Let’s get started
By clicking ‘Next’, I agree to the Terms of Service
and Privacy Policy
Jobs / Job page
Program Counselor image - Rise Careers
Job details

Program Counselor - job 1 of 3

Job Description

THE SELECTED CANDIDATE WILL BE OFFERED A SALARY OF $60,889.00-$70,022.00

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. DYFJ is responsible for ensuring programs and services are provided to youth in both of ACS’s secure detention facilities. The dvision is also responsible to ensure all contracted organizations remain compliant with their budget and scope of services provided.

The Program Counselor will report to Secure Detention and be responsible for performing the following duties:

- Work closely with Youth Development Specialists, contracted providers and the Department of Education (DOE) 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 of surveys to residents and staff and other appropriate evaluation methods and 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 vendors are in compliance with contracts

- Develop monthly provider meetings and progress reports and annual vendor performance evaluation

- Rapidly develop and learn new programming modules and assist in 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.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

This job opening 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.

TO APPLY

Please go to www.cityjobs.nyc.gov or www.nyc.gov/ess for current NYC employees and search for Job ID #626009

No phone calls, faxes or personal inquiries permitted.

Note: Only candidates under consideration will be contacted.

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.

Average salary estimate

$65455.5 / YEARLY (est.)
min
max
$60889K
$70022K

If an employer mentions a salary or salary range on their job, we display it as an "Employer Estimate". If a job has no salary data, Rise displays an estimate if available.

What You Should Know About Program Counselor, City of New York

As a Program Counselor with the Administration for Children’s Services (ACS) in New York City, you'll have the incredible opportunity to support youth at crucial stages in their lives. This role is all about fostering a safe and encouraging environment for young people, where you help develop programs that engage them in educational, cultural, and recreational activities. Collaborating closely with Youth Development Specialists and the Department of Education, you will implement activities that promote teamwork and critical thinking skills while also focusing on building self-esteem and reducing violence within the community. Additionally, you will encourage healthy lifestyles among the youth through sports and good nutrition. Part of your responsibilities also includes assessing programs and providing feedback to enhance their effectiveness. Your ability to manage relationships with contracted programs and ensure compliance will be vital. You're not just making a difference in individual lives but are contributing to the larger goal of creating stronger and safer communities. With a salary range between $60,889 and $70,022, this position is perfect for someone with a passion for youth development and community service. If you're ready to empower the next generation and help them realize their potential, ACS offers a vibrant community with the opportunity to grow both personally and professionally.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Program Counselor Role at City of New York
What are the main responsibilities of the Program Counselor at ACS in New York City?

The Program Counselor at ACS primarily works on developing and implementing cultural, educational, and recreational programs for youth in Secure Detention. Responsibilities include collaborating with various specialists, assessing programs through observation and surveys, and encouraging healthy lifestyles among the youth. By engaging in activities that promote teamwork and leadership, the counselor plays a pivotal role in ensuring a supportive and engaging environment for the youth.

Join Rise to see the full answer
What qualifications are needed to become a Program Counselor at ACS in New York City?

To qualify for the Program Counselor position at ACS, candidates must possess either a baccalaureate degree from an accredited college with two years of relevant experience or a high school diploma coupled with six years of experience in community-centered activities. Importantly, all candidates must have at least one year of experience as outlined in the requirements, ensuring a solid foundation for the responsibilities involved.

Join Rise to see the full answer
How does the Program Counselor at ACS contribute to community safety?

The Program Counselor at ACS actively contributes to community safety by implementing programs that aim to reduce juvenile delinquency and improve individual youth outcomes. Through their work, they focus on building self-confidence, teaching leadership skills, and promoting healthy lifestyles. These initiatives are designed not only to support the safety of the community but also to empower youth to make positive choices as they integrate back into society.

Join Rise to see the full answer
What is the salary range for a Program Counselor at ACS in New York City?

The salary for a Program Counselor at ACS ranges from $60,889 to $70,022. This competitive salary reflects the importance of the role in fostering safe and supportive environments for youth within the juvenile justice system.

