Career Counselor

Career Counselor / Education Specialist

Are you passionate about helping young adults overcome barriers, discover career paths, and build the skills needed for long-term success? Join us at OPI Houston as a Career Specialist in our Transitional Living Program in Stafford, TX, where you'll have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of young adults aged 18-28. As a Career Counselor / Education Specialist, you'll provide one-on-one coaching and engaging group instruction that supports young adults through every stage of the employment and volunteer journey—from exploration and applications to placement and retention. You'll use a trauma-informed, strengths-based approach to help clients build confidence, practice workplace skills, and achieve goals aligned with their broader treatment plans. Working within a transitional living and behavioral health setting, you'll partner with the treatment team to help clients achieve employment goals that support long-term independence and recovery.

Responsibilities

• Provide one-on-one career coaching to young adults, helping them explore career options, set goals, and build job readiness skills.
• Conduct career and vocational assessments and develop individualized employment plans that align with treatment and independent living goals.
• Lead workshops focused on resume development, interviewing, job search strategies, workplace communication, professionalism, and career exploration.
• Coordinate volunteer opportunities, job shadowing experiences, internships, and community-based employment connections throughout Fort Bend County.
• Support participants through the employment process, including applications, interview preparation, onboarding, and job retention planning.
• Track participant progress, maintain timely documentation, and collaborate with clinical and program staff to support successful outcomes.
• Build relationships with local employers, community organizations, and workforce partners to expand opportunities for young adults.

Qualifications

• Age: 21 years of age or older
• Education: Bachelors Degree in Education, Mental Health, Occupational Therapy, or related discipline required.
• Experience in working with at-risk youth or young adults.
• Previous experience teaching, coaching, or training individuals in life skills, education, behavioral health, or similar settings preferred.
• High level of communication skills, with the ability to clearly explain concepts, actively listen, and build trust with diverse populations.
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to engage, motivate, and support individuals in both one-on-one and group settings.
• Patience, empathy, and a genuine passion for helping others develop independence and confidence.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team.
• Skilled in teaching and motivating young adults.
• Must pass pre-employment drug screen and federal and state background check in concordance with Texas state laws.

Benefits

• Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance – Multiple plan options including PPO and HDHPs with HSA eligibility and company contributions.
• Paid Parental Leave – Up to 6 weeks fully paid for exempt employees and 4 weeks for non-exempt.
• Life & Disability Coverage – Company-paid life, AD&D, and long-term disability; voluntary life and optional short-term disability available.
• 401(k) with Company Match – Retirement savings with matching contributions after eligibility period.
• PTO & Holidays – Competitive PTO accrual plans and paid holidays throughout the year.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) – Free, confidential support for life's challenges.

OPI is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. We are committed to enriching the therapeutic and healing experience we offer through the diversity of our employees and community. We actively seek to recruit and support a broadly diverse staff who contribute to our excellence, diversity of viewpoints and experiences, and relevance in a global society.

OPI does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, veteran status, or any other protected status under applicable laws.