A Youth Counselor or Worker works with young people, primarily ages 13-18, to provide mentoring and support for dealing with problems. Works in a school or community-based program; may assist with referrals from parole or probation offices. Collaborates with teachers, family members, social workers and health care professionals to help young people facing challenges or crises.
Company Overview The Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services is dedicated to improving the lives and health of Nebraskans through compassionate, community-focused services. Our mission, "Helping people live better lives," drives us to support vulnerable populations, promote mental health, and ensure access to quality care across the state. Overview At the Youth Rehabilitation and Treatment Center in Kearney, we're not just about words - we're about action! Our Youth Program Specialists & Supervisor drive the transformation, inspiring youth to believe in themselves and the endless possibilities ahead. Together, let's empower youth to embrace their strengths and chart a course to success. Why This Work Matters You'll walk alongside youth with complex behaviors on their journey toward healing, growth, and stability. Through structure, mentorship, and compassion, you'll help youth develop the skills and mindset needed to become successful, law-abiding citizens.
Our Mission:
"Help youth live better lives through effective services, giving youth the chance to become law-abiding citizens." If you're passionate about positively influencing future generations, this is your opportunity to be part of something bigger. What We Offer We support the people who support our youth. Enjoy outstanding benefits, job security, and a team that feels like family. 156% state-matched retirement — one of the best in the nation 13 paid holidays + generous leave starting immediately Medical, dental, and vision insurance $20,000 employer-paid life insurance Tuition reimbursement & professional development Employee Assistance Program (EAP) Fun, mission-driven, and supportive team environment Job stability in public service As a Youth Counselor Supervisor, you will: Provide direct supervision, leadership, and support to Youth Counselors. Plan, assign, direct, and evaluate staff work to ensure effective service delivery. Participate in personnel activities, including employee selection, performance management, promotions, disciplinary processes, grievances, and work assignments. Train and coach staff on facility policies, procedures, rules, regulations, treatment practices, and job expectations. Monitor staff training requirements and ensure required training is completed. Review youth assessments and individualized treatment plans to ensure appropriate needs, goals, and services are identified. Help coordinate treatment services, including assessment, classification, available resources, and service evaluation. Monitor the safety, security, health, and well-being of youth assigned to the facility. Assist staff in resolving challenges related to individualized treatment plans and treatment objectives. Conduct individual or group counseling sessions with youth when necessary. Interview youth and review their histories and backgrounds to assist with classification, treatment, and service planning. Communicate and collaborate with parents and guardians, Juvenile Service Officers, legal professionals, community organizations, and other state and social service agencies. Ensure counseling and treatment services provided to youth are thorough, accurate, and consistent with facility expectations. Review program and organizational functions and recommend opportunities to improve services, practices, and operations. Participate in parole and discharge planning to help youth successfully transition from the facility. Promote positive relationships and understanding between the facility, community partners, and other stakeholders.
Knowledge & Skills That Help You Succeed:
Lead, motivate, develop, and hold staff accountable. Effectively manage staff assignments and workloads. Make sound decisions in challenging or rapidly changing situations. Exercise maturity, objectivity, professionalism, and good judgment. Communicate clearly and professionally, both verbally and in writing. Build effective working relationships with youth, employees, administrators, families, legal professionals, and community partners. Recognize and respond appropriately to youth behavior and individual needs. Apply problem-solving and conflict-resolution techniques in a variety of situations. Work effectively within established policies, procedures, rules, and regulations. Maintain high standards for youth safety, treatment, documentation, and staff performance.
Minimum Qualifications:
Bachelor's degree in criminal justice, behavioral sciences, human services, or a related field, AND at least two years of related experience, such as providing patient or youth care, rehabilitation services, or treatment services in a residential, treatment, or correctional program. OR at least six years of related experience. Any equivalent combination of education and experience will be considered.
Other:
This position requires proficiency in English, including the ability to read, write, speak, and comprehend the language effectively. Must possess a valid driver's license. Hiring rate for the position starts at $ 33.167/hour.
Work shifts:
10 am - 6 pm Join us to make a meaningful difference by leading a dedicated team committed to transforming young lives through innovative behavioral health services!
