College & Career Readiness Counselor

Company Description

Uncommon Schools is a nonprofit network of high-performing public charter schools dedicated to providing an exceptional K-12 education in economically disadvantaged communities. Operating in Boston, Camden, New York City, Newark, and Rochester, we are committed to closing the college completion gap and preparing every student for college and beyond. Our students consistently exceed national benchmarks, reflecting our dedication to their success. We invest deeply in our educators, offering weekly coaching, feedback, and professional development to ensure excellence in teaching and leadership. Join us to work hard, do good, and make a lasting difference!

Job Description

At Uncommon, our College & Career Readiness Counselors ensure that every student, regardless of pathway, graduates with a clear, personalized plan for life after high school. This role works closely with students and families to explore and pursue a range of postsecondary options, including college, career training programs, and workforce opportunities.

College & Career Readiness Counselors provide highly individualized, strengths-based advising and instruction, with a focus on students who are not on a traditional college pathway. The ultimate goal is to ensure each student builds the skills, knowledge, and plan needed to successfully transition to and thrive in their chosen postsecondary path.

Responsibilities

Teach College & Career Readiness Courses

• Lead 11th and 12th grade College & Career Readiness courses that guide students through postsecondary planning across multiple pathways
• Support students in exploring interests, strengths, and identities, and connecting them to aligned postsecondary options
• Build students’ ability to communicate their experiences and goals through resumes, interviews, and written materials
• Use data to differentiate instruction and support student progress toward individualized goals

Provide Individualized Postsecondary Counseling

• Deliver consistent 1:1 counseling to help students develop rigorous, realistic, and personalized postsecondary plans
• Partner closely with families through meetings and ongoing communication to support informed decision-making
• Collaborate with grade-level teams to monitor student progress and coordinate targeted supports
• Participate in IEP meetings and contribute to high-quality transition planning aligned to students’ goals

Build College, Career, and Workforce Pathways

• Plan and execute college visits, career exploration experiences, and postsecondary readiness events
• Develop and maintain partnerships with colleges, training programs, and community organizations to expand student access and opportunity
• Expose students to a wide range of postsecondary pathways and help them evaluate fit across options

Manage Systems and Postsecondary Readiness Operations

• Prepare and submit transcripts and required documentation for postsecondary opportunities
• Maintain accurate student data, records, and tracking systems to support strong postsecondary outcomes
• Collaborate across teams to ensure alignment between counseling, academic, and special education supports

Qualifications

Required

• Deep commitment to the mission of Uncommon Schools
• Experience working with high school students and families, particularly in urban or charter school settings
• Ability to build strong relationships and communicate effectively with students, families, and colleagues
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities and work independently
• Skilled in using data to inform instruction, counseling, and student support
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail in managing student information and processes
• Cultural competence and an asset-based mindset, with the ability to support students with diverse learning needs

Preferred

• Experience in college counseling, career readiness, or postsecondary advising
• Experience supporting students with disabilities and/or participating in IEP meetings and transition planning
• Background in teaching, counseling, special education, or a related field
• Familiarity with tools such as Naviance, PowerSchool, or similar systems

Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree required; Master’s degree preferred
• Minimum of 2 years of experience in a secondary school setting

Additional Information

Our people are what make us Uncommon. We offer competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits that support the personal health, wellness, and finances of our staff and their families. Our compensation philosophy values equity & fairness and attracting & retaining top talent. 

Compensation

Compensation for this role is between $52,000 to $68,000. Most candidates who meet job description requirements will receive an offer of $52,000 - $55,200. 

Starting pay is determined using various factors including but not limited to relevant professional development, education certifications, and tenure with Uncommon Schools. 

Benefit Highlights: 

• 19 days of paid time off
• 3 weeks of paid Winter and Summer org-wide holidays
• Comprehensive Health, Dental, and Vision insurance plans
• 403(b) retirement savings program + employer match
• Paid leave of absence options (parental, medical, disability, etc.)
• Mental health and counseling support + wellness benefits
• Pre-tax flexible spending, dependent care, and health saving accounts

*A detailed list of all benefits is located HERE.

At Uncommon, we believe that a supportive and welcoming environment helps our students, staff, and community thrive. We are dedicated to building a team that brings a wide range of perspectives and experiences, reflective of the communities we serve---with over 70% of our staff identifying as people of color. Our organization values respect and open dialogue on important topics that shape our school culture.

As an equal opportunity employer, Uncommon provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. We also ensure that individuals with disabilities receive all privileges and benefits associated with employment and are provided reasonable accommodations for the interview process and to perform core job functions. If you would like to request an accommodation, please email recruitment@uncommonschools.org.