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Youth Program Counselor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Program Counselor

Bronx, NY · On-site

$90K - $100K/yr

The Division of Youth and Family Justice (DYFJ) provides a wide range of services and programs for ... The Program Counselor will report to a Secure Detention and be responsible for performing the ...

Program Counselor

Bronx, NY · On-site

$90K - $100K/yr

The Division of Youth and Family Justice (DYFJ) provides a wide range of services and programs for ... The Program Counselor will be responsible for performing the following duties but not limited to ...

Program Counselor

Brooklyn, NY · On-site

$90K - $100K/yr

The Division of Youth and Family Justice (DYFJ) provides a wide range of services and programs for ... The Program Counselor will report to a Secure Detention and be responsible for performing the ...

Program Counselor

Brooklyn, NY · On-site

$62K - $72K/yr

The Division of Youth and Family Justice (DYFJ) provides a wide range of services and programs for ... The Program Counselor will report to a Secure Detention and be responsible for performing the ...

Program Counselor

Bronx, NY · On-site

$62K - $72K/yr

The Division of Youth and Family Justice (DYFJ) provides a wide range of services and programs for ... The Program Counselor will be responsible for performing the following duties but not limited to ...

Program Counselor

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$90K - $100K/yr

The Division of Youth and Family Justice (DYFJ) provides a wide range of services and programs for ... The Program Counselor will report to a Secure Detention and be responsible for performing the ...

Program Counselor

Bronx, NY · On-site

$62K - $72K/yr

The Division of Youth and Family Justice (DYFJ) provides a wide range of services and programs for ... The Program Counselor will report to a Secure Detention and be responsible for performing the ...

Program Counselor

Brooklyn, NY · On-site

$62K - $72K/yr

The Division of Youth and Family Justice (DYFJ) provides a wide range of services and programs for ... The Program Counselor will report to a Secure Detention and be responsible for performing the ...

Program Counselor

Bronx, NY · On-site

$62K - $72K/yr

The Division of Youth and Family Justice (DYFJ) provides a wide range of services and programs for ... The Program Counselor will report to a Secure Detention and be responsible for performing the ...

Program Counselor

Bronx, NY · On-site

$62K - $72K/yr

The Division of Youth and Family Justice (DYFJ) provides a wide range of services and programs for ... The Program Counselor will report to a Secure Detention and be responsible for performing the ...

Program Counselor

Brooklyn, NY · On-site

$90K - $100K/yr

The Division of Youth and Family Justice (DYFJ) provides a wide range of services and programs for ... The Program Counselor will report to a Secure Detention and be responsible for performing the ...

Program Counselor

Brooklyn, NY · On-site

$62K - $72K/yr

The Division of Youth and Family Justice (DYFJ) provides a wide range of services and programs for ... The Program Counselor will report to a Secure Detention and be responsible for performing the ...

Arts Program Counselor

Brooklyn, NY · On-site

$62K - $72K/yr

The Division of Youth and Family Justice (DYFJ) provides a wide range of services and programs for ... The counselor will work closely with youth providing guidance, support, and a structured art ...

Recreation Program Counselor

Bronx, NY · On-site

$62K - $72K/yr

The Division of Youth and Family Justice (DYFJ) provides a wide range of services and programs for ... The Recreation Program Counselor at the Juvenile Detention Center is responsible for developing ...

Arts Program Counselor

Brooklyn, NY · On-site

$90K - $100K/yr

The Division of Youth and Family Justice (DYFJ) provides a wide range of services and programs for ... The counselor will work closely with youth providing guidance, support, and a structured art ...

Recreation Program Counselor

Bronx, NY · On-site

$62K - $72K/yr

The Division of Youth and Family Justice (DYFJ) provides a wide range of services and programs for ... The Recreation Program Counselor at the Juvenile Detention Center is responsible for developing ...

The Division of Youth and Family Justice (DYFJ) provides a wide range of services and programs for ... The counselor will work closely with youth providing guidance, support, and a structured art ...

Showing results 41-60

Youth Program Counselor information

See salary details

$10

$19

$31

How much do youth program counselor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for youth program counselor in the United States is $19.96, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.11 and $23.08 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a youth program counselor, and why are they important?

A Youth Program Counselor should possess a background in education, social work, or psychology, along with experience working with children or adolescents. Familiarity with behavior management tools, program planning software, and CPR/first aid certification are commonly required. Outstanding communication, leadership, and conflict resolution skills help counselors build trust and positive relationships with youth. These abilities are essential to create a safe, engaging environment that fosters youth development and well-being.

What is the difference between Youth Program Counselor vs Youth Camp Director?

AspectYouth Program CounselorYouth Camp Director
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma; some roles may require CPR certificationHigh school diploma; relevant experience; often CPR certification
Work EnvironmentSupervises youth in recreational, educational, or community settingsManages overall camp operations and staff, overseeing youth activities
Employer & Industry UsageNonprofit organizations, community centers, summer campsSummer camps, recreational organizations, youth programs
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for entry-level youth rolesHigher responsibility, but similar focus on youth engagement

The Youth Program Counselor typically works directly with youth, supervising activities and ensuring safety. The Youth Camp Director oversees the entire camp operation, managing staff and program logistics. While both roles require similar certifications and work in youth-focused environments, the counselor focuses on direct supervision, whereas the director handles overall management.

