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How to hire an admissions counselor/recruiter

Admissions counselor/recruiter hiring summary. Here are some key points about hiring admissions counselor/recruiters in the United States:

  • In the United States, the median cost per hire an admissions counselor/recruiter is $1,633.
  • It takes between 36 and 42 days to fill the average role in the US.
  • Human Resources use 15% of their expenses on recruitment on average.
  • On average, it takes around 12 weeks for a new admissions counselor/recruiter to become settled and show total productivity levels at work.

How to hire an admissions counselor/recruiter, step by step

To hire an admissions counselor/recruiter, you need to identify the specific skills and experience you want in a candidate, allocate a budget for the position, and advertise the job opening to attract potential candidates. To hire an admissions counselor/recruiter, you should follow these steps:

Here's a step-by-step admissions counselor/recruiter hiring guide:

  • Step 1: Identify your hiring needs
  • Step 2: Create an ideal candidate profile
  • Step 3: Make a budget
  • Step 4: Write an admissions counselor/recruiter job description
  • Step 5: Post your job
  • Step 6: Interview candidates
  • Step 7: Send a job offer and onboard your new admissions counselor/recruiter
  • Step 8: Go through the hiring process checklist
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  1. Identify your hiring needs

    First, determine the employments status of the admissions counselor/recruiter you need to hire. Certain admissions counselor/recruiter roles might require a full-time employee, whereas others can be done by part-time workers or contractors.

    Determine employee vs contractor status
    Is the person you're thinking of hiring a US citizen or green card holder?

    You should also consider the ideal background you'd like them an admissions counselor/recruiter to have before you start to hire. For example, what industry or field would you like them to have experience in, what level of seniority or education does the job require, and how much it'll cost to hire an admissions counselor/recruiter that fits the bill.

    This list shows salaries for various types of admissions counselor/recruiters.

    Type of Admissions Counselor/RecruiterDescriptionHourly rate
    Admissions Counselor/RecruiterSchool counselors help students develop academic and social skills and succeed in school. Career counselors assist people with the process of making career decisions by helping them develop skills or choose a career or educational program.$13-25
    Peer MentorA peer mentor is an individual who builds a relationship with another person or mentee who is new to the career or at the same level. Peer mentors must serve as a social role model and educate mentees on various resources and services... Show more$10-17
    Job CoachA job coach is responsible for evaluating people's skills and qualifications, advising them with career paths, helping with their aspirations, and promote employment opportunities. Job coaches help the clients build self-confidence and explore their maximum potentials to develop their professional growth... Show more$14-21
  2. Create an ideal candidate profile

    Common skills:
    • Financial Aid
    • Career Fairs
    • Community Colleges
    • Admissions Process
    • Student Recruitment
    • Recruitment Events
    • Enrollment Process
    • Outreach Events
    • Recruitment Strategies
    • Recruitment Efforts
    • Open Houses
    • Educational Programs
    • Recruitment Territory
    • Academic Programs
    Check all skills
    Responsibilities:
    • Manage and supervise an admission department organization for student ambassadors.
    • Interview prospective student candidates for selection into culinary programs, utilizing highly effective consultative sales and recruitment techniques.
    • Go out into public and educate individuals and businesses on the benefits of Ross.
    More admissions counselor/recruiter duties
  3. Make a budget

    Including a salary range in your admissions counselor/recruiter job description helps attract top candidates to the position. An admissions counselor/recruiter salary can be affected by several factors, such as geography, experience, seniority, certifications, and the prestige of the hiring company.

    For example, the average salary for an admissions counselor/recruiter in Idaho may be lower than in Massachusetts, and an entry-level admissions counselor/recruiter usually earns less than a senior-level admissions counselor/recruiter. Additionally, an admissions counselor/recruiter with certifications may command a higher salary, and working for a well-known company or start-up may also impact an employee's pay.

    Average admissions counselor/recruiter salary

    $39,328yearly

    $18.91 hourly rate

    Entry-level admissions counselor/recruiter salary
    $29,000 yearly salary
    Updated January 23, 2026

    Average admissions counselor/recruiter salary by state

    RankStateAvg. salaryHourly rate
    1Massachusetts$55,449$27
    2California$51,642$25
    3Texas$45,341$22
    4New Jersey$45,278$22
    5Pennsylvania$45,214$22
    6Oregon$41,869$20
    7Nevada$41,619$20
    8North Carolina$38,374$18
    9Indiana$37,796$18
    10Colorado$37,586$18
    11Wisconsin$36,300$17
    12Tennessee$34,921$17
    13Utah$33,572$16
    14Alabama$32,515$16
    15South Carolina$31,137$15

