - Basic Life Support - American Heart Association (AHA)American Heart Association (AHA), RN - Registered Nurse - New York State Education Department (NYSED)New York State Education Department (NYSED)

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

M - Medium Work - Exerting 20 to 50 pounds of force occasionally, and/or 10 to 25 pounds of force frequently, and/or greater than negligible up to 10 pounds of force constantly to move objects; Requires frequent walking, standing or squatting.

For disease specific care programs refer to the program specific requirements of the department for further specifications on experience and educational expectations, including continuing education requirements.

Any physical requirements reported by a prospective employee and/or employee’s physician or delegate will be considered for accommodations.

PAY RANGE:

$38.67 - $51.92

CITY:

Rochester

POSTAL CODE:

14626

The listed base pay range is a good faith representation of current potential base pay for a successful full time applicant. It may be modified in the future and eligible for additional pay components. Pay is determined by factors including experience, relevant qualifications, specialty, internal equity, location, and contracts.

Rochester Regional Health is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, predisposing genetic characteristics, marital or familial status, military or veteran status, citizenship or immigration status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.


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