New Directions Associate Counselors (10/2026)

Community Youth Services; Tacoma (WA); On-site; USD 29,000 - 37,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive pay ($21.12–$27.08/hour)

Flexible scheduling (on-call shifts)

Meaningful work helping at-risk youth

Job summary

Community Youth Services - Pierce County is seeking compassionate individuals to join our team as Associate Counselors at the New Directions Crisis Residential Center in Tacoma. This role serves youth aged 12–17 and provides a safe, supportive environment.

The position offers competitive pay with on-call scheduling and a focus on guiding at-risk youth toward healthier outcomes. Join us to make a real difference in the lives of young people.

Qualifications

• Minimum two years of education or direct experience with at-risk youth.
• At least six months’ prior experience as an Associate Counselor in a similar facility.
• TB test results within the last 12 months or ability to obtain a negative result within 30 days.

Responsibilities

• Create a nurturing environment to minimize crisis behavior.
• Offer guidance and counseling to maintain safe behavior.
• Plan and prepare nutritious meals.
• Coordinate daily activities and provide structured support.
• Conduct intake assessments and behavioral observations.
• Develop and implement individualized treatment plans.
• Act as a crisis liaison and provide community resource information.

Skills

Experience with at-risk youth

Counseling and guidance

Education

Two years education/experience with at-risk youth

Job description

Community Youth Services - Pierce County is looking for compassionate and dedicated individuals to join our team as Associate Counselors at the New Directions Crisis Residential Center in Tacoma. This is a unique opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of youth aged 12 – 17, providing them with a safe haven and the support they need to overcome challenges.

• Competitive Pay: $21.12 to $27.08 per hour


• Flexible Scheduling: On-call positions available for dynamic shift coverage.


• Rewarding Work: Help shape the future of at-risk youth by providing essential guidance and support.

Qualifications:

• A minimum of two years of education and/or direct experience with at-risk youth.


• At least six months’ prior experience as an Associate Counselor in a similar facility.


• Valid TB test results within the last 12 months or the ability to obtain a negative result within 30 days of employment.

Responsibilities:

• Create a nurturing environment to minimize crisis behavior.


• Offer guidance and counseling to maintain safe behavior.


• Plan and prepare nutritious meals.


• Coordinate daily activities and provide structured support.


• Conduct intake assessments and behavioral observations.


• Develop and implement individualized treatment plans.


• Act as a crisis liaison and provide community resource information.

This position is more than a job; it’s a chance to empower youth and contribute to their journey towards a brighter future.

Community Youth Services is an equal-opportunity employer committed to creating a diverse and inclusive work environment.