Agency: Department of Military Affairs
Salary: Anticipated Starting Salary $5640 monthly; Full Range $5050 - $6191 monthly.
Job Type: Salaried Full-Time
County: Champaign; Effingham; Madison; Menard; Sangamon
Number of Vacancies: 1
Department: Lincoln’s Challenge Academy
Work Location: 212 W Borman Dr, Rantoul, Illinois, 61866
Schedule: Must work until 7:00 pm one night per week and one weekend per month.
Hours: 8 Hours daily - Between the hours of 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM. Can vary based on mission requirements.
Note: Health insurance is currently not provided for this position.
Date Posted: 7/28/25
Last Day to Apply: 8/11/25

APPLICATIONS SUBMITTED VIA EMAIL OR ANY PAPER MANNER (MAIL, FAX, HAND DELIVERY) WILL NOT BE CONSIDERED.

Why Work for Illinois?
Working with the State of Illinois is a testament to the values of compassion, equity, and dedication that define our state. Whether you’re helping to improve schools, protect our natural resources, or support families in need, you’re part of something bigger—something that touches the lives of every person who calls Illinois home.
No matter what state career you’re looking for, we offer jobs that fit your life and your schedule—flexible jobs that provide the gold standard of benefits. Our employees can take advantage of various avenues to advance their careers and realize their dreams. Our top-tier benefits and great retirement packages can help you build a rewarding career and lasting future with the State of Illinois.

POSITION OVERVIEW

The Department of Military Affairs is looking to hire a Lead Counselor for the Lincoln’s Challenge Academy located in Rantoul, IL. This position, under the general supervision of the LCA Chief of Staff, supervises the Counselor Department. Provides individual and group counseling and guidance to cadets exhibiting complex personal needs or difficulty in adjustment and growth in the areas of social, emotional, behavioral, and vocational. The Department of Military Affairs works with the members of the Illinois Air and Army National Guard. We welcome all interested applicants to apply.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Requires a master’s degree or equivalent with course work in social work, psychology, counseling, or a related area of study with an emphasis on mental health.
• Requires two years professional experience in guidance counseling, behavioral, social sciences, or a related field.
• Requires certification in Trauma Informed Care methods and procedures.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Prefers ordained or recognized clergy member.
• Prefers Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) or Licensed Social Worker (LSW).

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Supervises Counseling Department.
• Conducts extensive evaluation, at a secondary level, as needed, of cadet progress and adjustment at the Academy.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS CONTINUED

• Serves as the proponent authority for policies, procedures and regulatory guidance associated with the functions of the unit.
• Coordinates with the Commandant, Instructors, and Counselors to structure rehabilitative activities for cadets with behavioral challenges.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS CONTINUED

• Refers cadets for professional treatment services when required.
• Performs other duties as required or assigned which are reasonably within the scope of duties enumerated above.