JYF- Youth Counselor

Overview: 

The Youth Counselor will be primarily responsible for building healthy relationships with each persons supported and providing adequate care, safety, custody, control and counseling with the aim of allowing the youth to become a productive member of society.

Key Responsibilities: 

Provides constant direct supervision to ensure the safety, whereabouts, and security of all youth at all times, including monitoring residents during Family Court appearances. 

Intervene immediately during emergencies or altercations using approved Safe Crisis Management techniques and mechanical restraints (LSP only) when necessary to maintain safety.

Manages and shapes resident behavior utilizing the principles of the MYSI Model, helping youth develop positive, lasting behavioral changes.

Actively manages peer group dynamics to promote, cultivate, and maintain a supportive, positive peer group culture within the home.

Implements daily living schedules, routines, and procedures while maintaining high sanitary standard through heavy cleaning and laundry duties.

Partners with DOE representatives to ensure safety during school hours and participates in planning educational, recreational, and personal enrichment activities. 

Monitors and support the medical, educational, clinical and casework needs of youth, ensuring they attend all the required appointments.

Completes and submit accurate log reports, behavioral assessments, incident reports and other critical documentation in a timely manner. 

Adheres strictly to all ACS, OCFS and agency regulations, and complete all mandatory professional development and training programs. 

Maintain open lines of communication with Case Planners, Supervisors and internal staff regarding youth or family updates; possesses the flexibility to work various hours and days.

Must have the ability to complete all standard administrative and support tasks including but not limited to climbing up and down stairs, operations of computer/phone/fax/printer/copy machine, and the ability to lift boxes, furniture, and equipment up to 30lbs. Must be able to travel from various locations and sites of Rising Ground. Ability to perform physical restraints of youth using approved restraint techniques. Physical clearance are required and reevaluated annually.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma/GED +3 Years of Direct Service in Mental Health or Juvenile Justice Programming.
• Valid NYS Drivers' License preferred
• Verbal & Written communication skills
• Must be able to pass required SCM and recertify annually

Supervisory Responsibility

No

Work Environment: 

Work locations are at an assigned juvenile justice facility throughout the five boroughs

Position Type/Expected Hours of Work: Full Time/40

Travel (if required): Other Rising Ground location if needed

Benefits & Compensation

• Competitive salary structure
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) with company match 
• PTO policy (11 Paid Holidays, Paid Sick Time, Paid Vacation & Paid Personal Days)
• Remote / flexible work options (If applicable)