Associate Director of College Counseling (40726)

POSITION OVERVIEW

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The Associate Director of College Counseling provides comprehensive, individualized college counseling and academic planning to Upper School students and their families, supporting students as they navigate the college exploration, application, and enrollment process. Drawing upon professional experience in college counseling and/or selective college admissions, the position guides students in identifying educational opportunities aligned with their academic interests, personal strengths, aspirations, and individual circumstances.

Working collaboratively within Westminster's College Counseling Office, the Associate Director manages an assigned student caseload, builds meaningful relationships with students and families, prepares individualized recommendations, and advocates for students throughout the college admissions process. The position also contributes to college counseling programming, maintains relationships with college and university representatives, and supports Westminster's commitment to student growth, independence, and informed decision-making.

Division Head: Head of the Upper School

Supervisor: Director of College Counseling

Supervisory Responsibilities: None

Position Status: Salaried, Exempt, Full-time, 11-month

WORK SCHEDULE, TIME OFF & HOLIDAYS

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Hours of Work: This is a full-time position. Typical hours are 7:45 a.m. to 3:45 p.m., Monday through Friday. Some weekend and evening work will be required. Summer work expectations include two weeks on campus and two weeks remote for letter writing.

Scheduled Time Off: The position includes scheduled time off in June and July. Specific dates are established annually by the Division Head based on the academic calendars.

Paid Time Off (PTO): The position is awarded 7 days of Paid Sick Time and 3 days of Personal Time annually, subject to the School's applicable PTO policies and procedures.

School Holidays: The position observes up to 27 paid school holidays annually, in accordance with the School's established holiday calendar and based on the employee’s scheduled work period. Holidays that occur during the employee’s non-working period are not provided as additional paid holidays.

REQUIREMENTS AND QUALIFICATIONS

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The requirements listed below represent the knowledge, skills, and abilities required for this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university.
• Demonstrated professional experience in college counseling, selective college admissions, or a closely related field.
• Strong understanding of college admissions practices, application processes, and the academic and personal factors influencing college selection.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to prepare thoughtful, individualized student recommendations and communicate effectively with students, families, faculty, and college representatives.
• Strong organizational, planning, and time-management skills, with the ability to manage multiple student cases, application deadlines, and competing priorities.
• Demonstrated ability to provide individualized guidance while supporting student independence, informed decision-making, and personal growth.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to develop productive, supportive relationships with students and families.
• Ability to exercise sound professional judgment, maintain confidentiality, and handle sensitive student and family information with discretion.
• Proficiency with Google Workspace, college counseling platforms, and electronic student records systems.
• Demonstrated commitment to ethical counseling practices, professional development, and Westminster's educational mission.
• Demonstrated proficiency with college counseling technology and digital platforms, including the responsible use of artificial intelligence tools in accordance with School policies and professional standards.
• Fundamental understanding of and commitment to the School’s culture, mission, and vision; a willingness to serve as an ambassador for the School, both internally and externally
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team-oriented environment.
• Ability to work a flexible schedule, including evening and weekend programs, summer responsibilities, and occasional travel.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master's degree in Counseling, Education, Higher Education Administration, or a related field.
• Experience working in an independent school college counseling office or selective college admissions environment.
• Familiarity with Scoir and other college application management platforms.
• Experience developing and delivering college counseling programs, workshops, and family information sessions.
• Established professional relationships with college and university admissions representatives.
• Experience supporting students through highly selective or holistic admissions processes.

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES

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• Provides comprehensive, individualized college counseling and academic planning for an assigned caseload of approximately 35–45 students per grade level, guiding students and families through the college exploration, application, and enrollment processes.
• Advises students on college selection, academic preparation, standardized testing considerations, application strategy, and admissions requirements based on individual goals, interests, and circumstances.
• Conducts individual and family conferences to review academic progress, discuss college planning strategies, establish application timelines, and support informed decision-making.
• Prepares thoughtful, individualized, advocacy-centered letters of recommendation that accurately communicate students' academic accomplishments, personal qualities, and contributions to the Westminster community.
• Reviews and provides guidance on college applications, personal statements, supplemental essays, resumes, and other application materials while promoting student ownership and authenticity.
• Monitors student progress throughout the application process, maintains accurate counseling records, and supports timely completion of application requirements and deadlines.
• Communicates regularly and professionally with students and families regarding college counseling programs, admissions developments, application expectations, and individual student needs.