Career Profile: Social and Human Service Assistants

Assist other social and human service providers in providing client services in a wide variety of fields, such as psychology, rehabilitation, or social work, including support for families. May assist clients in identifying and obtaining available benefits and social and community services. May assist social workers with developing, organizing, and conducting programs to prevent and resolve problems relevant to substance abuse, human relationships, rehabilitation, or dependent care.

Salary and Outlook

According to the US Department of Labor, there are 420,600 people employed as social and human service assistants in the United States. The median annual salary is $37,610. Entry level employees earn approximately $27,910 per year and senior employees earn approximately $59,490 per year.

Estimates do not include other potential benefits such as health insurance, overtime, or retirement benefits that may be offered by employers.

Job Duties

  • Assess clients' cognitive abilities and physical and emotional needs to determine appropriate interventions.
  • Develop and implement behavioral management and care plans for clients.
  • Keep records or prepare reports for owner or management concerning visits with clients.
  • Visit individuals in homes or attend group meetings to provide information on agency services, requirements, or procedures.
  • Submit reports and review reports or problems with superior.
  • Interview individuals or family members to compile information on social, educational, criminal, institutional, or drug history.
  • Provide information or refer individuals to public or private agencies or community services for assistance.
  • Advise clients regarding food stamps, child care, food, money management, sanitation, or housekeeping.
  • Assist in locating housing for displaced individuals.
  • Consult with supervisor concerning programs for individual families.
  • Oversee day-to-day group activities of residents in institution.
  • Meet with youth groups to acquaint them with consequences of delinquent acts.
  • Demonstrate use and care of equipment for tenant use.
  • Assist in planning food budgets, using charts or sample budgets.
  • Assist clients with preparation of forms, such as tax or rent forms.
  • Explain rules established by owner or management, such as sanitation or maintenance requirements or parking regulations.
  • Observe clients' food selections and recommend alternate economical and nutritional food choices.
  • Observe and discuss meal preparation and suggest alternate methods of food preparation.
  • Transport and accompany clients to shopping areas or to appointments, using automobile.
  • Inform tenants of facilities, such as laundries or playgrounds.

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Career Outlook

Total Current Jobs:
420,600
Annual Openings:
55,900
Increase in Openings by 2030:
13%
Annual Salary Range:
$27,910 - $59,490
Education Requirements:
High school diploma

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