Title: Youth Counselor
Location: Hudson County, NJ (Guttenberg, Jersey City & community-based sites)
Employment Type: Full Time (Contract - 7 months)
Compensation: $65,000 annually

Program Overview

This program supports Hudson County youth ages 10-24 and their families as they transition from detention, residential care, or court involvement back into the community. Referrals come from the Hudson County Family Court, Municipal Truancy Court, Juvenile Probation, and the Hudson County Partnership CMO.

Through mentoring, advocacy, skill-building, and wraparound supports, the program reduces recidivism and helps youth build stability and long-term self-sufficiency. Services include group and individual sessions, intensive case management, family support, and specialized activities like Cook, Eat & Talk-a weekly shared meal where youth cook together, discuss challenges, and learn about wellness, resources, and crisis supports.

Additional programming includes workshops on anger management, healthy relationships, internet safety, drug prevention, workforce development, financial literacy, and gender-affirming support groups. Outings and trips provide enrichment, team building, and positive peer engagement.

Position Summary

The Youth Counselor will engage youth and families, complete intakes, and create Individualized Service Plans (ISPs). Responsibilities include:

• Facilitating weekly group mentoring sessions (ages 10-17) and Cook, Eat & Talk gatherings.
• Providing one-on-one mentoring, case management, and advocacy for youth and families ages 10-24.
• Supporting participants with reentry, transportation, referrals, and barrier reduction.
• Delivering age-appropriate education on life skills, conflict resolution, workforce readiness, and wellness.
• Coordinating trips, excursions, and enrichment opportunities.
• Maintaining accurate records in the required timeframe and collaborating with referral partners.
  

Qualifications

• Bachelor's in Social Work, Psychology, Counseling, Youth Development, or related field (Master's preferred).
• 2+ years working with at-risk or justice-involved youth (10-24).
• Experience in group facilitation and one-on-one mentoring.
• Strong cultural competence and commitment to serving Black and Hispanic youth.
• Flexible schedule (with services provided some evenings and Saturdays)

Benefits:

At the Center for Family Services our employees are our greatest resource and we are committed to investing in our staff. We offer a competitive benefits package as well as ongoing resources that will support staff on their personal and professional journey.*

• Sick pay and personal time off
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Health & Wellness Activities
• Ongoing Training & Professional Development Opportunities
• Opportunity for advancement

About Employment at Center For Family Services Apply and get hired at Center For Family Services, a leader in the non-profit sector and named as a top workplace in the region since 2010. As part of our team, you will be recognized as our most valuable resource. Our staff balance best practices with personalized care. Together our team makes a positive difference in the lives of people in need. If you're interested in a rewarding career, Center For Family Services is a great place to grow as a professional. For more information about our top workplace, please visit Center For Family Services website at www.centerffs.org.

*positions require pre-employment drug screening and criminal record checks. Many positions require motor vehicle record evaluations and medical clearances. Center For Family Services is an equal opportunity employer offering competitive salaries and excellent benefits packages.