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Human Services Workers


Overview

Human Services Workers

Introduction

Under the supervision of social workers, psychologists, sociologists, and other professionals, human services workers offer support to families, the elderly, the poor, homeless people, people with disabilities, and others in need. They teach life and communication skills to people in mental health facilities or substance abuse programs. Employed by agencies, shelters, halfway houses, and hospitals, they work individually with clients or in group counseling. They also direct clients to social services and benefits. There are approxim...

Quick Facts


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Median Salary

$33,750

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Employment Prospects

Good

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Minimum Education Level

High School Diploma
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Experience

Part-time or volunteer experience as an aide or counselor


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Skills

Interpersonal
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Personality Traits

Helpful
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Earnings

Salaries of human services workers depend in part on their employer and amount of experience. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, median annual earnings of social and human service assistants were $33,750 in May 2018, with the lowest 10 percent earning less than $22,430 and the highest 10 percent earning more than $52,420. Mean salaries ranged from $40,350 for h...

Work Environment

Most human services workers work a standard 40-hour week, spending time both in the office and in the field interviewing clients and performing other support services. Some weekend and evening work may be required, but compensatory time off is usually granted. Workers in residential settings generally work in shifts. Because group homes need 24-hour staffing, workers usually work some evenings ...

Outlook

Employment for human services workers will grow much faster than the average through 2024, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. The best opportunities will be in programs for the elderly, residential care facilities, and private social service agencies, which include such services as adult daycare and meal delivery programs. Job growth will also occur in child and family services, investi...