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At Risk Youth Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Youth Addictions Counselor

Gary, IN

$45K - $60K/yr

Experience providing outreach and support services to at-risk youth. * Bilingual abilities are preferred. SUPERVISED BY: Hired, supervised, and evaluated by the Director of Family and Youth.

Youth Addictions Counselor

Gary, IN

$45K - $60K/yr

Experience providing outreach and support services to at-risk youth. Bilingual abilities are preferred. SUPERVISED BY: Hired, supervised, and evaluated by the Director of Family and Youth. EMPLOYEES ...

Experience working with at-risk youth and families * Proficient in Microsoft Office and basic computer skills * Reliable transportation, valid driver's license, and current auto insurance is required.

Advocate

Chicago, IL · On-site

$16.60/hr

Experience working with at-risk youth * Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite. * Excellent written and verbal communication skills. * Reliable transportation, valid driver's license, and auto ...

Experience working with at-risk youth and families * Proficient in Microsoft Office and basic computer skills * Reliable transportation, valid driver's license, and current auto insurance is required.

Youth Addictions Clinician

Gary, IN · On-site

$54K - $71K/yr

Experience providing outreach and support services to at-risk youth. * Familiarity with electronic health records (EHR) systems. * Bilingual abilities are preferred. SUPERVISED BY: Hired, supervised ...

Our programs, including Casa Corazón (Drop-In and Emergency Beds) and Solid Ground Supportive Housing, aim to transform the lives of homeless and at-risk youth (ages 16-24) by providing them with ...

Experience working one-on-one with at-risk youth involved in the juvenile justice system. * Ability to display sensitivity and responsiveness to cultural differences present in the service population.

Showing results 21-40

At Risk Youth information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$14

$31

$76

How much do at risk youth jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for at risk youth in Chicago, IL is $31.28, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.10 and $39.90 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are at-risk youth?

At-risk youth are young people who are considered to have a higher probability of facing negative outcomes due to various risk factors in their lives. These factors may include poverty, exposure to violence, family instability, substance abuse, academic challenges, or involvement with the juvenile justice system. Being 'at risk' does not guarantee negative outcomes, but it means these youth may need additional support, resources, and guidance to overcome barriers and reach their full potential.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working with at-risk youth, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals working with at-risk youth often encounter challenges such as building trust with individuals who may have experienced trauma, managing behavioral issues, and navigating complex family dynamics. Addressing these challenges requires strong communication skills, patience, and ongoing training in trauma-informed care. Collaboration with multidisciplinary teams—including counselors, social workers, and educators—can provide comprehensive support and help professionals develop effective intervention strategies.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a youth counselor working with at-risk youth, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Youth Counselor for at-risk youth, you need a background in psychology, social work, or counseling, often supported by a relevant degree and state licensure. Familiarity with case management software, behavioral assessment tools, and crisis intervention techniques is typically required. Outstanding soft skills include patience, active listening, cultural sensitivity, and the ability to build trust and rapport. These skills help counselors effectively support vulnerable youth, promote positive outcomes, and navigate challenging situations safely and ethically.

What is the difference between At Risk Youth vs Youth Counselor?

AspectAt Risk YouthYouth Counselor
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require certifications in youth workHigh school diploma; often requires certification or degree in counseling or social work
Work EnvironmentCommunity programs, schools, juvenile facilitiesSchools, community centers, counseling offices
Employer & Industry UsageNonprofit organizations, government agencies, schoolsEducational institutions, mental health agencies, social services
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

At Risk Youth refers to young individuals facing challenges such as poverty, family issues, or behavioral problems. Youth Counselors work directly with these youth to provide guidance, support, and intervention. While both roles focus on supporting youth, At Risk Youth is a demographic or target group, whereas Youth Counselor is a professional role aimed at assisting that group.

What are popular job titles related to At Risk Youth jobs in Chicago, IL?

For At Risk Youth jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching At Risk Youth jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for At Risk Youth jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for At Risk Youth jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most At Risk Youth job openings:

Infographic showing various At Risk Youth job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 62% Full Time, and 38% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $65,053 per year, or $31.3 per hour.

$45K - $60K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 22 days ago


Job description

JOB TITLE: Youth Addictions Counselor

JOB SUMMARY: The Youth Addictions Counselor works with adolescents struggling with substance abuse issues, providing individual and group counseling sessions, assessing their needs, developing personalized treatment plans, educating them on addiction, and collaborating with families and schools to support their recovery process, often focusing on prevention and early intervention strategies.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Conducting comprehensive assessments to identify the extent of substance use, underlying mental health issues, and risk factors in young clients.
  • Developing individualized treatment plans tailored to each youth's needs, including goals, interventions, and coping mechanisms.
  • Providing individual and group therapy sessions to address substance use behaviors, build healthy coping skills, and promote positive lifestyle changes.
  • Engaging with parents or guardians to educate them about addiction, provide support, and involve them in the treatment process.
  • Conducting presentations and workshops in schools and community settings to raise awareness about substance abuse prevention.
  • Responding to crisis situations related to substance use and providing immediate support.
  • Collaborating with school counselors, social workers, medical providers, and legal professionals to coordinate care and address complex needs.
  • Maintaining detailed client records, progress notes, and reports as required by agency and regulatory standards.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Proven experience working with adolescents and understanding their development needs.
  • Experience providing individual and group therapy sessions in a clinic setting.
  • Experience leading substance abuse prevention programs within schools.
  • Experience working with adolescents involved in the legal system.
  • Experience providing outreach and support services to at-risk youth.
  • Bilingual abilities are preferred.

SUPERVISED BY: Hired, supervised, and evaluated by the Director of Family and Youth.

EMPLOYEES SUPERVISED: N/A.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Education -bachelor's degree in counseling, Psychology, Social Work, or related field.
  • Licensure/Certification: Indiana LAC, or equivalent addiction certification preferred.
  • Ability to build rapport with young people, listen actively, and communicate effectively with clients, families, and colleagues.
  • Knowledge of evidence-based counseling approaches for substance abuse treatment, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).
  • Excellent communication and crisis intervention skills.
  • Ability to work effectively with diverse populations and within a multidisciplinary team.
  • Appropriate automobile insurance and valid license plates.

TYPICAL PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

  • Occasional standing, walking, lifting, reaching, kneeling, bending, stooping, pushing, and pulling.
  • Occasional lifting and/or moving up to twenty-five (25) pounds.