Juvenile Correctional Counselor Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In our ever-evolving society, the need for dedicated Juvenile Correctional Counselors is increasingly important.

As societal dynamics shift and change, the demand for compassionate professionals who can guide, reform, and protect our juvenile offenders grows stronger.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a Juvenile Correctional Counselor?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core responsibilities of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the ideal candidate profile,
• Or simply curious about the intricacies of juvenile correctional counseling,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable Juvenile Correctional Counselor job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s get started.

Juvenile Correctional Counselor Duties and Responsibilities

Juvenile Correctional Counselors play a crucial role in the criminal justice system, working with young offenders to help them reform and reintegrate into society.

They utilize counseling techniques, assessment tools, and intervention strategies to assist in the rehabilitation process.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Working closely with juvenile offenders to develop and implement rehabilitation plans
• Evaluating the behavior and progress of each juvenile offender through observation and assessment
• Providing counseling and guidance to young offenders, helping them understand their behavior and its consequences
• Collaborating with psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, and other professionals to ensure the holistic care of the juvenile
• Ensuring the safety and security of juveniles within the correctional facility
• Working with the juvenile’s family, school, and community to create a supportive environment for reintegration
• Organizing and conducting group sessions on topics such as anger management, conflict resolution, and substance abuse prevention
• Documenting and maintaining records of each juvenile’s progress, activities, and behavior
• Assisting in court hearings by providing reports and recommendations regarding the juvenile’s progress
• Participating in ongoing training and professional development to stay up-to-date with changes in the field.

 

Juvenile Correctional Counselor Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated Juvenile Correctional Counselor to join our team.

The role involves working closely with juveniles within a correctional facility, providing guidance, support, and implementing treatment plans to aid in their rehabilitation.

The ideal candidate should have significant experience in counseling, a strong understanding of the juvenile justice system, and a dedication to improving the lives of young people in the system.

 

Responsibilities

• Provide counseling and guidance to juveniles within a correctional setting
• Develop and implement individualized treatment plans
• Conduct assessments and evaluations of juveniles’ mental health and behavioral patterns
• Coordinate with other staff members to ensure a safe and productive environment
• Help juveniles develop skills necessary for their reintegration into society
• Document and maintain accurate records of juveniles’ progress
• Participate in the development and review of facility policies and procedures
• Communicate regularly with family members and other relevant parties
• Maintain confidentiality of records and personal information as per legal and ethical standards
• Participate in ongoing professional development and training

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a counselor or similar role within a correctional or youth services setting
• Degree in Counseling, Social Work, Psychology, or related field
• Understanding of the juvenile justice system and related laws and regulations
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
• Ability to handle stressful and challenging situations with professionalism
• Knowledge of crisis intervention strategies
• Valid state license in counseling or social work

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Juvenile Correctional Counselor
• Work Environment: Correctional facility. Shift work may be required, including nights and weekends.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Correctional Facility Supervisor or Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $40,000 minimum to $65,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Juvenile Correctional Counselor Do?

Juvenile Correctional Counselors, also known as Juvenile Probation Officers or Youth Correctional Counselors, work in juvenile detention centers and correctional facilities.

Their primary responsibility is to guide and rehabilitate juveniles who have been convicted of criminal offenses.

Their day-to-day duties involve closely monitoring the behaviors of their wards and ensuring they abide by the rules set forth by the correctional facility.

They manage individual case files, keep track of inmate progress, and recommend rehabilitative services such as educational programs and counseling services.

Part of their role also involves conducting individual and group counseling sessions, helping the young offenders to understand and rectify their behaviors.

They may also involve the juveniles in various therapeutic activities that promote positive changes.

They work alongside other professionals in the criminal justice system, such as psychologists, social workers, and legal personnel, to create effective treatment plans.

Juvenile Correctional Counselors play a significant role in preparing the juveniles for reintegration into society after their release.

They conduct risk assessments, arrange for transitional housing, and provide resources for employment and education.

Lastly, they maintain communication with the juvenile’s family and provide them with updates on their ward’s progress and any potential issues that might arise.

They also help families access community resources that will support the juvenile’s return to society.

 

Juvenile Correctional Counselor Qualifications and Skills

A Juvenile Correctional Counselor should have the skills and qualifications that align with the responsibilities of managing and rehabilitating young offenders, which include:

• Strong understanding of the juvenile justice system and relevant laws, regulations, and ethical considerations.
• Exceptional interpersonal skills to build trust and rapport with juveniles, often from diverse backgrounds and with complex needs.
• Advanced communication skills to effectively convey information to the youths, their families, and other professionals, and to write detailed reports and case notes.
• Problem-solving skills to handle crisis situations and conflict resolution, and to devise and implement behavior modification plans.
• Empathy and patience to understand and address the struggles that juveniles face, while also setting and enforcing boundaries and rules.
• Resilience and stress management skills to cope with challenging situations and potentially aggressive behavior.
• Counseling skills for individual and group therapy, and knowledge of therapeutic models and techniques suitable for adolescents.
• Knowledge of community resources and programs to aid in the reintegration of juveniles into society.

