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Associate Social Worker Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

We will consider candidates with their Clinical Social Work Associate license working towards a Licensed Clinical Social Worker license for a Clinical Social Worker I position ($40.06 min - $57.28 ...

We will consider candidates with their Independent Clinical Social Work Associate License (LSWAIC) working towards an Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) License for a Clinical Social Worker I ...

We will consider candidates with their Clinical Social Work Associate license working towards a Licensed Clinical Social Worker license for a Clinical Social Worker I position ($40.06 min - $57.28 ...

We will consider candidates with their Clinical Social Work Associate license working towards a Licensed Clinical Social Worker license for a Clinical Social Worker I position ($40.06 min - $57.28 ...

We will consider candidates with their Clinical Social Work Associate license working towards a Licensed Clinical Social Worker license for a Clinical Social Worker I position ($40.06 min - $57.28 ...

We will consider candidates with their Clinical Social Work Associate license working towards a Licensed Clinical Social Worker license for a Clinical Social Worker I position ($40.06 min - $57.28 ...

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Showing results 1-20

Associate Social Worker information

See Portland, OR salary details

$21.7K

$46.8K

$76.9K

How much do associate social worker jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate social worker in Portland, OR is $46,832.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $29,200.00 and $59,900.00 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 Portland, OR?

The most popular types of Social Worker jobs in Portland, OR are:

What cities near Portland, OR are hiring for Associate Social Worker jobs?

Cities near Portland, OR with the most Associate Social Worker job openings:

Infographic showing various Associate Social Worker job openings in Portland, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 28% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,832 per year, or $22.5 per hour.

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago


Oregon Health & Science University rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 95 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

171st of 631 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Department Overview

About OHSULink www.ohsu.eduOHSU's singular focus on improving health starts with Oregonians and has global impact. We are the only academic health center in Oregon, but we're also nationally distinct as a university dedicated solely to advancing health sciences. This allows us to concentrate resources on research to prevent and cure disease, on education that prepares physicians, dentists, nurses and other health professionals to succeed in an evolving health care environment, and on patient care that incorporates the latest knowledge and discoveries. We have 18,000 employees and secure competitive research funding of more than $400 million a year. As a public organization, we provide community outreach and services for Oregon's most vulnerable populations. OHSU's stated mission to improve the health and quality of life for all Oregonians through excellence, innovation and leadership in health care, education and research.

 

About OHSU Doernbecher Children's HospitalLink https://www.ohsu.edu/doernbecherWith a strong tradition of teamwork, diversity and interdisciplinary care, we believe all children deserve the best. At Doernbecher, we built a hospital around that belief. It's why we have more specialists in children's health than anywhere else in the state. We offer the newest and most advanced treatments available, along with innovative collaborations and research opportunities. As Oregon's only academic health center, we strive to offer the best medical care to every child across Oregon, Southwest Washington and beyond.

 

About The Department of PsychiatryLink https://www.ohsu.edu/school-of-medicine/psychiatry

The fundamental purpose of OHSU and The Department of Psychiatry is to improve well-being.

The OHSU Department of Psychiatry is part of the OHSU Brain Institute, and focuses on providing excellent clinical treatment to our patients, leading innovative research, and offering hands-on training for the next generation of psychiatrists. Our specialists care for people of every culture and background and it is our mission to value and show appreciation for diversity, showing respect for all people who we treat, teach, and serve.

Function/Duties of Position

The Clinical Social Worker, is a key member of the Division of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry multidisciplinary mental health team which includes psychiatrists, psychologists, and other clinical professionals and learners.  We seek to build PCIT and Play therapy services for young children and their families as well create opportunities for learners in a range of disciplines.  The successful applicant will have certification by PCIT International and have actively practiced PCIT for at least 3 years.  Our new clinic has an intention built PCIT room with coaching equipment and PCIT appropriate toys and supplies and we are committed to PCIT services as part of our wish to grow early childhood and school age services.  The provider will have access to the State of Oregon PCIT Consortium, PCIT continuing education and consultation and annual state conference access.   In addition to these specific therapy roles, the social worker will spend 3-4 half days a week supporting the psychosocial needs of children and families in our general child psychiatry clinic in partnership with child psychiatrists and learners (residents, medical students and child psychiatry fellows)

By practicing trauma-informed care principles, the Clinical Social Worker prioritizes safety, trustworthiness, empowerment, and collaboration in all aspects of service delivery.

This position requires strong clinical judgment, cultural humility, and the ability to navigate complex systems of care with sensitivity and compassion.

Required Qualifications
  • A Master's Social Work (MSW).
    • Effective January 1, 2011, Certificate of Clinical Social Work Associate (CSWA) or Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) required for employees who practice clinical social work.
  • 5+ years of professional experience diagnosing, treating and advocating for children and families with mental illness in medical or community mental health settings.
  • Certified by PCIT International with 3+ years experience delivering PCIT services.
  • Ability to work both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
  • Strong Verbal and written communication skills.
  • Knowledge of community-based resources.
  • Organizational skills to assure timely follow-up.
  • Positive collaboration and team-building skills.
  • Understanding of diverse cultural, geographic, economic and social issues that impact our community and ability to work effectively with diverse patients.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Healthcare experience preferred.
Additional Details

Apply here online:

Upload cover letter and resume.  Please be sure to include months and years (MM/YYYY format) to the resume for jobs/work experience.

*OHSU Employees be sure to apply using your OHSU email*

Why apply to OHSU?We are Oregon's only public academic health center. In addition to caring for patients, we lead groundbreaking research. We also train the next generation of health care professionals. As Portland's largest employer, we give you opportunities to learn and advance in a system of hospitals and clinics across Oregon and Southwest Washington. All are welcome. OHSU welcomes people of all ages, ethnicities, genders, national origins, religions and sexual orientations. We are striving to build an anti-racist, multicultural institution and encourage people with diverse backgrounds to apply. To request reasonable accommodation, contact askhr@ohsu.eduEmployment Type: FULL_TIME

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About Oregon Health & Science University

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) is a distinguished institution under the industry of higher education and healthcare, specifically in the field of medical science. Based in Portland, Oregon, US, it maintains a reputation for promoting research, teaching, patient care, and outreach. Established in 1887, OHSU has continually sought to redefine the parameters of healthcare delivery and biomedical discovery through its expansive catalog of programs and initiatives. A galvanizing mission drives OHSU: to improve the health and quality of life for all Oregonians through excellence, innovation, and leadership in health care, education, and research.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Portland, OR, US

Year founded

1887