Youth Counselor
About The Position
The Non-Secure Detention Counselor helps ensure the safety, well-being, and positive development of at-risk youth in a short-term residential detention facility. The counselor supervises youths’ daily activities and provides a safe, structured, and therapeutic environment. Staff ensure residents follow program schedules, maintain appropriate behavior, and participate in daily activities, while collaborating with leadership to address concerns and support the facility’s mission. The position is located at the Capital Region Office in Albany, New York, and is full-time, with a day shift. The listed hourly salary range is $25.50–$26.75. Employees working at the Canaan campus ahead of its planned relocation to Glenmont, New York, may receive paid travel time for up to two hours of commuting per workday, a $500 monthly incentive, and mileage reimbursement when the Canaan commute exceeds the distance to the future Glenmont location. Travel is required. The schedule may include variable day, evening, weekend, holiday, and on-call hours. Successful completion of on-the-job training for Therapeutic Crisis Intervention (TCI) certification and First Aid/CPR certification is required.
Requirements
- High school diploma or GED.
- At least one year of experience working with youth and families; an associate degree in Human Services or a related field may substitute for the experience.
- Successful completion of on-the-job training for Therapeutic Crisis Intervention (TCI) certification and First Aid/CPR certification.
- Ability to work a flexible schedule with variable hours, including day, evening, weekend, holiday, and on-call hours.
- Valid driver’s license and an acceptable driving history to the Agency.
- Ability to work with economically and culturally diverse populations.
- Verbal and written communication skills.
- Ability to travel as required.
Nice To Haves
- Experience working with at-risk youth in a detention or residential facility.
Responsibilities
- Account for the welfare and well-being of youth at all times.
- Model appropriate behavior standards for youth.
- Maintain visual sight of youth in the program.
- Counsel youth individually and in groups to assist with adjustment and transition to the program.
- Ensure youth follow and participate in program schedules.
- Bring concerns about youth to the attention of program leadership.
- Assist with daily meal preparation.
- Assist with the security and safety of youth and the facility.
- Adhere to agency policies and procedures and support the agency’s mission, vision, and values, including participating in internal surveys and data collection for continuous improvement initiatives.
- Coordinate and plan travel for visits and appointments efficiently.
Benefits
- Paid travel time for up to two hours of commuting per workday for eligible employees working at the Canaan campus.
- $500 monthly incentive for eligible employees working at the Canaan campus.
- Mileage reimbursement for eligible employees when the Canaan commute exceeds the distance to the future Glenmont location.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
High school or GED
