Career Counselors guide individuals in making informed educational and occupational choices. They assist clients in understanding their abilities, interests, and available opportunities to achieve career goals.
Education: Master's degree
Years in related career: None
On-the-job training: None
Projected Growth: 5.4% (above average)
Annual job openings: 31,000
Direct AI exposure: 25% of tasks
Potential AI exposure: 40% of tasks
| According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, average income (in USD) in 2025 was $64K per year. | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bottom 10% | Bottom 25% | Median (average) | Top 25% | Top 10% |
| $45K per year | $51K per year | $64K per year | $83K per year | $105K per year |
| Compared to other careers: Median is $13K above the national average. | ||||
Career Counselors typically work in educational institutions, career centers, government agencies, and private practices. Their work environment is generally office-based, involving one-on-one counseling sessions, group workshops, and occasionally attending or hosting career fairs.
Career Counselors play a vital role in helping individuals navigate the complex world of careers and education. They utilize a variety of tools, including personality assessments and interest inventories, to help clients understand their strengths and how these align with different career paths. Effective communication skills are essential, as career counselors must be adept at listening to and interpreting clients' aspirations and concerns.
In addition to one-on-one counseling, career counselors often deliver workshops and seminars on topics such as resume writing, job search strategies, and interview skills. They must stay informed about trends in the job market, changes in education and training programs, and emerging career fields to provide accurate and current advice.
The role of a career counselor is not only to guide clients towards a career but also to empower them with the skills and confidence needed to pursue their goals. This involves supporting clients through challenges and setbacks and celebrating their successes as they progress towards their career objectives.
The role usually requires a master's degree in counseling, psychology, or a related field, which typically entails 2-3 years of graduate study following a 4-year undergraduate degree. Additionally, state licensure or certification may be required.
Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.