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Peer Support Worker Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Peer Support

Wilmington, OH · On-site

$15.75 - $20/hr

The Peer Support Specialist for Substance Use Disorder (SUD) provides crucial support to ... Experience working in a behavioral health or substance use disorder treatment setting.

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Peer Support Worker information

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$10

$19

$28

How much do peer support worker jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for peer support worker in the United States is $19.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $21.63 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Peer Support Workers?

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

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.
More about Peer Support Worker jobs
What cities are hiring for Peer Support Worker jobs? Cities with the most Peer Support Worker job openings:
What states have the most Peer Support Worker jobs? States with the most job openings for Peer Support Worker jobs include:
Infographic showing various Peer Support Worker job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 30% Full Time, 67% Part Time, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,023 per year, or $19.7 per hour.
Peer Support - Wellness Center (Part-Time)

Peer Support - Wellness Center (Part-Time)

City Colleges of Chicago

Chicago, IL

$17/hr

Other

Posted 15 days ago


Job description


PEER SUPPORT - PART-TIME
OLIVE-HARVEY COLLEGE - WELLNESS CENTER
 

Olive-Harvey College is seeking a Peer Support worker to work in our Wellness Center and provide support in our Panther Pantry.  If you are a current City Colleges of Chicago student, we encourage you to apply for this exciting job opportunity!  Peer supports welcome and support incoming students by:

Introducing students to Wellness Center services and resources. Wellness Center Peer Supports are a liaison between staff and students, and are here to support students academically, socially, and emotionally.

Eligibility Requirements:

         Applicants must be 18 years or older, have work permit consent, and eligible to work in the United States

         Applicants must be actively attending one of the City Colleges of Chicago

         Applicants must be enrolled in a minimum of 6 semester hours pre-credit or credit classes 

         Applicants must be pursuing an approved educational credential, degree, or certificate

         Applicants must have and maintain a minimum cumulative 2.0 GPA (waived for first semester new students)

         Applicants must be in "good standing" - no City Colleges of Chicago academic restrictions

         Applicants must not be current Full or Part-time employees of the City Colleges of Chicago

         All positions are "employment at-will"

 
Duties and Responsibilities:

         Under the direction of the assigned supervisor, the Peer Support provides support, guidance and serves as a role model for other students as they transition to college life.

         As an extension of the Wellness Center, the Peer Support explains CCC systems to interested students; helps students become aware of college resources; and refers students to appropriate college resources.

         Provides academic, emotional, and social support to students experiencing stress or other personal challenges.

         Assists with setting goals and works toward accomplishing each.

         Advocates for assigned students, as necessary. 

         Attends Peer Support training sessions as required. Must work within the scope of the training and make appropriate referrals to licensed professionals when necessary.

         Lead and/or participate in outreach events on mental health awareness, sexual health, and other wellness related topics.

         Unloading new pantry orders and stocking pantry daily.

         Maintaining cleanliness and organization of the pantry.

         Greeting and completing necessary documentation for pantry patrons each visit.

         Records interactions and submits reports to assigned supervisor as required.

         Adheres to the City Colleges of Chicago Customer Service Excellence Standards.

 
Minimum Qualifications:

         High School Diploma required or actively pursuing a GED at the City Colleges of Chicago

         Knowledge of City Colleges of Chicago, student activities, college resources and student services; knowledge of specific major or program

         Good interpersonal skills with a positive attitude and ease in relating to people from a variety of educational, cultural and social backgrounds. 

         Good written and oral communication skills.

         Knowledge of computer software programs.

         Must be able to lift 20-30 lbs.

Salary: $17.00/hour

 We are an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer.
Thank you for your interest in City Colleges of Chicago!

TBD
Additional Information