Youth Counselor

$34,320 - $37,960/Yr

Eckerd Connects - Hickory, NC

Full-time - Entry Level

Hickory, NC

Telecommunications

About the position

The Youth Counselor position at Eckerd Connects involves working with at-risk youth in a residential academy program located in Boomer, NC. The role focuses on providing guidance, support, and therapeutic programs to help young individuals achieve their life goals and enhance their self-esteem. Counselors will engage in both group and individual counseling, ensuring the safety and welfare of the clients during various activities and throughout the day and night shifts.

Responsibilities

• Serve as a positive role model and guide for youth during group activities.
• Ensure the progress and welfare of each client through therapeutic programs.
• Supervise staff and clients during afternoon, evening, and sleeping hours.
• Lead youth through daily activities while providing counseling with a focus on strength-based development.
• Utilize rational living cognitive behavioral therapy to help youth define and achieve their life goals.

Requirements

• Must be 21 years of age or older per DJJ guidelines.
• High school diploma or equivalent with a minimum of two years' relevant experience working with youth is required.
• Bachelor's degree in social/behavioral services or outdoor recreation specialties is preferred.
• 2+ years of college in a social or human services can substitute youth experience requirement.
• Direct care experience in a therapeutic/rehabilitative setting preferred.
• Ability to travel about property and through wilderness terrain.
• Must pass evaluation of crisis intervention/physical restraint techniques and written certification exam.
• Must be able to participate in aquatic activities.
• Ability to stand, sit, or walk for extended periods of time.
• Valid and appropriate driver's license or state identification is required.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience in outdoor recreation or related fields.
• Certification in first aid or CPR.

Benefits

• Low-cost medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• 19 days of paid time off in the first year.
• 11 paid holidays.
• Retirement savings plan with employer match up to 5%.
• Flexible spending accounts.
• Paid short-term and voluntary long-term disability.
• Group term life and AD&D insurance.
• Voluntary term life insurance.
• Meals provided when on duty.
• Advancement opportunities.
• Overtime availability.