Academic and Career Counselor (Accelerated Learning Academy)

Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community

Scottsdale, AZ • On-site

$71.31K - $95.91K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

Salary: $71,307.00 - $95,908.00 Annually
Location : 10005 E. Osborn Rd, Scottsdale, AZ
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: 300084-260522
Department: Education
Opening Date: 05/22/2026
Closing Date: 6/7/2026 11:59 PM Arizona
Definition
Definition: Under general supervision from the Administrator (Alternative Sites), the Academic and Career Counselor is responsible for providing support and services to students attending the Accelerated Learning Academy in the areas of post-secondary plans, internships, life skills, and intervention.
Primary Job Functions: Primary functions may vary among positions, but may include the following tasks, knowledge, skills, and abilities among other characteristics. This list of tasks is ILLUSTRATIVE ONLY and is not intended to be a comprehensive listing of tasks performed by all positions in this classification.
Examples of Tasks
Job Duties
  • Ensures all students complete their ECAP and other mandated post-secondary planning requirements.
  • Works with students individually to develop job readiness skills that include completion of job applications, resume development, and interview skills.
  • Meets with all students at least quarterly to determine progress toward post-secondary goals.
  • Coordinates the Service Learning Program at the ALA site to include monitoring and evaluation.
  • Assists students in learning to perform their specific job duties on site, as needed.
  • Assists students with obtaining necessary paperwork and training to enter work force.
  • Assists students with completion of financial aid and other educational forms, as necessary.
  • Keeps ALA/DOC staff apprised of student progress and career goals.
  • Keeps student progress notes and data, including student ECAP information and relevant career documents.
  • Connects with employers, colleges, trade schools and community organizations to market and enrich the program and the success of the students.
  • Coordinates with Tribal Human Resources, Higher Education, WIA and other tribal entities to identify employment, scholarship and volunteer opportunities available to students.
  • Completes required paperwork and reports, as required by supervisor.
  • Assist in enrollment for students into Dual Enrollment programming.
  • Maintain 4 year graduation plans on all students and enter completed classes into student transcripts in Power School.
  • Assist students in completing Higher Education campus tours.
  • Work individually with students to help them obtain the resources they need to be successful young adults. This includes, but is not limited to: Community services for counseling and treatment, government services such as TANF, ACCHSS, and WIC.
  • Provide student behavioral management consultation and planning, including classroom observations, monitoring and follow-up.
  • Student Success Team member
  • Handles the 504 process to include identification, testing, writing of the 504 plan, and implementation of the 504 plan.
  • Keep up to date documented files and data on each child seen.
  • Coordinates Graduation, to include Meeting with Graduating seniors to design Graduation program, Contacting Guest Presenters for Graduation, Ordering Diplomas, Graduation Cords & Medallions, Graduation Plaques, Graduation Program Brochures, and Invitations to Dignitaries.
  • Works with the staff to coordinate all Summer School for both ALA and JOM programs.
  • Maintain data and information regarding students in a confidential matter in accordance with Privacy Act, Confidentiality Act, the Counseling Profession ethical requirements, and other applicable standards and ethical requirements.
  • Consult and collaborate with parents, teachers, school administrators, school psychologists, medical professionals, and social workers in order to develop and implement strategies to help students be successful at the Accelerated Learning Academy.
  • Communicate frequently withe ALA Administrator and teaching staff regarding student progress, issues, and concerns.
  • Conduct duties and responsibilities in accordance with SRPM School Board Policies and Procedures.
  • May use tribal vehicle to transport students to relevant employment and post-graduation sites as well as student work sites.
  • Performs other job-related duties as assigned to maintain and enhance department and agency operation.
Knowledge, Abilities, Skills, and Other Characteristics
A willingness to learn and understand:
  • The History, culture, traditions, and customs of the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community
Knowledge of:
  • Principles of childhood growth and development
  • Divorce, grief and loss
  • Classroom guidance curriculum
  • Post -secondary options and requirements for application and acceptance
  • Job requirements of area businesses and industries.
  • Student guidance for diversity of socio-economic, multicultural backgrounds and special education needs
  • CPS Procedures
Skilled in:
  • Behavior management, intervention and support in a school setting
  • Adolescent mental health assessment and solution focused brief therapy
  • Dealing with sensitive, personnel issues, and maintaining appropriate, professional, confidential relationships.
  • Working effectively on a team
  • Preparing students to volunteer, enter the work force, and/or attend higher learning institutions
  • Use of personal computers and various software programs, such as, but not limited to, Word, Excel, and programs needed to fulfill job requirements
Ability to:
  • Communicate effectively both orally and in writing
  • Meet face-to-face with students, parents, and staff to develop rapport, provide information, counsel and refer
  • Communicate effectively in person and on the phone
  • Initiate contact with potential employers or contacts for students.
  • Coach and teach job readiness skills
  • Establish/maintain effective working relationships with Community Members
  • Sit 50% of the time and lift 10 to 15 pounds of materials on an occasional basis
  • Understand and interpret complex guidelines, concepts, rules and regulations
  • Work and make decisions independently
  • Intervene effectively in crisis

