Social Service Counselor 1/2/3
About The Position
The Louisiana Office of Juvenile Justice (OJJ) is driven by a powerful mission: protecting the public while transforming the lives of youth through safe, effective, and individualized services that help them grow into productive, law-abiding citizens. We are excited to welcome a compassionate, motivated, and skilled professional to join our team as a Social Service Counselor, playing a vital role in the rehabilitation and well-being of youth in secure care. In this impactful position, you will provide direct counseling and case management that supports each youth’s emotional, behavioral, and social development. Through meaningful one-on-one interventions, dynamic group facilitation, and collaborative treatment planning, you will help guide young people toward healthier choices and brighter futures. The ideal candidate brings empathy, strong clinical insight, and a deep commitment to trauma-informed, youth-centered care—someone who believes in the potential of every young person and is energized by the opportunity to make a lasting difference.
Requirements
- Three years of social services experience; OR Six years of full-time experience in any field; OR A Bachelor's degree.
- Every 30 semester hours earned from an accredited college or university will be credited as one year of experience towards the six years of full-time work experience in any field. The maximum substitution allowed is 120 semester hours which substitutes for a maximum of four years of experience in any field.
- Positions that provide addictive disorder counseling or prevention services will require certification or eligibility for certification issued by the Addictive Disorder Regulatory Authority (ADRA), or its successor.
- The incumbent of this position must not have been convicted or pled nolo contendere to a crime listed in R.S. 15:587.1 (c).
- Applicants must authorize the HR Office of Juvenile Justice to contact prior employers to check references under the Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA) to be considered for employment.
- Must possess a valid Louisiana Driver's License.
- Must clear a background check.
Nice To Haves
- Demonstrating Accountability: The ability to take ownership of actions, behaviors, performance, decisions, and outcomes.
- Focusing on Customers: The ability to understand and meet the needs, preferences, and experiences of internal and external customers.
- Making Accurate Judgments: The ability to assess options, weigh risks, and make sound decisions using available information and logical reasoning.
- Acting with Ethics and Integrity: The ability to make choices that reflect ethical standards, integrity, and honesty, regardless of circumstances or personal benefit.
- Adapting to Change: The ability to demonstrate flexibility in thoughts, behaviors, and actions in response to evolving circumstances or unexpected change.
Responsibilities
- Conduct psychosocial assessments and develop individualized service plans
- Provide individual and group counseling using evidence-based approaches
- Collaborate with facility staff, families, and external providers to coordinate care
- Monitor youth progress and adjust interventions to meet evolving needs
- Maintain accurate documentation of services, treatment goals, and case notes
- Participate in multidisciplinary team meetings and contribute to case planning
- Advocate for youth needs and support their transition to community-based services
Benefits
- State as a Model Employer (SAME) agency that supports improved employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
