Admissions Counselor (35095)

Find your Career at Northern Illinois University! Chartered in 1895, Northern Illinois University (NIU) is a student‑centered, regional public research institution with a diverse and international student body of approximately 16,000 students. Located 65 miles from downtown Chicago, in DeKalb, Illinois, NIU is a thriving community of dedicated faculty, staff, students, alumni, local residents and friends who support the goal of providing upward mobility to our students and making an enduring impact on our future. NIU offers baccalaureate, master’s, doctoral and law degrees across more than 40 academic departments and seven colleges. NIU is classified by the Carnegie Foundation as a Research University/High Research Activity and a Carnegie Engaged University. Position Summary The Admissions Counselor serves as a primary representative of Northern Illinois University to prospective students, families, high school counselors, community college partners, and community organizations. This position is responsible for developing and implementing recruitment and yield strategies within an assigned territory to achieve undergraduate enrollment goals. The role combines strategic territory management, relationship building, public speaking, admissions counseling, communication, data analysis, and customer service. Essential Duties and Responsibilities Student Engagement, Communication, and Campus Recruitment Meet individually with prospective students and families through in‑person, virtual, telephone, email, and other communication methods to provide admissions counseling throughout the enrollment process. Plan and deliver engaging campus presentations, information sessions, visitor interviews, and recruitment programs for prospective students, families, and school groups. Execute targeted communication and call campaigns during peak recruitment and yield periods while managing a high volume of student inquiries. Collaborate with campus partners to connect students with appropriate academic and support resources. Show excellent presentation, communication, and customer service skills while balancing multiple priorities and maintaining responsiveness during high‑volume recruitment periods. Territory Management and Recruitment Travel Manage an assigned recruitment territory by developing and executing strategic recruitment and yield plans designed to meet undergraduate enrollment goals. Represent Northern Illinois University through high school visits, community college visits, college fairs, college planning programs, counselor meetings, and other recruitment events. Build and maintain strong relationships with school counselors, community college advisors, community organizations, and other educational partners within the assigned territory. Evaluate territory performance throughout the recruitment cycle and adjust recruitment strategies based on enrollment trends, market conditions, and institutional priorities. Complete extensive automobile travel, frequent overnight travel during recruitment seasons, and regular evening and weekend work to support recruitment events and university programs. Recruitment Planning, Professional Knowledge, and Strategic Outreach Continuously develop and maintain comprehensive knowledge of NIU’s academic programs, admissions policies, scholarships, student services, campus resources, and student outcomes to provide accurate and personalized guidance to prospective students and families. Research recruitment trends, demographic shifts, competitor institutions, and best practices in enrollment management to develop and refine territory recruitment and yield strategies. Maintain cultural awareness, professionalism, and exceptional customer service while representing the university to students, families, school counselors, community college partners, and campus stakeholders. Application Review, Reporting, Assessment, and Office Operations Review undergraduate applications for admission by evaluating academic credentials, transcripts, supporting documents, and other application materials in accordance with university admissions policies and holistic review practices. Maintain a thorough understanding of admissions policies, residency requirements, curriculum evaluation practices, and institutional enrollment priorities to ensure accurate and equitable application review. Maintain accurate recruitment records and territory activity within university systems. Prepare reports that evaluate recruitment efforts, territory performance, and enrollment outcomes to support data‑informed decision making. Identify recruitment challenges, recommend strategies for improvement, and contribute to office planning and enrollment initiatives. Participate in committees, special projects, cross‑functional initiatives, and other admissions responsibilities as assigned. Minimum Required Qualifications (SPS) Experience in a college/university admissions office or related field. Valid driver’s license. Additional Requirements (SPS) Strong verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills. Demonstrated ability to give presentations before large groups. Dedicated and committed to customer service. Ability to project a favorable image on behalf of the University. Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail. Ability to work independently and as part of a team. Proficiency in using computer systems and software. Ability to do extensive automobile travel. Preferred Qualifications (SPS) Bilingual and able to read, write and speak Spanish proficiently. Physical demands consistent with office‑type work. Ability to perform sedentary work involving sitting the majority of the time. Ability to work for extended periods at a computer workstation. Availability to work some evenings, weekends, and off‑campus assignments based on critical recruiting cycles. Hybrid remote work is possible. Ability to lift and carry 25 lbs box. Appointment and Compensation Details Anticipated Appointment Start Date: 8/16/2026 Percent of Staff Year: 1.00 Standard Hours Per Week: 37.50 Equal Opportunity Employment In accordance with applicable statutes and regulations, NIU is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, national origin, ancestry, sex, religion, age, disability, marital status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, political affiliation, or any other factor unrelated to professional qualifications, and will comply with all applicable federal and state statutes, regulations and orders pertaining to nondiscrimination, equal opportunity and affirmative action. The following person has been designated to handle inquiries regarding the non‑discrimination policies: Ethics and Compliance Officer, Title IX Coordinator Health Services Building Room 230 View email address on click.appcast.io View phone number on click.appcast.io ADA Accommodation NIU remains committed to ensuring that its recruitment and application procedures include full opportunities for applicants with disabilities. Employment opportunities will not be denied to anyone because of the need to make accommodations for a person’s disability during either the application or interview process. An applicant who believes they require an accommodation to participate in the employment process due to a disability may request that accommodation through the Accommodation Request Form. For further assistance, please contact the office of theAffirmative Action and Equal Opportunity (AAEO) at View email address on click.appcast.io. 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