Minimum Qualifications
Required Education: Bachelor's Degree from accredited college or university in Education, Social Work, Psychology, Counseling or related field.
Two (2) years of experience working with at-risk young adults. Two (2) years of experience with either conducting individual or group and family counseling within a school setting and/or two (2) years of experience in school-to work programs, college admissions or recruitment. Demonstrated competency in program development and guidance program administration, career and academic assessment, and other applicable skills and abilities. Master's Degree preferred. Arizona Department of Education Certification preferred.
Driving Requirement: This job description does not require the incumbent to drive; however, any employee who chooses or is asked to drive an SRPMIC vehicle for work related community business must receive authorization to do so. For clarification, work related community business includes driving to and from SRPMIC government sites and buildings.
Equivalency: Any equivalent combination of education and/or experience that would allow the candidate to satisfactorily perform the duties of this position, will be considered.
Underfill Eligibility: An enrolled Community Member whom closely qualifies for the minimum qualifications for a position may be considered for employment under SRPMIC Policy 2-19, Underfill.
Terms of Employment: This position is treated as a full-time exempt position scheduled for 40 hours per week.
Special Requirements
Must be able to pass a Pre-Employment Drug Test and extensive Fingerprint and Background Check. Employee is Subject to Random Drug Testing and completion of a Background Check every five (5) years.
The foregoing statements describe the general purpose and responsibilities assigned to this job and are not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills that may be required.
Prior to hire as an employee, applicants will be subject to drug and alcohol testing. Will be required to pass a pre-employment background/fingerprint check.
"SRPMIC is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer" Preference will be given to a qualified: Community Member Veteran, Community Member, Spouse of Community Member, qualified Native American, and then other qualified candidate.
In order to obtain preference, the following is required: 1) Qualified Community Member Veteran (DD-214) will be required at the time of application submission 2) Qualified Community Member (must provide Tribal I.D at time of application submission),3) Spouse of a Community Member (Marriage License/certificate and spouse Tribal ID or CIB is required at time of application submission), and 4) Native American (Tribal ID or CIB required at time of application submission).
Documents may be submitted by one of the following methods:
1) attach to application
2) fax (480) 362-5860
3) mail or hand deliver to Human Resources.
Documentation must be received by position closing date.
The IHS/BIA Form-4432 is not accepted.
Your Tribal ID/CIB must be submitted to HR-Recruitment-Two Waters.
Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community Employee Benefits Overview
Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community (SRPMIC) is committed to supporting the health, well-being, and financial security of our employees. We offer a comprehensive benefits package to employees, designed to enhance your quality of life both at work and at home. Below is a summary of the benefits available to SRPMIC employees. Plan details and eligibility requirements are provided upon hire and are subject to change.
Health Care Benefits
SRPMIC provides medical, dental, vision, and life insurance coverage for all regular full-time employees enrolled in standard plans. These benefits represent a significant part of your total compensation.
Medical: Choose from three plan options to fit your needs-the Low Deductible Plan, the Mid-Deductible Plan, and the High Deductible Health Plan (HDHP) with a Health Savings Account (HSA). As a self-funded plan, SRPMIC directly covers the cost of medical, pharmacy, dental, and vision services for all participants.
Dental: Enjoy nationwide access to the Humana Dental PPO/Traditional Preferred network, offering flexibility and choice in selecting dental care providers.
Vision: Coverage is provided through Davis Vision, including eye exams, lenses, frames, and contact lenses. Members also benefit from discounted rates on additional eyewear and services.
Life Insurance: All eligible employees are automatically enrolled in a fully paid basic term life insurance policy with a matching accidental death benefit.
Retirement Plans
SRPMIC supports your long-term financial goals through multiple retirement plan options:
401(k) and Roth Plans: Eligible employees can participate in both pre-tax and post-tax retirement savings plans. SRPMIC contributes 5% of your compensation to the pre-tax 401(k) and matches up to 3% of your salary deferral contributions.
Public Safety Personnel Retirement System (PSPRS): Available to eligible certified police officers and firefighters.
Arizona State Retirement System (ASRS): Available to Salt River School educators.
Health Reimbursement Arrangement (HRA): A retiree HRA with Health Equity, which is a tax-advantaged employer-funded account that retired employees (Age 55+) can use for qualified medical expenses, including some premiums, and out-of-pocket expenses such as copays and deductibles.
Paid Leave & Holidays
Annual & Sick Leave: Employees accrue separate balances for sick and annual leave each pay period. Sick leave may be used for personal or family illness and medical appointments, while annual leave covers vacation or personal time.
Holidays: SRPMIC observes 15 paid holidays each year, including two discretionary holidays and one day of birthday leave.
Other SRPMIC Paid Benefits
Short-Term Disability
Long-Term Disability
Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
SRPMIC offers a confidential Employee Assistance Program through SupportLinc, available at no cost to employees, their dependents, and household members.
Additional Voluntary Benefits
WellPath Wellness Program: A voluntary wellness initiative that encourages healthy living and rewards participation with incentives. Available to all employees and their dependents.
Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA): Administered by HealthEquity, FSAs allow you to pay for eligible health and dependent care expenses with pre-tax dollars.
Health Savings Account (HSA): Available to employees enrolled in the HDHP.
Supplemental Life & AD&D Insurance: Employees may purchase additional life and accidental death coverage for themselves and their dependents.
Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF): SRPMIC is a qualified employer under the PSLF program. Employees may be eligible for federal student loan forgiveness.
At SRPMIC, we value our employees and are proud to offer benefits that support your health, well-being, and future.



