Assistant/Associate Director of College Counseling

Phoenix Country Day School

Start Date: July 2026

Salary Range: $70,000–$90,000

Full-time, 10-month position

Phoenix Country Day School seeks a full-time Assistant/Associate Director of College Counseling to join a collaborative team of four (two counselors, an essay specialist, and a registrar) supporting students in grades 9–12. Reporting to the Director of College Counseling, this position works closely with colleagues to provide comprehensive, ethical, and student-centered college counseling. The role involves individualized advising, planning and delivering educational programs for students and families, building relationships with colleges and universities, and contributing to the ongoing development of the school’s college counseling program. The title (Assistant or Associate Director) will be determined based on experience.

Key Responsibilities

Student & Family Guidance

• Counsel approximately 30 students per graduating class through all stages of the college search and application process. Guide students in developing balanced, thoughtful, and well-researched college lists aligned with academic, personal, and financial considerations.
• Write personalized, comprehensive counselor recommendation letters and support students with essays, applications, and timelines.
• Advise students on course selection in collaboration with faculty and administrators.

College Admissions Engagement

• Serve as a primary liaison to college admissions offices; host visiting representatives and facilitate student interactions.
• Travel to colleges and attend regional and national conferences to stay current with admission trends and strengthen professional networks.

Testing & Financial Aid

• Remain informed about standardized testing options and policies and communicate updates clearly to students and families.
• Provide general guidance on the financial-aid process, including FAFSA and CSS Profile timelines and required documentation, and refer families to appropriate resources when needed.

Programs, Teaching & School Involvement

• Plan and deliver grade-level programming, workshops, and presentations for students and families.
• Co-teach junior and senior college counseling classes.
• Participate fully in the life of the school, including faculty meetings, committees, and occasional evening and weekend commitments.

Technology & Data Management

• Use platforms such as SCOIR, Veracross, College Kickstart, Google Workspace, Canvas, and Zoom to manage processes, track data, and communicate effectively.

Communication & Professionalism

• Communicate clearly, warmly, and confidently with students, families, faculty, and college partners.
• Navigate sensitive conversations with discretion, empathy, and professionalism.
• Contribute positively to a collaborative department culture and perform additional duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree preferred.
• 3–5 years of experience in college admission and/or college counseling (independent school experience preferred).
• Strong knowledge of college admissions and financial aid.
• Excellent writing, communication, organizational, and time-management skills.
• Ability to build trusting relationships, maintain confidentiality, manage deadlines, and adapt to an evolving admissions landscape.
• Willingness to travel.

Interested candidates should send a resume and cover letter to HumanResources@pcds.org.