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Social Services Career Trainee Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Social Services

Collingdale, PA

Social Services Professional Location: Collingdale, PA Salary: To be discussed during the interview ... Opportunities for professional growth and career development. * Collaborative interdisciplinary ...

NHC

Social Services

Greer, SC · On-site

Social Services Representative - Full Time Are you looking for a meaningful career that allows you to be an advocate for your patients and their families? Come join our Social Services team! The ...

VHC Health

Director Social Services

Arlington, VA · On-site

The Director of Social Services will also be responsible for any additional Clinical Therapy ... Provide training and supervision for students and registered counselor trainees when services are ...

VHC Health

Director Social Services

Arlington, VA · On-site

The Director of Social Services will also be responsible for any additional Clinical Therapy ... Provide training and supervision for students and registered counselor trainees when services are ...

Campbell Street

Social Services

Ankeny, IA

If you're looking for a fresh start, a new opportunity, or a chance to build a meaningful career in ... The Social Worker integrates social services with other elements of the care plan to maintain the ...

VHC Health

Director Social Services

Arlington, VA · On-site

$96K - $181K/yr

The Director of Social Services will also be responsible for any additional Clinical Therapy ... Provide training and supervision for students and registered counselor trainees when services are ...

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Social Services Career Trainee information

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$29.5K

$51K

$81.5K

How much do social services career trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for social services career trainee in the United States is $51,005.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,000.00 and $57,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a social services career trainee?

A Social Services Career Trainee is an entry-level professional who receives training in various aspects of social services, such as case management, client assessment, and resource coordination. These trainees typically work under the supervision of experienced social workers or supervisors to learn how to assist individuals and families in need. The position is designed to provide hands-on experience and prepare trainees for more advanced roles in social work or human services. Duties may include interviewing clients, helping them access benefits, and learning about relevant laws and regulations. Successful completion of the trainee program can lead to permanent employment in social services.

What types of clients and cases can I expect to work with as a social services career trainee?

As a Social Services Career Trainee, you will typically assist individuals and families facing challenges such as financial hardship, child welfare concerns, or access to healthcare services. You may work with a diverse client base including children, seniors, people with disabilities, and individuals experiencing crisis situations. Your daily responsibilities often involve interviewing clients, assessing needs, and helping them navigate available programs and resources, all under the guidance of experienced social workers. This role provides valuable real-world exposure to the complexities of public assistance and human services, preparing you for more advanced positions in the field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a social services career trainee, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Social Services Career Trainee, you need a bachelor's degree in social work, psychology, or a related field, along with a foundational understanding of social service programs and client assessment. Familiarity with case management software, state reporting systems, and eligibility determination tools is typically required. Strong interpersonal communication, cultural sensitivity, and problem-solving abilities help trainees build trust and advocate effectively for clients. These competencies are crucial for providing meaningful support, navigating complex client situations, and ensuring the delivery of essential social services.

What is the difference between Social Services Career Trainee vs Social Worker?

AspectSocial Services Career TraineeSocial Worker
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some positions may require a bachelor's degreeBachelor's degree in social work (BSW) or related field; licensure often required
Work EnvironmentInternship or entry-level setting, supervised environment, community agenciesProfessional setting, community agencies, hospitals, schools
Employer & Industry UsageEntry-level training programs, social service agencies, government programsLicensed professionals working directly with clients in social services

Social Services Career Trainee positions serve as entry points for individuals gaining experience in social services, often under supervision. Social Workers are licensed professionals providing direct client services, requiring specific credentials. The trainee role is a stepping stone toward becoming a licensed social worker, with differences primarily in qualifications and responsibilities.

More about Social Services Career Trainee jobs

What cities are hiring for Social Services Career Trainee jobs?

Cities with the most Social Services Career Trainee job openings:

What states have the most Social Services Career Trainee jobs?

States with the most job openings for Social Services Career Trainee jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Social Services Career Trainee jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Social Services Career Trainee jobs are:

Social Services Career Trainee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Social Services Career Trainee job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,005 per year, or $24.5 per hour.

