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Foster Care Social Worker Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Nash County

SOCIAL WORKER III - FOSTER CARE

Nashville, NC · On-site

$57K - $92K/yr

... foster homes. B. Primary Purpose of the Position The primary purpose of the social worker in this position is to execute the agency's mandate to arrange and support substitute care appropriate to a ...

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Foster Care Social Worker information

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$29K

$49.1K

$88.5K

How much do foster care social worker jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for foster care social worker in the United States is $49,138.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,500.00 and $52,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a foster care social worker?

Foster care social workers help children in the foster care system deal with behavioral and emotional issues. Often, foster children have been abused, neglected, or mistreated, and the courts have removed them from their parents. Their pasts often lead to feelings of extreme sadness, anger, resentment, and abandonment. As a foster care social worker, you work for a foster care agency to place these kids in foster homes. You are ultimately responsible for the well-being of the child, so you will do extensive background checks on prospective foster parents to ensure they will provide a caring home for their foster child. Once a child is placed in a home, you make follow up visits regularly, checking for suitable living conditions, proper nourishment, and making sure the foster parents have the support they need. For cases where the biological parents may regain custody, you also update the parents with current information on their child and monitor the parents’ progress meeting the requirements given to get their children back.

What are some common challenges foster care social workers face when working with foster families and children?

Foster Care Social Workers often navigate complex family dynamics, emotional trauma, and the unique needs of children placed in care. Building trust with both children and foster parents can be challenging, especially when addressing sensitive issues or advocating for the child's best interests. Additionally, social workers must balance large caseloads, comply with regulatory requirements, and collaborate with various agencies, all while providing consistent support to families. Despite these challenges, the role is highly rewarding, offering the chance to make a real difference in children's lives.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a foster care social worker, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Foster Care Social Worker, you need a degree in social work (often an MSW), state licensure, and knowledge of child welfare practices. Familiarity with case management software, child protective services databases, and relevant state and federal regulations is essential. Strong communication, empathy, and crisis management skills help build trust and support vulnerable children and families. These skills and qualifications are critical for ensuring child safety, effective advocacy, and positive long-term outcomes in challenging environments.
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Foster Care Social Worker jobs near you
Infographic showing various Foster Care Social Worker job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,138 per year, or $23.6 per hour.

Foster Care Social Worker

Bridges Homeward

Cambridge, MA • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Life, PTO

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Comprehensive Foster Care Social Worker 

 Cambridge, MA | Full-Time (33.5 hrs/week) | $50,000–$51,000 + $4,000 Bonus 

*Sign On bonus is paid quarterly throughout first year of employment. Employees who stay less than 1 year are required to pay back any bonus paid. Employees who stay more than 1 year, but less than 2 are required to pay back 50% of the sign on bonus. Employees who stay 2+years are eligible for the full bonus benefit.


Make an Impact Where It Matters Most 

At Bridges Homeward, we believe every child deserves a lifelong connection with a caring adult. As a Comprehensive Foster Care Social Worker, you’ll help make that happen. 

This is an ideal opportunity for recent graduates and early-career professionals ready to build a meaningful career in child welfare. 


Why Join Us 

  • 33.5-hour work week (4½ days!)  
  • Hybrid flexibility (work-from-home opportunities)  
  • Small caseload (only 8 youth)  
  • $2,000 sign-on bonus (paid after 60 days)  
  • Competitive benefits:  
  • Medical, Dental, Life Insurance  
  • Flexible Spending Account  
  • Generous Paid Time Off  


What You’ll Do 

  • Conduct weekly home visits with foster youth  
  • Ensure safety, stability, and well-being  
  • Partner with DCF on permanency planning  
  • Provide case management & treatment planning  
  • Help youth build lifelong, supportive connections  
  • Participate in rotating after-hours on-call coverage  


 About Us 

Founded in 1873, Bridges Homeward is a mission-driven nonprofit serving the Greater Boston community. 

We are deeply committed to: 

  • Diversity, equity, and inclusion  
  • Advancing racial equity  
  • Helping every individual achieve permanency and belonging  


What You Bring 

  • MSW or related degree preferred 
  • (Bachelor’s + child welfare experience considered)  
  • Ability to obtain social work licensure within 6 months  
  • Valid driver’s license + insured vehicle  
  • Strong communication, empathy, and problem-solving skills  


 Apply Today 

Start your career making a real difference in the lives of children and families. 

Apply