College Counselor

Position Overview

College Counselor

Location: College Achieve Paterson Charter School, Paterson NJ

Salary Range: $60,000–$90,000 with comprehensive benefits package

Contract Type: 10 Months

The College Counselor ensures that all scholars develop and execute a comprehensive post-secondary plan aligned with the school’s mission to prepare students for acceptance and success at top colleges and universities. This role is dedicated to individualized college counseling, maximizing scholarship opportunities, and building robust partnerships with higher education institutions. The ideal candidate is a dynamic, student-centered professional who thrives in a collaborative environment and is deeply committed to supporting students and families through every phase of the college application journey.

Key Responsibilities

Individualized College Planning & Guidance

• Develop and implement personalized college admissions strategies for students, targeting top-tier universities and maximizing merit-based scholarship awards.
• Provide comprehensive guidance on every aspect of the college admissions process, including essay writing, application submissions, interview preparation, and financial aid.
• Assist students in building balanced and aspirational college lists aligned with their academic, personal, and career goals.
• Support preparation for standardized tests (SAT, ACT, AP, etc.), track progress, and recommend appropriate resources.
  
  

Scholarship & Financial Aid Support

• Identify and promote local, state, and national scholarship opportunities; cultivate partnerships with foundations and financial aid offices.
• Conduct FAFSA workshops and financial aid literacy sessions for students and families.
• Create and manage a scholarship tracking system to monitor application submissions, deadlines, and award outcomes.
  
  

College & Career Program Development

• Design and deliver a comprehensive college and career readiness program for grades 9–12, incorporating college tours, industry internships, and guest speaker events.
• Lead planning and execution of college and career fairs with representatives from top institutions and sectors.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with college admissions officers to expand access for scholars.
  
  

Parent & Community Engagement

• Facilitate ongoing parent workshops on the college application process, NCAA eligibility, scholarships, and financial aid.
• Partner with families to ensure a shared understanding of college and career pathways and timely application steps.
• Leverage alumni networks and local organizations to enhance students’ real-world exposure and post-secondary options.
  
  

Collaboration & Team Leadership

• Train teachers, counselors, and administrators on best practices for college readiness and post-secondary planning.
• Coordinate with faculty to ensure timely submission of recommendation letters, transcripts, and application materials.
• Serve as a liaison between students, staff, and external stakeholders to enhance the effectiveness of college counseling services.
  
  

Data Management & Reporting

• Maintain accurate records of all college applications, acceptances, test scores, financial aid documents, and scholarships.
• Ensure NCAA Eligibility Center documentation is up to date for student-athletes.
• Update and maintain the school’s Common App profile annually.
• Produce regular reports for leadership on college outcomes and program impact.
  
  

External Engagement & Networking

• Build and sustain relationships with college representatives, scholarship providers, and other school counselors.
• Organize student visits to college campuses and host admissions representatives at the school.
• Share resources and best practices through active participation in professional networks.
  
  

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required; Master’s degree in Counseling, Education, or a related field preferred.
• Minimum 3–5 years of college counseling or related experience, ideally in a high-performing school environment.
• Deep knowledge of college admissions, financial aid processes, and scholarship opportunities.
• Demonstrated ability to build strong relationships with students, families, colleges, and community organizations.
• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
• Experience working with diverse student populations and a commitment to equity and access.