Youth Development Counselor - South Mountain Secure Treatment Unit

Commonwealth of Pennsylvania • Franklin County, PA

5d • Onsite

About The Position

As a Youth Development Counselor with the Department of Human Services, you will help shape the daily experiences of young residents who need direction and stability. This role provides an opportunity to guide youth through challenges while celebrating their successes. You will support their progress through structure, encouragement, and hands-on involvement. This position is ideal for someone who values purposeful work and positive impact. This position helps support the rehabilitation and social development of adjudicated youth through daily supervision and structured guidance. The role focuses on safety, personal growth, and consistent oversight.

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)
• 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)
• 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
• 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.
• Must be able to perform essential job functions.
• A conditional offer of employment will require a medical examination and drug screening.
• 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

• Oversee youth throughout daily routines to support safety and prevent harmful behavior
• Maintain order by responding to emergencies and addressing inappropriate actions using the least restrictive methods
• Conduct searches of residents and program areas to identify and remove prohibited items
• Provide instruction that supports social skills, moral reasoning, and daily living abilities
• Gather information, develop plans, and communicate progress for assigned residents
• Lead or participate in individual, family, and group counseling sessions to promote positive growth

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level