2

Entry Level Addiction Jobs in Pennsylvania (NOW HIRING)

Must have current and valid licensure or certification as a social worker, professional counselor, therapist or addiction counselor per state agency, including entry level licenses as issued by the ...

... or addiction counselor per state agency. * Licensure status per state agency regulations that allows for supervision of other entry level clinicians is preferred. * CPR certification and de ...

Certified Recovery Spec

East Stroudsburg, PA · On-site

$15.50 - $19.25/hr

Understanding of addiction and recovery principles * Strong communication and relationship-building ... Entry-level pathway into behavioral health * Meaningful, mission-driven work * Supportive team ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Entry Level Addiction information

See Pennsylvania salary details

$18.9K

$45.8K

$78.3K

How much do entry level addiction jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level addiction in Pennsylvania is $45,821.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $30,142.00 and $49,936.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level addiction job?

Entry level addiction jobs are positions in the field of addiction treatment and recovery that require minimal prior experience or education. These roles often include titles such as addiction technician, behavioral health aide, or support staff in treatment centers. Employees in these positions assist with daily care of clients, monitor behavior, provide support for recovery activities, and help maintain a safe environment. Entry level addiction jobs are a great way to start a career in substance abuse counseling and behavioral health, often providing on-the-job training and opportunities to advance.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level addiction counselor?

To thrive as an Entry Level Addiction Counselor, you need a foundational knowledge of substance abuse treatment, basic counseling techniques, and typically a bachelor’s degree in psychology, social work, or a related field. Familiarity with case management software, documentation systems, and in some states, certification like CADC (Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor) is often required. Compassion, strong listening skills, and the ability to build trust with clients are essential soft skills in this role. These skills and qualifications are crucial for providing effective support, ensuring compliance, and fostering recovery in individuals struggling with addiction.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level addiction counselors, and how can they be managed effectively?

Entry-level addiction counselors often encounter challenges such as building trust with clients, managing emotionally charged situations, and maintaining appropriate professional boundaries. These challenges can be managed effectively through ongoing supervision, seeking support from experienced colleagues, and participating in regular training. It's also important to practice self-care and utilize available resources within the team to prevent burnout. Many organizations offer mentorship programs to help new counselors navigate these early hurdles and develop their skills.

What is the difference between Entry Level Addiction vs Entry Level Substance Abuse Counselor?

AspectEntry Level AddictionEntry Level Substance Abuse Counselor
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; certification may be preferredHigh school diploma or equivalent; certification or licensure often required
Work EnvironmentRehabilitation centers, clinics, community health programsRehabilitation centers, outpatient clinics, hospitals
Employer & Industry UsageUsed broadly in addiction treatment settingsSpecific role within addiction treatment teams
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry-level roles in addiction treatmentClarifying responsibilities and qualifications for entry-level counselors

Entry Level Addiction roles generally refer to basic positions in addiction treatment, often requiring minimal certifications. Entry Level Substance Abuse Counselors are more specialized, typically needing certification or licensure, and focus on providing counseling services. Both roles work in similar environments but differ in responsibilities and qualification requirements.

What are the most commonly searched types of Addiction jobs in Pennsylvania?

The most popular types of Addiction jobs in Pennsylvania are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Addiction jobs in Pennsylvania?

For Entry Level Addiction jobs in Pennsylvania, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Addiction jobs in Pennsylvania look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Addiction jobs in Pennsylvania are:

What cities in Pennsylvania are hiring for Entry Level Addiction jobs?

Cities in Pennsylvania with the most Entry Level Addiction job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Addiction job openings in Pennsylvania as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $45,821 per year, or $22 per hour.

Recovery Assistant - Daylight

Butler, PA

$18/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago


Job description

Position: Recovery Assistant - Daylight 

Reports To: RA Manager

Department: Inpatient

FLSA: Hourly Non-Exempt

Join a Mission-Driven Organization That Makes a Difference!

The Ellen O'Brien Gaiser Addiction Center is a nonprofit addiction treatment organization that has been serving individuals and families affected by substance use disorders since 1971. As the region's longest-running addiction treatment program and a Pennsylvania Center of Excellence for opioid use disorder treatment, Gaiser Center provides compassionate, evidence-based care through inpatient and outpatient services. Our holistic, trauma-informed approach addresses the physical, emotional, mental, and social aspects of recovery while supporting clients and their families throughout the healing process.

