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Peer Support Worker Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

Westcare

Peer Support Specialist

Pinellas Park, FL · On-site

$17 - $19/hr

This position provides peer leadership, outreach, advocacy, coaching and recovery support services ... WORKING CONDITIONS: * Work is primarily performed in an office or in a Residential/Outpatient ...

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Peer Support Worker information

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How much do peer support worker jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for peer support worker in Florida is $14.74, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.60 and $16.15 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a peer support worker?

Peer Support Workers are individuals who use their lived experience with mental health, substance use, or other life challenges to support others going through similar situations. They provide emotional support, share their personal experiences, and help others navigate resources and recovery. Peer Support Workers often work in mental health services, addiction treatment programs, hospitals, and community organizations. Their role is to inspire hope, foster empowerment, and help reduce stigma by connecting on a personal level.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a peer support worker?

To thrive as a Peer Support Worker, you typically need lived experience with mental health or substance use challenges, basic counseling skills, and a peer support certification or relevant training. Familiarity with documentation systems, recovery-oriented tools, and crisis intervention protocols is often required. Strong listening, empathy, and boundary-setting skills help build trust and encourage recovery in others. These competencies are critical for providing relatable, effective support and fostering hope among peers facing similar challenges.

How does a peer support worker typically collaborate with clinical staff and other support professionals?

Peer Support Workers often work closely alongside clinical teams, such as social workers, therapists, and nurses, to help bridge the gap between clients and healthcare providers. They contribute their lived experience to offer unique insights, advocate for client needs, and help clients navigate available resources. Collaboration usually involves regular team meetings, shared care planning, and open communication to ensure a holistic approach to each individual's recovery. This teamwork fosters a supportive environment where clients can benefit from both professional expertise and personal empathy.

What is the difference between Peer Support Worker vs Mental Health Counselor?

AspectPeer Support WorkerMental Health Counselor
CredentialsTypically requires a peer support certification or lived experienceRequires a master's degree in counseling or psychology and licensure
Work EnvironmentCommunity organizations, mental health clinics, hospitalsPrivate practices, clinics, hospitals, mental health facilities
Employer & IndustryNonprofits, healthcare providers, mental health agenciesHealthcare institutions, private practices, hospitals
Primary FocusProviding peer support, advocacy, and encouragementDiagnosing, treating, and counseling clients with mental health issues

While both roles support mental health, Peer Support Workers focus on peer-led support and lived experience, whereas Mental Health Counselors provide clinical therapy and diagnosis. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or service.

What are popular job titles related to Peer Support Worker jobs in Florida?

For Peer Support Worker jobs in Florida, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Peer Support Worker jobs in Florida look for?

The top searched job categories for Peer Support Worker jobs in Florida are:

Peer Support Worker jobs near you
Infographic showing various Peer Support Worker job openings in Florida as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $30,656 per year, or $14.7 per hour.

Peer Support Specialist

WESTCARE GULFCOAST-FLORIDA INC

Pinellas Park, FL

$17 - $19/hr

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

POSITION SUMMARY:

Person in this position is someone that has direct lived experiences with substance abuse and has exhibited success in sustaining a crime and drug-free life for a minimum of two (2) consecutive years. This position provides peer leadership, outreach, advocacy, coaching and recovery support services to those seeking or sustain recovery within the community. Essential Job Functions include those listed below.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

  • Educate and refer clients to community agencies and businesses that appropriately address their need for food, shelter, clothing, employment, transportation, social service benefits, etc.
  • Provide services that promote wellness, recovery, and resiliency.
  • Assist clients with establishing or re-establishing support systems within their community.
  • Function as advocate on behalf of the patient to improve access to needed services, information, or treatment.
  • Participate in clinical staffing decisions regarding the patients' current strengths and resources and their need for additional resources.
  • Provide support and supervision to program clients.
  • Assist other WestCare staff as needed in a collaborative manner to promote cooperation and portray a professional image to the community.
  • Facility involvement in recovery-related activities and assist in planning, organization, and facility group recreational and social activities.
  • Must Embrace and embody the mission, vision, guiding principles, clinical vision, and goals of WestCare Foundation; and
  • Perform all other duties as assigned.

ESSENTIAL QUALIFICATIONS:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform the duties and responsibilities satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.

Experience and Competencies:

  • Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team.
  • Compassion, empathy, and a non-judgmental approach towards individuals with substance use disorders.
  • Understanding to talk to and communicate with clients in an effective and appropriate manner.
  • Bilingual (English/Spanish) is preferred.
  • Adherence to the highest standard of ethical conduct, especially to standards governing confidentiality.
  • Professional appearance and demeanor.
  • Must be able to obtain and maintain DCF Level II background clearance.
  • Valid driver's license and ability to obtain and maintain WestCare's vehicle insurance is required.
  • During your tenure with WestCare there may be new requirements, including, but not limited to vaccinations that are issued by local, State, Federal, and/or Funders that WestCare may have to comply with. Should this occur Human Resources or appropriate personnel will inform you.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE:

  • Lived experience and personal recovery from substance use disorders.
  • Previous experience in peer support roles or related positions is preferred.
  • High School diploma or is equivalent is required.
  • An individual may seek certification as a peer specialist if he or she has been in recovery from a substance use disorder or mental illness for at least 2 years.
  • Must be able to pass a Level II DCF background check.

LICENSURE/CERTIFICATION:

  • CRPS Certification through the Florida Certification Board within one year of hire. Preference will be given to those who already have CRPS Certification.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

  • Work is primarily performed in an office or in a Residential/Outpatient treatment setting.
  • Travel throughout and around the community and outreach is required.
  • This position may require flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, to accommodate client needs and community events.

WestCare is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment at WestCare is contingent upon
successful completion of a pre-employment drug test,
pre-employment physical and criminal background check.

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