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Associate Social Worker Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Social Worker MSW

Ames, IA · On-site

$66K - $83K/yr

As a Hospice Social Worker (MSW), You Will: • Serve as the psychosocial support expert on the ... Gentiva provides associates with a comprehensive benefits and total rewards package, of which base ...

As a Hospice Social Worker (MSW), You Will: • Serve as the psychosocial support expert on the ... Associates (Full-Time & Per Diem): • Competitive Pay • 401(k) with Company Match • Career ...

As a Hospice Social Worker (MSW), You Will: • Serve as the psychosocial support expert on the ... Associates (Full-Time & Per Diem): • Competitive Pay • 401(k) with Company Match • Career ...

Social Worker MSW Hospice

Ames, IA · On-site

$66K - $83K/yr

Gentiva provides associates with a comprehensive benefits and total rewards package, of which base ... a Social Worker in a healthcare or hospice setting Knowledge of the psychosocial dynamics of ...

Social Worker MSW Hospice

Ames, IA · On-site

$66K - $83K/yr

As a Hospice Social Worker (MSW), You Will: • Serve as the psychosocial support expert on the ... Gentiva provides associates with a comprehensive benefits and total rewards package, of which base ...

As a Hospice Social Worker (MSW), You Will: • Serve as the psychosocial support expert on the ... Benefits for All Hospice Associates (Full-Time & Per Diem): • Competitive Pay • 401(k) with ...

As a Hospice Social Worker (MSW), You Will: • Serve as the psychosocial support expert on the ... Associates (Full-Time & Per Diem): • Competitive Pay • 401(k) with Company Match • Career ...

As a Hospice Social Worker (MSW), You Will: • Serve as the psychosocial support expert on the ... Associates (Full-Time & Per Diem): • Competitive Pay • 401(k) with Company Match • Career ...

$18 - $22.75/hr

Minimum Requirements: * LPN/LVN, LSW, LCSW, or LMSW or license other than RN in accordance with ... The health of our associates and communities is a top priority for Elevance Health. We require all ...

As a Youth Service Worker at Tanager, you won't just have a job -- you'll have a purpose. Every ... Associate's degree (AA) in psychology, counseling, social work, nursing, criminal justice, or a ...

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Showing results 1-20

Associate Social Worker information

See Iowa salary details

$19.3K

$41.5K

$68.1K

How much do associate social worker jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate social worker in Iowa is $41,478.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25,800.00 and $53,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an associate social worker?

Associate Social Workers (ASWs) are individuals who have earned a Master's degree in social work and are registered with a state board, typically as part of the process toward becoming licensed clinical social workers (LCSWs). ASWs work under the supervision of a licensed professional while they gain the required work experience and clinical hours for full licensure. They provide support, assessment, and intervention services to clients in various settings, such as schools, hospitals, community agencies, or private practices. Their duties often include case management, counseling, advocacy, and connecting clients with resources.

What types of supervision and mentorship can an associate social worker expect during their early career?

As an Associate Social Worker, you can expect to work under the supervision of a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), who provides regular guidance, case consultation, and feedback on your practice. Supervision sessions are typically scheduled weekly or biweekly and are designed to help you develop clinical skills, navigate challenging cases, and ensure ethical practice. Many organizations also offer mentorship programs or peer support groups, creating a collaborative environment where you can learn from more experienced social workers and build your professional network. This structured support is crucial for both skill development and meeting licensure requirements.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an associate social worker, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Associate Social Worker, you need a foundational understanding of social work principles, a relevant degree, and state certification or licensure as an ASW. Familiarity with case management software, documentation systems, and knowledge of community resources are typically required. Strong interpersonal skills, cultural competence, and emotional resilience help you effectively support clients through challenging situations. These skills and qualities are vital for building trust, ensuring ethical practice, and achieving positive outcomes for individuals and communities.

What is the difference between Associate Social Worker vs Licensed Clinical Social Worker?

AspectAssociate Social WorkerLicensed Clinical Social Worker
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree in social work (BSW) or related field; some states require a master's degree for licensureRequires a master's degree in social work (MSW) and state licensure (LCSW)
Work EnvironmentEntry-level roles in healthcare, schools, or social service agenciesAdvanced clinical roles, therapy, and counseling in similar settings
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by hospitals, schools, community agenciesUsed in mental health clinics, private practice, hospitals

The main difference between an Associate Social Worker and a Licensed Clinical Social Worker lies in their credentials and scope of practice. Associate Social Workers are typically entry-level professionals with a bachelor's degree or supervised master's experience, while Licensed Clinical Social Workers hold a master's degree and licensure, allowing them to provide therapy and more advanced clinical services.

Is an associate degree in social work worth it?

An associate degree in social work prepares individuals for entry-level social service roles such as social work assistant or case aide, often requiring less time and cost than a bachelor's degree. It can provide foundational skills and may lead to job opportunities, but higher-level positions typically require a bachelor's or master's degree for advancement and increased responsibility.

What are the most commonly searched types of Social Worker jobs in Iowa?

