Peer Support Specialist

Final date to receive applications:03/15/2026 12:00 AMPay Grade:

Non-Merit Grade Salary:$7.25 - $50.00 Hourly Time Type:

Full time Health Department:

Purchase District Health

Department Summary:

If you have any questions or would like any more information about this job posting please contact Jake Hobbs cription:##
** Peer Support Specialist
** Full-Time

Position Location:

Paducah, KY Service Area:
Purchase District Health Department Region Starting Pay: $15.00/hour + 5% increase after successful 6-month probation
** Position Overview
** As a Peer Support Specialist with the Opioid Taskforce, you will play a vital role in supporting individuals affected by substance use disorders (SUD), including opioid use disorder (OUD), across the prevention, identification, treatment, and recovery continuum. This position focuses on harm reduction, recovery support, and connecting highly vulnerable populations with essential wraparound services.

You will work directly in the community and collaborate with partner organizations to provide compassionate, nonjudgmental support to individuals navigating substance use challenges. This role is ideal for someone committed to meeting people where they are and helping reduce barriers to care while promoting long-term recovery and community wellness.

This is a non-exempt, hourly full-time position based at the District Office in Paducah, with regular community outreach and travel throughout the Purchase District.
** Primary Responsibilities
*** Provide peer support services to individuals impacted by substance use disorders, including OUD.
* Assist with harm reduction initiatives, including education, supply distribution, and linkage to treatment and recovery resources.
* Deliver wraparound services by connecting clients to healthcare, behavioral health, housing, employment, and social support resources.
* Support prevention and early identification efforts within the community.
* Conduct community outreach and collaborate with local organizations serving vulnerable populations.
* Provide HIV and Hepatitis C (Hep-C) testing in community settings following required training and certification.
* Maintain accurate documentation of services provided and assist with required reporting.
* Participate in required trainings and maintain Peer Support Specialist certification.
* Perform other duties as assigned to support Opioid Taskforce initiatives and public health priorities.
** Minimum Qualifications
*** High school diploma or GED.
* Current Peer Support Specialist certification, or ability to obtain certification within the first two months of employment.
* Willingness to work with highly vulnerable populations across diverse community settings.
* Ability to provide harm reduction services in alignment with public health best practices.
* Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
* Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation; travel required (mileage reimbursed per department policy).
** Schedule and Compensation
*** Full-time, non-exempt (hourly) position.
* Monday–Friday schedule with occasional evenings and weekends based on community needs.* $15.00/hour starting rate (negotiable based on experience).
* 5% raise after successful completion of six-month probationary period.

If you’re looking to make a meaningful impact while enjoying one of Kentucky’s most competitive public benefits packages, this role is for you. Our team members don’t just serve—they thrive with:## Holidays & Time Off
* 13 Paid Holidays including Juneteenth, Veterans Day, and two days each for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s.
* Accrual of 3.5 hours of vacation and 3.5 hours of sick leave per pay period, with vacation increasing based on years of service.
* Up to 12 days of vacation and 12 days of sick leave available within your first year of employment.
* Additional leave opportunities for jury duty, voting, and inclement weather, ensuring you have time for civic responsibilities and unforeseen circumstances.
* Supports a healthy work-life balance, allowing you to manage personal needs, family obligations, and self-care while contributing to public health.## Comprehensive Health & Wellness Coverage
* Low-premium…