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Entry Level School Counselor Jobs in Chicago, IL

Admissions Counselor

Chicago, IL · On-site

$55K - $70K/yr

Of its several schools and departments, The College is the single-largest entity and this office is ... For more information please visit Job Summary This is an entry level position supporting the work ...

Lifeguard

Elmhurst, IL · On-site

$12 - $16/hr

... School Job, Camp, Counselor, Coach, Tutor, Nanny, Babysitter, Water Safety, Lifeguard, Pool Job, Leadership, Rescue, Safety, Fun, Entry Level, Hire Immediately NOTE: The information within this ...

Technician OT - PT

East Chicago, IN · On-site

$17.31 - $25/hr

Position Summary The OT/PT Technician is an entry level position. The OT/PT Technician participates ... Graduate from High School or equivalent. * Previous Hospital (patient care) experience preferred.

Technician OT - PT

East Chicago, IN · On-site

$13.50 - $15.25/hr

Position Summary The OT/PT Technician is an entry level position. The OT/PT Technician participates ... Graduate from High School or equivalent. * Previous Hospital (patient care) experience preferred.

With one in 36 children diagnosed with autism, this entry-level job is in big demand . As a ... High School Diploma/GED * Transportation requirements: Reliable transportation * Valid Driver ...

With one in 36 children diagnosed with autism, this entry-level job is in big demand . As a ... High School Diploma/GED * Transportation requirements: Reliable transportation * Valid Driver ...

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Entry Level School Counselor information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$23.2K

$62.3K

$99K

How much do entry level school counselor jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level school counselor in Chicago, IL is $62,279.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,500.00 and $71,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level school counselor?

Entry level school counselors are professionals who support students' academic, social, and emotional development, typically beginning their careers with a bachelor's or master's degree in counseling or a related field. They work in schools to help students set goals, overcome challenges, and develop skills for success. Entry level counselors often assist with crisis intervention, provide one-on-one or group counseling, and collaborate with teachers and parents. Their role is crucial in creating a positive and supportive school environment, especially as they gain experience and work toward full licensure or certification.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level school counselor?

To thrive as an Entry Level School Counselor, you need a background in counseling or psychology, typically with a master's degree and relevant state certification or licensure. Familiarity with student information systems, counseling management software, and standardized assessment tools is usually required. Strong interpersonal skills, empathy, and effective communication are crucial for building trust with students and collaborating with staff and families. These skills are essential for supporting students' academic, emotional, and social development in a school environment.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level school counselors when supporting a diverse student population?

Entry-level school counselors often encounter challenges when addressing the varied academic, emotional, and social needs of a diverse student body. Balancing a large caseload, understanding cultural differences, and building trust with students from various backgrounds can be demanding, especially when students require individualized support. New counselors may also need to quickly familiarize themselves with school policies, community resources, and collaborate effectively with teachers, parents, and administrators to ensure students receive comprehensive guidance. With time and experience, many find these challenges manageable and highly rewarding.

What is the difference between Entry Level School Counselor vs School Social Worker?

AspectEntry Level School CounselorSchool Social Worker
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in School Counseling; State certification/licenseBachelor's or Master's in Social Work; State licensure or certification
Work EnvironmentPublic or private schools, K-12 settingsSchools, community agencies, child welfare organizations
Employer & Industry UsageEducational institutions, school districtsSchool districts, social service agencies
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Entry Level School Counselors primarily focus on academic, career, and emotional support within schools, while School Social Workers address broader social and emotional issues, often working with families and community resources. Both roles require relevant certifications and serve in educational settings, but their scope and focus differ slightly.

How much do entry level school counselors make?

Entry-level school counselors typically earn between $40,000 and $55,000 annually, depending on location and school district. Starting salaries may be lower in some areas, but with experience and certification, pay can increase. These roles often require a master's degree in school counseling and state certification.

How to become an entry level school counselor with no experience?

To become an entry-level school counselor, you typically need a bachelor's degree in education, psychology, or a related field, followed by a master's degree in school counseling or a similar program that is accredited. Most states require passing a certification or licensure exam and completing supervised fieldwork or internships to gain practical experience. Developing strong communication, counseling, and organizational skills is also essential for entry-level positions in school counseling.

Is it hard to get hired as an entry level school counselor?

Securing an entry-level school counselor position can be competitive, as it often requires a relevant master's degree, state certification, and some internship or practicum experience. Strong interpersonal skills, knowledge of counseling techniques, and familiarity with school environments can improve job prospects, but demand varies by region and school district.

What are the most commonly searched types of School Counselor jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of School Counselor jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Entry Level School Counselor jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Entry Level School Counselor job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level School Counselor job openings in Chicago, IL as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, and 17% Part Time. Highlights an 94% In-person, and 6% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $62,279 per year, or $29.9 per hour.