The most popular types of Social Worker jobs in Iowa are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Associate Social Worker jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Associate Social Worker job openings:

Infographic showing various Associate Social Worker job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, 24% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 94% In-person, and 6% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $41,478 per year, or $19.9 per hour.

Social Worker MSW

Ames, IA • On-site

$66K - $83K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 18 days ago


Job description

Overview
Support Families. Guide Care. Shape End-of-Life Experiences.
If you're driven by compassion and committed to guiding others through serious illness and loss, we invite you to join our team as a Hospice Social Worker (MSW).
We believe that holistic care includes emotional, social, and spiritual support. As a key member of the interdisciplinary team, you'll help ensure patients and families receive the guidance and resources they need to navigate the hospice journey with dignity and peace of mind.
As a Hospice Social Worker (MSW), You Will:
• Serve as the psychosocial support expert on the interdisciplinary care team
• Provide assessments and care planning based on the emotional, psychological, environmental, and cultural needs of patients and families
• Deliver counseling, crisis intervention, and practical resource support aligned with each patient's individualized plan of care
• Work closely with patients, families, physicians, nurses, chaplains, and other care team members to support the emotional and social well-being of the patient-family unit
• Educate families on hospice services, advance care planning, grief, and coping strategies
• Assist with long-term planning, community referrals, and resource navigation when needed
• Monitor and document psychosocial changes in the patient or family situation and recommend plan of care updates as appropriate
• Uphold ethical standards and professional judgment in end-of-life care
Compensation may vary within the salary range provided based on several factors including but not limited to a candidate's location, experience, education, skills, licensure, certifications and department equity. Gentiva provides associates with a comprehensive benefits and total rewards package, of which base pay is just one piece.
Salary Range - $66,610 - 83,265
Full Time Employee Benefits:
  • Medical, Dental, Vision
  • Wellness Program and Resources
  • 401k match
  • PTO
  • FMLA, ADA and other federal and state required leaves
  • Short/Long Term Disability
  • HSA Contribution
  • Mileage or Fleet Car Program
  • Cell Phone Reimbursement (for eligible roles)
  • Short Term Incentive (for eligible roles)
  • Tuition Reimbursement

About You
Qualifications - What You'll Bring:
• Master's Degree in Social Work (MSW) from a CSWE-accredited program
• Current licensure as required by the state of employment
• Minimum of 1 year of experience as a Social Worker in a healthcare or hospice setting
• Knowledge of the psychosocial dynamics of illness, grief, loss, and end-of-life care
• Ability to provide empathetic support and maintain boundaries in emotionally intense situations
• Strong communication skills, cultural sensitivity, and respect for diverse family systems
Preferred Qualifications (Not Required):
• 3 to 5 years of experience as a Social Worker in hospice or healthcare
• Experience supporting terminally ill patients and their families
• Advanced grief counseling or palliative care training
• Bilingual skills
We Offer
Benefits for All Hospice Associates (Full-Time & Per Diem):
• Competitive Pay
• 401(k) with Company Match
• Career Advancement Opportunities
• National & Local Recognition Programs
• Teammate Assistance Fund
Additional Full-Time Benefits:
• Medical, Dental, Vision Insurance
• Mileage Reimbursement or Fleet Vehicle Program
• Generous Paid Time Off + 7 Paid Holidays
• Wellness Programs (Telemedicine, Diabetes Management, Joint & Spine Concierge Care)
• Education Support & Tuition Assistance
• Free Continuing Education Units (CEUs)
• Company-paid Life & Long-Term Disability Insurance
• Voluntary Benefits (Pet, Critical Illness, Accident, LTC)
Ready to Join a Team That Cares?
Apply today and bring your heart and your clinical expertise to a team that values whole-person care.
Legalese
  • This is a safety-sensitive position
  • Employee must meet minimum requirements to be eligible for benefits
  • Where applicable, employee must meet state specific requirements
  • We are proud to be an EEO employer
  • We maintain a drug-free workplace

Location
Heartland Hospice
Our Company
At Heartland Hospice, part of Gentiva, it is our privilege to offer compassionate care in the comfort of wherever our patients call home. We are a national leader in hospice care, palliative care, home health care, and advanced illness management, with nearly 600 locations and thousands of dedicated clinicians across 38 states.
Our place is by the side of those who need us - from helping people recover from illness, injury, or surgery in the comfort of their homes to guiding patients and their families through the physical, emotional, and spiritual effects of a serious illness or terminal diagnosis.
Our nationwide reach is powered by a family of trusted brands that include:
  • Hospice care: Gentiva Hospice, Emerald Coast Hospice Care, Heartland Hospice, Hospice Plus, New Century Hospice, Regency SouthernCare, SouthernCare Hospice Services, SouthernCare New Beacon
  • Palliative care: Empatia Palliative Care, Emerald Coast Palliative Care
  • Home health care: Heartland Home Health
  • Advanced illness management: Illumia Health

With corporate headquarters in Atlanta, Georgia, and providers delivering care across the U.S., we are proud to offer rewarding careers in a collaborative environment where inspiring achievements are recognized - and kindness is celebrated.