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Student Advocate Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

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How much do student advocate jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for student advocate in Chicago, IL is $21.53, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.97 and $25.58 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a student advocate?

A Student Advocate is a professional who supports and represents students’ interests within educational institutions. Their role often involves helping students navigate academic processes, resolving conflicts, and ensuring fair treatment. Student Advocates provide guidance on issues such as academic appeals, disciplinary actions, and access to resources. They work to create a supportive environment where students can voice concerns and receive assistance in overcoming challenges. The ultimate goal of a Student Advocate is to empower students and promote their well-being and academic success.

What is a student advocate?

A student advocate is a member of a school faculty who works with troubled students or those who have problems in their education. As an advocate, you ensure these students get the help and resources they need to engage in a positive learning experience. You collaborate with teachers and guidance counselors on behalf of students and answer to the school’s principal. In this position, your job duties are helping the student through any personal or academic issues, paying attention to problems they have, and addressing them as deemed appropriate in your system.

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

To thrive as a Student Advocate, you need a solid understanding of educational policies, counseling techniques, and advocacy, often supported by a degree in education, social work, or counseling. Familiarity with student information systems, case management software, and relevant regulations is typically required. Strong interpersonal skills, empathy, cultural competence, and effective communication help build trust and support among students and stakeholders. These skills and qualities are crucial for addressing student needs, removing barriers, and promoting academic and personal success.

How does a student advocate typically collaborate with faculty and support services to address student concerns?

Student Advocates work closely with faculty, academic advisors, and campus support services to ensure that student concerns are addressed promptly and effectively. They often act as liaisons, facilitating communication between students and staff, and coordinating meetings or interventions when necessary. By building strong relationships across departments, Student Advocates can help create tailored support plans, advocate for policy changes, and ensure that students have access to the resources they need to succeed. This collaborative approach is essential for identifying systemic issues and promoting a positive, inclusive campus environment.

What is the difference between Student Advocate vs School Counselor?

AspectStudent AdvocateSchool Counselor
Required CredentialsTypically a bachelor's degree in education, social work, or related field; some roles may require certificationMaster's degree in school counseling or related field; state certification/license often required
Work EnvironmentAssist students with academic, social, and emotional issues; often work in schools, community organizations, or advocacy groupsProvide academic guidance, mental health support, and career counseling within schools
Employer & Industry UsageSchools, non-profits, advocacy organizationsPublic and private schools, educational institutions

While both roles support students' well-being, Student Advocates focus on advocacy and navigating resources, whereas School Counselors provide direct counseling and academic guidance within educational settings.

What degree do you need to be a student advocate?

A student advocate typically needs at least a bachelor's degree in education, social work, psychology, or a related field. Relevant skills include strong communication, advocacy, and understanding of educational policies; some roles may prefer or require a master's degree or certification in counseling or advocacy. Requirements can vary depending on the organization and specific responsibilities.

What are the most commonly searched types of Student Advocate jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Student Advocate jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Student Advocate jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Student Advocate jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Student Advocate jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Student Advocate job openings:

Infographic showing various Student Advocate job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $44,787 per year, or $21.5 per hour.

Student Advocate

Des Plaines, IL • On-site

North Cook Intermediate Service Center & Regional Office of Education

$40K - $50K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 20 days ago


Job description

Position Title: Student Advocate

Description:

This is a full time, year round, student support position working for the North Cook Regional Office of Education/Intermediate Service Center in collaboration with a specific North Cook District that will be identified upon hiring. Specific work schedule to be developed by Director of Student Services based on school and North Cook calendars. This is a non-certified position working with the School Based & North Cook Intermediate Service Center team. The Student Advocate works directly with students in a North Cook School District and reports to a Student Services Coordinator, but the role is primarily in a school environment.

Job Summary:
  • Maintains a caseload of 25-32 students in grades 6-8 or grades 9-12, based on school placement.
  • Works with students, families, and the educational support team in establishing/writing success plans setting realistic goals, schedules, and plans for monitoring student academic and social/emotional success.
  • Monitors attendance, behavior, and grades and is a first responder in the event of student crises; maintains accurate records of student engagement & interactions.
  • Schedules, plans and participates in family outreach visits and family engagement events to promote family participation in the student’s learning experiences and conducts wellness checks if needed.
  • Connects students and families to additional support services as needed and acts as a liaison to service providers.
  • Supports all school-based initiatives actively and engages with all staff and administration to promote student success. Attends all staff meetings & student problem-solving and staffing meetings as needed.

Preferred Skills:
  • Strong commitment to serving struggling and historically underserved students in middle and/or high school.
  • Experience in working with community agencies in providing support networks to assist students and families; experience supporting public school students in grades 6-12 is preferred.
  • Possess strong problem-solving and organizational skills; willingness to persist with students.
  • Advocacy skills, including the ability to negotiate, compromise, and confront conflict professionally.
  • Ability to cooperate and communicate effectively with students, families, and school personnel.

Qualifications:
  • Candidates should have a bachelor’s degree (although candidates with some college will be considered at a lower salary point) and experience supporting historically underrepresented youth.
  • A Student Advocate should provide students with a positive pattern of engagement at school, fuel motivation, and foster the development of the life skills needed for graduation and post-high school learning and careers.
  • Spanish Speakers are encouraged.

Salary, Benefits and Working Conditions:
The Student Advocate will earn a salary of approximately $45,000 depending on experience, skillset, and level of education.
This position includes the following benefits:
  • Individual Health insurance, PPO or HMO, Blue Cross Blue Shield (employee-paid family insurance option):
    • Vision
    • Dental, MetLife
  • Life insurance, MetLife – 1x annual salary and $50,000.

Retirement benefits for this position are facilitated through the Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund (IMRF). As a 12-month employee, you will receive 12 vacation days (adding one day annually up to 20 maximum), 12 sick days, and 2 personal days. Also, NCISC observes Federal and State holidays (Advocates follow school schedules during the year and NCISC schedule in the summer which includes summer Fridays off as well as July 4th and Juneteenth)
The NCISC takes great pride in its reputation for professional educational service and support to the educational professionals, students, and their families in our region and beyond. The North Cook Intermediate Service Center is an equal-opportunity employer.

Application Procedure:
Individuals interested in applying for this position must complete the online application in its entirety, including a cover letter, resume, and a list of at least three professional references.
For questions regarding the position, please contact Dr. Allison Slade, Assistant Executive Director, at either aslade@ncisc.org or 847-803-5606.