$55K - $70K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 28 days ago


University Of Chicago rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 47 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

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Job description

Department
ESA Undergraduate Admissions - Group 3
About the Department
The Office of College Admissions has a staff of over 40 people, most of whom are Admissions Counselors. They manage marketing to, and recruitment of, prospective students as well as the admissions process for first year and transfer students into The College, and summer programs for high school students. The Office of College Admissions is a forward-facing department often providing the first impression of UChicago to visitors in-person and virtually as well as telephonically and via email engagement. Of its several schools and departments, The College is the single-largest entity and this office is responsible for bringing to campus a class of students with a diverse set of backgrounds who are prepared to take on rigorous academics while engaging with the University, surrounding neighborhood, and city of Chicago. For more information please visit http://www.collegeadmissions.uchicago.edu.
Job Summary
This is an entry level position supporting the work of the Office of College Admissions. Admissions Counselors are expected to work well both individually, and in teams, to problem solve, manage projects, and act as a positive representative of the University of Chicago. All Admissions Counselors act as a first line of engagement for prospective students and manage general recruitment and application review responsibilities in addition to managing other projects within various teams.
Responsibilities
  • Manages a domestic or international territory, primary evaluator of applications for admission from those territories, and serves as a member of the admissions committee.
  • Managing the territory includes conducting high school visits, attending college fairs, and hosting presentations either virtually or by travel to the territory. Territory travel may last 4-6 weeks over the course of a year.
  • Delivers information sessions, specialized presentations, and participates in virtual and on-campus events for prospective students.
  • Responds to inquiries via phone and e-mail, providing a positive experience for all who interact with department.
  • Reviews applications of first year, transfer, and summer program applications.
  • Each Admissions Counselor will have additional responsibilities in the office. Possibilities include working with current student employees; low-income, under-represented, and first-generation applicants; print and web publications; social media; programs and events; and more.
  • Weekend and evening availability is expected throughout the year for some aspects of the position including application review, travel, and admissions events.
  • Travels and recruits in an assigned geography, assisting with planning and delivering public presentations, special events, and other recruitment activities.
  • Maintains relationships with all individuals involved in the recruitment process, including routinely counseling students and parents regarding the admission process.
  • Performs other related work as needed.

Minimum Qualifications
Education:
Minimum requirements include a college or university degree in related field.
Work Experience:
Minimum requirements include knowledge and skills developed through < 2 years of work experience in a related job discipline.
Certifications:
---
Preferred Qualifications
Education:
  • Bachelor's degree.
  • University of Chicago alumni or liberal arts college alumni.

Certifications:
  • Valid United States driver's license.

Technical Skills or Knowledge:
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office.
  • Knowledge of Slate CRM.

Preferred Competencies
  • Excellent verbal and written communication.
  • Presentation skills.
  • Customer service skills.
  • Maintain confidentiality.

Working Conditions
  • Work will take place in an office setting, and remotely during work-related travel, on- and off-campus events, and application review season.
  • Travel approximately 4-6 weeks of the year.

Application Documents
  • Resume/CV (required)
  • Cover Letter (required)
  • References Contact Information (required)(3)
  • Please include this information as three independent documents, uploaded separately.

The University of Chicago uses AI-assisted tools to streamline and augment some recruitment processes; however, AI is not used to make hiring decisions.
When applying, the document(s) MUST be uploaded via the My Experience page, in the section titled Application Documents of the application.
Job Family
Student Affairs & Services
Role Impact
Individual Contributor
Scheduled Weekly Hours
37.5
Drug Test Required
No
Health Screen Required
No
Motor Vehicle Record Inquiry Required
Yes
Pay Rate Type
Salary
FLSA Status
Exempt
Pay Range
$55,000.00 - $70,000.00
The included pay rate or range represents the University's good faith estimate of the possible compensation offer for this role at the time of posting.
Benefits Eligible
Yes
The University of Chicago offers a wide range of benefits programs and resources for eligible employees, including health, retirement, and paid time off. Information about the benefit offerings can be found in the Benefits Guidebook.
Posting Statement
The University of Chicago is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, or expression, national or ethnic origin, shared ancestry, age, status as an individual with a disability, military or veteran status, genetic information, or other protected classes under the law. For additional information please see the University's Notice of Nondiscrimination.
Job seekers in need of a reasonable accommodation to complete the application process should call 773-702-5800 or submit a request via Applicant Inquiry Form.
All offers of employment are contingent upon a background check that includes a review of conviction history. A conviction does not automatically preclude University employment. Rather, the University considers conviction information on a case-by-case basis and assesses the nature of the offense, the circumstances surrounding it, the proximity in time of the conviction, and its relevance to the position.
The University of Chicago's Annual Security & Fire Safety Report (Report) provides information about University offices and programs that provide safety support, crime and fire statistics, emergency response and communications plans, and other policies and information. The Report can be accessed online at: http://securityreport.uchicago.edu. Paper copies of the Report are available, upon request, from the University of Chicago Police Department, 850 E. 61st Street, Chicago, IL 60637.

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