The responsibility of rehabilitating young offenders falls on the shoulders of the youth correctional counselors. They are normally employed in juvenile correctional facilities where they provide counseling to young offenders who have lost their way.
If you want to help young offenders mend their ways, then you should consider a career as a youth counselor. Read this article for more details.
Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics
Job Outlook
As per the latest figures provided by the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, Correctional Officers and Jailers will experience a -7% decline in job opportunities over the next decade (2019 – 2029).
Steps to Become a Youth Correctional Officer in the US
You will have to complete the following steps to become a youth correctional officer in the US. Please note that these are general steps and requirements may differ for some jobs. Please make sure that you check the particular requirements of the job you are applying for.
Get a Bachelor's Degree
You will have to get a bachelor's degree in a discipline like criminal justice, social work, or psychology as the first step of the process. You might have to get even better educational credentials for some other jobs.
Look for a Job
Start looking for a job. It is important to understand that job vacancies might not be available all the time, so patience is key.
Pass the Interview
If you are shortlisted, you will be asked to clear an interview. In certain cases, you will also have to pass a written test.
Clear Background Screening
You will also have to go through a thorough background check.
Clear a Drug Test
You will also have to pass a comprehensive drug test. Since the job duties of a youth correctional counselor are sensitive, agencies do not take any chances.
Complete the Training Program
Once you clear all the above-mentioned steps, you will be hired by the relevant law enforcement agency. After that, you will have to complete a comprehensive training program.
How Long Does It Take to Become a Youth Correctional Counselor?
It normally takes somewhere between 4-5 years to become a youth correctional counselor in the US.
Requirements to Become a Youth Correctional Counselor in the US
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Have US citizenship.
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Should meet the age requirements.
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Have a clear criminal record.
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Have a bachelor's degree.
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Clear the hiring process.
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Complete training.
How Much Will I Earn as a Youth Correctional Counselor in the US?
$50,130 was the mean annual income of Correctional Officers and Jailers in the US in 2019.