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Peer Educator Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

HopeLink Behavioral Health

Peer Health Coach

Reston, VA · On-site

$20 - $23/hr

Provide education on the recovery process and promote opportunities to enhance the ability of ... Peer Recovery Specialist (PRS) Certification. * High degree of empathy toward the clients we serve.

HopeLink Behavioral Health

Peer Health Coach

Reston, VA · On-site

$20 - $23/hr

Provide education on the recovery process and promote opportunities to enhance the ability of ... Peer Recovery Specialist (PRS) Certification. * High degree of empathy toward the clients we serve.

Can We Talk LLC

Peer Recovery Specialist

Richmond, VA · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

Peer Recovery JOB TYPE: Full Time LOCATION: 1510 Willow Lawn Dr, Ste 100 Richmond VA, 23230 ... educational, vocational, social, cultural, spiritual resources, mutual self- help groups ...

OneSource

Registered Peer Recovery Specialist

Richmond, VA · On-site

$16.50 - $21.50/hr

EDUCATION AND PROFESSIONAL LICENSE/TRAINING: Must have at least High school diploma/G.E.D. or higher. Must have acquired certification as a Certified Recovery Specialist Must be registered as a Peer ...

Can We Talk LLC

Peer Recovery Specialist

Richmond, VA · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

Peer Recovery JOB TYPE: Full Time LOCATION: 1510 Willow Lawn Dr, Ste 100 Richmond VA, 23230 ... educational, vocational, social, cultural, spiritual resources, mutual self- help groups ...

Ohio State University

$17 - $21.75/hr

High School education or equivalent.Good communicationskillsbothwritten and verbal. Preferred: A minimum of1 yearrelevant experience.Workingknowledge of different pathways to recovery and social ...

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Peer Educator information

See Virginia salary details

$8

$19

$34

How much do peer educator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for peer educator in Virginia is $19.73, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.24 and $21.92 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the five roles of a peer educator?

A peer educator's five key roles include providing accurate information, promoting healthy behaviors, serving as a role model, facilitating discussions, and supporting behavior change among peers. They often use communication skills, cultural competence, and confidentiality to effectively engage their audience. These roles help foster a supportive environment for health education and prevention efforts.

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

To thrive as a Peer Educator, you need strong communication skills, a solid understanding of the subject matter or health topics, and often a background in education or relevant training. Familiarity with educational tools, presentation software, and sometimes certifications in peer counseling or facilitation are valuable. Empathy, active listening, and the ability to build trust help Peer Educators connect effectively with their audience. These skills are crucial to foster an open learning environment, encourage positive behavior change, and support the well-being of peers.

What is the work of a peer educator?

A peer educator is responsible for providing information, support, and guidance to their peers on topics such as health, education, or social issues. They often facilitate discussions, organize activities, and use communication skills to promote positive behaviors within their community or organization.

How much do peer educators make?

Peer educators typically earn between $12 and $20 per hour, depending on the organization, location, and experience. Some positions may offer stipends or hourly wages, and roles often require strong communication skills and relevant training.

Is it hard to become a peer support specialist?

Becoming a peer support specialist typically requires relevant lived experience, completing a training program, and obtaining any required certification or licensing. The process can vary by location but generally involves demonstrating interpersonal skills and a commitment to supporting others, making it accessible with proper preparation.

What are some common challenges Peer Educators face when engaging with their peers, and how can they effectively address them?

Peer Educators often encounter challenges such as overcoming stigma, building trust, and encouraging open communication about sensitive topics. To address these, it’s important to create a safe, nonjudgmental environment and use active listening skills. Successful Peer Educators rely on empathy, cultural awareness, and confidentiality to foster meaningful dialogue and support positive behavioral change among their peers. Regular training and support from supervisors or coordinators also help in navigating difficult conversations and maintaining professional boundaries.

What are Peer Educators?

Peer Educators are individuals, often students or members of a community, who are trained to provide education, support, and resources to their peers on specific topics such as health, wellness, academics, or social issues. They use their shared experiences and relatable perspectives to effectively communicate information and encourage positive behaviors within their peer group. Peer Educators can be found in schools, colleges, and community organizations, and they play a crucial role in promoting awareness and fostering supportive environments.

What is the difference between Peer Educator vs Peer Counselor?

AspectPeer EducatorPeer Counselor
CredentialsOften requires high school diploma or equivalent; certifications in health education or related fieldsTypically requires similar credentials; certifications in counseling or mental health may be preferred
Work EnvironmentSchools, community centers, health clinicsSchools, mental health clinics, community organizations
Employer & IndustryEducational and health organizationsHealth and mental health services
Primary FocusProviding education, raising awarenessProviding emotional support, guidance, and counseling

While both roles involve working with peers, Peer Educators focus on delivering educational programs and raising awareness, whereas Peer Counselors provide emotional support and counseling. The roles often overlap but differ mainly in scope and responsibilities within health and education settings.

