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Entry Level Social Service Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Ally Behavior Centers

Entry-Level Recruiter

Mclean, VA

$36K - $48K/yr

... social skills, and prepare for academic success. The children we serve are at the heart of ... You take pride in excellent customer service and patient experience * You like to work really hard ...

Ally Behavior Centers

Entry-Level Recruiter

Mclean, VA · On-site

$36K - $48K/yr

... social skills, and prepare for academic success. The children we serve are at the heart of ... You take pride in excellent customer service and patient experience * You like to work really hard ...

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All JobsSocial Service JobsEntry Level Social Service JobsEntry Level Social Service Jobs in Washington

Entry Level Social Service information

See Washington salary details

$32.3K

$49.5K

$66.8K

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

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level social service in Washington is $49,477.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,800.00 and $58,300.00 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 Washington?

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

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

Cities in Washington 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 Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,477 per year, or $23.8 per hour.

Social Services Assistant

Food and Friends Inc

Washington, DC • On-site

$25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 24 days ago

Job description

Founded in 1988, Food & Friends provides medically-tailored meals, nutrition support, and friendship to people living with AIDS, cancer, and other life-challenging illnesses. Our team of eighty employees and thousands of volunteers delivers meals and hope to people living in the District of Columbia and multiple counties across Maryland and Virginia. There is no charge or income qualification for our services, which are rendered solely on the basis of medical need. Food & Friends is proud to be a nationally-recognized leader of the Food is Medicine movement.


We seek a Social Services Assistant to provide direct service to clients and assist with programmatic operations. Reporting to the Client Services Director, the Assistant will:


  • conduct home visits to provide first-day meal deliveries to new clients and orient them to Food & Friends’ services;
  • maintain client files using the client database;
  • communicate with clients via phone and email to follow-up on service and respond to routine inquiries; and
  • assist with production and distribution of client or service-related materials.


This is an outstanding opportunity to gain entry-level experience in social services, public health, and nonprofit management. Must be willing to work onsite.


The successful candidate will have at least a high school diploma (BA/BS preferred), one year of relevant work experience, and a valid driver’s license. Spanish language skills a plus. Must be able to lift/carry 25 pounds and be physically mobile. Additional requirements include a willingness to conduct home visits throughout the Washington Metro region, strong written and verbal communication skills, strong attention to detail, ability to multi-task, and ability to serve diverse populations in a culturally competent manner. Offer of employment contingent upon a pre-employment background check and drug test.


The Social Services Assistant position pays $25.00 per hour. Benefits include medical, dental, disability, retirement plan, paid maternity/paternity leave, weekly short Fridays, and three weeks of paid leave for new hires. Food & Friends is Metro accessible.


To apply, submit resume and cover letter. Food & Friends is an Equal Opportunity Employer.