Frequently asked questions

Q: What skills or qualities help someone succeed as a Academic Counselor?

A: To succeed as an Academic Counselor, key technical skills include expertise in academic advising software, knowledge of college admissions processes, and understanding of academic policies and procedures. Soft skills such as strong communication, active listening, and empathy are essential for building trust and rapport with students, as well as the ability to navigate complex situations and provide guidance. These strengths enable Academic Counselors to effectively support students' academic and personal growth, ultimately contributing to their career growth and effectiveness in the role.

Q: What is the career path for a Academic Counselor?

A: A typical career progression for an Academic Counselor involves starting as an Entry-Level Counselor, providing support and guidance to students, and progressing to Mid-Level roles such as Senior Counselor or Program Coordinator, where they oversee specific programs or services. Senior-level positions, such as Director of Counseling or Dean of Students, involve strategic planning, leadership, and supervision of staff. Throughout their career, Academic Counselors can develop skills in areas like crisis intervention, assessment, and program development, and may also pursue specialized certifications or advanced degrees to enhance their career prospects.



Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community job posting for a Academic and Career Counselor (Accelerated Learning Academy) in Scottsdale, AZ with a salary of $71,307 to $95,908 Annually and benefits including Medical, Vision, Dental, PTO, Life, and Retirement with a map of Scottsdale location.