Chart the way with Eckerd Youth Alternatives, an innovative non-profit organization operating therapeutic wilderness treatment programs, juvenile justice and early intervention programs throughout the eastern United States. Our career positions offer:




Set the pace. Help navigate a complex and changing world. Guide troubled teens toward a bright new horizon, and learn for yourself why life's best lessons come from the heart.


Make more than a living.

Make a difference.











Youth Counselor

Full Time / Residential, 18 Outdoor Therapeutic Camps in FL, GA, TN, NC, RI, VT, NH
[ APPLY BY LOCATION ]
Fresh air. Open spaces. Miles of blue sky above. You won't find them in a corporate cubicle. But you will find them here at Eckerd Youth Alternatives, where you'll live close to nature and change young lives forever.

Our Youth Counselors work year round and supervise a group of 10 or more at-risk youth in a challenging, residential, rustic camp setting. You'll normally spend four or five days and nights with the group, and then enjoy two or three full days and nights off while another Counselor takes charge. Sometimes, however, you'll embark on wilderness trips that involve longer durations of active involvement.

The goals of this position are to ensure that group members are safe, engaged in productive behaviors, and developing effective problem-solving skills and useful life strategies. You'll keep an eye on the living quarters, lead outdoor activities, involve your group in community service projects, and plan fun events like cookouts and canoe trips. More important, you'll be a friend, mentor and role model, as you help at-risk kids get back on track.

Candidates should be at least 21 years of age, physically fit, and enjoy working with youth and outdoor activities. A four-year degree in Education, Criminology, Social Services, Psychology or related field is preferred, as is previous paid or volunteer work with children. Position pays a starting salary of $23,600/year PLUS free room and board, clothing allowance and relocation assistance. Comprehensive benefits (effective the 61st day of employment) and extensive paid training are also provided.

If you have the dedication and patience to help make a positive change in the lives of young people, this uniquely challenging and rewarding career path might be just the one for you!

Youth Counselor Openings:  

Locations: 

  • So. Florida / Georgia
    (Clewiston, Milton, FL; Suches, and Blakely, GA)
    Job ID: 500
  • Northeast
    (Colebrook, NH; Benson, VT; Exeter, RI )
    Job ID: 534
  • Eastern North Carolina
    (Candor, Elizabethtown, Manson, and Newport, NC)
    Job ID: 498
  • Central Florida
    (Brooksville, Floral City, and Silver Springs, FL)
    Job ID: 501
  • W. North Carolina / Tennessee
    (Boomer, Lowgap, and Hendersonville, NC; Deer Lodge, TN )
    Job ID: 499

Contact a Career Advisor: (800) 222 - 1473

EYA is an equal opportunity, drug-free employer. Minorities are encouraged to apply (M/F/D/V). Employment is dependent upon passing a thorough local, state and federal background check and drug screen.

EOE/Drug-Free Workplace