School Counselor Job Description
Job Summary: The counselor fulfills the mission of the Catholic school by assisting faculty and administration in the development of a guidance program and counseling students in areas of academic, career, and social/emotional domains. The counselor has decision-making authority within the realm of the office in consultation with the principal. This position reports to and is evaluated by the principal.
Essential Job Functions
- Supports and upholds the philosophy of Catholic education and the mission of the school
- Acts as a witness to Gospel values by modeling the teachings of the Catholic church
- Supports and adheres to the Code of Conduct and policies and procedures of the school and Diocese
- Abides by the Confidentiality Policy set forth in the Diocese Employee Handbook
- Communicates effectively with students, parents, and other professionals
- Identifies specific needs of students in academic as well as personal domains
- Assists students with social/emotional issues and offers referral options for outside counseling
- Maintains current and accurate records according to school policy
- Meets staff development guidelines as set forth by the Diocese/local administration
- Demonstrates professionalism in conduct, demeanor, and work habits.
Important Job Functions
- Keeps abreast of guidance principles and programs
- Coordinates with faculty and staff concerning student achievement and other needs
- Continues personal growth through association membership in professional organizations
- Collaborates with peers to enhance the work environment and support instructional planning
Minimum Qualifications
Education/Certification
- Master’s Degree in Counseling or Master’s Degree in Psychology or Social Work with courses included and added that address theories and methods in counseling, psychology of adolescence, career information and development, multi-cultural counseling, vocational, academic and career testing
Experience
- 3 years experience in education, school counseling field, or related area
Knowledge, Skills, And Abilities
- Knowledge of the basic teachings of the Catholic Church
- Knowledge of human development and adolescent issues
- Ability to communicate effectively in both written and verbal form
- Able to work well with others in the school community
- Able to work independently and self-motivate
- Able to organize and manage multiple projects and tasks
- Able to respond to crises effectively
- Skill in organizing and relating information in an understandable format
- Skill in job appropriate technology
- Skill in critical thinking and planning
Working Conditions
- Required to manage high to moderate levels of stress
- Required to work in standard office and school conditions
Mental/Physical Demands
- Required to lift or carry classroom supplies, textbooks, furniture, and equipment to a minimum of 35 pounds
- Required to maintain composure and avoid inappropriate displays of emotion
- Required to sit, stand, bend, stoop, reach, grab, pull, hear, see, and speak on a daily basis
- Required to perform repetitive physical tasks such as computer keyboarding, writing, and reading
- Ability to manage frequent interruptions while working
FLSA Classification: Non-exempt (hourly)
School Classification: Part-Time
