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.

What you'd actually do

• 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.

How you get there

Typical entry-level education: High school diploma. Overall preparation: considerable preparation (Job Zone 4 of 5).

The feel of the work

Much of the work happens outdoors; you're around people constantly; time pressure is a real part of the job. (Compared against the other 818 careers in the guide.)

Working for yourself

About 0.3% of social and human service assistants are self-employed.

Who it tends to fit

This work tends to fit people who are people-focused, organized and detail-focused and take-charge.

Related careers

• Health Education Specialists
• Educational, Guidance, and Career Counselors and Advisors
• Probation Officers and Correctional Treatment Specialists
• Marriage and Family Therapists
• Healthcare Social Workers
• Social Workers, All Other

Quick questions

How much does a social and human service assistant make?

The median pay is $22.08 per hour — roughly $46,000 a year, with the real range running from about $16.44/hr (10th percentile) to $30.43/hr (90th percentile). Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Do you need a degree to be a social and human service assistant?

The typical entry-level education is: High school diploma. Overall preparation level: considerable preparation (Job Zone 4 of 5).

What does a social and human service assistant actually do all day?

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.