College Admissions Counselor

The College Admissions Counselor will recruit and enroll a talented and diverse class of traditional undergraduate students each year from Pittsburgh Public Schools and an assigned recruitment territory. The incumbent will shepherd these students through the entire enrollment process, from inquiry to matriculation, serving as a single point of contact. This includes frequent correspondence, application review, financial aid counseling, and ensuring that all requirements are met for a smooth transition to college. Within a collaborative environment, the Enrollment Counselor will serve as a liaison to one or more campus offices/departments/colleges and will guide activities/strategy in the office’s broader access and outreach efforts.

This position is based on Carlow’s main campus and requires some weekend and evening work. Occasional overnight travel is also expected.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
A Bachelor’s degree is required
A high energy level, strong attention to detail, and outstanding project management skills
Excellent oral and written communication skills; Strong customer service skills
Understanding of, and commitment to, inclusive enrollment practices
Ability to multi‐task, take initiative, and function with minimal supervision
Ability to collect and interpret data to make strategic decisions
Possession of a valid U.S. driver’s license.
Must be willing to travel independently, including local (same day) travel as well as occasional overnight travel (approximately 2-3 weeks in the fall and 1-2 weeks in the spring)
Occasional lifting of 10-20 lb. boxes will be required
Will need to be able to stand for extended periods of time
Must be able to work some evenings and weekends.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
A Master’s degree is preferred
1-3 years’ experience in admissions, enrollment, or school counseling
Familiarity with the work of community-based organizations or similar college access initiatives
An understanding of and the ability to articulate the value of a Catholic liberal arts education
An enthusiasm for helping students and families navigate the college search process
Should have an intermediate level of proficiency with basic computer software systems (i.e. Microsoft Office)
Familiarity with SIS and CRM systems is a plus.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES
Recruitment/Territory Management
Create a comprehensive plan for travel to, and coverage of, high school visits, college fairs, and regional events by both the incumbent and alumni/parent ambassadors.
Plan regional or school-based events, as appropriate, for school counselors, prospective students/families, and admitted students/families.
Use Technolutions Slate CRM to maintain consistent communication with prospective students and families with a focus on encouraging applications, campus visits, enrollment deposits, etc.
Nurture relationships with school counselors, Pittsburgh Promise ambassadors and staff, alumni/parent ambassadors based in the territory, and other influencers and constituents (e.g., teachers, principals, coaches).
Assess candidates and make recommendations for admission and merit scholarships.
Counsel students and families on financial aid, to include FAFSA completion, release of financial aid offers, and thorough explanation of college costs, loans, and payment options.
Assist students with the transition/onboarding process from the time of deposit until start of classes, including satisfactory completion of various tasks and paperwork such as housing, technology setup, financial aid verification, immunization record, etc.
Present to large and small groups of prospective students and families on and off campus (enrollment events, high school parent nights, etc.).
Use independent analysis and decision making to develop and execute strategies to increase applications and enrollment in the assigned recruitment territory.
Enrollment Support/Liaison
Act as an intermediary between the Office of Admissions and an assigned college, office, and/or department within Carlow University.
Develop and implement plans to enhance access and outreach initiatives.
Create and maintain an accurate database of community-based organizations (CBOs) and their leaders/representatives. Establish a communication plan to inform and engage CBOs.
Other
Demonstrate and reflect an understanding of, and commitment to, the mission and core values of Carlow University and the Sisters of Mercy.
Exhibit professional behavior at all times as a representative of the institution.
Other duties as assigned.
Carlow University is Devoted to….
A culture of integrity, dignity and respect for all
A strong commitment to social justice
Ethical forward-thinking leadership
Comprehensive medical, dental, vision, life & disability benefits package
Tuition benefits for undergraduate and graduate programs
Health Savings Account and Flexible Spending Account options
Wellness and Employee Assistance Program
Complimentary use of Carlow’s fitness center and amenities
Successful candidates must be committed to envisioning the future of liberal arts and professional education in a rapidly changing environment; have experience working with diverse populations; actively support Carlow’s commitment to equity, inclusion, and community; and be able to articulate how they will contribute to Carlow University’s Catholic, Mercy mission and values through their teaching, scholarship, and service.

Carlow University is a comprehensive Catholic University situated in a culturally rich and diverse urban setting of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Founded in 1929 by the Sisters of Mercy, an international community of Roman Catholic women with a mission to serve the poor, the sick, and the uneducated. Carlow is an institution grounded in the liberal arts while also offering strong professional programs, committed to engaging its diverse community in a process of life-long learning, scholarship, research, and service. Degrees are offered at the baccalaureate, master’s, and doctoral levels. Carlow University aims to provide transformational educational opportunities rooted in social justice for a diverse community of learners, and to empower them to excel in their chosen work as compassionate, responsible leaders in the creation of a just and merciful world.

Carlow University employees commit themselves to the highest standards of ethical conduct. They commit to act with integrity, treat others with respect and dignity, carefully steward the University’s resources, avoid conflicts of interest or commitment, maintain confidentiality, and to comply with legal and professional obligations.