Job Title: Student Counselor – Negombo
Location: Negombo, Sri Lanka
Employment Type: Full-Time
Reports To: Head of Student Services / Branch Manager
Position Overview
We are seeking a dedicated and responsible individual to join our student support team as a Student Counselor at our Negombo branch. This role involves providing accurate guidance and practical support to students as they navigate academic pathways, career choices, and personal development challenges. The ideal candidate will be empathetic, well-organized, and committed to fostering an environment where students feel heard, respected, and supported.
This is not a promotional or sales-focused counseling role. It demands strong interpersonal communication, a genuine interest in students’ welfare, and a thorough understanding of the educational systems, both local and international.
Key Responsibilities
1. Student Advising and Support
- Meet with students individually or in small groups to understand their educational goals, interests, and personal challenges.
- Provide well-informed guidance on available academic programs, course selections, transfer options, and career paths.
- Identify students who may be at risk academically, socially, or emotionally, and take appropriate action, including referrals to external professionals when necessary.
- Maintain an open-door policy while managing an appointment-based system to ensure timely support.
2. Academic Planning
- Assist students in developing academic plans aligned with their aspirations and capabilities.
- Offer clear explanations of university and program requirements, application processes, and timelines.
- Help students weigh pros and cons of different academic options, based on realistic outcomes and personal fit.
3. Career Guidance
- Offer practical information about job market trends, career prospects, and skill development relevant to different academic fields.
- Provide basic training or direction on writing resumes, preparing for interviews, and understanding workplace expectations.
- Work closely with external partners (such as employers or higher education institutions) to stay informed about new opportunities for students.
4. Administrative Tasks
- Maintain accurate records of all counseling sessions and student interactions in the database or file system provided.
- Ensure documentation is complete, confidential, and compliant with data protection standards.
- Contribute to monthly reports and annual reviews to assess the impact of the counseling service.
5. Workshops and Events
- Organize and conduct student development workshops on topics such as stress management, study skills, communication, and time management.
- Participate in orientation programs for new students, helping them understand institutional support services and policies.
- Collaborate with academic staff to identify common student concerns and design group-based interventions where appropriate.
6. Crisis Management
- Respond sensitively to students experiencing emotional distress or crisis situations.
- Assess immediate needs, provide initial support, and involve senior management or emergency services when appropriate.
- Follow up with students post-crisis to ensure continued support and reintegration.
Qualifications and Experience
Minimum Requirements:
- A bachelor’s degree in Psychology, Counseling, Education, or a related field.
- At least two years of relevant experience in academic advising, counseling, or student services.
- Excellent written and spoken communication skills in English. Proficiency in Sinhala and/or Tamil is an advantage.
- Demonstrated ability to handle sensitive situations with discretion, empathy, and professionalism.
Preferred:
- A postgraduate qualification or professional certification in counseling or guidance (e.g., PGD in Counseling Psychology).
- Familiarity with university admission processes in Sri Lanka and overseas.
- Experience working with diverse student populations, including international students.
Essential Skills
- Empathy and Active Listening: Ability to understand and respond to students’ emotions and needs with patience and care.
- Organization and Time Management: Able to manage multiple cases, schedule appointments, and meet administrative deadlines consistently.
- Critical Thinking: Capable of assessing individual student situations and providing tailored, realistic advice.
- Cultural Awareness: Sensitivity to diverse backgrounds, with the ability to communicate effectively with students from various communities.
- Confidentiality and Ethics: Maintains the highest standards of student privacy and ethical conduct at all times.
Working Conditions
- Based at our Negombo branch office, Monday to Friday, with occasional Saturday shifts as needed.
- Some evening availability may be required during exam periods or peak academic cycles.
- Periodic travel to school visits, career fairs, or external training sessions may be expected.
Why Join Us
Working as a Student Counselor in our Negombo branch offers a chance to directly influence the academic and personal development of students at a formative stage of their lives. You’ll be part of a close-knit team that values clear communication, mutual support, and practical problem-solving. While this is not a promotional or sales-oriented position, your impact will be deeply felt through the real outcomes you help students achieve.
We recognize that each student is different, and as a counselor, your ability to adapt your approach will make a significant difference in their progress. If you are someone who takes pride in quiet, meaningful work and can remain calm and focused under pressure, you will find this role both rewarding and sustainable.
Equal Opportunity Statement
We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for both staff and students. We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds and do not discriminate on the basis of race, gender, religion, age, disability, or marital status.
Application Process
Interested candidates should submit the following:
- A detailed resume highlighting relevant experience.
- A short cover letter explaining your interest in this role and how your background aligns with our needs.
- Contact information for two professional references.
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an interview. Final selection may include a practical assessment or mock counseling session.