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Graduate Social Worker Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

Social Worker

Salem, OR ยท On-site

$65K/yr

Join the Indian Health Service as a Social Worker providing professional social work services to ... OR Completion of 3 years of progressively higher-level graduate education leading to a Ph.D. degree ...

Social Worker

Salem, OR ยท On-site

$65K/yr

Join the Indian Health Service as a Social Worker providing professional social work services to ... OR Completion of 3 years of progressively higher-level graduate education leading to a Ph.D. degree ...

Compensation $62/per hour EDUCATION * RN: Graduate of an accredited Diploma, Associate or ... REQUIREMENTS OF THE SOCIAL WORKERS: * Current and unrestricted license as a Registered Social ...

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Showing results 1-20

Graduate Social Worker information

See Oregon salary details

$36.5K

$80.6K

$123.7K

How much do graduate social worker jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for graduate social worker in Oregon is $80,635.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $62,400.00 and $96,700.00 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a graduate social worker?

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 can I do with a graduate social worker degree?

A graduate social worker degree qualifies individuals to work as social workers in various settings such as healthcare, schools, and community organizations. It typically requires completing supervised fieldwork, obtaining licensure or certification, and developing skills in counseling, case management, and advocacy.

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.

What job categories do people searching Graduate Social Worker jobs in Oregon look for? The top searched job categories for Graduate Social Worker jobs in Oregon are:
Infographic showing various Graduate Social Worker job openings in Oregon as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $80,635 per year, or $38.8 per hour.

$65K/yr

Part-time

Re-posted 15 days ago


Job description

Make a difference where it matters most! Join the Indian Health Service as a Social Worker providing professional social work services to American Indian communities. Advance your career, enjoy competitive benefits, and be part of a mission that transforms lives every day. Apply today!
A REAL ID will be required beginning May 7, 2025, in accordance with 6 C.F.R. 37.5 (2021).Qualifications:To qualify for this position, your resume must state sufficient experience and/or education, to perform the duties of the specific position for which you are applying.
Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community; social). You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer and part time experience. You must clearly identify the duties and responsibilities in each position held and the total number of hours per week.
The Hiring Manager/Selecting Official may elect to utilize an available flexibility wherein applicants who are actively completing a required professional training program and are expected to complete such program within 9 month(s) of applying, may be deemed tentatively qualified.
BASIC REQUIREMENT(S):
Education:
Must fulfill all of the requirements for the master's degree in social work in a school accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE). Graduates of schools of social work that are in candidacy status do not meet this requirement unless the School of Social Work is fully accredited. Degree verification can be made by going to http://www.cswe.org/Accreditation to verify that the social work degree meets the 3 accreditation standards for a masters of social work.
Applications will be accepted if you are currently enrolled in a CSWE institution and expect to complete your master's degree in social work within 9 months of your application date. Your application must include:
  • A copy of your most recent unofficial transcripts; and
  • Documentation from the educational institution's registrar, dean, or other appropriate official validating your expected completion date.
Licensure:
For the GS-09 position, you must possess an active, unrestricted U.S. State license as a Licensed Independent Social Worker (LISW), a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), a Certified Independent Social Worker (CISW), or a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW).
Applications will be accepted if you expect to complete your LCSW, LICSW, LISW, LMSW, or equivalent licensure requirements within 9 months of your application date. Your application must include documentation from an authorized official validating your expected licensure completion date.
For the GS-11 position, you must possess an active, unrestricted independent U.S. State license as a Licensed Independent Social Worker (LISW), a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), or a Certified Independent Social Worker (CISW) or equivalent. ***NOTE: At the GS-11 level, you MUST possess the LISW, LCSW, CISW or equivalent license. The LMSW license does not authorize independent clinical practice at the GS-11 level.
Applications will be accepted if you expect to complete your LCSW, LICSW, LISW, or equivalent licensure requirements within 9 months of your application date. Your application must include documentation from an authorized official validating your expected licensure completion date.
In addition to the Basic Requirements, you must also meet the Minimum Qualifications stated below.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

GS-11: One (1) year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-09 level in the Federal service obtained in either the private or public sector performing the following type of work and/or tasks: Conducting comprehensive biopsychosocial and mental health assessments; Coordinating services to support patient stability and continuity of care; Responding to urgent psychosocial situations by conducting timely risk and safety assessments, and; Consulting with medical, nursing, and behavioral health providers regarding patient needs, barriers and service coordination.
OR
Completion of 3 years of progressively higher-level graduate education leading to a Ph.D. degree, or a Ph.D. or equivalent doctoral degree in social work from from a program accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE).
Federal employees in the competitive service are also subject to the Time-In-Grade Requirements: Merit Promotion (status) candidates must have completed one year of service at the next lower grade level. Time-In-Grade provisions do not apply under the Excepted Service Examining Plan (ESEP).Education:This position has an education requirement. You are strongly encouraged to submit a copy of your transcripts or a list of your courses including titles, credit hours completed, and grades. Unofficial transcripts will be accepted in the application package. Official transcripts will be required from all selectees prior to receiving an official offer.
Only attendance and/or degrees from schools accredited by accrediting institutions recognized by the U.S. Department of Education may be credited. Applicants can verify accreditation at the following website: https://www.ed.gov/accreditation.
If you are using foreign education to meet qualification requirements, you must send a Certificate of Foreign Equivalency with your transcript in order to receive credit for that education. For further information, visit https://sites.ed.gov/international/recognition-of-foreign-qualifications/.Employment Type: OTHER