 

Juvenile Correctional Counselor Experience Requirements

Juvenile Correctional Counselors are typically required to have a Bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, psychology, social work, or a related field.

During their studies, they are exposed to the theoretical and practical aspects of their future role, often through internships or placements at correctional facilities or social service agencies.

Entry-level positions may require up to 2 years of relevant experience, often gained through internships or part-time roles in youth counseling or correctional facilities.

These roles expose professionals to the dynamics of working with juveniles and helping them deal with their issues.

Candidates with 3 to 5 years of experience often have worked in full-time roles as Juvenile Correctional Counselors or similar roles such as Youth Worker or Probation Officer.

These roles allow the professionals to gain valuable hands-on experience in dealing with a variety of situations, further developing their counseling and crisis management skills.

Those with more than 5 years of experience may have developed some leadership skills and could be ready for roles such as Lead Juvenile Correctional Counselor or Supervisor.

They may have also gained the necessary experience to deal with more complex cases, including managing repeat offenders and working on rehabilitation programs.

Some positions may require a Master’s degree in Counseling or related field along with appropriate certifications.

 

Juvenile Correctional Counselor Education and Training Requirements

Juvenile Correctional Counselors usually require a bachelor’s degree in social work, psychology, criminal justice, or a related field.

They also need to have a strong foundation in the principles of psychology, sociology, and criminal justice, particularly as they apply to the behaviors and needs of juvenile offenders.

Some positions, especially those in higher-level or specialized roles, may require a master’s degree in social work, counseling, or a related field.

This higher level of education often equips counselors with a deeper understanding of the issues faced by this population and more effective intervention strategies.

Most states require Juvenile Correctional Counselors to be licensed or certified, which typically involves completing a certain number of supervised hours in the field and passing a state-administered examination.

Some professionals in this field may also pursue additional training or certifications in areas such as substance abuse counseling, crisis intervention, or youth development.

Continuing education is encouraged to stay updated on the latest research and best practices in juvenile justice and counseling.

 

Juvenile Correctional Counselor Salary Expectations

A Juvenile Correctional Counselor earns an average salary of $51,395 (USD) per year.

However, the actual earnings can vary significantly based on factors such as the individual’s level of experience, educational qualifications, geographical location, and the specific policies of the employing institution.

 

Juvenile Correctional Counselor Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Juvenile Correctional Counselor need?

Juvenile Correctional Counselors need strong communication and interpersonal skills to deal with adolescents and their families effectively.

They should possess crisis management skills, conflict resolution skills, and a deep understanding of the psychology of adolescents.

They also need to be patient, empathetic, and resilient.

 

What qualifications do Juvenile Correctional Counselors need?

Juvenile Correctional Counselors typically require a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, social work, psychology, or a related field.

Some positions might require a master’s degree.

They also need to be licensed, which usually requires passing a state-administered exam.

 

What should you look for in a Juvenile Correctional Counselor resume?

The resume should highlight their education and any experience they have in counseling, specifically with juveniles.

Look for any internships or volunteer work related to this field.

In addition, certifications in counseling, crisis intervention, or juvenile justice can be a bonus.

 

What qualities make a good Juvenile Correctional Counselor?

A good Juvenile Correctional Counselor should have a genuine desire to help troubled youths.

They should be patient, understanding, and resilient.

They should be able to build trust and rapport with the juveniles, and should have excellent problem-solving skills.

They must be able to handle stressful situations and make quick decisions.

 

What are the daily duties of a Juvenile Correctional Counselor?

A Juvenile Correctional Counselor starts their day by reviewing any case updates and planning for scheduled counseling sessions.

They meet with juveniles individually or in groups, conducting therapeutic interventions.

They also interact with family members and other stakeholders, providing updates, and discussing progress.

They may also be responsible for maintaining accurate case records and developing individual treatment plans.

 

Is it challenging to hire Juvenile Correctional Counselors?

Yes, hiring Juvenile Correctional Counselors can be challenging as it requires specific skills, education, and the right temperament.

It’s crucial to find individuals who are passionate about working with troubled youth and are ready to handle potentially stressful and demanding situations.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve unlocked the true essence of being a juvenile correctional counselor.

And guess what?

It’s not just about maintaining order.

It’s about nurturing troubled youths and steering them towards a brighter future, one day at a time.

With our go-to juvenile correctional counselor job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to take on this rewarding journey.

But why stop there?

Take a deeper plunge with our job description generator. It’s your next step to creating perfect job listings or polishing your resume to shine amongst others.

Remember:

Every interaction with a juvenile is a step towards changing their life.

Let’s make a difference. Together.

How to Become a Juvenile Correctional Counselor (Complete Guide)

Effortless Income: Easy Jobs That Are Secretly Lucrative!

Fascinatingly Freaky: The Strangest Jobs You Never Thought Existed

Life’s Too Short for a Bad Job: High-Paying Remote Opportunities!

The Gleeful Gig: Enjoyable Jobs That Keep the Fun Alive