Youth Group worker

Overview The Middlesex County Youth Worker provides direct support, guidance, and supervision to youth involved in county programs and services. Under the direction of professional staff, the Youth Worker plans and conducts individual and group activities designed to promote positive behavior, personal growth, social development, and successful community adjustment. This position works closely with youth who may be experiencing behavioral, emotional, or social challenges, creating a safe, structured, and supportive environment where they can build positive relationships and develop constructive skills. Responsibilities include supervising daily activities, encouraging appropriate behavior, serving as a positive role model, documenting observations and activities, and supporting individualized goals and program expectations. The ideal candidate is patient, dependable, compassionate, and comfortable working with adolescents in a structured setting. This role offers an opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of young people while supporting Middlesex County’s commitment to safe, supportive, and effective youth services. Responsibilities Organize, supervise, and facilitate structured educational, recreational, social, and therapeutic activities for juveniles experiencing behavioral, emotional, and adjustment challenges. Participate in staff meetings and collaborate with team members to develop and implement individualized and group-based programs and interventions. Monitor, observe, and document individual and group behavior, interactions, progress, and responses to planned activities and interventions. Prepare accurate and timely reports documenting behavioral observations, incidents, progress, and other relevant information. Implement individualized plans and programs designed to support positive behavioral change, social development, emotional well-being, and successful adjustment. Conduct individual and group counseling sessions to address emotional, behavioral, interpersonal, and adjustment-related concerns. Utilize appropriate counseling and behavioral intervention techniques to assist juveniles in identifying challenges, developing coping strategies, and resolving personal problems. Promote personal accountability, self-awareness, decision-making skills, and a greater sense of responsibility toward self, peers, family, and the community. Establish and maintain positive, professional relationships with juveniles while providing structure, guidance, supervision, and appropriate behavioral support. Communicate and collaborate with parents, schools, community organizations, and other agencies, as appropriate, to coordinate services and support the needs of juveniles. Maintain accurate, confidential, and up-to-date records, case documentation, and files in accordance with agency policies and applicable requirements. Utilize electronic, computerized, and manual information-management and recordkeeping systems to document activities, maintain case information, and access relevant records. Perform related duties and responsibilities as assigned in support of program operations and the safety and well-being of juveniles. Qualifications Education: Graduation from an accredited college or university with a Bachelor's degree in Sociology, Psychology, or related fields. Graduation from an accredited college or university with a Master's degree in a related field may be substituted for experience. Experience: One (1) year of experience in professional counseling and guidance or in professional work in the fields of teaching, social welfare, or medical social services. The anticipated starting base pay for this position is: $55,000-$62,500 per year, depending on experience and qualifications. Build your future while helping shape the future of your community. At Middlesex County, we’re committed to supporting our employees with competitive benefits and a workplace that values well-being and balance. Middlesex County is proud to provide the resources, support, and flexibility employees need to thrive both professionally and personally. Learn more about our benefits:Benefits Join Middlesex County Our 2,000+ employees work together to provide the services and support that make Middlesex County one of the healthiest, safest, and sustainable places to live work and play. We’re preparing for the future today with our Destination 2040 plan to help local businesses and residents grow and adapt to a continuously changing world. You can build your own future while helping to build the future of your community. With competitive benefits, including a pension plan, on-site wellness coaches, and health and dental insurance, Middlesex County offers the support employees need. The County also promotes a healthy work-life balance with generous vacation, sick, and holiday leave. For more information, visitmiddlesexcountynj.govand find us on Facebook and Instagram . Middlesex County is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability status, or any other characteristic protected by law. #J-18808-Ljbffr Middlesex County