6 Types of Social Workers: Career Opportunities, Salaries, and the Three Systems of Social Work

Social workers play a crucial role in enhancing the well-being of communities, families, and individuals. While the profession can be demanding, it is also incredibly fulfilling. If you are contemplating a career in social work, understanding the various social worker roles available is essential.

This article explores the different types of social workers, career opportunities, education requirements, and salary expectations.

Key Takeaways

• Social workers advocate for individuals in various settings, including communities, schools, medical facilities, and government organizations.

• A minimum of an associate’s degree is required for entry-level positions, while a bachelor’s or master’s degree significantly expands career prospects.

• Social work is categorized into three systems: micro, mezzo, and macro.

What is a Social Worker?

Social workers are often perceived as professionals who assist families, communities, and individuals through challenging life circumstances. However, the scope of social work has expanded beyond traditional government roles. Today, social workers are found in diverse environments, advocating for those who cannot advocate for themselves.

In addition to providing essential support to families and communities, specialized social workers have opportunities in hospitals, schools, rehabilitation centers, hospices, long-term care facilities, correctional institutions, private practices, and corporate settings.

6 Types of Social Workers

There are several broad categories of social workers, each with distinct roles and responsibilities. Understanding these categories can guide you on the right career path.

1. Child and Family Social Worker

   Average Annual Salary: $48,430

   This type of social worker focuses on at-risk children and families, helping them access essential services such as food and housing.

   Find Child and Family Social Worker jobs near me.

2. School Social Worker

   Average Annual Salary: $48,430

   School social workers collaborate with educators and parents to support struggling and at-risk students within school districts.

   Find School Social Worker jobs near me.

3. Mental Health Social Worker

   Average Annual Salary: $48,720

   These social workers assist children and adults dealing with mental, behavioral, and emotional challenges, often working in schools, rehabilitation centers, private practices, or hospitals.

   Find Mental Health Social Worker jobs near me.

4. Substance Abuse Social Worker

   Average Annual Salary: $48,720

   These social workers support individuals struggling with addiction, including substance abuse, gambling, and more, working in various settings from rehabilitation centers to private practice.

   Find Substance Abuse Social Worker jobs near me.

5. Healthcare Social Worker

   Average Annual Salary: $57,630

   This specialty assists patients coping with severe health issues, helping them navigate diagnoses and advocating for their needs with healthcare providers.

   Find Healthcare Social Worker jobs near me.

6. Social and Community Service Manager

   Average Annual Salary: $69,600

   Although this role may seem non-traditional, it is common for social work graduates to assume management positions that enhance community well-being through various programs.

   Find Social and Community Service Manager jobs near me.

Non-Traditional Social Worker Jobs

With a degree in social work, you are not limited to traditional pathways. Many non-traditional career opportunities exist for those with a BSW or MSW, including:

• Director of Student Rights and Responsibilities

• Disaster Social Worker

• Research Assistant

• Compliance Reviewer

• Veterans Health Administrator

• Special Victims Counselor

• Legal Mediator

• Human Resources Manager

• Case Manager

• Child Advocate

• Counselor

• Community Outreach Worker

• Guidance Counselor

• Mental Health Aide

• Probation Officer

The Three Systems of Social Work: Micro, Mezzo, and Macro

Social work is structured into three distinct systems, all interconnected by the “person-in-environment” (PIE) framework. The three systems are micro, mezzo, and macro social work.

1. Micro Social Worker. Micro social workers typically focus on individual clients to address personal challenges. Often licensed clinical social workers (LCSWs), they prioritize the unique needs of each individual.

2. Mezzo Social Worker. Mezzo social workers, also typically LCSWs, emphasize “client systems” such as families, communities, and schools. They address individual concerns while involving broader support networks.

3. Macro Social Worker. Macro social workers may not always be LCSWs and focus on systemic issues rather than individual cases. They leverage their expertise to collaborate with governments and organizations to effect change for larger populations.

