- According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, social service assistants work in a supportive role, helping social workers and other health care professionals with their duties. While social service assistants only need high school or an associate's degree, social workers have at least a bachelor's degree, and many positions require a master's degree as well. While social workers engage directly in counseling, social service assistants help with paperwork and the execution of treatment plans. For example, they may organize activities or provide emotional support to clients. According to 2010 data from the Bureau, social service assistants earn a mean annual wage of $30,100. Social worker salaries are generally higher and vary by specialty.
- Family, child and school social workers work for adoption agencies, social services agencies and schools. In schools, they provide advice to help kids succeed in their studies. They also help young people face social challenges like bullying and teenage pregnancy. Child social workers in other settings arrange adoptions, find foster homes and investigate abuse allegations. Family and child social workers can earn anywhere between $26,170 and $68,030 annually. The mean yearly salary is $43,850.
- Health care social workers find jobs in nursing homes, hospitals and continuing care facilities. These workers help patients with long-term disabilities and illnesses cope with their conditions. They may offer family and patient education on health and wellness and provide referrals to other health services when needed. Social workers in the health sector make a little more on average than those who work with children and families; these professionals earn a mean annual salary of $49,200. Entry-level pay is low, with experienced workers making considerably more. The lowest-paid 10 percent take home $29,460, while the highest-paid 10 percent make $71,970 annually.
- Mental health social workers assist people with emotional difficulties or substance abuse issues. They supply both one-on-one treatment and group-based therapy to provide patients with a sense of community and support. Mental health social workers are employed by rehabilitation centers, hospitals and psychiatric facilities. On average, mental health social workers earn $41,880. Over the course of one's career, annual pay can fall anywhere between $25,210 and $63,460.
- Social workers without a practice designation include those who work in government research and policy planning, as well as those who work for social advocacy organizations and community relief services. Some social workers in this category work in business, providing advice to insurance carriers about customers and their claims. These social workers are the best paid in comparison to other groups, earning a mean annual salary of $52,270. The lowest-paid general social workers make a bit less than their counterparts working in health, taking home $29,340. The highest-paid earn $77,260.
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