Position Summary/Objective:

The Recovery Assistant is employed for the purpose of supporting the multiple needs of the Gaiser Center's Butler programs that help individuals overcome addiction. The RA position is entry-level and includes a training and orientation program to introduce new hires to the daily operations of the Center.

Schedule

  • Full-Time ($18.00 per hour)
  • Provides 24-hour coverage to the Gaiser Center Inpatient Program
  • Shifts: 11:00am - 7:00pm (Monday-Friday)
  • Must be open to cover 6:00am-2:00pm as needed

Organization Responsibilities:

  • Comply with Federal confidentiality rule (42 CFR Part 2). The Federal rule prohibits you from making any disclosure of confidential information unless further disclosure is expressly permitted by the written consent of the person to whom it pertains or as otherwise permitted by 42 CFR Part 2.
  • Ensure compliance with policies and procedures
  • Promote and follow safe working practices and take necessary steps to prevent injuries

Position Responsibilities:

  • Review/discuss shift change report every shift change
  • Regularly review client logbook and update client logbook for client observations
  • Completion of assigned tasks on daily schedule
  • Transport clients in Gaiser Center vehicles
  • Food Preparation for clients
  • Intake and log client's belongings upon arrival
  • Monitor clients both at the facility and off the premises while on your shift
  • Process new clients using new client check-in sheet
  • Administer testing to clients upon admission and/or as directed by nurse/counselor
  • Monitor and log client medication usage in accordance with the agency's self-medication administration policy
  • Attending and participate in staff meetings, conferences, staff development trainings, etc.
  • Regularly perform checks on client rooms and redirects clients as needed
  • Monitor daily client ADL performance and assist in weekly big clean group
  • Clean client rooms and wash linens (night shift) following discharge (coordinate w/ other shifts)
  • Cleaning (daily: restrooms, offices, running sweeper; time permitting complete task from monthly cleaning sheet)
  • Monitor evening snack and clean up
  • Mail pickup and deliver interoffice mail between facilities
  • Review security cameras upon request of counselors and document if needed
  • Monitor facility safety systems and emergency procedures
  • Keep vans clean and tidy. Maintain mileage logs. Maintain gasoline levels in vans

As Needed

  • Perform fire drills at least monthly
  • Snow removal/salt surfaces as needed
  • Complete incident reports as needed
  • Run life skills groups as needed
  • Work at all GAC locations
  • Outside maintenance (i.e. raking, lawn care, sweeping; time permitting cleaning outside area at Liberty Street location)
  • Cooking/food prep as needed
  • Any other job-related duty as assigned

Qualifications:

  • Prior residential aide experience preferred
  • Must be energetic and able to multitask
  • Must be responsible, reliable, and able to act ethically without direct supervision
  • Demonstrate the ability to respond to crisis situations and make good decisions under stress
  • Must be able to work all shifts

Profile/Other Competencies:

  • Have a valid PA driver's license in good standing
  • High School Diploma

Working Conditions:

  • Office conditions represent the primary working environment.
  • Must be flexible in regards to days and hours worked.

NOTE: The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees assigned this job. They are not exhaustive lists of all duties, responsibilities, knowledge, skills, abilities and working conditions associated with the job. Additional functions may be required to meet organization objectives.

We Offer Great Benefits!

  • Dental, Health, and Vision Insurance
  • FREE Life Insurance
  • FREE Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Family Benefits Available
  • Generous Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • 11 Paid Holidays

Supplemental Benefits:

  • Short Term Disability
  • Accident Insurance
  • Critical Care Insurance
  • Cancer Protection Assurance

Retirement Benefits:

  • 403(b) Retirement Plan

Your Growth Matters

We are committed to supporting our employees through ongoing training and professional development opportunities. To help you grow in your career, we offer tuition reimbursement and cover the cost of approved professional trainings.

Equal Opportunity Employer

The Ellen O'Brien Gaiser Center is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to creating an inclusive workplace.

Ready to Join Our Team?

Apply today! We look forward to learning more about you and the unique skills you'll bring to our team.


  • Pre-employment Drug Testing
  • Satisfactory Criminal Background Check