Intro
Discover rewarding careers in human services! Explore 10 in-demand jobs that make a difference, from counseling and social work to non-profit management and healthcare. Learn about the roles, responsibilities, and requirements for each position, and find the perfect fit for your skills and passions in this growing field.
If you're passionate about helping others and making a positive impact on your community, a career in human services may be the perfect fit for you. Human services is a broad field that encompasses a wide range of professions, from social work and counseling to healthcare and education. In this article, we'll explore 10 jobs in human services that you should consider, along with their median salaries, job descriptions, and required education.
1. Social Worker
Social workers play a vital role in supporting vulnerable populations, such as children, families, and communities. They provide counseling, advocacy, and connect clients with resources and services.
- Median salary: $50,470
- Required education: Bachelor's degree in social work (BSW) or a related field
- Job description: Assess client needs, develop treatment plans, and provide counseling and support services
Types of Social Workers
- Child and family social workers
- Mental health social workers
- School social workers
- Healthcare social workers
2. Counselor
Counselors work with individuals, groups, and families to help them cope with mental health issues, relationship problems, and other challenges.
- Median salary: $46,950
- Required education: Master's degree in counseling or a related field
- Job description: Assess client needs, develop treatment plans, and provide counseling and therapy services
Types of Counselors
- Mental health counselors
- Substance abuse counselors
- School counselors
- Marriage and family therapists
3. Healthcare Administrator
Healthcare administrators oversee the day-to-day operations of healthcare facilities, such as hospitals, clinics, and nursing homes.
- Median salary: $119,840
- Required education: Bachelor's degree in healthcare administration or a related field
- Job description: Manage staff, develop budgets, and ensure compliance with regulations and policies
Types of Healthcare Administrators
- Hospital administrators
- Clinic administrators
- Nursing home administrators
- Health information managers
4. Teacher
Teachers work with students of all ages, from preschool to high school, to help them develop academically, socially, and emotionally.
- Median salary: $60,480
- Required education: Bachelor's degree in education or a related field
- Job description: Develop lesson plans, teach classes, and assess student progress
Types of Teachers
- Elementary school teachers
- Middle school teachers
- High school teachers
- Special education teachers
5. Non-Profit Professional
Non-profit professionals work for organizations that provide services and support to vulnerable populations, such as the homeless, elderly, and children.
- Median salary: $53,590
- Required education: Bachelor's degree in a related field
- Job description: Manage programs, develop fundraising campaigns, and advocate for social causes
Types of Non-Profit Professionals
- Program managers
- Development directors
- Advocacy coordinators
- Volunteer coordinators
6. Community Organizer
Community organizers work with community groups, organizations, and individuals to identify needs and develop solutions to social problems.
- Median salary: $43,620
- Required education: Bachelor's degree in a related field
- Job description: Build coalitions, develop programs, and advocate for social justice
Types of Community Organizers
- Neighborhood organizers
- Labor organizers
- Environmental organizers
- Faith-based organizers
7. Public Health Professional
Public health professionals work to prevent disease, promote health, and protect populations from health risks.
- Median salary: $62,760
- Required education: Bachelor's degree in public health or a related field
- Job description: Develop programs, conduct research, and advocate for health policies
Types of Public Health Professionals
- Epidemiologists
- Health educators
- Health administrators
- Environmental health specialists
8. Substance Abuse Counselor
Substance abuse counselors work with individuals and groups to help them overcome addiction and achieve recovery.
- Median salary: $47,660
- Required education: Master's degree in counseling or a related field
- Job description: Assess client needs, develop treatment plans, and provide counseling and therapy services
Types of Substance Abuse Counselors
- Addiction counselors
- Chemical dependency counselors
- Substance abuse therapists
- Recovery coaches
9. Mental Health Technician
Mental health technicians work with clients who have mental health issues, such as anxiety, depression, and trauma.
- Median salary: $34,810
- Required education: Post-secondary certificate or degree in mental health technology
- Job description: Assist with daily living activities, provide emotional support, and maintain a safe environment
Types of Mental Health Technicians
- Mental health aides
- Psychiatric technicians
- Behavioral health technicians
- Crisis intervention specialists
10. Youth Worker
Youth workers provide support and guidance to children and adolescents, helping them develop life skills and achieve their goals.
- Median salary: $34,590
- Required education: Bachelor's degree in youth work or a related field
- Job description: Develop programs, lead groups, and provide one-on-one support
Types of Youth Workers
- Youth counselors
- Youth ministers
- Youth program directors
- After-school program coordinators
Human Services Jobs Image Gallery
What are the most in-demand human services jobs?
+The most in-demand human services jobs include social workers, counselors, healthcare administrators, teachers, and non-profit professionals.
What skills are required for a career in human services?
+Skills required for a career in human services include communication, empathy, problem-solving, and cultural competence.
How can I get started in a human services career?
+You can get started in a human services career by volunteering, interning, or taking courses in a related field.
If you're passionate about helping others and making a positive impact on your community, a career in human services may be the perfect fit for you. With a wide range of job opportunities, from social work and counseling to healthcare and education, there's never been a better time to pursue a career in human services.