Some possible jobs within this career area are:
Depending on your personal career path, you might need to get licensed to start work. Counselors, for example, need special training. There are also many professional organizations related to human services careers. While your degree might qualify you for employment, membership to a national association could give you the credentials you need to get promoted or advance your career.
Some certifications related to human services careers include:
- Professional Licensing/Certification
- Associate’s Degree
- Bachelor’s Degree
- Master’s Degree
- PhD
Human services careers are steadfast in the job market. Human resources professionals help companies grow, and also help to recruit talented workers. Nonprofit organizations provide services to people in need or crisis. Whether it’s a guidance counselor in high school or a marriage counselor in adulthood, chances are good that we’ll encounter someone who devotes their life to a career in human services.
Human services careers follow traditional education patterns, which means that you could earn an Associate’s Degree in two years and a Bachelor’s Degree in four years. Your career, however, could require additional certification, licensing or training. Consult a career counselor to make sure you’re doing all you need to start your career.
How to Become a Social Service Aide
A social service aide is also known as a social service assistant. A career as a social service aide is filled with hours of helping people. Social service aides typically work under the supervision of others such as psychologists, nurses, and social workers. Social service aides hold meetings with clients in order to understand their situations and needs. Help can be rendered in applying for social welfare such as food stamps.
Social service work can be demanding. Social service departments can be overloaded with heavy workloads, although most social service aides work a standard 40-hour week.
Training Required for a Social Service Aid Career
To become a social service aide, you will need a high school education as a minimum. Many employers prefer applicants with work experience or education beyond high school. Some positions require a bachelor's degree, and there are others that require a master's degree.
For a career as a social service aide, you should have a sense of responsibility and an ability to communicate clearly.
Social Service Aide Salaries
Social service aide salaries vary with the type of job setting. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary overall is $27,300. The median social service aide salary by specific setting is shown in the following examples:
- State Government = $35,500
- Local Government = $32,600
- Family Services = $26,300
- Vocational Rehabilitation Services = $23,900
(Salary data retrieved 6/24/11)
To get the education you need to become a social service aide, find a degree program now!