SOCIAL SERVICES CAREER TRAINEE

State of Illinois

Homewood, IL

$56K - $77K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago

State Of Illinois rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 75 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

11th of 50 rated states

Job description

Job Requisition ID: 58235 

Opening Date: 08/24/2026
Closing Date: 09/04/2026
​Agency: Department of Human Services
Class Title: SOCIAL SERVICES CAREER TRAINEE - 41320 
Skill Option: None 
Bilingual Option: Spanish
Salary: Anticipated Salary: $4,747 - $6,446 per month ($56,964 - $77,352 per year) + Bilingual Pay
Job Type: Salaried
Category: Full Time 
County: Cook
Number of Vacancies: 5
Bargaining Unit Code: RC062 Technical Employees, AFSCME
Merit Comp Code: 

​ 

This position is a union position; therefore, provisions of the relevant collective bargaining agreement/labor contract apply to the filling of this position.

While not required, a Resume/Curriculum Vitae (CV) is recommended. When applicable, titles that require specific coursework, professional license or certification will include a notation requesting the appropriate document(s) be uploaded in the Additional Documents section of your application. Failure to upload requested transcripts, license and/or proof of certification when specified may result in ineligibility. Please note that the Department of Human Services must verify proof of higher education for any degree earned (if applicable) regardless of vacancy title before any offer can be extended.

All applicants who want to be considered for this position MUST apply electronically through the illinois.jobs2web.com website. State of Illinois employees should click the link near the top left to apply through the SuccessFactors employee career portal.

Applications submitted via email or any paper manner (mail, fax, hand delivery) will not be considered.

Why Work for Illinois?

Working with the State of Illinois is a testament to the values of compassion, equity, and dedication that define our state. Whether you’re helping to improve schools, protect our natural resources, or support families in need, you’re part of something bigger—something that touches the lives of every person who calls Illinois home.

No matter what state career you’re looking for, we offer jobs that fit your life and your schedule—flexible jobs that provide the gold standard of benefits. Our employees can take advantage of various avenues to advance their careers and realize their dreams. Our top-tier benefits and great retirement packages can help you build a rewarding career and lasting future with the State of Illinois.

Position Overview

The Division of Family & Community Services is seeking to hire an energetic and detail-oriented Social Services Career Trainee to receive on the job training for a period of six to twelve months in receiving and assisting customers seeking public assistance services available through Department of Human Services (DHS) programs in the Homewood ABE Call Center Office.  This position will develop the knowledge, understanding and practical skills needed to manage a public assistance caseload such as Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF) including earned income cases, Medical Assistance No Grant (MANG) including Spenddown cases, Aid to the Aged, Blind and Disabled (AABD), Group Care, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) or other such cases. This position also informs clients of the changes in the State’s Welfare Programs, work incentive programs, child support services and encourages client participation in these programs; receives training in managing earned income cases and in determining continued eligibility for TANF; evaluates requests and identifies special needs of client for referral to appropriate services; and receives training in records and updating case status changes, such as change in address, unit composition and number, budget computation, SNAP and medical eligibility.  The Division helps Illinois residents by connecting them with many programs and services.  Through our programs, services and prevention efforts, the Division improves the health and well-being of individuals and promotes self-sufficiency and integrity of families of Illinois.

Essential Functions
  • Receives on the job training for a period of six (6) to twelve (12) months to develop the knowledge, understanding and practical skills needed to manage a public assistance caseload such as Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF) including earned income cases, Medical Assistance No Grant (MANG) including Spenddown cases, Aid to the Aged, Blind and Disabled (AABD), Group Care, Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program (SNAP) or other such cases.
  • Informs clients of the changes in the State’s Welfare Programs, work incentive programs, child support services and encourages client participation in these programs.
  • Receives training in managing earned income cases and in determining continued eligibility for TANF.
  • Translates functions/procedures into Spanish for individuals who cannot speak or read English, with the general public, advocacy groups, customers and community organizations.
  • Evaluates requests and identifies special needs of client for referral to appropriate services.
  • Receives training in records and updating case status changes, such as, change in address, unit composition and number, budget computation, SNAP and medical eligibility.
  • Performs other duties as assigned or required which are reasonably within the scope of duties enumerated above.
Minimum Qualifications
  • Requires knowledge, skill, and mental development equivalent to completion of four (4) years of college, preferably with courses in social science or a related field of the social sciences. 
  • Requires the ability to speak, read and write Spanish at a colloquial skill level.

