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Student Support Services Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Student Support Specialist

Salem, VA · On-site

$19.34 - $29.58/hr

Performs intermediate paraprofessional work providing tutorial support and academic monitoring services to students in general instruction or in a specialized subject or assigned group of subjects ...

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Student Support Services information

See Virginia salary details

$10

$21

$28

How much do student support services jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for student support services in Virginia is $21.34, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.61 and $23.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Student Support Services?

Student Support Services are programs and resources provided by educational institutions to help students succeed academically, personally, and socially. These services may include academic advising, counseling, tutoring, career guidance, financial aid assistance, and support for students with disabilities. The goal is to address barriers to learning, promote student well-being, and enhance retention and graduation rates. Student Support Services are available to all students and are designed to create an inclusive and supportive learning environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in Student Support Services?

To thrive in Student Support Services, you need a background in counseling, education, or social work, often supported by a relevant bachelor's or master's degree. Familiarity with student information systems, case management software, and FERPA regulations is typically required. Strong interpersonal skills, cultural sensitivity, and problem-solving abilities set top professionals apart in this field. These skills are crucial for effectively supporting students’ academic, social, and emotional needs to foster their success and well-being.

What skills do you need to work in student support services?

Student support services roles require strong communication, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills to assist students effectively. Knowledge of counseling techniques, patience, empathy, and organizational abilities are also important, along with familiarity with student information systems and relevant policies.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in Student Support Services, and how can they be managed?

Professionals in Student Support Services often encounter challenges such as managing a high caseload of students with diverse needs, addressing mental health concerns, and coordinating with faculty and parents. Effective communication, strong organizational skills, and ongoing professional development are key strategies for managing these challenges. Many teams also provide peer support, regular training, and access to resources to help staff stay updated on best practices and ensure students receive comprehensive support.

What is the difference between Student Support Services vs Academic Advisor?

AspectStudent Support ServicesAcademic Advisor
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree in education, counseling, or related fieldsUsually requires a bachelor's degree; some roles prefer a master's in counseling or education
Work EnvironmentEducational institutions, student centers, counseling officesAcademic departments, advising offices, student services centers
Employer & IndustrySchools, colleges, universitiesEducational institutions, colleges, universities
Primary FocusProviding holistic support, counseling, and resources to studentsGuiding students academically, course selection, degree planning

While both roles support students, Student Support Services focus on overall well-being and counseling, whereas Academic Advisors primarily assist with academic planning and course guidance. Understanding these differences helps students find the right support for their needs.

What are the most commonly searched types of Student Support Services jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Student Support Services jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Student Support Services jobs in Virginia? For Student Support Services jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Student Support Services jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Student Support Services jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Student Support Services jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Student Support Services job openings:
Infographic showing various Student Support Services job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 23% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,385 per year, or $21.3 per hour.

STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICES COUNSELOR

Old Dominion University

Norfolk, VA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago


Old Dominion University rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 28 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

