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Entry Level Youth Counselor Jobs in Rio Rancho, NM

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Entry Level Youth Counselor information

See Rio Rancho, NM salary details

$9

$18

$29

How much do entry level youth counselor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level youth counselor in Rio Rancho, NM is $18.78, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.14 and $21.68 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an entry level youth counselor do?

An entry level youth counselor works with children and adolescents to provide support, guidance, and supervision in various settings such as schools, group homes, or community centers. Their responsibilities often include facilitating group activities, assisting with conflict resolution, monitoring behavior, and helping young people develop coping and social skills. Entry level youth counselors typically work under the supervision of more experienced counselors and may assist in creating and implementing treatment or intervention plans. The role requires strong communication, empathy, and the ability to connect with youth from diverse backgrounds.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level youth counselor, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Youth Counselor, you typically need a background in psychology, social work, or a related field, often supported by a relevant degree or coursework. Familiarity with case management software, documentation procedures, and crisis intervention protocols is commonly required. Strong communication, patience, and conflict resolution skills help build trust and effectively support at-risk youth. These abilities are crucial for fostering positive youth development and ensuring a safe and supportive environment.

What is the difference between Entry Level Youth Counselor vs Youth Support Specialist?

AspectEntry Level Youth CounselorYouth Support Specialist
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require CPR/First Aid certificationHigh school diploma; certifications vary, often including CPR/First Aid
Work EnvironmentSchools, community centers, juvenile facilitiesCommunity programs, social service agencies, schools
Employer & Industry UsageNonprofits, government agencies, schoolsSocial services, youth programs, nonprofits
Common Search & Comparison IntentYesYes

Entry Level Youth Counselors and Youth Support Specialists often share similar roles in supporting youth in community and educational settings. While both may require similar certifications and work in related environments, Youth Support Specialists may focus more on case management and resource coordination, whereas Youth Counselors typically emphasize direct counseling and mentorship. Understanding these distinctions can help job seekers identify the best fit for their skills and career goals.

What are some typical challenges faced by entry level youth counselors, and how can they be managed?

Entry level youth counselors often encounter challenges such as building rapport with diverse youth, managing group dynamics, and responding to behavioral issues. These challenges can be managed by actively listening, maintaining consistent boundaries, and collaborating closely with more experienced team members for guidance. Regular supervision, ongoing training, and open communication within the team are vital for professional growth and effective support of the youth.

What qualifications do I need to be an entry level youth counselor?

Entry level youth counselors typically need a high school diploma or equivalent; some positions prefer or require a college degree in social work, psychology, or a related field. Additionally, they often need CPR and first aid certification, and strong communication and interpersonal skills are essential for working with youth and families.
What are the most commonly searched types of Youth Counselor jobs in Rio Rancho, NM? The most popular types of Youth Counselor jobs in Rio Rancho, NM are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Youth Counselor jobs in Rio Rancho, NM? For Entry Level Youth Counselor jobs in Rio Rancho, NM, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Youth Counselor jobs in Rio Rancho, NM look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Youth Counselor jobs in Rio Rancho, NM are:
What cities near Rio Rancho, NM are hiring for Entry Level Youth Counselor jobs? Cities near Rio Rancho, NM with the most Entry Level Youth Counselor job openings:
Entry Level Youth Counselor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Youth Counselor job openings in Rio Rancho, NM as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,053 per year, or $18.8 per hour.

Family Services Assistant I - Head Start

Presbyterian Medical Services

Bernalillo, NM • On-site

$16.63 - $22.34/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 29 days ago

Presbyterian Medical Services rating

6.0

Company rating: 6.0 out of 10

Based on 12 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

PAY RANGE: $16.63 - $22.34 hourly, dependent upon education

JOB CATEGORY: EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION / FAMILY SUPPORT SERVICES / CHILDHOOD DEVELOPMENT

POSITION SUMMARY: This position supports and assists families as they identify and meet their own goals, to nurture the development of their children in the context of their family and culture, and advocates for communities that are supportive of children and families of all cultures. May be reassigned to various caseloads or centers/sites as deemed necessary for program operations.

