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College Counselor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Noble Schools

College Counselor SY26-27

Chicago, IL

Hansberry College Prep-College Counselor and Seminar * Noble Street College Prep About Noble Noble is Chicago's highest-performing and largest network of public charter schools. Our 17 campuses and 1 ...

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How much do college counselor jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for college counselor in the United States is $64,006.00, 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 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 is needed to become a college counselor?

To become a college counselor, individuals typically need a bachelor's degree in education, psychology, or a related field, along with experience working with students or in academic advising. Many roles also require a master's degree in school counseling or a related area and relevant certifications or licensure, depending on the region. Strong communication, interpersonal skills, and knowledge of college admission processes are essential for success in this role.

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 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.
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What are the most commonly searched types of College Counselor jobs? The most popular types of College Counselor jobs are:
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College Counselor jobs near you
Infographic showing various College Counselor job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,006 per year, or $30.8 per hour.

NY College Counselor Immediate Opening (2026-2027)

Achievement First

New York, NY • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 6 days ago

Achievement First rating

9.2

Company rating: 9.2 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7th of 628 rated elementary and secondary schools

Job description

School Year: 2026-27
Immediate Opening
The Role of a College Counselor at Achievement First:
The College Counselor will ensure that 100% of seniors apply and are accepted to the best-fit four year college or university. The College Counselor will work with our scholars and their families beginning in the spring of their junior year, starting with the college list research process. The College Counselor supports seniors through every phase of the college application process including but not limited to college list creation, application essays (personal statements), supplemental essays, financial aid applications, interviews and advocacy work, and deciding which college to attend. The ideal candidate will possess an extensive knowledge of the college admissions and financial aid processes - including relevant state information - as well as the skills necessary to help students be successful in college. Chief among these are entrepreneurialism, systems-driven, organized, relentlessness, creative problem solving, and follow-through. The ideal candidate will also possess research, networking, and communication skills to connect students to unique programs on college campuses. In order to meet these ambitious goals, an ideal candidate must also plan carefully in order to ensure strategic use of time and resources. The College Counselor will report directly to the Dean of College.
Responsibilities of Achievement First College Counselors include, but are not limited to:
College Counseling for a Caseload of Students
  • Support and guide all 12th grade students through each step of the college and financial aid application process
  • Provide one-on-one college counseling to a caseload of 40-45 seniors through the admissions cycle including, but not limited to: creating a college list, writing and revising the personal statement, advising on financial aid, and making final matriculation decisions
  • Work closely with parents and guardians of all students on caseload, including evening workshops and meetings for families
  • Ensure students take advantage of special opportunities made available to low-income students in the college search and application process (i.e. fee waivers, fly-in visits, university partner programs and scholarships)
  • Work closely with the AF College and Alumni Report Card to meet all deadlines and goals related to college partnerships

Building Relationships with Students and Families
  • Plan and lead workshops for parents on key topics (financial aid planning, different types of institutions, scholarships, etc.) related to the college admissions process
  • Ensure parents and students comprehend the different application requirements and deadlines, admissions policies and financial aid applications associated with different colleges
  • Write and manage the collection of Letters of Recommendations for all seniors, including providing professional development and coaching for the Letter of Recommendation writing process for all teachers

College/University Relationship Development
  • Contact and meet with campus admissions representatives to build positive relationships and market AF applicants
  • Become familiar with the academic and social environments at the various colleges seniors are considering in an effort to recommend suitable matches
  • Develop and maintain a robust network of college admission professionals through regular communication and high school visits from colleges and universities that best support first generation, low- income college students

College Department Team Member
  • Assist with the administration of the SAT assessments (PSAT and SAT)
  • Attend and give input on planning for overnight college trip for seniors
  • Work with other members of the school-based college team to ensure alignment of summer opportunities and collect feedback from Alumni Counselor (when there are eventually alumni)
  • Assist with specific projects and areas as determined by the Dean of College (based on expertise and knowledge base of college counselor).
  • Additional duties as assigned

Other School-Based Responsibilities:
  • Participate in school-wide professional development, grade-level teams, and school specific duties
  • Support and participate in school-wide activities and programming
  • Serve as an advisor for a group of 15-18 students

Skills and Characteristics:
  • Ability to work urgently in a fast-paced and results-oriented environment
  • Ability to juggle multiple tasks and initiatives at once
  • Detail-oriented and self-directed, with relentless accountability to deadlines, internal and external
  • Strong analytical and written communication skills
  • Initiator, problem-solver, and creative thinker
  • Ability to maintain emotional control under stress
  • Proficiency with all MS Office programs including: Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook
  • An ability to work well with students, their families and the entire Achievement First Staff
  • Belief in and commitment to the mission and core values of Achievement First Public Charter Schools
  • Openness to giving and receiving frequent feedback
  • Demonstrated ability to work on a team
  • A dedication to learn, grow, and develop as a professional

Educational Background and Work Experience:
  • Bachelor's Degree from an accredited four-year educational institution
  • Previous experience in either high school counseling and/or college admissions field is required
  • High School teaching or counseling strongly preferred

Compensation & Benefits
  • Employees at Achievement First are provided with a competitive salary. Our salaries are set through a lens of equity, and based on an individual's skills, education, and years of experience relevant to the role. College Counselors' salaries range from $64,117-$83,659, based on experience.
  • As a regular full time employee of Achievement First, you will be eligible for benefits that include medical, dental, vision, and life insurance as well as a 403(b) retirement benefit package with match and paid Family Leave.

Achievement First is an equal opportunity employer and an organization that values diversity. People from all diverse backgrounds are strongly encouraged to apply. Spanish language proficiency is a plus. You can learn more about diversity at Achievement First here: http://achievementfirst.org/about-us/diversity/

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