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.

SOC: 21-1093.00

Common Job Titles

  • Advocate
  • Clinical Assistant
  • Social Work Associate
  • Social Worker Assistant

What You'll Need to Succeed

AI-generated

Key competencies for this occupation at a glance

  • MindsetIntegrate client needs with available community resources and social services when establishing and maintaining interpersonal relationships with diverse client populations.
  • KnowledgeAssess client circumstances and eligibility for benefits and services using knowledge of psychology, therapy, and counseling principles in community settings.
  • MindsetEngage with clients experiencing substance abuse, rehabilitation, or dependent care challenges demonstrating social perceptiveness and active listening skills.
  • KnowledgeApply crisis intervention and problem-solving strategies when resolving conflicts and negotiating with clients and interdisciplinary teams.
  • KnowledgeIllustrate case documentation and client progress records using electronic medical record software and database systems following regulatory requirements.
  • MindsetSupport clients in identifying and accessing available benefits and community programs through direct service provision and advocacy.
  • KnowledgeCoordinate prevention and intervention programs addressing substance abuse and human relationship issues collaborating with social workers and community service providers.
  • KnowledgeMonitor client progress and compliance with service plans in rehabilitation and dependent care settings, adjusting interventions as needed.
  • KnowledgeDemonstrate effective communication techniques and teaching strategies when instructing clients on life skills, resource navigation, and self-advocacy.
  • MindsetPrioritize client safety and ethical service delivery while managing caseloads and organizing administrative responsibilities.

Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics

Annual wage data for Social and Human Service Assistants (2024)

Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)

424,220

Wage Distribution by Percentile

Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $33,280. 25th percentile: U.S. $37,770. 50th percentile: U.S. $45,120. 75th percentile: U.S. $53,040. 90th percentile: U.S. $63,850. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.

  • U.S.
MetricU.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less$33,280
10% of workers earn the following or more$63,850
Workers on average earn$47,090

+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)

Skills & Requirements

Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance

  • Customer and Personal Service4.5/5
  • Psychology4.3/5
  • Therapy and Counseling3.9/5
  • English Language3.7/5
  • Administrative3.3/5
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge

Tools & Technology

Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation

In-Demand Technology

Frequently requested by employers in job postings

  • MEDITECH software
  • Microsoft Access
  • Microsoft Excel
  • Microsoft Office software
  • Microsoft Outlook
  • Microsoft PowerPoint
  • Microsoft Word

Technology Skills

  • Database software
  • Electronic medical record EMR software
  • Nuance Dragon NaturallySpeaking
  • PointClickCare healthcare software
  • Web browser software
  • Word processing software

Tools & Equipment

  • 10-key calculators
  • Amplified telephones
  • Computer laser printers
  • Desktop computers
  • Hearing impaired telephones
  • Laptop computers
  • Laser facsimile machines
  • Multi-line telephone systems
Tools & Technology: Tools & Equipment