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Entry Level Peer Support Specialist Jobs in Rochester, NY

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Entry Level Peer Support Specialist information

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$10

$19

$28

How much do entry level peer support specialist jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level peer support specialist in Rochester, NY is $19.46, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.59 and $21.35 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level peer support specialist?

An Entry Level Peer Support Specialist is a person who uses their own lived experience with mental health or substance use challenges to support and assist others who are going through similar issues. They provide emotional support, share coping strategies, and help connect people to community resources. Entry level means they are new to the profession and often work under supervision while receiving training. Their main goal is to foster hope and empower individuals on their recovery journeys.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level peer support specialist?

To thrive as an Entry Level Peer Support Specialist, you need lived experience with mental health or substance use challenges, a high school diploma or equivalent, and completion of a peer support training program. Familiarity with documentation software and basic computer literacy are typically required, and some states mandate certification in peer support. Outstanding active listening, empathy, and the ability to build trust are essential soft skills for supporting individuals on their recovery journey. These skills and qualifications are crucial because they enable effective peer support, foster hope, and help clients navigate recovery resources.

What are some common challenges entry level peer support specialists face when starting in this role, and how can they effectively address them?

Entry Level Peer Support Specialists often encounter challenges such as setting healthy boundaries with peers, managing emotional triggers from shared experiences, and navigating collaboration with clinical staff. It's important to receive proper training in boundary-setting and self-care techniques, as well as to seek regular supervision or peer consultation. Open communication and a willingness to learn from more experienced team members can also help new specialists build confidence and navigate the complexities of the role.

What is the difference between Entry Level Peer Support Specialist vs Mental Health Technician?

AspectEntry Level Peer Support SpecialistMental Health Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma; peer support certification often preferredHigh school diploma; mental health technician certification or training
Work EnvironmentCommunity programs, mental health clinics, hospitalsHospitals, psychiatric facilities, residential treatment centers
Employer & Industry UsageBehavioral health organizations, non-profitsHealthcare facilities, mental health agencies
Common Search & ComparisonPeer support roles, entry-level mental health jobsBehavioral health technician, mental health aide

The Entry Level Peer Support Specialist and Mental Health Technician roles share similarities in work environment and required certifications, often working in mental health settings. However, Peer Support Specialists focus on providing peer-based support and advocacy, while Mental Health Technicians assist with patient care and safety. Both roles serve vital functions in mental health care but differ in scope and responsibilities.

What are the most commonly searched types of Peer Support Specialist jobs in Rochester, NY?

The most popular types of Peer Support Specialist jobs in Rochester, NY are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Peer Support Specialist jobs in Rochester, NY?

For Entry Level Peer Support Specialist jobs in Rochester, NY, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Peer Support Specialist jobs in Rochester, NY look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Peer Support Specialist jobs in Rochester, NY are:

What cities near Rochester, NY are hiring for Entry Level Peer Support Specialist jobs?

Cities near Rochester, NY with the most Entry Level Peer Support Specialist job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Peer Support Specialist job openings in Rochester, NY as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,476 per year, or $19.5 per hour.

Peer Support Specialist - DePaul

Rochester, NY • On-site

$20 - $22/hr

Part-time

Re-posted yesterday


Job description

Description:

Job Summary:

Peer Support services are individualized and recovery-focused that promote individuals to manage their own recovery process. Interventions of Peer Support Services emphasize personal safety, self-worth, confidence, and growth, connection to the community, boundary setting, planning, self-advocacy, personal fulfillment, development of social support, and effective communication.

The Peer Support Specialist will work with staff at DePaul locations to assist individuals in supportive housing for people with mental illness.


This position is part-time 20 hours per week.


Essential Job Duties and Responsibilities: (Additional duties may be assigned)

  • Meet with residents to provide one-on-one peer support
  • Address mental health concerns and behaviors and teach coping skills
  • Connect guests with community resources
  • Comply with HIPPA regulations
  • Participate in staff meetings as required


Supervisory Responsibilities:

None

Requirements:

Education and Experience:

  • High school diploma/GED equivalency.
  • Experience and knowledge of the public mental health system.
  • Experience working as a Peer/Youth/Family Specialist preferred.
  • NYS Certified Peer Specialist - provisional certification or NYS Certified Peer Specialist - permanent certification required and must be maintained throughout employment.


Equipment, Machines and Software Used:

  • Ability to operate various office equipment including computer, printer, telephone, fax machine, photocopier, scanner, and calculator.
  • Computer Software: Microsoft Office to include Word, PowerPoint, Outlook, and Excel. Experience with Paylocity payroll system preferred.
  • Reliable transportation required to meet with clients in the community and DePaul locations.


Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

  • Excellent communication skills including verbal and written communication.
  • Ability to analyze and solve complex problems.
  • Ability to act with integrity, professionalism, and confidentiality.
  • Ability to gather data, compile information, and prepare reports.
  • Ability to respond to questions from staff and program participants.
  • Individuals must demonstrate sensitivity, respect, and competency with diverse cultural backgrounds, social identities and practices of community members.

Physical and Mental Requirements:

  • Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
  • Ability to exert up to 15 pounds of force frequently, and/or a negligible amount of force constantly to move objects.
  • Must be able to access and navigate each department at the organization’s facilities.
  • Finger dexterity required to operate telephone and computer keyboard.
  • Hearing at a level to enable one to hear normal conversation.
  • Visual requirements of having the ability to read documents, the computer screen, etc.

Environmental Conditions:

  • Work is performed in a typical office environment where there is no substantial exposure to adverse environmental conditions unless otherwise directed. (Recovery Center, Intake Coordinator)
  • Work is performed in a typical office environment where there is no substantial exposure to adverse environmental conditions unless otherwise directed AND in the community where there is minimal risk based on community circumstances. (Drop-In Services, Community Based Peer Support: DePaul, East House, Inpatient Hospital Units, CORE, Youth Peer Support Services, Family Support Services, Education/Training and Employment Services, Resource Navigation).

Work Hours:

  • The standard work week is 20 hours. Specific days and hours to be determined. Scheduled work hours will fall within our standard business hours of 9 am - 5 pm, Monday through Friday. Flexibility may be required on occasion.
  • This work cannot be performed from home or in hybrid format.


Compensation:

  • Compensation will be in the range of $20-22/hr.


Disclaimer:

  • All requirements are subject to possible modification to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities.
  • This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee(s) occupying this position. Employees will be required to follow any other job-related instructions and to perform any other job-related duties requested by their supervisor.
  • The company reserves the right to add to or revise an employee's job duties at any time at its sole discretion.
  • This document does not create an employment contract, implied or otherwise, other than an “at will” employment relationship