Youth Counselor - Milwaukee Youth Facility

Introduction

The Department of Corrections, Division of Juvenile Corrections, is focused on public safety through the custody and supervision of youth placed in our care. Juvenile Corrections employees have the opportunity to positively impact the lives of youth through careers in a variety of fields. Using evidence-based approaches, employees implement lasting change with a positive impact for the people of Wisconsin.


The Department of Corrections is currently recruiting to fill multiple Youth Counselor positions at the new Juvenile Type 1 Facility, located in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.


Position Summary

These position provide counseling and perform security and safety duties in a juvenile correctional institution. Day-to-day operation is performed under the direction of a Supervising Youth Counselor. Job responsibilities include s upervising youth on all shifts to ensure the security of the institution, institution property and the safety and security of staff, youth and the public inside and outside the institution.


Salary Information

This position is in pay schedule and range 05-31, with a starting pay of $34.67/hour, plus excellent benefits and scheduled increases. Pay will be set in accordance with the Compensation Plan and Wisconsin Administrative Code in effect at the time of hire. A twelve month probationary period is required.


In addition to meaningful and rewarding work, we offer a competitive benefits package featuring:

• Substantial leave time including at least 3.5 weeks of vacation to start, 9 paid holidays, and ample accrued sick time that rolls over each year.

• Insurance : Excellent and affordable health, dental, vision, and life insurance.

• An exceptional pension plan including a lifetime retirement payment.

• An optional tax-advantaged 457 retirement savings plan .

• The Well Wisconsin Program helps participants set health and well-being goals, track progress, stay motivated, and earn incentives.

• Our Employee Assistance Program offers employees and their immediate family a variety of tools, resources, and professional consultation services to support their health, goals, and overall well-being.

• DOC is a qualifying employer for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program.

• Please click here for a summary of State of Wisconsin employment benefits or click here to explore employment benefits on the website.

To help you understand what your benefit package would be worth, please see the Total Rewards Calculator here .


Job Details

Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States (i.e. a citizen or national of the U.S., a lawful permanent resident, or an alien authorized to work in the U.S. without DOC sponsorship) at the time of application. The Department of Corrections will conduct criminal background checks on applicants prior to selection. Upon hire, all new DOC employees are subject to fingerprinting.


These positions are not eligible for remote work.


These positions have physical requirements, including but not limited to: standing, walking, running, and pushing/pulling/lifting up to 50lbs; and must have the ability to work up to 16 hours per day, more than 40 hours per week on any shift based on operational needs. This may include weekends and holidays. These positions work within a wide range of temperatures and weather conditions, may be required to go outside and supervise youth, work in noisy areas, and work in close physical proximity to youth and other staff.


The Youth Counselor must possess a valid driver's licensed and be eligible to meet State of Wisconsin fleet requirements. This must be maintained throughout employment.


A medical, drug, and fitness screening is required.


Completion of the six week Facility Staff Training and Support (FSTS) - DJC is required.


Qualifications

A 30 question, multiple-choice situational judgement test will be used to determine if candidates are minimally qualified to continue in the selection process. Minimally qualified candidates will demonstrate effective judgement and decision-making in a variety of job-related situations related to:

• Problem solving and conflict resolution
• Providing information and counseling to individuals
• Safety and security
• Accountability

How To Apply

To apply, click on "Apply for Job" to start the application process. Follow the steps outlined in the application process and submit your application.


Permanent classified employees who are eligible for consideration as a transfer or voluntary demotion must complete the application process in order to be considered.


Questions can be directed to Katie Benson, Human Resources Supervisor, at View email address on click.appcast.io or View phone number on click.appcast.io.


The State of Wisconsin is an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer seeking a diverse and talented workforce. We provide reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees with disabilities.


The State of Wisconsin offers a special program for qualified veterans with a 30% or greater service-connected disability. If you are a qualified veteran, please visit the Veterans Employment page for application instructions to be considered for the Veterans Non-Competitive Appointment program. Current State employees are not eligible for non-competitive appointment.


Deadline to Apply

Online application and materials must be submitted by 11:59 pm on October 1, 2026.


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