    Average admissions counselor/recruiter salary by company

    RankCompanyAverage salaryHourly rateJob openings
    1Faulkner University$48,647$23.394
    2University of Nevada, Reno$46,277$22.259
    3Bristol Community College$45,363$21.818
    4Regis College$44,978$21.62
    5Portland State University$44,693$21.492
    6Mercy College$44,246$21.27
    7Georgian Court University$41,727$20.062
    8California State University$41,650$20.0258
    9Framingham State University$41,232$19.82
    10University of Wisconsin System$40,808$19.626
    11Alvernia University$40,262$19.362
    12PSEA$40,093$19.289
    13University of Indianapolis$39,719$19.10
    14California Baptist University$39,128$18.815
    15Milton Hershey School$38,928$18.722
    16Colorado State Express$38,894$18.70
    17Management & Training$38,756$18.6340
    18NC.gov$38,289$18.4166
    19State of Colorado$37,828$18.1911
    20State Of Idaho$36,894$17.74
  4. Writing an admissions counselor/recruiter job description

    A good admissions counselor/recruiter job description should include a few things:

    • Summary of the role
    • List of responsibilities
    • Required skills and experience

    Including a salary range and the first name of the hiring manager is also appreciated by candidates. Here's an example of an admissions counselor/recruiter job description:

    Admissions counselor/recruiter job description example

    Application Instructions:

    External Applicants: Please upload your resume on the Apply screen. Your application will automatically populate your resume details, and you may verify and update data on the My Information page.

    Please add your cover letter and any other documents required for the position to the Resume/CV document upload section at the bottom of the My Experience application page. Use the Select Files button to add multiple documents including your cover letter and supporting documents. The My Experience page is the only opportunity to add your cover letter and supporting document attachments. You will not be able to modify your application after you submit it.

    Current Employees: Apply from your existing Workday account. Do not apply from the website. Log in to Workday. Click on the Career Worklet and select Find Jobs . Locate the position and click Apply . Update your Education and Job History.
    ** Cover letter required for all positions and optional for facilities, campus services, and hospitality positions unless otherwise specified.

    Job Description Summary
    Working in a team environment, the Admissions Counselor and Recruiter assist with the implementation of strategic programs and initiatives designed to attract the best possible pool of students in support of the School of Divinity's enrollment objectives. Travels frequently to colleges and universities, targeted church-related events, and other agencies, and relevant gatherings to increase the size, strength, and diversity of the inquiry/applicant pool. Reviews applications and recommends students for admission. Provides leadership for campus visits and facilitates campus tours.

    Job Description

    Essential Functions:
    • Travel to meet with prospective students in the region and nationally. Represents and promotes the School of Divinity at national, regional, state, and local events.
    • Participates in the evaluation of admission applications and scholarship decisions.
    • Leads the planning and implementation of recruitment events and other programs and initiatives to optimize applicant engagement.
    • Provides leadership to the campus visit program working with graduate assistants to host prospective students on campus.
    • Maintain consistent communication with prospective students throughout the admissions process from initial contact to enrollment.
    • Maintain confidentiality concerning sensitive personal and academic information submitted in the application process by applicants, guidance professionals or others.
    • Serves on the Admissions and Scholarship Committee working to execute scholarship programming (i.e. Wake Divinity Scholars Visit).
    • Perform other job-related duties as assigned by the Director of Admissions and Enrollment Management.


    Other Functions:

    Solves problems associated with admissions recruitment. Must be comfortable in a work environment that supports and seeks change, creativity and continuous improvement in methods and processes.

    Must use problem-solving skills to answer sensitive, complex and often emotionally-charged questions concerning the admissions process or admissions decision..

    Must handle crises and make independent decisions related to travel responsibilities- i.e. weather-related emergencies, cancellations or additions to recruitment activities.

    Must be comfortable flying and traveling alone.

    Required Education, Knowledge, Skills, Abilities:

    Master of Divinity degree or ATS accredited theological degree. One-two years related experience in admissions, vocational counseling, student recruitment, project planning and/or student services activities preferred.

    Preferred Education, Knowledge, Skills, Abilities:
    • Ability to manage significant public contact and frequent travel.
    • Ability to think strategically, generate new ideas, and develop effective programs.
    • Commitment to customer service and the ability to maintain confidentiality essential.
    • Strong oral and written communication skills and the ability to present information effectively to individuals or groups.
    • Skill in planning, development, implementation, and coordination of student recruitment.
    • Ability to learn and master computerized systems including student information systems, customer relationship management systems, databases, and social networking tools.
    • Excellent computer proficiency (MS Word, MS Excel, MS Powerpoint)
    • Effective management of school resources
    • An appreciation of racial/ethnic diversity, gender, sexuality, and theological diversity
    • Valid driver's license with a good driving record; must be insurable.


    Note:

    This position profile identifies the key responsibilities and expectations for performance. It cannot encompass all specific job tasks that an employee may be required to perform. Employees are required to follow any other job-related instructions and perform job-related duties as may be reasonably assigned by the employee's supervisor.

