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Peer Educator Jobs in Rochester, NY (NOW HIRING)

You will be responsible for creating a safe and supportive environment for our clients, as well as providing peer-to-peer counseling, educational, and advocacy services. You will also be instrumental ...

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Peer Educator information

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$8

$19

$34

How much do peer educator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for peer educator in Rochester, NY is $19.62, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.19 and $21.83 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.

What are popular job titles related to Peer Educator jobs in Rochester, NY? For Peer Educator jobs in Rochester, NY, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Peer Educator jobs in Rochester, NY look for? The top searched job categories for Peer Educator jobs in Rochester, NY are:
What cities near Rochester, NY are hiring for Peer Educator jobs? Cities near Rochester, NY with the most Peer Educator job openings:
Infographic showing various Peer Educator job openings in Rochester, NY as of July 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 $40,764 per year, or $19.6 per hour.

$18/hr

Other

Retirement

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

Description

We are Hiring! 

Job Posting: PEER MENTOR

Location:  79 N Clinton Ave

Employment Type:  Full-Time

Schedule: Monday - Friday 9-5 

Salary: $18.00

As a regional agency of Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Rochester, Catholic Charities Family and Community Services (CCFCS) has been serving our community for over 100 years. We walk with people when they are at their most vulnerable as they journey toward independence to reach their full human potential, advocate for those in need throughout all stages of life; and work in partnership with faith communities of all denominations and those who are committed to addressing local needs.

If you're looking for an opportunity to express and explore your passion for helping others, then join a team that truly makes a difference DAILY, in people's lives. Don't miss out on being a part of something special!


General Description

Provides peer support groups and education for substance use disorder clients utilizing established Peer guidelines and assists in engagement activity. Effectively supports ongoing and collaborative communication amongst all program staff and is responsible for ensuring a trauma informed care environment.


Essential Duties and Responsibilities

  • Provides individual and group support for substance use disorder clients involved in treatment to develop and sustain recovery.
  • Transports clients
  • Involved in peer led educational sessions on recovery principles, spirituality, use of community resources and other relevant topics.
  • Meets individually with clients to support development of their recovery plan, assist in providing motivation and encouragement to those that are struggling with engagement in treatment.  
  • Completes all necessary paperwork related to client services in compliance with Agency and regulatory standards.
  • Participates in relevant Agency meetings and/or trainings 
  • Actively pursues development of professional competencies related to job role performance through reading, supervision, in-service training and attendance at conferences and workshops. 
  • Awareness and active support of the Agency's Mission, Vision, Values and Strategic Plan. Including, but not limited to, supporting the Agency's Core Competency initiatives of being Collaborative and Community Focused, Innovative and Entrepreneurial, and Culturally Competent and Diverse
  • Other duties as assigned

Note: The above description is illustrative of tasks and responsibilities. It is not meant to be all inclusive. Employees are required to follow appropriate supervisory direction and perform other related duties as required.

Requirements

Qualifications:

Education: High School Diploma or equivalent required 

Credentials: Valid and clean NYS Driver's License. Certified Peer Recovery Advocate certification or provisional certification required.

Experience: Experience running peer or recovery support groups. Lived experience preferred. 


Physical Demands/Work Environment: The physical demands/work environment described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to sit, talk, hear, stand, walk, use hands to type and/or perform light lifting. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision and ability to adjust focus. The noise level in the work environment is usually quiet.


Compliance: Adheres to all applicable federal and state laws and regulations including, but not limited to, those governing confidentiality, privacy, program, billing and documentation standards. All duties must be performed in accordance with CCFCS's corporate compliance & ethics program. 


Additional Requirements:

  • Ability to prioritize assignments, plan, and complete work projects with minimal direction,
  • An ability to work efficiently and effectively and meet deadlines, 
  • An ability to work under pressure,
  • Excellent verbal/written skills,
  • Ability to maintain confidentiality,
  • Ability to demonstrate behaviors and attitudes which support agency mission, philosophy, and policies.
  • Willingness and ability to foster agency and program wide cooperation and teamwork through use of positive/constructive communication techniques,
  • Possession of a valid NYS Driver's license and use of a registered and reliable vehicle.

 Top Benefits and Perks:

  • Competitive salary and 403b retirement plan 
  • Generous time off package and work-life balance 
  • Comprehensive benefits package 
  • Supportive and collaborative environment 
  • Opportunities for growth and development 
  • Intrinsic reward of truly making a difference in people's lives 

Join us and help make a positive impact on our community!
***Catholic Charities is committed to leveraging the talent of a diverse workforce to create great opportunities for our agency and our people. EOE/AA Disability/Vet 


 #INSJ