Work Hours: 8:30am-5:00pm, Monday-Friday; 1 hour unpaid lunch

Headquarter Location: 1055 175th St, Homewood, Illinois, 60430

Division of Family and Community Services

Bureau of Customer and Support Services

Homewood ABE Call Center/Cook County

Work County: Cook

Agency Contact: DHS.HiringUnit@illinois.gov

Posting Group: Social Services

About the Agency:

The Illinois Department of Human Services uplifts individuals and communities across Illinois. Our mission is to respond to the needs of all people in Illinois so they can lead healthy, safe, and enriched lives. Our vision is the future we are shaping with dignity and the well-being of everyone in Illinois. Our values are the principles that guide us as we work to remove systemic barriers and create lasting opportunities with Compassion, Accessibility, Responsibility, and Equity.

As a State of Illinois employee, you will receive a robust benefit package that includes the following:

  • A Pension Program
  • Competitive Group Insurance Benefits including Health, Life, Dental and Vision Insurance
  • 3 Paid Personal Business Days annually
  • 12 Paid Sick days annually (Sick days carry over from year to year)
  • 10-25 days of Paid Vacation time annually - (10 days in year one of employment)
    • Benefit time modified for part-time, 12-hour, & non-standard work schedules (as applicable)
  • 13 Paid Holidays annually, 14 on even numbered years
  • Flexible Work Schedules (when available dependent upon position)
  • 12 Weeks Paid Parental Leave
  • Deferred Compensation Program - A supplemental retirement plan
  • Optional Pre-Tax Programs such as Medical Care Assistance Plan (MCAP), Dependent Care Assistance Plan (DCAP)
  • Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program eligibility
  • GI Bill® Training/Apprenticeship Benefits eligibility for qualifying Veterans
  • 5% Salary Differential for Bilingual Positions
  • Commuter Savings Program (Chicago only)

For more information about our benefits please follow this link: https://cms.illinois.gov/benefits/stateemployee.html

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS

Use the “Apply” button at the top right or bottom right of this posting to begin the application process.

If you are not already signed in, you will be prompted to do so. 

State employees should sign in to the career portal for State of Illinois employees – a link is available at the top left of the Illinois.jobs2web.com homepage in the blue ribbon. 

Non-State employees should log in on the using the “View Profile” link in the top right of the Illinois.jobs2web.com homepage in the blue ribbon.  If you have never before signed in, you will be prompted to create an account.

If you have questions about how to apply, please see the following resources:

State employees: Log in to the career portal for State employees and review the Internal Candidate Application Job Aid

Non-State employees: on Illinois.jobs2web.com – click “Application Procedures” in the footer of every page of the website.

State employees should include temporary assignment in the application profile. Temporary assignment verification forms can be uploaded to the Additional Documents section.

The main form of communication will be through email. Please check your “junk mail”, “spam”, or “other” folder for communication(s) regarding any submitted application(s). You may receive emails from the following addresses:

  • donotreply@SIL-P1.ns2cloud.com
  • systems@SIL-P1.ns2cloud.com

What State Of Illinois employees say

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State of Illinois logo

About State of Illinois

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The State of Illinois is not a traditional company, but rather a governmental entity encompassing diverse agencies and departments that serve the constituents of Illinois. Based in Illinois, United States, this governmental body communicates with its citizens through the official website illinois.gov. The website is a one-stop resource for Illinois residents to access information about the state's services, including education, healthcare, transportation, and public safety, among others.

Industry

Public administration

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

Springfield, IL, US

Social media

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