Types of Jobs for Social Workers

The diverse nature of social work creates numerous career options for those with a degree in the field. Here are some settings where different types of social workers can be employed:

• Counseling Services

• Social Services

• Nursing Homes or Long-Term Care Facilities

• Hospitals

• Health Care

• Mental Health Centers

• Child Welfare Services

• Non-Profit Organizations

• School Districts or Universities

• Private Practices

• Corporate Settings

Social workers also engage with a variety of clients, including:

• Infants

• Adolescents

• Families

• Couples

• At-Risk Adults

• The Homeless Population

• Individuals with Chronic Health Conditions

• Geriatrics

• Terminally Ill Patients

• Veterans

As you consider your career direction, you may choose to focus on specific audiences such as victims of domestic abuse, families living in poverty, or children in foster care.

Education and Salaries for Social Workers

Career opportunities within social work vary significantly based on educational qualifications. An associate’s degree allows for entry-level roles, while a bachelor’s degree enhances advancement opportunities. However, those with a master’s degree or higher will have access to specialized positions and leadership roles.

Individuals holding a Master of Social Work (MSW) can pursue advanced positions, including:

• Substance Abuse Social Worker

• Child and Family Social Worker

• Professor of Social Work

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) Counselor

• Social Work Administrator

• Mental Health Counselor

Social Worker Salaries

Several factors influence the salary of social workers, including specialization, geographic location, level of education, and industry.

1. Specialty. Salaries vary by specialization within social work:

   • Healthcare Social Workers earn an average of $57,630 per year.

   • Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers earn about $48,720 annually.

   • Child, Family, and School Social Workers average $48,430 per year.

   • All other social workers earn an average of $64,210 annually.

2. Location. Geographic location significantly affects salary levels. Generally, urban areas offer higher salaries compared to rural regions.

   • Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers in New Jersey earn $91,070 on average, while those in Washington DC average $73,490.

   • Healthcare Social Workers in California earn $83,000, with Washington DC at $76,100 and Oregon at $75,730.

   • Child, Family, and School Social Workers in Washington DC average $71,840, while those in New Jersey make $71,110.

   • All other social workers earn the highest in Hawaii at $85,740, with Massachusetts at $84,540.

3. Education. On average, individuals with a Master of Social Work earn over $13,000 more than those with a Bachelor of Social Work. Achieving a Ph.D. or Doctorate in Social Work can result in an additional $20,000 to $25,000 yearly.

4. Industry. The industry in which a social worker is employed can significantly impact earning potential. High-paying industries vary by specialty:

   • Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers in insurance carriers earn the most, averaging $71,460.

   • Healthcare Social Workers in computer system design earn an average of $75,370.

   • Child, Family, and School Social Workers in professional organizations earn up to $78,280.

   • All other social workers in the Federal Executive Branch average $82,490.

Social Work Job Outlook

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, social work is a rapidly growing field, with a projected 9% growth over the next decade, exceeding the average 5% growth rate for all occupations. Advancements in technology, including health apps and telehealth services, are contributing to this growth.

This growth is expected to create an average of 74,700 job openings for social workers annually from 2021 to 2031.

Essential Skills for Social Workers

If you’re aspiring to become a social worker, consider developing the following skills:

• Problem-Solving

• Empathy

• Assertiveness

• Communication

• Organization

• Relationship Building

• Resourcefulness

• Patience

Types of Social Workers FAQ

1. What Types of Social Workers Are There?

   Types of social workers include:

   • Child and Family Social Worker

   • School Social Worker

   • Mental Health Social Worker

   • Substance Abuse Social Worker

   • Healthcare Social Worker

   • Social and Community Service Manager

2. What Degree Do Most Social Workers Have?

   Most social workers hold a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) degree, with many also obtaining a Master of Social Work (MSW). Some entry-level positions may be available with an associate’s degree, while others may require a Doctorate of Social Work (DSW) for advanced roles.

Author

Samantha Goddiess

Samantha is a lifelong writer who has been writing professionally for the last six years. After graduating with honors from Greensboro College with a degree in English & Communications, she went on to find work as an in-house copywriter for several companies including Costume Supercenter, and Blueprint Education.