    Employee Vaccination Mandate:

    In an effort to protect the health and safety of the campus community, all faculty and staff positions, excluding staff who perform duties exclusively at Graylyn Conference Center, are required to be fully vaccinated with an FDA approved or authorized COVID-19 vaccine prior to their hire date. Once hired, faculty and staff must maintain full COVID-19 vaccination status throughout their employment at Wake Forest University. Faculty and staff with disabilities or sincerely held religious beliefs that preclude vaccination should contact Human Resources to request a reasonable accommodation.

    Additional Job Description

    Time Type Requirement
    Full time
    Note to Applicant:

    This position profile identifies the key responsibilities and expectations for performance. It cannot encompass all specific job tasks that an employee may be required to perform. Employees are required to follow any other job-related instructions and perform job-related duties as may be reasonably assigned by his/her supervisor.

    In order to provide a safe and productive learning and living community, Wake Forest University conducts background investigations and drug screens for all final staff candidates being considered for employment.

    Wake Forest seeks to recruit and retain a diverse workforce while promoting an inclusive work environment committed to excellence in the spirit of Pro Humanitate. In adherence with applicable laws and as provided by University policies, the University prohibits discrimination in its employment practices on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, genetic information, disability and veteran status and encourages qualified candidates across all group demographics to apply.
  5. Post your job

    To find admissions counselor/recruiters for your business, try out a few different recruiting strategies:

    • Consider internal talent. One of the most important talent pools for any company is its current employees.
    • Ask for referrals. Reach out to friends, family members, and your current work to ask if they know any admissions counselor/recruiters they would recommend.
    • Recruit at local colleges. Attend job fairs at local colleges to recruit entry-level admissions counselor/recruiters with the right educational background.
    • Social media platforms. LinkedIn, Facebook, and Twitter have more than 3.5 billion users, and they're a great place for company branding and reaching potential job candidates.
    Post your job online:
    • Post your admissions counselor/recruiter job on Zippia to find and recruit admissions counselor/recruiter candidates who meet your exact specifications.
    • Use field-specific websites.
    • Post a job on free websites.
  6. Interview candidates

    During your first interview to recruit admissions counselor/recruiters, engage with candidates to learn about their interest in the role and experience in the field. During the following interview, you'll be able to go into more detail about the company, the position, and the responsibilities.

    You should also ask about candidates' unique skills and talents to see if they match the ideal candidate profile you developed earlier. Candidates good enough for the next step can complete the technical interview.

    The right interview questions can help you assess a candidate's hard skills, behavioral intelligence, and soft skills.

  7. Send a job offer and onboard your new admissions counselor/recruiter

    Once you've decided on a perfect admissions counselor/recruiter candidate, it's time to write an offer letter. In addition to salary, it should include benefits and perks available to the employee. Qualified candidates may be considered for other positions, so make sure your offer is competitive. Candidates may wish to negotiate. Once you've settled on the details, formalize your agreement with a contract.

    You should also follow up with applicants who don't get the job with an email letting them know that you've filled the position.

    After that, you can create an onboarding schedule for a new admissions counselor/recruiter. Human Resources and the hiring manager should complete Employee Action Forms. Human Resources should also ensure that onboarding paperwork is completed, including I-9s, benefits enrollment, federal and state tax forms, etc., and that new employee files are created.

  8. Go through the hiring process checklist

    • Determine employee type (full-time, part-time, contractor, etc.)
    • Submit a job requisition form to the HR department
    • Define job responsibilities and requirements
    • Establish budget and timeline
    • Determine hiring decision makers for the role
    • Write job description
    • Post job on job boards, company website, etc.
    • Promote the job internally
    • Process applications through applicant tracking system
    • Review resumes and cover letters
    • Shortlist candidates for screening
    • Hold phone/virtual interview screening with first round of candidates
    • Conduct in-person interviews with top candidates from first round
    • Score candidates based on weighted criteria (e.g., experience, education, background, cultural fit, skill set, etc.)
    • Conduct background checks on top candidates
    • Check references of top candidates
    • Consult with HR and hiring decision makers on job offer specifics
    • Extend offer to top candidate(s)
    • Receive formal job offer acceptance and signed employment contract
    • Inform other candidates that the position has been filled
    • Set and communicate onboarding schedule to new hire(s)
    • Complete new hire paperwork (i9, benefits enrollment, tax forms, etc.)
    Sign up to download full list

How much does it cost to hire an admissions counselor/recruiter?

Before you start to hire admissions counselor/recruiters, it pays to consider both the one-off costs like recruitment, job promotion, and onboarding, as well as the ongoing costs of an employee's salary and benefits. While most companies that hire admissions counselor/recruiters pay close attention to the initial cost of hiring, ongoing costs are much more significant in the long run.

Admissions counselor/recruiters earn a median yearly salary is $39,328 a year in the US. However, if you're looking to find admissions counselor/recruiters for hire on a contract or per-project basis, hourly rates typically range between $13 and $25.

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