Social and human service workers have many job titles, including case work aide, clinical social work aide, family service assistant, social work assistant, addictions counselor assistant, and human service worker. Social and human service assistants help clients identify and obtain benefits and services. In addition to initially connecting clients with benefits or services, social and human service assistants may follow up with clients to ensure that they are receiving the services and that the services are meeting their needs. They may work with clients to develop treatment plans, coordinate services, and help clients use services in the community.
Education and Certification Requirements
A bachelor’s degree is generally sufficient for entry level positions. Most employers prefer to hire workers who have relevant work or volunteer experience. Additional education is almost always necessary for advancement. In general, advancement to case management or social work jobs requires a bachelor’s or master’s degree in human services, counseling, rehabilitation, social work, or a related field.
Pay
Pay varies greatly based on job title. The median annual wage for social and human service assistants was $45,120 in 2024.
Job Outlook
Employment of social and human service assistants is projected to grow 8 percent from 2023 to 2033, faster than the average for all occupations.