Job Summary
The counselor fulfills the mission of the Catholic school by assisting the faculty and administration in the development of a guidance program and counseling students in areas of academic and career domains, with a strong emphasis on college counseling. The counselor has decision-making authority within the realm of the office in consultation with the Assistant Head of School for Academics. This position reports to and is evaluated by the Assistant Head of School for Academics.
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.
- Prepares and implements a 9-12 college guidance program for students.
- Coordinates college events & workshops: fairs, financial aid workshops, and parent meetings
- Identifies specific needs of students in academic and career domains.
- Coordinates the college entrance exam program and assists with test interpretation for teachers, students, and parents.
- Disseminates information and provides direct services with regard to college planning, discernment, admission, and careers.
- Maintains student records and college counseling database.
- 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.
- Creates a database of school sponsored internships and work experiences. Manages relationships with alumni sponsors to support student internship experiences.
- Collects and maintains data on college acceptance/graduation, financial aid awards, and alumni choice of major.
- Manage a weekly parent support group meeting to discuss college applications/financial aid.
- Additional duties as necessary
Important Job Functions
- Keeps abreast of college entrance requirements and of guidance principles and programs.
- Sends transcripts and records upon request.
- Coordinates with faculty and staff concerning student achievement and other needs.
- Continues personal growth through association membership in professional organizations.
- Assists with scheduling and other student-oriented tasks.
- Collaborates with peers to enhance the work environment and support instructional planning.
Minimum Qualifications
Education/Certification
- A master's degree in a related field is generally required. Relevant fields include: Counseling, Educational Leadership or Administration, School Counseling, Psychology, Social Work, Higher Education
Experience
- 3 years experience in education, school counseling field, or related area.
- Experience working at college/university is preferred.
Knowledge, Skills, And Abilities
- Knowledge of the basic teachings of the Catholic Church.
- Knowledge of human development and adolescent issues.
- Knowledge of college admission counseling and processes.
- Knowledge of standardized assessment instruments and applicable interpretation.
- Knowledge of Naviance and/or SCOIR platforms.
- Able 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 work some nights and weekends.
- Required to manage high to moderate levels of stress.
- Required to work a minimum of a full school day.
- 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
School Classification