Admissions Counselor, Visual Arts

Company: Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts
Location: Philadelphia
Posted on: February 13, 2026

Job Description:

Job Description Job Description PAFA is seeking an Admissions Counselor to help open the door for the next generation of artists. Working closely with the Registrar and Admissions Manager, you'll be at the forefront of connecting with creative, curious prospective students and guiding them from first interest to first day on campus. From first inquiry through enrollment, you'll shape the experience for artists exploring our full range of educational programs, playing a vital part in welcoming the next generation of talent into one of Philadelphia's most storied cultural institutions. ABOUT PAFA Founded in 1805, the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts (PAFA) is America's first school and museum of fine arts. Located in the center city of Philadelphia, PAFA is intimate in scale with a strong sense of community. PAFA offers several non-degree and certificates in studio art and art appreciation programs. PAFA's museum has an outstanding collection of American art, and the museum actively collects and exhibits contemporary art, including work in new media. Additionally, PAFA is home to the Brodsky Center, a print and papermaking center focused on the creation of innovative editions by contemporary artists. PAFA is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to an environment that welcomes and encourages recruiting and retaining qualified candidates from diverse groups. PAFA provides equal opportunity to applicants without regard to race, color, religion, gender identity/expression, sexual orientation, national or ethnic origin, age, disability, or status as a veteran. THE POSITION: Admissions Counselor The successful Admissions Counselor provides superior customer service throughout daily interactions and communications. The Admissions Counselor implements recruitment strategies and cultivates prospective students through a number of avenues including, traveling to assigned schools and territories, participating in community outreach activities, and providing tours of PAFA's facilities. The admission counselor must demonstrate an ability to work independently as well as collaboratively with team members, faculty, students, alumni, administrators and staff. In consultation with the Chief Academic Officer, Registrar and Admissions Manager, and the Student Affairs Manager, the Admissions Counselor will: Recruit students by visiting (in-person or virtual) high schools, attending college nights, visiting community colleges, etc. Manage reoccurring strategic communications with teachers and counselors, including email, print, and other media. Prepare and assist in the evaluation of applications in the admissions review meetings. Welcome prospective students and participate in the planning and hosting of all admissions, new student, and other special events. Conduct follow-up activities such as phone-calling campaigns and yield events Manage small- and large-scale projects as assigned. Manage PAFA Admissions emails, respond to inquiries and voicemail Participate in educational opportunities and career knowledge; reading professional publications; maintaining personal networks; participating in professional organizations. QUALIFICATIONS Bachelor's degree Strong knowledge of the visual and fine arts. At least one year of related experience, preferably in admissions or recruiting. Strong proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and excellent written, interpersonal, and public speaking skills. Prior experience with an institutional database CRM preferred. Must be flexible, with the ability to work independently as well as a commitment to teamwork and organization goals. A flexible work schedule that will include days, evenings, and some weekends is required. Valid driver's license and the ability to travel. APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS The Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts accepts digital applications only. A complete application should include the following: Resume Cover Letter When submitting your application online, please save your documents as Microsoft Word (.doc, .docx) or PDF (.pdf) files. To help us process your applications as efficiently as possible, please save your files with the following filename format: LastName_FirstName_Resume LastName_FirstName_CoverLetter *Due to the amount of potential applicants, we do not respond to voice calls or messages about the status of your application. Based on the criteria for the position, the most qualified candidates will be contacted directly. Thank you for your interest in PAFA.

Keywords: Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, Hackensack , Admissions Counselor, Visual Arts, Administration, Clerical , Philadelphia, New Jersey