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Entry Level Social Work Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

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 ... Ally Behavior is a dynamic, fun, and rewarding place to work that offers superior growth and ...

Entry-Level Recruiter

Mclean, VA

$36K - $48K/yr

... social skills, and prepare for academic success. The children we serve are at the heart of ... Ally Behavior is a dynamic, fun, and rewarding place to work that offers superior growth and ...

Showing results 21-40

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.

Family Services Specialist I

City of Alexandria

Jonesville, VA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago


City Of Alexandria (Louisiana) rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

449th of 844 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Title Description- Family Services Specialist I represents the entry level employees working under close supervision while being trained in program areas such as, Adult/Adult Protective Services, Child Protective Services, Foster Care/'Adoption, Child Care, and Employment Services. Employees perform routine- to journey-level casework activities and the casework usually is reviewed by the supervisor prior to implementing a case action. Upon completion of the training program and attainment of necessary approvals, the employee shall be redefined to a full-performance Family Services Specialist II and becomes eligible for a pay increase as defined by the local agency compensation plan. The Family Services Specialist I is distinguished from the Family Services Specialist II by the latter's functioning more independently as a full performance Family Services Specialist. 

 
General Work Tasks (Illustrative Only) - 
  • Interprets laws, policies and regulations as applied to specific area of responsibility;
  • Monitors, coordinates and administers specific programs as assigned;
  • Coordinates services within specific area of responsibility;
  • Interviews and assesses customer needs and other relevant factors - such as education/skill levels, abilities, interests, and support systems.
  • Informs clients of related service programs rules/regulations, and right to participate;
  • Presents cases to determine appropriate services and writes/implements service plans;
  • Provides case management services to monitor compliance;
  • Manages program waiting lists;
  • Tracks expenditures, prepares/submits budget estimates and ensures payment for services;
  • Completes necessary federal, state and local planning and reporting requirements;
  • Coordinates with other agencies and participates in multi-disciplinary and interagency teams providing services to customers;
  • Conducts overall monitoring of programs in specific area of responsibility;
  • Serves as resource to clients and the community in area of expertise; and
  • Provides after hours on-call coverage and responds to emergencies in child/adult protective services and/or foster care.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: Knowledge- Some knowledge of: social work principles and practices; human behavior and motivational theory; and social, economic, and health problems.

 
Skills- Skill in operating a motor vehicle and personal computer with associated software.

 
Abilities- Demonstrated ability to: communicate effectively both orally and in writing; interview, assess needs, counsel and refer clients to other resources as needed; develop and implement service plans in order to insure the delivery of appropriate services to the client; make sound judgments within the framework of existing laws, policies, and regulations; respond to the client's emotions in order to accomplish services objectives; plan and manage own work activities including service delivery preparing reports, and correspondence, record keeping responsibilities and related activities; establish and maintain effective relationships; and stay abreast of current trends and developments in the social work field.

 
Education and Experience- Minimum of a Bachelor's degree in a Human Services field or minimum of a Bachelor's degree in any field with a minimum of two years of appropriate and related experience in a Human Services area as mandated in Section 22VAC40-670-20 of the Administrative Code of Virginia and implemented by the Virginia Board of Social Services. Possession of a BSW or MSW degree and a Commonwealth of Virginia Social Worker license are desirable.

 
 


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