Youth Development Counselor - North Central Secure Treatment Unit
About The Position
Make a meaningful difference as a Youth Development Counselor with the Department of Human Services (DHS), Bureau of Juvenile Justice Services (BJJS) where your dedication supports treatment centered on safety, growth, and opportunity for young people. At the North Central Secure Treatment Unit, you guide individuals as they learn new skills, strengthen their behavior, and work toward more hopeful futures. This position allows you to motivate youth who benefit from steady leadership and clear expectations. Your focused efforts help each young person move forward with stability, confidence, and a renewed sense of direction. This role focuses on guiding youth through daily activities and providing structure, safety, and support in the youth development center/youth forestry camp (YDC/YFC) system.
Requirements
- Four years of experience as a Juvenile Justice Specialist (Commonwealth job title or equivalent Federal Government job title, as determined by the Office of Administration); or Three years of experience as a Juvenile Justice Specialist Supervisor (Commonwealth job title or equivalent Federal Government job title, as determined by the Office of Administration) ; or One year of experience in the care, custody, supervision, activities, leadership, or personal guidance of court adjudicated or socially maladjusted individuals in an organized program, and a bachelor’s degree in the behavioral sciences, special education, juvenile justice, or criminal justice; or An equivalent combination of experience and training that includes one year of experience in the care, custody, supervision, activities, leadership, or personal guidance of court adjudicated or socially maladjusted individuals in an organized program.
- PA residency requirement is currently waived for this title.
- You must be able to perform essential job functions.
- A conditional offer of employment will require a medical examination and a drug screening.
- This position falls under the provisions of the Child Protective Services Law. Under the Law, a conditional offer of employment will require submission and approval of satisfactory criminal history reports including, but not limited to, PA State Police clearance, PA Child Abuse history clearance, and FBI Fingerprint clearance.
Responsibilities
- Maintain constant awareness of residents to prevent harmful behaviors and ensure a secure environment
- Model pro-social values and teach appropriate behaviors through daily interactions
- Assist with developing and updating individualized treatment plans and documenting resident progress
- Escort and oversee residents during activities, appointments, and visits on and off grounds
- Respond to emergencies by applying appropriate interventions and determining necessary actions
- Prepare reports and maintain required records in accordance with agency guidelines
Benefits
- Free parking
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