What Is a Peer Educator?

Many people may be more likely to listen to an educator who has similar a social background or shared life experiences, someone they consider a peer. Peer educators serve targeted communities to provide advice, distribute educational resources, and promote positive health care choices. Community centers and government agencies may hire peer educators to speak with various community groups. Schools and colleges also utilize peer educators to discuss important health care issues with fellow students. Qualifications to become a peer educator vary, depending on the organization. Student peer educators may need to have experience in peer leadership roles. Professional peer educators may require an associate or bachelor’s degree in education and experience developing educational workshops.

More about Peer Educator jobs
What are popular job titles related to Peer Educator jobs in Virginia? For Peer Educator jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Peer Educator jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Peer Educator jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Peer Educator jobs in VA? For Peer Educator jobs in VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Peer Educator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Peer Educator job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, and 30% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $41,037 per year, or $19.7 per hour.

Peer Health Coach

HopeLink Behavioral Health

Reston, VA • On-site

$20 - $23/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 hours ago

Job description

For over 60 years, HopeLink Behavioral Health (formerly PRS) has been a beacon of support for individuals and families facing behavioral health challenges and life crises. We envision a world where hope is accessible to all. Through high-quality mental health services, crisis intervention, and suicide prevention, we foster an inclusive community where everyone can achieve well-being and a sense of belonging.
SUMMARY STATEMENT OF POSITION:
The Peer Health Coach provides wellness training and support to clients in the Primary Care Behavioral Health Integration (PCBHI) Program and facilitates evidence-based skill-teaching groups. This position also provides information on wellness and will promote opportunities to enhance the ability of clients served to improve their health and wellness.
What We Offer:
  • Meaningful Work: Make a real difference in the lives of others.
  • Competitive Salary: $20.00 - $23.00/hr.
  • Comprehensive Benefits: Medical, Dental, Vision, FSA, 403b Retirement plan with match; 12 paid holidays; PTO and sick time; birthday leave; employee assistance program; tuition reimbursement.
  • Supportive Environment: Join a dedicated team committed to providing high-quality care.

SCHEDULE & LOCATION:
  • Schedule: Monday - Friday, 8:00 am - 4:00 pm
  • This is a hybrid position and requires 3 days per week on-site in Reston, VA.

PRIMARY DUTIES:
  • Provide outreach and support to persons on-site and off-site in the community.
  • Facilitate psychoeducation/support groups focused on health maintenance and prevention on medical disorders.
  • Provide individual skill training on disease management for clients diagnosed with or at risk for medical conditions.
  • Develop and conduct wellness and health promotion activities.
  • Provide education on the recovery process and promote opportunities to enhance the ability of client's served to move into recovery.
  • Maintain clinical records as required.
  • Coordinate services with the client's healthcare team, including assisting with health assessments, attending monthly team meetings with case managers and clinicians and reporting on family progress.
  • Arrange crisis intervention through coordination with CSB case manager, psychiatrist, and other team members as needed.
  • Provide assistance in transportation education and community supports.
  • Represent staff in agency and/or community-based workgroups to enhance services provided within, and related to, BeWell Program for target population, as needed.

ESSENTIAL COMPETENCIES:
  • Adaptability to changes in environment and situations
  • Strong and effective communication skills and accepts criticism and feedback
  • Dependability by following instructions, responds to management direction and keeps commitments
  • Meets attendance punctuality guidelines
  • Maintains emotional self-awareness and manages relationships positively
  • Focuses on solving conflict, not blaming and building interpersonal relationships
  • Contributes to building a positive team spirit and exhibits objectivity and openness to others views

QUALIFICATIONS:
  • High school diploma or GED.
  • Peer Recovery Specialist (PRS) Certification.
  • High degree of empathy toward the clients we serve.
  • Effective interpersonal and written communication skills including the ability to facilitate groups and provide psychoeducation.
  • Ability to teach disease management and health maintenance curriculum.
  • Ability to complete data collection and customer satisfaction surveys
  • Knowledge and skill in computer procedures relevant to this position.
  • Must be an individual with lived experience of mental illness.

The above statements reflect the usual responsibilities and principal functions of the position and shall not be construed as a complete description of all the work requirements that may be inherent or added to the position.
Ready to Join Our Mission?
If you're passionate about helping people achieve mental wellness, we encourage you to apply!
HopeLink Behavioral Health is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
'Where Hope Meets Help.'

Apply