What will I do in this job?

As a Human Service Workeryou will assess clients’ needs, establish their eligibility for benefits and services, and help clients obtain those services. You will also maintain case records on clients and provide progress reports to their supervisors. As a Human Service Worker you could find yourself working in a variety of jobs including:

• social service assistant
• case management aide
• social work assistant
• community support worker
• alcohol or drug abuse counselor
• mental health aide
• community outreach worker
• life skill counselor
• gerontology aide

Job responsibilities may include:

• organizing and leading group activities
• assisting clients in need of counseling or crisis intervention
• providing supervision in halfway houses, group homes, and housing programs
• reviewing client records
• working with other medical personnel to gain better insight into client’s needs
• providing emotional support to clients

Do I need a special license?

No

What type of education do I need?

An Associate’s Degree or Certificate in social work, human services or a behavioral or social science is preferred. On-the-job training is available in some organizations.

Will I find a job?

Opportunities for Human Service Workers are expected to be excellent, particularly for applicants with education beyond high school. Job opportunities are expected to grow much faster than the average for all occupations through 2006.

How much money will I make?

$17,820-$27,930 (2000)