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Entry Level Counselor Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

... Counselor at Avanti in Blaine! We are offering a generous retention bonus of $1,000! Shift Details ... Room for professional advancement * Entry-level position into the mental health career field ...

Associate Professor

Minneapolis, MN ยท On-site

$155K - $170K/yr

The salary range for this job is: entry level - $155,000 - $170,000 junior laterals typically range ... Financial counseling services * Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no ...

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Entry Level Counselor information

See Minnesota salary details

$12

$24

$38

How much do entry level counselor jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level counselor in Minnesota is $24.66, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.85 and $28.27 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an entry level counselor do?

An entry level counselor provides support and guidance to individuals, often under the supervision of more experienced counselors. Their duties may include conducting intake assessments, helping clients set goals, facilitating group or individual counseling sessions, and maintaining client records. They often work in schools, community agencies, or healthcare settings, assisting clients with issues like stress, family relationships, or academic challenges. Entry level counselors use basic counseling techniques and refer clients to specialized resources when needed.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level counselor, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Counselor, you need a foundational understanding of counseling theories, active listening, and a relevant degree in psychology, counseling, or social work. Familiarity with case management software, documentation standards, and possibly certifications like a state counseling license or associate credential are typical requirements. Strong interpersonal skills, empathy, and the ability to build rapport help entry level counselors connect effectively with clients and colleagues. These competencies are crucial for providing effective support, maintaining ethical standards, and fostering positive client outcomes.

What types of support and supervision can an entry level counselor expect in their first year?

Entry level counselors typically receive regular supervision from experienced, licensed professionals to help them navigate client cases and develop their skills. Most organizations offer weekly or bi-weekly meetings for reviewing client progress, discussing challenges, and ensuring ethical standards are met. New counselors may also participate in team meetings, training sessions, and case consultations to foster collaboration and continued learning. This supportive environment helps build confidence and paves the way for professional growth within the organization.

What are the most commonly searched types of Counselor jobs in Minnesota?

The most popular types of Counselor jobs in Minnesota are:

What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Entry Level Counselor jobs?

Cities in Minnesota with the most Entry Level Counselor job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Counselor job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,287 per year, or $24.7 per hour.

Career Navigation Counselor

True North Goodwill Northern Minnesota and No

Mountain Iron, MN โ€ข On-site

$41K - $43K/yr

Full-time

Life, Retirement

Posted 29 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Conduct career assessments to evaluate clients' interests, skills, and values.

  • Provide 1:1 career counseling and coaching sessions to support client employment plans.

  • Develop individualized employment plans and assist clients with resume writing, interview preparation, and exploring career options.


Job description

Join Team Goodwill! Immediate openings and competitive pay & benefits. Apply today!   

Career Navigation Counselor

Full-Time 40 hours per week 

$41,000-$43,000/year

Goodwill Industries is a nonprofit organization regionally headquartered in Duluth, MN whose mission is transforming lives for generations through learning and the power of work. We provide training, jobs, and support services for people with barriers to employment who seek greater independence. Our mission is funded through the sale of donated clothing and household items in Goodwill stores and online. We are a group of nearly 300 mission minded employees in Northern MN & WI working as one. Each of us is essential to helping our community thrive and prosper. 

Goodwill offers a wide range of career pathways and growth ranging from entry-level to management in retail, transportation, mission services, and administrative/professional fields. By working at Goodwill, you can make an impact in your community. And we can show you how.

Goodwill is an equal-opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, or disability status.

Why we are a great place to work?

  • Competitive pay & benefits 
  • Flexible work schedules to create a schedule that allows for a work/home balance. 
  • Bonus incentive plans
  • Retirement & 401K planning with company match (Up to 6%)
  • Employee Assistance Program (Crisis counseling, financial planning, legal consultation, mental health counseling, wellness resources)
  • Knowing you are part of making an impact in people’s lives
  • Critical Illness and accident insurance
  • Basic life insurance at no cost, with voluntary and spousal coverage options
  • A culture built upon our core values of: Trust, Respect, Dedication, Responsibility, and Innovation 
  • Career support and planning 

Job Summary

The Career Navigation Career Counselor will oversee the Career Navigation Center in Virginia, MN. This position will maintain all forms and records necessary for the purpose of career planning. Individual coaching, job skills development, behavioral observation, employment and training program planning and implementation, and coordination with community resources are pertinent duties in addition to other duties as assigned by the Director of Mission Services. 

Duties and Responsibilities

  • Conduct career assessments to evaluate client’s interests, skills, values, and other relevant information
  • Provide 1:1 career counseling and coaching sessions to support client advancement on their individualized employment plan
  • Support clients to explore career options and identify suitable career paths
  • Assist with resume writing, cover letter development, and social media profile optimization
  • Prepare clients for interviews through coaching and mock interviews
  • Develop individualized employment plans that include S.M.A.R.T. goals 
  • Keep current on labor market information, industry trends, and job outlook data
  • Guide clients on available educational programs, certifications, and training opportunities
  • Organize and facilitate Mind Over Matter and Career Quest workshops, digital literacy instruction, and other workshop topics, as needed.
  • Educate employers, educational institutions, and community organizations about TNG employment and training services through presentations, meetings, and written communication.
  • Oversee the planning, coordination, implementation, and continuous improvement of digital literacy programming to ensure high-quality instruction, participant engagement, and alignment with organizational and grant objectives. 
  • Document all required information relevant to employment and training including but not limited to: client demographics and progress, case notes, staff activities, outcomes and other data as identified. 
  • Develop employer relations to keep abreast of job opportunities, skills and competency needs, hiring fairs, etc. 
  • Participate in all scheduled professional and supervisory meetings. 
  • Follow rules and regulations as they relate to data privacy, CARF, OSHA, and others.
  • Knowledgeable in SSI, SSDI, SNAP, unemployment, and other assistance programs 
  • Accept other job-related duties as assigned. 

Required Skills and Abilities

  • Strong organizational and time-management skills
  • Ability to speak and write clearly 
  • Ability to work independently and as a team
  • Ability to build rapport with diverse populations

Education and Experience

  • B.A./B.S. degree in related field (psychology, human resources, education, social work, or related field) preferred, but not required. A strong demonstration of applicable life and work experience can compensate for educational obtainment
  • Strong computer literacy skills – proficient in Microsoft Office and experience utilizing database systems for tracking purposes 
  • Valid driver’s license, current automobile insurance, and acceptable driving record.
  • Knowledge of career pathways and stackable credentials and/or willingness to learn

Physical Requirements

These work environment factors are general in nature: CONSTANT: Sit and near vision. FREQUENT: Bend neck; talk/speak; sit and visual accommodation. OCCASSIONAL: Lift and carry up to 10 pounds; rotate neck, static neck position; walk; hear within 5 feet and midrange vision.