REQUIREMENTS

EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE:

  • High school diploma / GED and is required to complete a 45 hour entry level course or an approved three credit early care and education course or equivalent approved by the New Mexico Children Youth & Families Department prior to or within six months of hire AND within 18 months of hire receives a credential or certification in social work, human services, family services, counseling or related field; OR
  • High school diploma / GED and a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential, a New Mexico Child Development Certificate (CDC), or equivalent AND within 18 months of hire receives a credential or certification in social work, human services, family services, counseling or related field; OR
  • One year certificate in Early Childhood Education AND within 18 months of hire receives a credential or certification in social work, human services, family services, counseling or related field; OR
  • AA/AAS or BA/BS degree in Human Services, Early Childhood Education, Child Development, Family Studies, Social Work, Counseling, or related field. A degree is considered related only when it includes six or more courses in one of the above mentioned fields.
  • Experience working with families in case management or resource and referral preferred.

  • Bilingual Spanish or Navajo preferred.

CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS:

  • Have or be able to obtain First Aid and BLS/CPR certifications within 30 days of hire. Certifications must meet the requirements listed in the document "BLS / CPR / ACLS & First Aid Training Resources" posted on Staurolite. It is your responsibility to keep your certifications current at all times.

SCREENING REQUIREMENTS:

This position requires successful completion of an initial post-offer of employment:

  • Health exam (and annually thereafter in accordance with PMS Policies).
  • TB Test (and upon exposure in accordance with PMS Policies). 

In accordance with the federal Head Start Act, Section 648A(g) and the New Mexico Administrative Code 8.8.3., this position requires:

  • Criminal Background Checks.

DRIVING REQUIREMENTS:

  • May be required to use personal transportation to carry out job duties.
  • Must possess and maintain a valid Driver's License.
  • Must provide a current motor vehicle record.
  • Must provide current personal owner liability automobile insurance and must maintain the insurance coverage throughout the course of employment in this position.
  • Must submit to a motor vehicle record check on an as needed basis and maintain a satisfactory driving record that is within the limitations of PMS Human Resources Policy II.D.3, Automobile Usage, and applicable state and federal laws.
  • Must comply with PMS Policies on Automobile Usage, II.D.3, Drug Free
  • Workplace, III.H and applicable state and federal laws.
  • May be required to complete transportation related trainings.

$100 EMPLOYEE REFERRAL BONUS

BONUSES

  • All bonuses are subject to tax withholding and eligibility requirements

ABOUT PMS

  • Founded in 1969, PMS is a non-profit organization with over 1,300 employees providing services at 100+ locations in New Mexico.
  • Our diverse services include primary care, dental, behavioral health, early childhood education, supportive living, and senior programs.
  • We concentrate our resources on meeting the needs of underserved areas of New Mexico.
  • We operate the largest network of federally qualified health centers in the state.
  • PMS is not affiliated with Presbyterian Healthcare Services, Presbyterian Hospitals or Presbyterian Health Plan.

WHY PMS?

  • Mission-driven organization
  • Competitive salaries
  • Nine paid holidays and generous PTO
  • Medical, dental & vision insurance 
  • Free Life & LTD coverage
  • Free discretionary pension plan contribution
  • Employee recognition and engagement activities
  • Robust training program
  • Tuition reimbursement

EOE/AA/M/F/SO/Vet/Disability

What Presbyterian Medical Services employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Presbyterian Medical Services logo

About Presbyterian Medical Services

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Presbyterian Medical Services, we believe that the best way to improve community health and wellbeing is for everyone to work together. That’s why we work collaboratively with community groups, school districts, local providers, hospitals, and governments at every level. Together, we develop programs and services that meet the needs of the people living within these communities, and we continue expanding into communities that invite our involvement.

Industry

Hospitals

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Sante Fe, NM, US

Year founded

1969

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