Section II | Employment Counselor

Sample Job Descriptions/Ads

Nature of the Job

This work involves assessment of client skills, interests, needs, and recommendations about job/career possibilities. Depending upon the setting, may include actual job placement. Certain jobs may be restricted to working with targeted groups—unemployed, under employed, those completing their education, professionals who are seeking career changes or who have lost their job through downsizing—or may deal with a wide variety of clientele. Employment counselors must have good interpersonal/counseling skills and specific training in vocational assessment. They also must have a thorough understanding of current employment opportunities and job requirements in order to make the best recommendations to clients. Career counseling typically requires a master’s degree, but intern/volunteer experiences are possible at the undergraduate level to explore this option before making a commitment about a graduate program. Within state agencies most counselors have a bachelor’s degree plus course work in guidance and counseling.

Where You Might Work

Vocational counseling positions are available in secondary schools, in colleges and universities, and in special programs for the unemployed or under employed. There are private consulting firms which specialize in career work, particularly for executive-level personnel. Some career counselors are self-employed.

Preparation

Suggested Areas for Minor/Collateral:

• Vocational Education

Suggested Internship Sites for HDFS 4314:

• Texas Workforce Commission
• TTU Career Planning and Placement

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