Locations: Darby, PA 19023; Coatesville, PA 19320; Chester, PA 19013
Company: YMWIC Foundation, Inc.
Date posted: June 26, 2026
Pay: $54,500.00 per year with 401K, Medical, Dental and Vision, Paid Time Off
Job Summary:
The GEAR UP Academic Coach/Career Counselor supports middle and high school students—especially first‑generation, low‑income, and underrepresented learners—in preparing for success in postsecondary education. This role provides academic guidance, college and career readiness programming, mentoring, and family engagement to ensure students are equipped with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to pursue higher education.
We are seeking a passionate and dedicated GEAR UP Academic Coach/Career Counselor to empower middle and high school students on their journey toward higher education and career success. In this vital role, you will provide comprehensive counseling, mentorship, and support services to help students overcome barriers, develop essential skills, and achieve their academic and personal goals. Your energetic approach will inspire students to unlock their full potential, fostering a positive and motivating environment that encourages growth, resilience, and lifelong learning. This paid position offers an exciting opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of youth while gaining valuable experience in educational counseling, mental health support, and community engagement.
Duties
- Conduct individual and group counseling sessions focused on academic planning, college readiness, career exploration, and personal development.
- Develop tailored coaching plans that address each student’s unique needs, strengths, and challenges.
- Provide crisis intervention and mental health support using techniques such as motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and trauma-informed care.
- Collaborate with teachers, parents, community partners, and school staff to coordinate services and ensure holistic student support.
- Facilitate workshops on social-emotional skills, time management, study strategies, and college application processes.
- Maintain accurate documentation of student progress through medical records, behavioral health notes, and educational assessments in compliance with HIPAA regulations.
- Utilize research-based practices including applied behavior analysis (ABA), psychodynamic therapy, art therapy, dance therapy, and other modalities to enhance student engagement and well-being.
- Mentoring and training of junior staff: assist with onboarding, training, and share best practices / provide guidance to junior staff in complex situations.
- Strategic Operational Reporting: analyze trends, identify risks/operational concerns and report to leadership
Skills
- Strong knowledge of mental health counseling techniques such as psychotherapy, psychodynamic therapy, grief counseling, PTSD care, addiction counseling, behavioral therapy, and group therapy.
- Experience with children and adolescents in educational or clinical settings; familiarity with special education needs is highly desirable.
- Proficiency in crisis management strategies including crisis intervention and behavior management to ensure student safety.
- Skilled in motivational interviewing to foster intrinsic motivation for positive change.
Student Support
- Provide individualized academic advising, goal‑setting, and progress monitoring
- Assist students with course selection, study skills, time management, and academic planning
- Deliver workshops on college readiness, financial literacy, and career exploration
- Support students in completing college applications, FAFSA, scholarships, and enrollment steps
- Coordinate tutoring, mentoring, and enrichment opportunities
Program Implementation
- Plan and facilitate college and career readiness activities, including campus visits, career fairs, and summer programs
- Track student participation, progress, and outcomes in accordance with GEAR UP grant requirements
- Maintain accurate documentation and data for reporting and evaluation
Family & Community Engagement
- Conduct outreach to families to increase awareness of college pathways and financial aid
- Host family workshops, information sessions, and community events
- Build partnerships with colleges, community organizations, and local businesses
School Collaboration
- Work closely with teachers, counselors, administrators, and support staff to identify student needs
- Participate in school meetings, intervention teams, and professional development
- Advocate for equitable access to rigorous coursework and academic supports
Minimum Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in education, counseling, social work, psychology, or related field
- 5 years’ experience working with youth in educational or community settings required; 10 years’ experience preferred
- Knowledge of college admissions, financial aid, and career pathways
- Strong communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills
- Ability to work collaboratively with diverse populations
- Proficiency with data tracking, documentation, and basic technology tools
Preferred Qualifications
- Master’s degree in counseling, education, or related field
- Experience with GEAR UP, TRIO, AVID, or similar college‑access programs
- Background in academic advising, case management, or youth development
- Bilingual or multilingual abilities
- Familiarity with local colleges, workforce programs, and community resources
Desired Personal Qualities
- Empathy and cultural sensitivity—able to connect with students from diverse backgrounds
- Encouraging and motivational—helps students see possibilities they may not see in themselves
- Student‑centered mindset—committed to equity and access
- Strong relationship‑builder—with students, families, and school staff
- Organized and detail‑oriented—able to manage multiple tasks and deadlines
- Creative problem‑solver—adapts to student needs and school environments
- Resilient and persistent—keeps students engaged even when challenges arise
- Positive role model—demonstrates professionalism, integrity, and growth mindset
Job Type: Full-time
Education: Bachelor's (Required)
Work Location: In person
Pay: $54,500.00 per year
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Education:
Ability to Commute:
- West Chester, PA 19380 (Required)
Work Location: In person
