Entry Level Counseling Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Job Description

Title: Counselor SY26/27                                                 Location:  Prairie Hills Junior High 

Employment Type:  Full Time                                         Work Days: 10-month position

FLSA:  Exempt                                                                 Reports to: Building Principal      

Job Summary: 

The Junior High Counselor provides a comprehensive, data-driven counseling program that supports students' academic achievement, social-emotional development, and college and career readiness. The counselor works collaboratively with students, staff, families, and community partners to promote a positive school climate and ensure student success.

Education, Certification, and Licensure:

• Valid Illinois Professional Educator License (PEL) with School Counselor endorsement
• ISBE certification required
• Master's degree in School Counseling (required)

• Bachelor's degree in a related field

Experience:

• Minimum of two (2) years of experience as a school counselor preferred
• Experience working in a junior high or middle school setting strongly preferred
• Experience providing individual and group counseling services to students
• Experience supporting students with academic planning, behavioral interventions, and social-emotional development
• Experience collaborating with teachers, administrators, and families to support student success
• Experience using student data to inform counseling practices and interventions
• Experience coordinating college and career readiness activities (e.g., job fairs, college visits, student portfolios)
• Experience working with diverse student populations, including students with IEPs and English learners
• Experience with student information systems such as PowerSchool (scheduling, reporting, and data tracking)

• Internship or practicum experience in a school counseling setting will be considered for entry-level candidates

 Essential Duties and Specific Responsibilities: 

• Develop, implement, evaluate, and revise a comprehensive school counseling program aligned with state and national standards
• Deliver counseling services that address academic, social-emotional, and career development needs
• Utilize data to guide program decisions and improve student outcomes
• Provide individual and small group counseling in a variety of settings
• Assist students in academic planning, goal setting, and progress monitoring
• Support students' social, emotional, and behavioral development
• Collaborate with teachers, administrators, and staff to support student success
• Consult with parents/guardians to address student needs and promote positive outcomes
• Provide in-service training and presentations to staff
• Work with internal stakeholders including Superintendent, Director of Student Services, and building administration
• Promote career awareness and readiness activities
• Coordinate and facilitate events such as job fairs, college visits, and career exploration opportunities
• Maintain accurate student records and documentation
• Utilize systems such as PowerSchool for scheduling and reporting

• Participate in school-wide initiatives and activities that support overall school operations

Other Skills and Abilities:

• Strong knowledge of adolescent development, including academic, social, and emotional growth patterns
• Ability to build trusting relationships with students, families, and staff
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and active listening skills
• Strong conflict resolution and problem-solving abilities
• Ability to manage sensitive situations with professionalism and confidentiality
• Strong organizational and time management skills
• Ability to analyze student data to inform decision-making and interventions
• Experience working in a collaborative, team-oriented environment
• Cultural competency and ability to support diverse student populations
• Ability to lead small and large group sessions effectively
• Knowledge of trauma-informed practices and social-emotional learning strategies
• Ability to coordinate events and manage multiple initiatives simultaneously
• Proficiency in student information systems (e.g., PowerSchool) and educational technology tools
• Commitment to ethical standards and best practices in school counseling

• Positive attitude, flexibility, and adaptability in a dynamic school environment

Salary Range:

$50,727 - $64,233  Salary is based on CBA Union negotiated terms w/10yr credit cap.

Prairie-Hills Elementary School District 144 conducts pre-employment drug tests and background checks.

The information contained in this job description is in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and is not an exhaustive list of the duties performed for this position. Additional duties performed by the individual holding this position may be assigned.