College Counselor

Carondelet High School (About us) is looking for a full-time College Counselor for the 2026-2027 School Year. The College Counselor is a member of the College Counseling team and plays a critical role in delivering a comprehensive, equitable, and student-centered college counseling program. This position blends direct student advising with leadership in program development, family education, and strategic initiatives that support students’ postsecondary planning.

Working in close partnership with the Director of College Counseling, 2 Associate Directors, and an Academic Counselor, the College Counselor supports students in sophomore through senior years as they clarify goals, explore postsecondary pathways, and navigate the college application process. This role reflects the evolving realities of college admissions and adolescent development and requires strong professional judgment, relational skills, and the ability to balance individualized student support with program-level responsibilities.

Mission Alignment & Professional Commitments

 

  • Lives the mission of the school, in the CSJ tradition, through a thorough knowledge and understanding of the mission, vision, and values of Carondelet High School.

  • Has strong interpersonal relationship skills and is able to interact with people in a friendly and positive fashion.

  • Creates an environment where a growth mindset is a prominent presence in all aspects of school.

  • Maintains positive relationships and communication with students, parents, faculty, and staff to ensure an excellent educational experience.

  • Engages enthusiastically with and responds positively to the needs of students, faculty, families, staff, alumni, and the public outside the school in order to help maintain a positive and vibrant school community.

  • Is a life-long learner who takes advantage of professional growth opportunities related to their job and education in general.

  • Works collaboratively with Student Life, Admissions, and Academics to ensure an excellent educational experience in all areas of school life. 

Core Responsibilities

College Counseling (10th–12th Grade)

  • Serve as an academic and college counselor for a caseload of students in grades 10–12.

  • Provide individualized and small-group advising focused on goal-setting, academic planning, and postsecondary exploration.

  • Guide students and families through the college search, application, and decision-making process.

  • Support students in identifying best-fit colleges and postsecondary pathways aligned with strengths, interests, and values.

  • Write thoughtful and comprehensive letters of recommendation for colleges, scholarships, summer programs, and enrichment opportunities.

  • Conduct individual student and family meetings, including summer advising for rising seniors.

College Counseling Program & Initiatives

  • Lead or co-lead designated components of the College Counseling program (e.g., grade-level programming, application workshops, family education events, or special initiatives).

  • Help design and facilitate programming such as Road to College, College Kickstart, application workshops, Cougar U workshops, and financial aid programming.

  • Contribute to the development and maintenance of clear, timely, and accessible college counseling communications for students and families.

  • Support the ongoing evaluation and refinement of counseling programs based on student needs, outcomes, and feedback.

College & External Relations

  • Build and maintain professional relationships with college admissions representatives and counseling networks.

  • Stay informed about institutional priorities, admissions trends, and financial aid policies at a wide range of colleges and universities.

  • Maintain active membership in professional organizations such as WACAC and NACAC.

Data, Systems & Collaboration

  • Utilize MaiaLearning and related systems to support advising, application management, and document submission.

  • Ensure timely and accurate completion of school forms, transcripts, and recommendations.

  • Collaborate with academic leadership, student life, and learning support teams to support students.

  • Participate in department planning, reflection, and continuous improvement efforts.

  • Contribute data and insights for school reporting, school profile updates, and year-end reviews.

Family Partnership & Communication

  • Partner with families to clarify timelines, expectations, and decision points in the college process.

  • Support family education around financial aid, standardized testing, and postsecondary options.

  • Communicate with clarity, empathy, and professionalism in high-stakes or emotionally complex situations.

Qualifications

Required:

  • Bachelor's degree

  • 2+ years experience in secondary school college counseling or related educational settings.

  • Strong knowledge of college admissions processes, financial aid, and testing policies.

  • Demonstrated ability to build trust with students and families while maintaining professional boundaries.

  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Preferred:

  • Certificate in College Counseling (e.g., UCLA Extension or equivalent) or equivalent 

  • Experience in an independent, mission-driven, or faith-based school.

  • Familiarity with Maia or similar college counseling platforms.

Work Environment

This is a collaborative, student-centered role requiring regular availability to students and families, participation in evening events, and occasional travel for professional development or college visits. The College Counselor works closely with the Director of College Counseling and counseling colleagues to ensure a cohesive, ethical, and mission-aligned college counseling program. This role also actively contributes to school-wide initiatives and the broader life of the school community, supporting the holistic development of each student in alignment with the school’s Catholic mission and values.