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Entry Level Social Work Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

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Entry Level Social Work information

See Virginia salary details

$34.2K

$75.6K

$116K

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

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level social work in Virginia is $75,611.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $58,500.00 and $90,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What can I do to get started as an entry level social worker?

To start as an entry-level social worker, obtain a bachelor's degree in social work or a related field, and consider gaining experience through internships or volunteer work in social service settings. Many positions require state licensure or certification, which may involve passing an exam and completing supervised hours. Developing strong communication, empathy, and organizational skills is also beneficial for entry-level roles.

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

AspectEntry Level Social WorkCase Manager
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in social work or related fieldBachelor's degree often required; certifications like CSM may be preferred
Work EnvironmentCommunity agencies, schools, healthcare settingsHealthcare facilities, social service agencies, community organizations
Employer & Industry UsageGovernment, non-profits, healthcare providersHealthcare, social services, insurance companies
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Entry Level Social Work and Case Manager roles often require similar educational backgrounds and are found in comparable settings. While social workers may focus more on advocacy and counseling, case managers typically coordinate services and resources for clients. Both roles serve vital functions in social services, with overlapping skills and environments.

What is an entry level social worker?

Entry level social work jobs are positions for individuals who are new to the social work field, often requiring a bachelor's degree in social work (BSW) or a related discipline. These roles typically involve assisting clients with accessing resources, conducting assessments, and supporting experienced social workers. Common job titles include case manager, social services assistant, and family support worker. Entry level social workers work in a variety of settings such as schools, hospitals, and community agencies, and they help individuals and families cope with challenges related to health, housing, and social services. These positions provide valuable experience and often serve as stepping stones to more advanced roles in social work.

What types of clients and cases can I expect to work with as an entry level social worker?

As an entry-level social worker, you will typically work with diverse populations such as children, families, elderly individuals, or those experiencing homelessness, depending on your placement. Your caseload may involve supporting clients with accessing resources, navigating social services, and addressing issues like housing instability, mental health, or child welfare. You’ll often collaborate closely with supervisors, experienced social workers, and interdisciplinary teams to ensure clients receive comprehensive care while you build your professional skills.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Social Worker, you need a foundational knowledge of social work principles, case management, and a relevant bachelor's degree in social work or a related field. Familiarity with client management software, documentation systems, and sometimes state licensure or certification is often required. Strong interpersonal skills, active listening, and problem-solving abilities help build trust and support diverse clients. These skills ensure effective service delivery, advocacy, and support for individuals and communities in need.
What are the most commonly searched types of Social Work jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Social Work jobs in Virginia are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Social Work jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Social Work jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Entry Level Social Work jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Entry Level Social Work job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Social Work job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $75,611 per year, or $36.4 per hour.

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

Eastern Mennonite University

Harrisonburg, VA • On-site

$35K - $44K/yr

Other

Re-posted 23 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