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Career and Employment Counselors

Outlook

Employment of school and career counselors is expected to grow by 5 percent, faster than the average for all careers, through 2032, according to the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL). The coronavirus pandemic has altered how counselors work, with many counseling people remotely through video conferencing. Post-pandemic, employment of counselors is expected to continue growing. Increased school enrollments, especially at the college level, will mean more students needing the services of career counselors. As an increasing number of community colleges, four-year colleges, and graduate schools open and expand onsite career centers to help students develop skills to prepare them for transition or new careers in the workforce, the demand for employment counseling jobs should increase.

Opportunities should also be available in government agencies as many states institute welfare-to-work programs or simply cut welfare benefits. In this age of outsourcing and lack of employment security, "downsized" workers, those reentering the workforce, and those looking for second careers all create a need for the skills of career and employment counselors. Career counselors also will be needed in vocational rehabilitation services to assist those who change careers, to help laid-off workers find employment, and to help military personnel transition into the civilian job market. The Department of Labors predicts steady job opportunities in the coming years for counselors in vocational rehabilitation organizations and private practice.

Employment of counselors is dependent on state and local government budgets. When government budgets are reduced, job counselors may anticipate experience significant layoffs or a freeze in new job hiring.

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