How to become a social and human service assistant
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.
Steps to get there
Most employers expect most of these occupations require a four-year bachelor's degree, but some do not..A considerable amount of work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is needed for these occupations. For example, an accountant must complete four years of college and work for several years in accounting to be considered qualified.
What social and human service assistants do
- Assess clients' cognitive abilities and physical and emotional needs to determine appropriate interventions.
- Develop and implement behavioral management and care plans for clients.
- Visit individuals in homes or attend group meetings to provide information on agency services, requirements, or procedures.
- Keep records or prepare reports for owner or management concerning visits with clients.
- Interview individuals or family members to compile information on social, educational, criminal, institutional, or drug history.
- Advise clients regarding food stamps, child care, food, money management, sanitation, or housekeeping.
Skills that matter most
- Active Listening
- Speaking
- Reading Comprehension
- Writing
- Critical Thinking
- Monitoring
- Active Learning
- Learning Strategies
Is social and human service assistant a good career?
On the numbers, this job is close to the average across occupations. Median pay is 10% below the all-occupation median. Whether it fits you depends on the work itself, the schooling you are willing to do and where you want to live.
Where it pays most
- District of Columbia $59,460
- Washington $54,770
- Oregon $51,230
- California $51,090
- Minnesota $49,940
Social and Human Service Assistants salary by state and city
Sources: O*NET® 31.0 (CC BY 4.0, USDOL/ETA) and BLS Employment Projections 2025–35. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025.