Saturday, December 10, 2011

A Social Worker Job Description

By Brandon Stewart


Anyone having a desire to help people improve their lives should research the profession of social worker and check the social worker job description to determine if it is a job he or she would want to pursue. According to the United States Department of Labor and Industry, employment opportunities for social workers will show very fast growth for at least the next decade. Jobs will be available in all industries, with most new hires projected in the social assistance industry and the healthcare field. Because of the aging population, job prospects will rise even faster in the area of geriatrics. Anyone interested in geriatrics should plan to acquire the necessary education and certification to specialize in the help and care of the elderly.

Social Workers' Role

The professional social worker aids people in coping with common problems with the goal of helping the client lead a healthier and happier life. Areas that may be included in a social worker's job description include unemployment, domestic conflicts, and substance abuse. Some social workers may specialize in healthcare and the social worker may help the client with financial assistance or healthcare decisions. These professionals become very familiar with programs available within their specialty and are, therefore, able to efficiently navigate the paperwork to qualify for such programs. Many times people are not aware of what resources there are for them to access and your input will get them the help they need.

Location of Work

Social workers are employed in a number of different environments. You should consider the work setting and your responsibilities before you choose any type of position. Some social workers will work in family development atmospheres and they will help with the social and psychological function of families and their children. Social workers can also work in foster homes, domestic violence shelters, Child Protective Services agencies, primary schools, secondary schools, children's hospitals, emergency rooms, clinics, nursing homes, state or local government agencies, personal care facilities, or other independent establishments.

Where is the Social Worker's time Spent?

Much of a social worker's day is spent visiting with clients. Depending on the area of specialization this could be in a nursing home facility or in a home. Many workers travel from one location to another to meet with clients. Most communities are understaffed in the social work area so burnout is common. Many social workers get emotionally involved with clients and feel responsible if a client does not qualify for certain programs or will not listen to the social worker. While a 40-hour work week is standard, oftentimes overtime is required in emergency situations, especially in Child Protective situations.

Those wanting to pursue this career will need to earn a Bachelor's degree in social welfare or psychology in order to meet qualifications for an entry level position. In most states, certification requirements for a social worker job description must be met. Working in this degreed position is fulfilling, and having a degree raises lifetime earning potential.




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