What This Job Pays: social worker

August 31, 2007

What This Job Pays: social worker

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Pay: The average annual salary of a social worker in the Seattle area is $42,400, with most making from $35,500 to $49,200 a year, according to PayScale, a Seattle company that tracks compensation and benefits.

Demand: Employment of social workers is expected to increase faster than average for all occupations in the coming years. Competition for social-worker jobs is expected in cities, where demand for services often is highest and training programs for social workers are prevalent. However, opportunities should be good in rural areas, which often find it difficult to attract and retain qualified staff members. By specialty, prospects may be best for social workers with a background in gerontology and substance-abuse treatment.

Need to know: A bachelor's degree in social work is the most common minimum requirement for a job as a social worker; however, majors in psychology, sociology and related fields may qualify for some entry-level jobs. An advanced degree has become the standard for many positions. A master's degree in social work is typically required for positions in health settings and is required for clinical work as well. The work, while satisfying, can be emotionally draining. Understaffing and large caseloads add to the pressure in some agencies.

PayScale, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

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