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Working With At Risk Youth Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Youth Counselor

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$12 - $14/hr

One year experience working with at risk youth, preferably in a residential setting or 2 years of Military experience with Honorable Discharge. Benefits • Medical, Dental, Vision, and Life ...

At least three (3) years of college and at least 3 months of experience working with high-risk youth OR At least three and a half (3.5) years of experience working with high-risk youth Additional ...

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Working With At Risk Youth information

See Iowa salary details

$13

$28

$69

How much do working with at risk youth jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for working with at risk youth in Iowa is $28.49, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.27 and $36.35 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Working With At Risk Youth vs Working With Juvenile Offenders?

AspectWorking With At Risk YouthWorking With Juvenile Offenders
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require a degree in social work or related fieldHigh school diploma or equivalent; often requires specialized training or certifications in juvenile justice
Work EnvironmentSchools, community centers, youth programsJuvenile detention centers, correctional facilities
Employer & Industry UsageNonprofits, schools, community organizationsCorrectional institutions, juvenile justice agencies
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles in youth support and preventionFocus on juvenile justice and rehabilitation

Working With At Risk Youth involves supporting young individuals in community settings to prevent negative outcomes, while Working With Juvenile Offenders focuses on rehabilitating youth within correctional facilities. Both roles require similar credentials but differ mainly in work environment and focus, catering to different stages of youth intervention.

What are some of the most common challenges faced by professionals working with at-risk youth, and how are these challenges typically addressed within the team?

Professionals working with at-risk youth often encounter challenges such as building trust, managing behavioral issues, and addressing the diverse emotional needs of young people. These challenges are typically addressed through consistent communication, trauma-informed care practices, and collaboration with multidisciplinary teams that may include counselors, social workers, and educators. Regular team meetings and training sessions help staff share strategies, discuss difficult cases, and provide mutual support, ensuring a coordinated and compassionate approach to each individual's needs.

What does it mean to work with at-risk youth?

Working with at-risk youth involves supporting young people who face significant challenges such as poverty, abuse, neglect, behavioral issues, or unstable home environments. Professionals in this field strive to provide guidance, mentorship, and resources to help these individuals overcome obstacles and achieve their potential. The work often includes counseling, educational support, crisis intervention, and developing positive relationships to foster resilience and growth.

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

To thrive in a role working with at-risk youth, you need a background in social work, psychology, or education, often supported by a relevant degree or certification. Familiarity with case management software, trauma-informed care practices, and behavior intervention systems is typically required. Strong communication, patience, cultural sensitivity, and the ability to build trust are essential soft skills in this field. These skills and qualities enable professionals to effectively support, guide, and empower vulnerable youth toward positive outcomes.
What are popular job titles related to Working With At Risk Youth jobs in Iowa? For Working With At Risk Youth jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Working With At Risk Youth jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Working With At Risk Youth jobs in Iowa are:
Infographic showing various Working With At Risk Youth job openings in Iowa as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,267 per year, or $28.5 per hour.

$12 - $14/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

We are passionate about what we do and delight in providing excellent programs that make permanent, positive changes in the lives of those we serve. Our programs are designed to equip our clients with the vision, motivation, life skills, education, and self-discipline necessary to lead a successful life.
Woodward Community Based Services Has Immediate Openings Part Time and Full Time Youth Counselor!
Through a continuum of services, Woodward Community Based Services, a division of Sequel Youth and Family Services, provides education, counseling and supervision to individuals and families in their home community. Our professionals work in conjunction with local resources to develop a strength-based plan to support success for our consumers. Services include:
  • Re-entry services
  • Tracking and Monitoring services
  • Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services
  • School-Based Services
  • Wrap-Around Services
  • Individual & Group Skill Development

Position Overview:.
  • Supervise youth in activities in order to observe or effect changes in their social behavior.
  • Maintain the security of the facility and grounds.
  • Stimulate interest and cooperation in individual and group settings, observe youth behavior in response to treatment efforts and visitation.
  • Prepare periodic and special evaluations on assigned youth, report significant changes in social behavior and make recommendations for changes in assignments.
  • Provide crisis intervention with clients.
  • Give basic instruction in work, recreation and housekeeping activities.
  • Communicate orally and in writing all appropriate reports and information, both within the unit and to relevant outside agencies.

Job Requirements:
  • HS Diploma or GED.
  • One year experience working with at risk youth, preferably in a residential setting or 2 years of Military experience with Honorable Discharge.

Benefits
• Medical, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance after thirty day
• Company provided Short Term and Long Term Disability
• Company provided AD&D insurance
• Flexible Spending program
• 401K after sixty days
• Excellent paid time off for a balance of work/life
Sequel Youth & Family Services is an Equal Opportunity and Veteran Friendly employer.