College and Career Readiness CTE Counselor

College And Career Readiness Counselor

The College and Career Readiness Counselor supports students in developing clear, actionable postsecondary plans with a strong emphasis on college readiness, Career and Technical Education (CTE) programming, dual enrollment, and workforce preparation. This role ensures students graduate with meaningful college credits, industry-recognized credentials, technical skills, and/or workforce experiences that position them for success in higher education and high-demand careers. The counselor works collaboratively with school staff, postsecondary institutions, employers, and community partners to expand equitable access to college and career pathways.

General Performance Responsibilities:

Student Advising & Postsecondary Planning

• Provide individualized counseling focused on college, career, and workforce readiness
• Assist students in developing personalized graduation and postsecondary plans aligned with academic, technical, and career goals
• Guide course selection and scheduling to maximize participation in dual enrollment, CTE pathways, advanced coursework, industry certification programs, and work-based learning opportunities
• Support students in balancing high school requirements with college-level coursework and CTE program expectations
• Help students explore career interests through career assessments, labor market information, and pathway exploration
• Advise students on postsecondary options including college, apprenticeships, technical training, and employment opportunities

Dual Enrollment Program Support

• Promote awareness of and equitable access to dual enrollment and CTE opportunities
• Advise students and families on eligibility requirements, course selection, credit transferability, and industry credential pathways
• Coordinate enrollment processes with partner colleges, technical centers, and workforce training providers
• Monitor student progress, academic performance, technical skill attainment, and credential completion
• Support students participating in internships, apprenticeships, clinical experiences, job shadowing, and other work-based learning experiences
• Educate students and families on the long-term benefits of earning college credit and industry-recognized credentials in high school

College & Career Readiness Programming

• Deliver workshops on college readiness, career exploration, and postsecondary planning
• Provide instruction in study skills, time management, and college-level expectations
• Support students with college applications, essays, and financial aid awareness
• Organize college visits, career fairs, industry tours, employer panels, CTE showcases, and postsecondary recognition events
• Integrate college and career readiness into school-wide programming

Family & Community Engagement

• Communicate regularly with families regarding student progress, postsecondary planning, dual enrollment, and CTE opportunities
• Host informational sessions on college planning, financial aid, career pathways, apprenticeships, and workforce opportunities
• Build and maintain partnerships with colleges, universities, employers, workforce development agencies, and community organizations
• Serve as a liaison between families, students, postsecondary partners, and industry representatives

Data Tracking & Program Evaluation

• Track student participation and success in dual enrollment and college readiness initiatives
• Tracking course progression, completion, endorsements and CTE data
• Monitor credit accumulation and academic progress
• Analyze data to identify equity gaps and improve access and outcomes
• Maintain accurate records of student progress and postsecondary placements for CTE students
• Use data to inform program improvements and strategic planning

Collaboration

• Work closely with school counselors, teachers, and administrators
• Coordinate with college partners and program staff
• Support integration of college and career readiness into curriculum and instruction
• Participate in school improvement efforts and student support teams

Qualifications

Education & Certification

• Bachelor's degree required; Master's degree in School Counseling, Education, or related field preferred
• Valid state certification/licensure in school counseling or related area (if required)

Experience

• Experience working with high school students strongly preferred
• Demonstrated knowledge of dual enrollment and early college programs
• Familiarity with college admissions, financial aid, and credit transfer processes

Skills & Competencies

• Strong understanding of postsecondary pathways and college-credit opportunities
• Ability to build partnerships with higher education institutions
• Excellent communication, organization, and problem-solving skills
• Commitment to expanding equitable access to advanced coursework
• Ability to analyze and use data to drive decision-making

Working Conditions

• School-based environment with regular collaboration with external partners
• Occasional evening or weekend events (e.g., parent nights, college/CTE information sessions)
• Possible travel to partner colleges, training centers, or employer sites