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Graduate Social Worker Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Carilion Clinic

New Graduate Social Worker- MSW

Roanoke, VA · On-site

$63K - $95K/yr

R152002 New Graduate Social Worker- MSW (Open) How You'll Help Transform Healthcare: The clinical social worker provides psychosocial assessments, interviews, and/or treatments and discharge planning ...

Hunterdon Health

Social Worker

Flemington, NJ · On-site

Required: 1-2 years graduate school or post graduate social work experience in an acute care ... NJ Licensed Social Worker Knowledge, Skills and/or Abilities : Required: Excellent writing ...

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Graduate Social Worker information

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$34.5K

$76.3K

$117K

How much do graduate social worker jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for graduate social worker in the United States is $76,266.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $59,000.00 and $91,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What types of support and mentorship are typically available to Graduate Social Workers during their first year on the job?

Graduate Social Workers often benefit from structured supervision, mentorship programs, and ongoing professional development during their initial year. Most organizations assign experienced social workers as supervisors or mentors who provide guidance on case management, ethical decision-making, and navigating complex situations. Regular team meetings and peer support groups also offer opportunities to discuss challenges and share best practices. These resources help new graduates build confidence, develop practical skills, and successfully transition from academic training to professional practice.

What is a Graduate Social Worker?

A Graduate Social Worker is an individual who has recently completed a recognized qualification in social work, such as a bachelor's or master's degree, and is beginning their professional career in the field. They typically work under supervision and may be in the process of obtaining full licensure or registration, depending on regional requirements. Graduate Social Workers support individuals, families, and communities by assessing needs, providing resources, and advocating for clients' well-being. Their work can occur in various settings, including hospitals, schools, community organizations, and government agencies. The role provides valuable experience and training as they work toward becoming fully qualified social workers.

What jobs can I do after being a social worker?

After working as a social worker, you can pursue roles such as case manager, counselor, mental health therapist, or community outreach coordinator. These positions often require strong communication, assessment, and advocacy skills, and may involve additional certifications or licenses depending on the role and setting.

Can you make $100,000 as a social worker?

Graduate social workers typically earn less than $100,000 annually, with salaries varying based on experience, location, and specialization. Advanced roles such as clinical or licensed social workers in high-demand areas or with additional certifications can approach or exceed this salary level, especially with years of experience and specialized skills. However, reaching a $100,000 salary is generally uncommon for entry-level positions.

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 relevant degree in social work, foundational knowledge of social services, and initial registration or licensure as required in your region. Familiarity with case management software, documentation systems, and understanding of local welfare policies are typically necessary. Strong interpersonal skills, active listening, and resilience help build trust and navigate challenging client situations. These skills and qualities are crucial for effectively supporting clients, managing caseloads, and ensuring ethical, high-quality interventions.

What is the difference between Graduate Social Worker vs Social Worker?

AspectGraduate Social WorkerSocial Worker
QualificationsTypically holds a bachelor's or master's degree in social work; may be in supervised trainingLicensed or certified social worker with full licensure
Work EnvironmentEntry-level settings such as internships, supervised roles, or training positionsFull professional roles in healthcare, community services, or government agencies
ResponsibilitiesAssisting clients under supervision, gaining experience, and developing skillsProviding direct client services, case management, and advocacy independently

The main difference is that a Graduate Social Worker is an entry-level position often in training or supervised roles, while a Social Worker is a fully licensed professional with greater responsibilities and independence in client care.

Can you make $200,000 as a social worker?

Graduate social workers typically earn lower salaries, with most earning between $40,000 and $60,000 annually. Achieving a $200,000 salary usually requires advanced roles, extensive experience, specialization, or working in high-paying sectors such as healthcare administration or private consulting.

What can you do with a graduate degree in social work?

A graduate degree in social work qualifies individuals to work as licensed clinical social workers, case managers, school social workers, or community service managers. It provides skills in counseling, assessment, and advocacy, often requiring certification or licensure to practice independently.
More about Graduate Social Worker jobs
What cities are hiring for Graduate Social Worker jobs? Cities with the most Graduate Social Worker job openings:
What states have the most Graduate Social Worker jobs? States with the most job openings for Graduate Social Worker jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Graduate Social Worker jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Graduate Social Worker jobs are:
Graduate Social Worker jobs near you
Infographic showing various Graduate Social Worker job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $76,266 per year, or $36.7 per hour.

Licensed Graduate Social Worker (LGCSW/LGSW)

CARENATIONDC INC

Washington, DC • On-site

Contractor

Posted 2 days ago

New

Job description

Licensed Graduate Social Worker (LGCSW/LGSW)

CareNationDC Inc.

Location: Washington, DC

Employment Type: Full-Time / Part-Time / Contract

Program: Mental Health Rehabilitation Services (MHRS) and Substance Use Disorder (SUD) Services

About CareNationDC Inc.

CareNationDC Inc. is a behavioral health provider serving individuals and families in Washington, DC through Mental Health Rehabilitation Services and Substance Use Disorder services. We are committed to compassionate care, clinical excellence, compliance, and helping clients achieve stability, recovery, and improved quality of life.

Position Summary:

CareNationDC Inc. is seeking a dedicated Licensed Graduate Social Worker (LGCSW/LGSW) to join our clinical team. The ideal candidate will provide client-centered behavioral health services, complete clinical documentation, support treatment planning, and work closely with a multidisciplinary team to ensure quality care and regulatory compliance.

Key Responsibilities:The Licensed Graduate Social Worker will:

Complete intake assessments, psychosocial assessments, and clinical screenings.

Assist with diagnostic assessments and treatment planning under appropriate supervision.

Provide individual, family, and group therapy as assigned.

Support crisis intervention and safety planning when needed.

Complete timely and accurate documentation in the EHR system.

Collaborate with psychiatrists, clinical directors, case managers, RSS/CSW staff, and other providers.

Maintain compliance with DBH, Medicaid, Joint Commission, and CareNationDC policies.

Participate in supervision, team meetings, mandatory trainings, and quality improvement activities.

Promote ethical practice, client rights, confidentiality, and a zero-fraud compliance culture.

Minimum Qualifications

Master’s degree in Social Work from an accredited program.

Active DC social work license, preferably LGSW or other applicable graduate-level social work license.

Experience in behavioral health, mental health, SUD, community-based services, or outpatient treatment preferred.

Strong clinical documentation skills.

Knowledge of Medicaid, DBH standards, treatment planning, crisis intervention, and care coordination preferred.

Ability to work with adults, youth, and families from diverse backgrounds.

Must pass all required background checks and onboarding requirements.

Preferred Skills

Experience using an Electronic Health Record system.

Familiarity with MHRS, SUD, ASAM, DLA-20, PHQ-9, diagnostic assessments, and service documentation.

Strong communication, organization, and teamwork skills.

Commitment to compliance, ethics, and quality client care.

Compensation

Competitive compensation based on experience, licensure, availability, and assigned duties.

How to Apply:

Interested candidates should submit their resume, license information, and availability to: CareNationDC, Inc.

Apply