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Career Development Counselor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Career Development Counselor information

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$37.5K

$61.6K

$100.5K

How much do career development counselor jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for career development counselor in the United States is $61,585.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46,000.00 and $73,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Career Development Counselor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Career Development Counselor, you need a background in counseling, psychology, or career services, often supported by a relevant degree and certifications such as the NCDA Certified Career Counselor credential. Familiarity with career assessment tools, job search platforms, and client management systems is typically required. Excellent interpersonal skills, active listening, and motivational abilities are crucial for building trust and guiding clients through career decisions. These skills and qualifications are essential for effectively supporting clients' career growth and adapting strategies to diverse individual needs.

What is the difference between Career Development Counselor vs Career Coach?

AspectCareer Development CounselorCareer Coach
CredentialsTypically requires a master's degree in counseling, psychology, or related field; licensure may be requiredUsually no formal licensing; certifications like CPC or ICF credentials are common
Work EnvironmentEducational institutions, mental health clinics, career centersPrivate practice, corporate settings, online platforms
Employer & IndustrySchools, universities, government agencies, non-profitsIndependent, consulting firms, corporate HR departments
Primary FocusAssessing client needs, providing guidance, addressing emotional barriersSetting goals, motivation, skill development, actionable strategies

While both roles support career development, Career Development Counselors often work within institutions providing comprehensive guidance and emotional support, whereas Career Coaches focus on goal setting and skill enhancement in a more client-driven, often private setting.

What are some common challenges Career Development Counselors face when supporting diverse client populations?

Career Development Counselors often work with clients from varied backgrounds, which can present unique challenges such as addressing language barriers, cultural differences, and differing levels of access to resources. Successfully supporting these clients requires strong communication skills, cultural competence, and the ability to tailor guidance to each individual’s needs. Counselors also need to stay informed about industry trends and local job markets to provide relevant advice, making ongoing professional development essential in this role.

What are Career Development Counselors?

Career Development Counselors are professionals who assist individuals in making informed decisions about their career paths. They provide guidance on choosing careers, setting professional goals, developing job search strategies, and overcoming career-related challenges. These counselors use tools such as assessments, interviews, and workshops to help clients identify their strengths, interests, and values. They also offer support with resume writing, interview preparation, and networking to improve employability. Career Development Counselors work in various settings, including schools, colleges, private practices, and community organizations.
More about Career Development Counselor jobs
What cities are hiring for Career Development Counselor jobs? Cities with the most Career Development Counselor job openings:
Infographic showing various Career Development Counselor job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,585 per year, or $29.6 per hour.

Career Development Counselor & Coordinator

Westminster College - Fulton, MO

Fulton, MO

Other

Posted 20 days ago


Job description

Description

The Career Development Counselor & Coordinator supports the College's mission by advancing student persistence, degree completion, and post-graduation success. This position provides career counseling and advising, cultivates professional skills sought in the modern workplace, and guides students as they explore interests, acquire competencies, and develop career plans.


Requirements

Essential Functions:

The statements below are intended to describe the principal duties of the person or persons assigned to this job. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all job duties and responsibilities.

Career Counseling and Advising

  • Provide individual career counseling to help students clarify employment, career, and life goals; select majors; plan for graduate school or job searches; and develop resumes, cover letters, and interview skills.
  • Administer and interpret career, values, skills, and interest assessments to help students identify strengths, aspirations, and areas for growth.
  • Develop strategies and targeted outreach for first-generation and underrepresented students.
  • Manage and promote career-related technology platforms (e.g., FOCUS2, Handshake, What Can I Do with This Major?) and use data-informed advising to guide student exploration.
  • Collaborate with student leaders, administrative offices, and campus partners to increase awareness of career development services.


Professional 

  • Maintain ongoing professional development through associations such as NACE and NCDA; stay current on best practices in career development and student success.
  • Represent the office at admission/recruiting events, student orientation, and community networking activities in collaboration with the Coordinator of Employer Connections.


Education and Promotion

  • Design and deliver tailored workshops, career programming, and recruitment/employment events in partnership with the Associate Dean of Student Success.
  • Educate students on NACE career-readiness competencies and provide tools to articulate skills gained through curricular and co-curricular experiences.
  • Collaborate with the Coordinator of Employer Connections and Academic Advisors to help students obtain internships and align academic pathways with labor market opportunities.
  • Work with faculty and professional academic advisors to embed career development across the curriculum.


Administrative and Assessment

  • Co-manage the six-month graduate employment survey with the Alumni Office and track placement rates.
  • Maintain departmental files and content in Teams.
  • Prepare reports for administration, faculty, and the Board of Trustees on student feedback, program outcomes, and graduate trends.
  • Train and supervise assigned student workers and interns.


JOB REQUIREMENTS:

Education:  A Master's degree in Psychology, Education, Student Services, Business, Communication, or related field with NCDA credentialing is preferred. Bachelor's degree is required.  

Experience:   

  • 2-5 years' experience in the field of career counseling or related field. 
  • A working knowledge of career development resources as well as experience in implementing best practices in the field, preferably with a college population. 
  • Prior experience in case management or demonstrated experience in developing and maintaining effective working relationships with customers and co-workers. 
  • Experience in presenting or teaching highly desired.

Skills:

  • Student-focus with high level of professionalism. 
  • Good organizational, analytical, decision-making, and problem-solving skills. 
  • Excellent attention to detail as well as strong written and oral communication skills. 
  • A positive attitude, commitment to cultural diversity, flexibility, and integrity. 
  • Strong computer skills. Ability to effectively use Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook. 
  • The ability to work independently and exercise sound judgment. 
  • Ability to evaluate information and apply and/or direct it appropriately. 
  • Ability to handle confidential student information with tact, discretion, and in compliance with FERPA regulations and according the NCDA ethical guidelines


Review of applications will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled or the search is closed.