Youth Counselor – Transitional Living Program

North Homes Children & Family Services • Grand Rapids, MN

19h • $19 - $22 • Onsite

About The Position

North Homes Children and Family Services is hiring Youth Counselors for its Teens in Transition (TNT) program in Grand Rapids, Minnesota. The program provides a supportive, trauma-informed group living environment for male-identifying youth and young adults preparing for independent living. It serves young people who may have experienced trauma, instability, or risk of exploitation and helps them develop the skills and resources to navigate adulthood.

Youth Counselors help residents build independence, develop essential life skills, and work toward personal goals. The role includes building supportive relationships, assisting with daily routines and community activities, encouraging education and employment readiness, and helping maintain a safe and welcoming living environment. No previous experience is required; paid training and ongoing support are provided.

The listed schedule is 0.8 FTE (32 hours per week), with afternoon and overnight shifts available and weekend opportunities. Additional full-time and part-time openings may be available. Starting pay is $19.23–$22.12 per hour, with shift differentials of $1.50 per hour for afternoon shifts and $1.00 per hour for overnight and weekend shifts. A $5,000 sign-on bonus is offered.

Requirements

• At least 21 years old.
• High school diploma or GED.
• Valid Minnesota driver's license.
• Compassionate, dependable, and committed to helping youth succeed.

Nice To Haves

• College coursework or a degree in Human Services, Psychology, Social Work, Sociology, Criminal Justice, Behavioral Health, Education, or a related field.
• Experience working with youth, residential treatment, mental health, direct care, group homes, childcare, education, corrections, juvenile justice, healthcare, or human services.
• Patience, accountability, strong communication skills, teamwork, calmness under pressure, motivation to learn, and passion for helping youth heal and grow.

Responsibilities

• Build positive, supportive relationships with youth and young adults.
• Help residents develop independent living skills, including cooking, cleaning, budgeting, time management, and household responsibilities.
• Support daily routines, recreational activities, and community-based outings.
• Encourage educational achievement, employment readiness, and vocational exploration.
• Provide guidance, encouragement, and positive role modeling as residents work toward personal goals.
• Promote healthy decision-making, communication, problem-solving, and coping skills.
• Help create a safe, welcoming, and supportive living environment where residents feel respected and empowered.
• Work collaboratively with team members to support each resident's individual needs, strengths, and goals.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and life insurance for 0.8 FTE (32 hours per week).
• Paid time off (PTO).
• Earned Sick & Safe Time (ESST).
• 401(k) with employer match.
• Paid training.
• Career advancement opportunities.
• Employee referral bonus program.
• $5,000 sign-on bonus.
• Shift differentials: additional $1.50 per hour for afternoon shifts and $1.00 per hour for overnight and weekend shifts.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED