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Graduate Social Work Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Social Worker

Milpitas, CA · On-site

$90K - $120K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

AL:Licensed Bachelors of Social Work (LBSW) CA: BSW cannot be used as the core SW. CT: Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) DC: Licensed Graduate Social Worker (LGSW) DE: Licensed Baccalaureate ...

Social Worker

Milpitas, CA

$90K - $120K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

AL:Licensed Bachelors of Social Work (LBSW) CA: BSW cannot be used as the core SW. CT: Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) DC: Licensed Graduate Social Worker (LGSW) DE: Licensed Baccalaureate ...

Social Worker

Torrance, CA

$41 - $45/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

WHERE YOU'LL WORK Each day is different for our social workers. You will spend most of your time ... Licensed Graduate Social Worker (LGSW) DE: Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) GA: MSW must be ...

Social Worker (SW)

Walnut Creek, CA · On-site

$42 - $55/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

AL:Licensed Bachelors of Social Work (LBSW) CA: BSW cannot be used as the core SW. CT: Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) DC: Licensed Graduate Social Worker (LGSW) DE: Licensed Baccalaureate ...

Social Worker (SW)

Milpitas, CA · On-site

$90K - $120K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

AL:Licensed Bachelors of Social Work (LBSW) CA: BSW cannot be used as the core SW. CT: Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) DC: Licensed Graduate Social Worker (LGSW) DE: Licensed Baccalaureate ...

Social Worker

Irvine, CA · On-site

$41 - $45/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

WHERE YOU'LL WORK Each day is different for our social workers. You will spend most of your time ... Licensed Graduate Social Worker (LGSW) DE: Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) GA: MSW must be ...

Social Worker (SW)

Walnut Creek, CA · On-site

$42 - $55/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

AL:Licensed Bachelors of Social Work (LBSW) CA: BSW cannot be used as the core SW. CT: Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) DC: Licensed Graduate Social Worker (LGSW) DE: Licensed Baccalaureate ...

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Showing results 1-20

Graduate Social Work information

See California salary details

$34K

$75.3K

$115.5K

How much do graduate social work jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for graduate social work in California is $75,267.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $58,200.00 and $90,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a graduate social worker?

A graduate social worker is someone who has completed a graduate degree in social work, such as a Master of Social Work (MSW), and is often in the early stages of their professional career. They provide support, advocacy, and resources to individuals, families, and communities to help them cope with various challenges. Graduate social workers may work in settings like schools, hospitals, community organizations, or government agencies. They are typically supervised as they work towards full licensure and may specialize in fields like clinical social work, child welfare, or policy advocacy.

What can I do with a graduate social work degree?

A graduate social work degree qualifies individuals for roles such as clinical social worker, case manager, school social worker, or community outreach coordinator. These positions often require licensure or certification and involve providing support, counseling, and advocacy to individuals or groups in various settings like healthcare, schools, or social service agencies.

What are some common challenges faced by graduate social workers in their first year on the job?

Graduate social workers often encounter challenges such as managing a diverse and complex caseload, navigating emotional boundaries with clients, and adjusting to agency protocols and documentation requirements. The first year typically involves developing effective time management strategies and learning how to collaborate with multidisciplinary teams including psychologists, healthcare professionals, and community organizations. Support from supervisors and ongoing professional development can help new social workers build confidence and resilience as they transition from academic learning to practical fieldwork.

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

To thrive as a Graduate Social Worker, you need a degree in social work (BSW or MSW) and foundational knowledge in case management, crisis intervention, and social policy. Familiarity with client management systems, risk assessment tools, and relevant state licensure or registration is typically required. Strong interpersonal communication, cultural competence, and resilience are essential soft skills for connecting with clients and managing challenging situations. These skills ensure effective advocacy, ethical practice, and positive outcomes for individuals and communities in need.

What is the difference between Graduate Social Work vs Social Work Assistant?

AspectGraduate Social WorkSocial Work Assistant
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Social Work (BSW or MSW); often pursuing licensureHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require a related degree or certification
Work EnvironmentCommunity agencies, hospitals, schools, government programsSupport roles in similar settings, assisting licensed social workers
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by social service agencies, healthcare, education sectorsSupport staff in social service organizations, often entry-level

Graduate Social Work positions typically require a degree in social work and involve direct client interaction, often with licensure goals. Social Work Assistants support licensed professionals and may have less formal education requirements. Both roles operate in similar environments but differ in responsibilities and credentials.

What are the most commonly searched types of Graduate Social Work jobs in California?

The most popular types of Graduate Social Work jobs in California are:

What job categories do people searching Graduate Social Work jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Graduate Social Work jobs in California are:

Infographic showing various Graduate Social Work job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $75,267 per year, or $36.2 per hour.

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago


University Of California San Francisco rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

229th of 618 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Under the general supervision of the Clinical Supervisor of the Citywide Flexible Housing Pool (FHP) Team, the Social Work Associate (SWA) works with high risk mentally ill and/or substance abusing clients living in scattered site housing to prevent homelessness and link them to appropriate outpatient services. Through community outreach, the SWA assists with providing individual intensive clinical case management, housing navigation services, housing stabilization services, advocacy, counseling, crisis intervention, 5150 assessment, linkage to substance abuse treatment, psycho education; intake, assessment, and individualized service planning to their caseload.  The SWA coordinates closely with housing providers, our core partners, Brilliant Corners, as well as FHP Team members and other outside providers, to develop successful treatment strategies; treatment advocacy and coordination with other agencies and natural supports. The SWA tracks client contacts, treatment plans, assessments, evictions and makes appropriate referrals. The SWA maintains client records according to California, City and County requirements; and participate in an interdisciplinary treatment team. Candidate attends weekly staff meetings and participate in all required training sessions. Plus, other duties as assigned.  Candidate demonstrates a commitment to anti-racism, social justice and the ability to engage and respect a diverse community of clients and peers. 

The job will involve the ability to lift 50 lbs, walking and climb stairs.

Department Description:

The Citywide team provides case management support to formerly homeless clients entering "scattered site housing", a newer type of permanent supportive housing for San Francisco, in smaller buildings than typical PSH/SRO and located in neighborhoods throughout the city of San Francisco.

About UCSF

The University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) is a leading university dedicated to promoting health worldwide through advanced biomedical research, graduate-level education in the life sciences and health professions, and excellence in patient care. It is the only campus in the 10-campus UC system dedicated exclusively to the health sciences. We bring together the world's leading experts in nearly every area of health. We are home to five Nobel laureates who have advanced the understanding of cancer, neurodegenerative diseases, aging and stem cells.

Pride Values

UCSF is a diverse community made of people with many skills and talents. We seek candidates whose work experience or community service has prepared them to contribute to our commitment to professionalism, respect, integrity, diversity and excellence - also known as our PRIDE values.

In addition to our PRIDE values, UCSF is committed to equity - both in how we deliver care as well as our workforce. We are committed to building a broadly diverse community, nurturing a culture that is welcoming and supportive, and engaging diverse ideas for the provision of culturally competent education, discovery, and patient care. Additional information about UCSF is available here.

Join us to find a rewarding career contributing to improving healthcare worldwide.

Equal Employment Opportunity

The University of California is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected status under state or federal law.

Salary Information

The final salary and offer components are subject to additional approvals based on UC policy.

Your placement within the salary range is dependent on a number of factors including your work experience and internal equity within this position classification at UCSF. For positions that are represented by a labor union, placement within the salary range will be guided by the rules in the collective bargaining agreement.

To learn more about the benefits of working at UCSF, including total compensation, please visit: https://ucnet.universityofcalifornia.edu/compensation-and-benefits/index.html

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS: 

  • Possession of a Bachelor's degree in Social Work from a program approved by the Council on Social Work Education, and one year of experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience if a bachelor's degree is not possessed; and knowledge and abilities essential to the successful performance of the duties assigned to the position. 
  • One year working with severely mentally ill adults, the homeless and dual diagnosed populations
  • The ability to do outreach, including to SRO hotels, inpatient hospitals and scattered site housing locations.
  • One year Case Management experience
  • Ability to work cooperatively and communicate effectively with others. Ability to work in a high stress, high volume area and work well under pressure and with deadlines. Ability to follow oral and written instructions accurately,and be detailed oriented. Able to efficiently prepare written summaries of activities, set priorities and complete reports within required timeframes. Knowledge of medical and/or psychiatric terminology
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
  • Commitment to social justice & anti-racism
  • Able to work as a team member in a culturally diverse setting
  • Able to lift 50lbs and climb stairs
  • Demonstrated excellent attendance and reliability
  • A preliminary job offer and assignment may be extended pending successful background clearance
  • An understanding of mental health issues and sensitivity toward mental health clients
  • Ability to work with clients and program staff from diverse cultural and social class backgrounds

PREFERRED:

  • Demonstrated ability to work within multidisciplinary team to support clients
  • Spanish language fluency adequate to provide therapy and clinical services to clients in this language
  • Experience with Epic electronic health records and billing system
  • Prior related experience in the homelessness response system of SF
  • Demonstrated understanding of Harm Reduction, The Recovery Model and Housing First Model

 Key Responsibilities

of time

Essential Function (Yes/No)

Key Responsibilities

(To be completed by Supervisor)

75%Yes

Service Provision

Under the guidance of a supervisor, provides ongoing mental health services, including supportive counseling, housing navigation services, clinical case management, and intensive outreach and engagement to a caseload of severely mentally ill adults who are high users of psychiatric mental health services, often with concurrent substance abuse and/or health problems; help client stabilize, maintain housing and link to longer-term ongoing mental health, substance abuse, medical services and other programs.

15%Yes

Service Planning, Consultation and Liaison

Treatment advocacy and coordination with other agencies, families and clients. Performs assessments with supervisor review, facilitates linkage to ongoing care as needed.

10%Yes

Record Keeping and Administration

Maintains client's records according to California, City and County requirements. Records data in client's charts. Meets program productivity standards. Assists in processing quality improvement requests. Completes billing and other documentation of services in a timely fashion. Attends staff and clinical team meetings, and participates in training sessions (e.g., In services, grand rounds). Identifies program problems and makes recommendations to supervisory and administrative staff.

100% (To update total %, enter the amount of time in whole numbers (without the % symbol - e.g., 15, 20) then highlight the total sum (e.g., 1%) at the bottom of the column and press F9. The total sum should add up to 100%.)

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