What are some common challenges youth program counselors face when working with diverse groups of young participants?

Youth Program Counselors often work with participants from varied backgrounds, each with unique needs and experiences. One common challenge is creating an inclusive environment that respects cultural differences while maintaining group cohesion. Counselors need to adapt communication styles, resolve conflicts constructively, and ensure all youth feel heard and supported. Building rapport and trust can take time, but it is essential for effective program delivery and positive youth development.

What is a youth program counselor?

Youth Program Counselors are professionals who work with children and teenagers in various settings, such as camps, community centers, schools, or afterschool programs. They are responsible for creating a safe, supportive, and engaging environment where young people can participate in recreational, educational, and social activities. Their duties often include planning and leading activities, providing guidance and mentorship, resolving conflicts, and ensuring the well-being of participants. Youth Program Counselors play a key role in promoting personal growth, social skills, and positive behavior among youth. They may also communicate with parents and guardians about the progress and needs of the participants.
More about Youth Program Counselor jobs
What job categories do people searching Youth Program Counselor jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Youth Program Counselor jobs are:
Infographic showing various Youth Program Counselor job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,520 per year, or $20 per hour.

$90K - $100K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 29 days ago


City Of New York rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 81 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

622nd of 845 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Company Description
Job Description
THE SELECTED CANDIDATE WILL BE OFFERED A SALARY BETWEEN $62,868.00 - $72,298.00
The Administration for Children's Services (ACS) protects and promotes the safety and well-being of children and families through child welfare and juvenile justice services and community supports. ACS manages community-based supports and foster care services, and provides subsidized child care vouchers. ACS child protection staff respond to allegations of child maltreatment. In juvenile justice, ACS oversees detention, placement and programs for youth in the community.
The Division of Youth and Family Justice (DYFJ) provides a wide range of services and programs for youth at every stage of the juvenile justice process. Our goals are to (a) build stronger and safer communities and advance public safety by preventing juveniles from entering the New York City's juvenile justice system, (b) provide therapeutic treatment and services to youth in our custodial care, and (c) help juveniles access the tools they need to leave the justice system for good. We strive to help families and young people by providing supportive services that are responsive to the needs of individual youth and families.
The Program Counselor will report to a Secure Detention and be responsible for performing the following duties but not limited to:
- Work closely with Youth Development Specialists, contracted providers, and the Department of Education to develop and implement cultural, educational, and recreational programming for all Secure Detention youth throughout the year, including monthly activities, workshops, and programs.
- Work directly with youth to develop and implement programs and activities that promote teamwork, leadership, problem-solving, and critical thinking.
- Build self-confidence in youth and contribute to violence reduction through activities and relationship-building.
- Encourage healthy lifestyles for youth through sports, physical exercise, and good nutrition.
- Support the facilities and contracted providers in implementing special projects, workshops, or other events as needed.
- Assess internal and external programs by observation, administering surveys to residents and staff, and other appropriate evaluation methods to provide feedback and recommendations for program improvement.
- Act as a liaison with DYFJ's contracted programs and contract management unit to ensure vendor clearance submission, tracking, and management, and certify that vendors comply with contracts.
- Develop monthly provider meetings and progress reports, and annual vendor performance evaluations.
- Develop and learn new programming modules and assist with training other staff and contracted providers to implement programming.
- Perform other duties as needed in relation to the youth's cultural, educational, and recreational needs.
Note: This work assignment is at a secure detention facility which is a 24/7 operation. The work schedule may include evening hours, Saturdays, Sundays, holidays, and mandatory overtime. Shift assignments are based on the needs of the agency
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
This position has been reposted. Previous applicants do not need to reapply.
Section 424-A of the New York Social Services Law requires an authorized agency to inquire whether a candidate for employment with child-caring responsibilities has been the subject of a child abuse and maltreatment report.
The Administration for Children's Services is an equal opportunity employer committed to providing access to all individuals. If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, please contact Simone Campbell at eeo.adacoordinator@acs.nyc.gov or 212-676-6955.
TO APPLY
Please go to www.cityjobs.nyc.gov or www.nyc.gov/ess for current NYC employees and search for Job ID #752758.
No phone calls, faxes or personal inquiries permitted.
Note: Only candidates under consideration will be contacted.
COMMUNITY COORDINATOR - 56058
Qualifications
1. A baccalaureate degree from an accredited college and two years of experience in community work or community centered activities in an area related to the duties described above; or
2. High school graduation or equivalent and six years of experience in community work or community centered activities in an area related to the duties as described above; or
3. Education and/or experience which is equivalent to "1" or "2" above. However, all candidates must have at least one year of experience as described in "1" above.
Additional Information
The City of New York is an inclusive equal opportunity employer committed to recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce and providing a work environment that is free from discrimination and harassment based upon any legally protected status or protected characteristic, including but not limited to an individual's sex, race, color, ethnicity, national origin, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, veteran status, gender identity, or pregnancy.

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