Join Rise to see the full answer
What is the application process like for the Program Counselor role at ACS in New York City?

Candidates interested in the Program Counselor position at ACS can apply by visiting the designated city employment site and searching for Job ID #626009. It's important to note that previous applicants do not need to reapply. Only candidates under consideration will be contacted, ensuring an efficient hiring process.

Join Rise to see the full answer
Common Interview Questions for Program Counselor
Can you describe your approach to developing youth programs as a Program Counselor?

In responding to this question, focus on your collaborative strategies, emphasizing your ability to work with educational providers and youth specialists. Highlight specific examples of programs you've developed or participated in that promoted teamwork and leadership among youth.

Join Rise to see the full answer
How would you assess the effectiveness of a program directed at youth?

When discussing program assessment, mention quantitative and qualitative methods you would use, such as surveys, observation, and feedback mechanisms. Demonstrate your ability to analyze results and make data-driven recommendations for improvements.

Join Rise to see the full answer
What strategies do you use to encourage healthy lifestyles among at-risk youth?

In your answer, share specific initiatives you've implemented that focus on sports, nutrition, and wellness programs. Relate these strategies back to evidence of their effectiveness and how they foster long-term positive changes in behavior.

Join Rise to see the full answer
How do you build rapport with youth in a secure detention setting?

Discuss the importance of trust, respect, and empathy in your approach. Provide examples of techniques you've used to establish strong relationships with youth. Your answer should convey your understanding of their unique challenges and how you support them.

Join Rise to see the full answer
Can you give an example of a time when you had to handle a difficult situation with a youth?

Share a specific incident that showcases your conflict resolution skills and ability to de-escalate. Emphasize the techniques you used to communicate and relate to the youth involved, showcasing your problem-solving abilities.

Join Rise to see the full answer
How do you ensure compliance with contracted programs?

Explain your process for tracking vendor compliance, including regular meetings and performance evaluations. Be sure to mention how maintaining these relationships contributes to a successful overall program for youth.

Join Rise to see the full answer
What role does cultural competency play in your work as a Program Counselor?

Address the significance of cultural awareness and sensitivity in your programming and interactions. Share examples of how you have adapted your approach to accommodate diverse backgrounds and foster an inclusive environment for all youth.

Join Rise to see the full answer
Why is teamwork important in the role of a Program Counselor?

Discuss how collaboration with other professionals leads to the development of comprehensive programs that address various aspects of youth development. Highlight experiences where teamwork positively impacted program outcomes.

Join Rise to see the full answer
What types of programs do you believe are most beneficial for youth in secure detention?

Reflect on what you've seen work well in similar settings, mentioning educational, recreational, and therapeutic programs. Ensure that your response demonstrates your understanding of the specific needs of youth in these environments.

Join Rise to see the full answer
How do you stay informed about best practices in youth programming?

Share your methods for ongoing professional development, whether it's attending workshops, reading industry publications, or networking with other professionals. Highlighting your commitment to continual learning will emphasize your dedication to the role.

Join Rise to see the full answer
Similar Jobs
Photo of the Rise User
Posted 2 days ago
Photo of the Rise User
Posted 2 days ago
Photo of the Rise User
Posted 4 days ago
Photo of the Rise User
Posted 9 days ago
Photo of the Rise User
Center For Employment Opportunities Remote Rochester, New York, United States
Posted 6 days ago

Our Mission To work to eliminate ageism and ensure the dignity and quality-of-life of New York City’s diverse older adults, and for the support of their caregivers through service, advocacy, and education. Strategic Goals To foster independence...

1909 jobs
MATCH
VIEW MATCH
FUNDING
DEPARTMENTS
SENIORITY LEVEL REQUIREMENT
TEAM SIZE
No info
EMPLOYMENT TYPE
Full-time, on-site
DATE POSTED
January 28, 2025

Subscribe to Rise newsletter

Risa star 🔮 Hi, I'm Risa! Your AI
Career Copilot
Want to see a list of jobs tailored to
you, just ask me below!