Saddle River Day School seeks a dynamic, student-centered Associate Director of College Counseling to join its College Counseling Office. This role supports students and families through the college application process while upholding the school’s commitment to individualized guidance, academic excellence, and personal growth.

Key Responsibilities:

• Advise a caseload of students (primarily grades 10–12) and their families through all aspects of the college search and application process, including college list development, essay guidance, and decision-making.
• Build strong, trusting relationships with students, offering personalized and developmentally appropriate support.
• Write comprehensive, individualized letters of recommendation that reflect each student’s strengths and character.
• Collaborate with faculty, advisors, and administrators to support student success and ensure cohesive communication.
• Plan and deliver programming for students and families, including workshops on the college process and Sophomore Seminar.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of college admissions trends and cultivate relationships with college admissions representatives.
• Coordinate and host college visits, panels, and events on campus.
• Assist in managing application platforms (SCOIR, YouScience, Common Application, College Kickstart) and tracking student progress.
• Support data collection and reporting related to college outcomes.
• Create and cultivate a database of summer opportunities for students.
• Work with the visual and performing arts departments to support students who anticipate attending conservatory and/or BFA programs.
• Collaborative mindset with a willingness to contribute to the broader school community.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree in counseling, education, or a related field preferred.
• 3–5+ years of experience in college counseling and/or selective college admissions. Experience working in an independent or college preparatory school environment preferred.
• Strong writing and communication skills, particularly in crafting recommendation letters.
• Deep knowledge of the college admissions landscape, including selective and holistic review processes.
• Ability to connect with high school students and families in a supportive, empathetic, and professional manner.
• Exceptional organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Flexibility in working some evenings and weekends during busy periods of the admissions cycle.

Compensation and Benefits:

• Salary Range: $60,000 to $85,000 (final compensation will be determined based on experience and education)
• Benefits Offered: Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance; 403(b) Retirement Plan with employer matching; Life and Disability Insurance 

About Saddle River Day School

Saddle River Day School, located in the hills of Saddle River, New Jersey, was founded in 1957. Its student body of over 450 boys and girls is drawn from communities across New Jersey and New York. The school includes a Lower School, Middle School and Upper School and offers classes from PreK3-12. Saddle River Day School is a non-profit, non-discriminatory, co-educational, college-preparatory independent day school accredited by the New Jersey Association of Independent Schools and the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools. Over 85% of the faculty hold advanced degrees.

Connections working at Saddle River Day School