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College Counselor Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

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College Counselor information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$26.1K

$66.8K

$115.8K

How much do college counselor jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for college counselor in Riverside, CA is $66,776.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,000.00 and $76,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What degree do I need to be a college career counselor?

To become a college career counselor, a bachelor's degree in psychology, counseling, education, or a related field is typically required, with many employers preferring candidates with a master's degree in counseling, psychology, or higher education. Relevant skills include strong communication, assessment, and guidance abilities, and some positions may require certification or licensure depending on the state or institution. Advanced degrees and certifications can enhance job prospects and professional credibility.

What does a college counselor do?

A college counselor helps students navigate the college admissions process by providing guidance on selecting colleges, preparing applications, writing essays, and meeting deadlines. They also assist with identifying scholarships and financial aid opportunities. College counselors support students in making informed decisions about their post-secondary education and help alleviate the stress associated with the application process.

What is the difference between College Counselor vs School Counselor?

AspectCollege CounselorSchool Counselor
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree, often a master's in counseling or education; certifications vary by stateBachelor's degree, often a master's in school counseling; state certification required
Work EnvironmentHigh schools, colleges, private counseling centersElementary, middle, or high schools
Employer & Industry UsageEducational institutions, college admissions officesSchool districts, K-12 education systems
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles in college admissions and advisingSupporting student well-being and academic success

While both roles involve guiding students, College Counselors focus on college admissions and career planning, often working with high school or college students. School Counselors provide broader support, including academic advising, mental health, and social-emotional development across K-12 levels. The choice depends on the specific educational setting and student needs.

What Do College Counselors Do?

A college counselor helps students figure out their goals and plans for higher education. Job duties include educating students about programs of study and scholarships, working with students to identify their goals, and recommending next steps for students to accomplish their educational and career plans. A college counselor may work for a high school to advise graduating seniors about their post-secondary options, or for a university to help students map out their course of study and future career paths.

What is the highest paid type of counselor?

Among counseling professions, substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors tend to have the highest salaries, especially those with advanced degrees and certifications. Clinical, school, and marriage counselors generally earn less but may have more stable employment opportunities. Salaries vary based on experience, location, and work setting.

How much does a college school counselor make?

A college counselor typically earns a median annual salary of around $50,000 to $65,000, depending on experience, education level, and location. Salaries can vary based on the institution and whether the counselor is working full-time or part-time, with some positions offering additional benefits or stipends for certifications in counseling or student services.

What qualifications do you need to be a college counselor?

To become a college counselor, a bachelor's degree in education, psychology, or a related field is typically required, often followed by a master's degree such as a Master of Education or Counseling. Relevant experience, strong communication skills, and knowledge of college admission processes are also important; some positions may require certification or licensure depending on the region or institution.

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

To thrive as a College Counselor, you need a solid understanding of college admissions processes, academic planning, and counseling theories, often supported by a master's degree in counseling or a related field. Familiarity with student information systems, college search databases (like Naviance), and standardized test platforms is typically required. Exceptional interpersonal skills, active listening, and cultural sensitivity help build trust and guide diverse students effectively. These competencies ensure that students receive personalized, informed support as they navigate critical academic and career decisions.

What are some common challenges College Counselors face when supporting diverse student populations?

College Counselors often work with students from a wide variety of backgrounds, each with unique academic, financial, and personal needs. Navigating these differences requires cultural sensitivity, up-to-date knowledge of college admissions trends, and strong communication skills. Counselors must also address challenges such as limited resources, balancing caseloads, and ensuring all students receive personalized guidance. Building relationships and advocating for students are crucial to overcoming these obstacles and helping each individual achieve their educational goals.
More about College Counselor jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of College Counselor jobs in Riverside, CA? The most popular types of College Counselor jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What are popular job titles related to College Counselor jobs in Riverside, CA? For College Counselor jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching College Counselor jobs in Riverside, CA look for? The top searched job categories for College Counselor jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for College Counselor jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most College Counselor job openings:
College Counselor jobs near you

Lead College Counselor

A PLUS 1 ACADEMY CORPORATION

Irvine, CA • On-site

$80K - $100K/yr

Part-time

Posted 2 days ago

Job description

About Us
A+1 Academy is dedicated to helping students achieve their highest academic and personal potential. We provide personalized support to families throughout each stage of a students educational journey and are committed to creating a supportive, student-centered environment.
We are currently seeking an experienced and highly responsible Senior College Admissions Counselor to join our on-site team. This role focuses primarily on guiding students through the college admissions process and working closely with families to build strong, personalized application strategies.
Position Overview
The Senior College Admissions Counselor will work closely with students and families on all aspects of college planning and applications. This role includes advising students on school selection, academic planning, extracurricular development, application timelines, essays, and overall admissions strategy. The ideal candidate has deep knowledge of U.S. college admissions and is able to communicate effectively with both students and parents in Chinese and English.
Key Responsibilities

  • Guide students and families through the full college admissions process from planning to submission
  • Help students build balanced college lists, including reach, target, and safety schools
  • Advise students on academic planning, extracurricular activities, summer programs, and profile development
  • Provide strategic guidance on college applications, including the Common App, UC application, CSU application, and other relevant platforms
  • Support students with personal statements, supplemental essays, activity lists, and resume development
  • Track deadlines and ensure timely completion of all application materials
  • Communicate regularly with families regarding student progress, admissions strategy, and next steps
  • Work closely with internal staff, teachers, and mentors to support students long-term academic and college goals
  • Stay informed about current college admissions trends, policies, and requirements
  • Support workshops, parent meetings, and informational sessions related to college planning and admissions
Qualifications

  • 5+ years of experience in college counseling, college admissions consulting, or a related field
  • Strong knowledge of U.S. college admissions, application systems, and admissions expectations
  • Experience guiding students through essay development and application strategy
  • Fluent in both English and Mandarin Chinese
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills in both languages
  • Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple students and deadlines
  • Ability to build trust with students and families and provide thoughtful, individualized guidance
  • Experience working with middle school and high school students is preferred
What Were Looking For

  • A caring, professional, and detail-oriented counselor
  • Someone who can provide both strategic direction and hands-on support throughout the admissions process
  • Someone who is comfortable working with Chinese-speaking families and communicating complex admissions information clearly
  • Someone who is passionate about helping students find right-fit colleges and maximize their opportunities
Work Location

  • On-site