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Entry Level Social Service Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

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Entry Level Social Service information

See Virginia salary details

$28.3K

$43.3K

$58.5K

How much do entry level social service jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level social service in Virginia is $43,310.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $35,700.00 and $51,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level social service job?

Entry level social service jobs are positions that provide support and assistance to individuals, families, or communities in need, typically without requiring prior professional experience. These roles often involve helping clients access resources, conducting intake interviews, and supporting social workers or case managers. Common entry level positions include social work assistants, case aides, and community outreach workers. These jobs are ideal for recent graduates or those looking to start a career in social services, and usually require at least a high school diploma or an associate's degree, though some may require a bachelor's degree in a related field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level social service worker?

To thrive as an Entry Level Social Service worker, you generally need a bachelor's degree in social work or a related field, along with foundational knowledge of case management and community resources. Familiarity with client management systems and basic reporting software is typically required. Strong interpersonal communication, empathy, and problem-solving skills help you build trust and effectively support diverse clients. These skills and qualities are essential for delivering impactful assistance, ensuring accurate documentation, and fostering positive client outcomes.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level social service professionals during their first year, and how can they be managed?

Entry-level social service professionals often encounter challenges such as managing heavy caseloads, navigating complex client needs, and adapting to emotionally charged situations. It’s common to feel overwhelmed when balancing paperwork, direct client interactions, and learning organizational protocols. Building strong time management skills, seeking guidance from experienced colleagues, and participating in regular supervision can help new professionals manage these challenges effectively. Additionally, investing in self-care and professional development can foster resilience and long-term success in the field.

What is the difference between Entry Level Social Service vs Case Manager?

AspectEntry Level Social ServiceCase Manager
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require a bachelor's degreeBachelor's degree often preferred; certifications vary by state
Work EnvironmentCommunity agencies, schools, healthcare facilitiesSocial service agencies, healthcare organizations, government offices
Employer & Industry UsageUsed broadly across social services, nonprofits, governmentCommonly used in healthcare, child welfare, mental health
Search & Comparison IntentPeople exploring entry-level social work rolesIndividuals comparing social work roles with more specific case management duties

Entry Level Social Service roles typically require minimal experience and focus on providing basic support in community settings. Case Managers often have similar credentials but focus more on coordinating services and managing client cases. While both roles serve vulnerable populations, Case Managers usually have more specialized responsibilities and may require additional certifications.

What are the most commonly searched types of Social Service jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Social Service jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Entry Level Social Service jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Entry Level Social Service job openings:

Entry Level Social Service jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Social Service job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,310 per year, or $20.8 per hour.

Student Work Study/Work Program - Social Work Program Asst.

Harrisonburg, VA • On-site

Eastern Mennonite University
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 201 - 500 employees
Learn more about Eastern Mennonite Universityexternal

$35K - $44K/yr

Other

Re-posted 27 days ago

Job description

Eastern Mennonite University (http://www.emu.edu) is a private, faith-based, liberal arts university in Harrisonburg, Virginia known for academic excellence and affordability with a focus on service, social justice, and global engagement. With more than 1500 students studying at our main campus in Harrisonburg, Virginia; at our Lancaster, Pennsylvania instructional site; and online, EMU offers rigorous academic study at the undergraduate and graduate level.
EMU is committed to an inclusive and equitable campus community where everyone is treated with dignity and respect and can be their authentic self. Our goal is to remove the barriers that underrepresented and marginalized groups have frequently encountered in our society. We commit to address the structures that produce discrimination, racial injustice, gender inequities and other forms of oppression, and to fully include LGBTQ+ individuals, people with disabilities, and other members of historically minoritized communities.
EMU encourages students, faculty and staff to live their faith and values through service to others, peacemaking, cross-cultural engagement and sustainability. As an Equal Opportunity Employer, EMU is committed to enhancing our community and encourages applications from qualified individuals with varied backgrounds, experiences, and ideas who would deepen the diversity of the University.
Job Title: Student Employee
Department: Varies
Supervisor: Hiring Manager
FLSA Classification: Non-Exempt
Schedule: PT
Job Summary:
The Student Employee is responsible for assisting the staff in the assigned department. The Student Employee position will focus on administrative support, learning support, or specialized support while offering educational and career growth.
Priorities:

  • Can commit to fall and spring semesters.
  • Minimum of 6 hours per week; 2 days of 3-hour blocks is ideal or 3 days with 2 hour blocks.
  • Taken entry level Social Work or Sociology courses.
  • Confidentiality is crucial related to student work.
Duties/Responsibilities:
  • Provide excellent customer service to students, faculty, staff, and campus visitors.
  • Answer incoming phone calls.
  • Perform a variety of administrative and/or office duties.
  • Provide assistance and support to faculty and/or staff in completing special projects as assigned.
  • Perform general administrative responsibilities in support of the department/office/campus.
  • Complete department-specific projects as assigned.
  • Attends to the workplace regularly, reports to work punctually, and follow a work schedule to keep up with the demands of the worksite.
  • Supports the values of the University.
  • Additional duties and responsibilities as assigned.
Position Specific Duties/Responsibilities:
  • Assist as needed with the Social Work Program.
  • Willing to commit to working Fall and Spring semesters for a minimum of 6 hours per week (3-hours for 2 days per week or 2-hours for 3 days per week).
  • Must have completed entry level Social Work or Sociology courses.
  • Must be willing to maintain confidentiality of student work.
Required Skills/Abilities:
  • Ability to follow verbal and written instructions.
  • Ability to make entry-level decisions.
  • Demonstrate good interpersonal and communication skills.
  • Willingness to ask questions.
  • Understand of basic department procedures.
  • Ability to maintain a level of professionalism during working hours.
  • Has a genuine desire to help their peers succeed.
  • Be currently enrolled as an undergraduate student at EMU.

Education and Experience:
High School diploma.
Physical Requirements:
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk or hear. The employee frequently is required to sit and use hands and fingers, to handle, or feel. The employee is occasionally required to stand, walk, and climb or balance. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 10 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision. The employee must occasionally travel to meetings and conferences off campus, which may include some overnight travel.
Supervisory Responsibilities:
None

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