310th of 617 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Posting Details
Posting Details
Job Title
STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICES COUNSELOR
Department
STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICES
Position Number
GP163A & FP007A
Location
Norfolk, VA
Job Summary
Departmental ObjectiveTRIO Student Support Services (SSS) is the oldest retention program at Old Dominion University and is funded by the U.S. Department of Education. Since 1981, TRIO SSS has provided comprehensive academic and personal support to students who are first-generation college students, from limited-income families, and/or students with documented disabilities.
The mission of TRIO SSS is to promote student persistence, academic success, and graduation through individualized support services. These services include academic advising, counseling, mentoring, tutoring coordination, and assistance with navigating institutional and federal processes. The program is designed to ensure students are aware of and able to access campus resources while receiving targeted support aligned with federal TRIO grant objectives.
Job SummaryThe Student Support Services Counselor coordinates and implements advising services and student support activities for eligible TRIO SSS participants as outlined in the approved grant application. This position provides direct academic and personal advising to students and supports their progress toward degree completion. The Counselor utilizes student databases and institutional systems to document student interactions, track academic progress, and ensure compliance with program requirements. The position requires effective written and verbal communication skills, demonstrated through student outreach, workshop presentations, and collaboration with campus partners. The Counselor must demonstrate a strong commitment to academic excellence and student success, particularly for populations that have been historically underrepresented in higher education. The position works within established program structures and guidelines and supports the delivery of services rather than program administration or policy development.
Core Responsibilities
Individual Counseling and Academic AdvisingImplement individual counseling and academic advising sessions with students multiple times during each semester. Ensure that each student participates in a review of their degree plan and academic progress. Support students in understanding academic requirements, course sequencing, and institutional expectations related to degree completion.
Workshops and SeminarsDevelop and coordinate academic, financial aid, economic literacy, graduate school, and career-related seminars. Assist with planning and facilitating workshops that support student success and align with TRIO SSS program objectives.
Documentation and Student RecordsDocument academic performance summaries and student interactions in appropriate databases prior to and following advising sessions. Maintain accurate counseling and advising notes and track student progress toward graduation in compliance with program requirements.
Student RecruitmentImplement recruiting strategies to support meeting the program's enrollment targets. Assist with outreach efforts to eligible students and provide information about TRIO SSS services and participation requirements.
Peer Mentoring and Tutoring Support
Assist with coordinating and implementing peer mentoring activities and tutorial services. Support student participation in tutoring and mentoring initiatives as part of their overall academic support
Compliance and Record ReviewPerform self-audits of student records and program documentation to ensure compliance with federal regulations and TRIO SSS grant requirements. Assist in maintaining organized and accurate records for monitoring and reporting purposes.
Position Type
FullTime
Type of Recruitment
General Public
Minimum Qualifications
Master's degree in Counseling or a related field
  • Knowledge of Microsoft Office applications and student database management systems
  • Effective written and verbal communication skills
  • Demonstrated ability to work with diverse student populations, including first-generation, low-income students, and students with disabilities

Preferred Qualifications
  • Counseling and/or advising experience in a TRIO-related higher education program

Conditions of Employment
  • This is a full-time, in-office position located on the campus of Old Dominion University.
  • Office hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
  • Must be available to work occasional evening and weekend events, as well as travel for conferences and student engagement activities.

Funding StatementThis position is fully funded by the U.S. Department of Education through the TRIO Student Support Services (SSS) grant and is contingent upon continued federal funding.
Job Open Date
07/23/2026
Open Until Filled
Yes
Application Review Date
08/14/2026
Job Close Date
Special Instructions to Applicants / Additional Materials Required
The hiring range for this position is $58,000-$61,000, contingent upon funding.
  • The Job Posting is for (2) Student Support Services Counselor positions.

Funding StatementThis position is fully funded by the U.S. Department of Education through the TRIO Student Support Services (SSS) grant and is contingent upon continued federal funding.
Criminal Background Check
The final candidate is required to complete a criminal history check.
Department Information
TRiO Programs
pstudiva@odu.edu
Equity Statement
It is the policy of Old Dominion University to provide equal employment, educational and social opportunities for all persons, without regard to race (or traits historically associated with race including hair texture, hair type, and protective hairstyles such as braids, locks, and twists), color, religion, sex or gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), national origin, gender identity or expression, age, veteran status, disability, political affiliation, sexual orientation or genetic information. Individuals from minoritized communities, women, veterans and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply.
Reasonable Accommodation Request
If you are an individual with a disability and require reasonable accommodation, please contact the Division of Talent Management and Culture at (757)683-3141.
Pay Transparency Nondiscrimination Provision
The contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or © consistent with contractor's legal duty to furnish information.
ODU Statement
Old Dominion University, located in Norfolk, is Virginia's forward-focused public doctoral research university with more than 23,000 students, a top R1 research ranking, rigorous academics, an energetic residential community and initiatives that contribute $2.6 billion annually to Virginia's economy.

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