1

Student Counselor Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

Admissions Counselor

Portland, OR · On-site

$40K - $55K/yr

Admissions Counselor Classification: Non-Exempt FTE: Work Hours 8-4:30 M-F; Occasional nights and ... Student-Focus (70%) * Recruitment: Student-Focus * Advise prospective students on admissions ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Student Counselor information

See Portland, OR salary details

$35K

$64.3K

$101.8K

How much do student counselor jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for student counselor in Portland, OR is $64,304.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46,700.00 and $77,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a student counselor?

Student Counselors are professionals who support students' academic, emotional, and social development. They help students navigate personal and educational challenges, provide guidance on career and college planning, and work to create a supportive school environment. Student Counselors may also intervene in crisis situations, collaborate with teachers and parents, and refer students to outside resources when necessary. Their goal is to promote students' well-being and help them succeed both in and out of the classroom.

What does a student counselor do?

A school counselor offers guidance for students. Your responsibilities in this career may include working to advise students on personal development, education, college choice, and other subjects related to school life. Your duties differ depending on the age of the students with which you work. In elementary school, you may focus on personal growth and setting students up for success. In high school, you may focus more on academic affairs and getting students ready for college or a career. In every school counselor position, you help prepare students to take the next step in their academic or work life.

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

To thrive as a Student Counselor, you need a background in counseling, psychology, or education, often supported by a related bachelor's or master's degree and appropriate state licensure or certification. Proficiency with case management software and knowledge of assessment tools are typically required. Outstanding interpersonal skills, empathy, and strong active listening abilities help build trust and effectively support students' emotional and academic needs. These skills are crucial for guiding students through personal and educational challenges, fostering their well-being and success.

What are some typical challenges student counselors face when supporting diverse student populations?

Student Counselors often work with students from varied cultural, socioeconomic, and educational backgrounds, which can present unique challenges in understanding and meeting each individual's needs. Balancing a high caseload while providing personalized support requires strong organizational skills and empathy. Additionally, Student Counselors must stay informed on evolving educational policies and mental health resources to effectively guide students. Collaboration with teachers, parents, and external agencies is common, making strong communication and teamwork essential for success in this role.

What is the difference between Student Counselor vs School Counselor?

AspectStudent CounselorSchool Counselor
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's or master's in counseling or psychology, state certificationRequires a master's degree in school counseling, state certification/license
Work EnvironmentEducational institutions, community centers, private practicesPublic and private schools, educational settings
Employer & IndustrySchools, educational organizations, mental health agenciesPrimarily schools, educational institutions
Common Search/ComparisonStudent CounselorSchool Counselor

Both roles focus on supporting students' mental health and academic success. While a Student Counselor may work in various settings including community centers, a School Counselor is specifically employed within schools to address students' academic, career, and emotional needs. The key difference lies in their work environment and certification requirements.

How much do student counselors get paid?

Student counselors typically earn between $30,000 and $50,000 annually, depending on experience, education level, and location. Salaries can vary based on the setting, such as schools, colleges, or community organizations, and may include benefits like health insurance and professional development opportunities.

Is it hard to get hired as a student counselor?

Getting hired as a student counselor can vary depending on the location, experience, and educational background. Typically, employers look for relevant degrees, counseling certifications, and experience working with students, which can influence the difficulty of securing a position.

What qualifications do you need to be a student counselor?

To become a student counselor, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in psychology, counseling, social work, or a related field. Many roles also require relevant experience, strong communication skills, and often a state-issued license or certification in counseling or therapy. Advanced positions may require a master's degree and additional licensure.
Infographic showing various Student Counselor job openings in Portland, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 61% Full Time, 35% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 80% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 19% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,304 per year, or $30.9 per hour.

$24.94/hr

Full-time

Posted 24 days ago


Career Systems Development rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

121st of 225 rated education and training


Job description

Job Type
Full-time
Description
Job Summary: Responsible for counseling students in all aspects of center life; e.g., personal and social development, vocational and educational training.
Duties/Responsibilities:
  • Must create and sustain positive working relationships with co-workers.
  • Documents monthly student counseling sessions.
  • Consistently assesses and evaluate students assigned to them on both formal and informal levels.
  • Perform intake and needs assessments for individuals.
  • Provides assistance to students in continuing their education or entering into additional training; and in connecting with community services necessary for successful transition from school to work.
  • Participates in the training of all staff; especially in individual and group counseling techniques.
  • Participates in weekly session with the Center Mental Health Consultant.
  • Assists with unauthorized absence retrieval.
  • Confers with parents and admissions counselors. Makes referrals to local resources.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

Requirements
Qualifications:
Minimum: Bachelor's degree (including 15 semester hours of instruction in social services-related instruction) and one year's experience in a counseling or related field. Must hold valid driver's license and qualify for company sponsored vehicle insurance.
Preferred: Minimum plus Previous Job Corps experience
Knowledge: Sound knowledge of counseling techniques, excellent communication skills, both oral and written, knowledge of characteristics and problems of disadvantaged youth, must maintain CPR/FA certification.
#TO
Salary Description
24.94 per hour

What Career Systems Development employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom