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Social Services Trainee Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... trainee class in the professional Social Worker series. Employees in this class are learning casework methods, procedures, policies and carry a limited non-complex social services caseload under ...

Social Worker I

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$24.37 - $25.61/hr

... trainee class in the professional Social Worker series. Employees in this class are learning casework methods, procedures, policies and carry a limited non-complex social services caseload under ...

... trainee class in the professional Social Worker series. Employees in this class are learning casework methods, procedures, policies and carry a limited non-complex social services caseload under ...

... trainee class in the professional Social Worker series. Employees in this class are learning casework methods, procedures, policies and carry a limited non-complex social services caseload under ...

Social Worker I/II

Yreka, CA · On-site

$48K - $68K/yr

Distinguishing Characteristics This is the entry/trainee class in the Social Worker class series. Incumbents learn and receive training in Department organization, human service programs, basic case ...

... trainee class in the Social Worker class series. Incumbents learn and receive training in Department organization, human service programs, basic case study methods, and case work services. As ...

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Social Services Therapist Must be licensed in the State of Ohio, LSW/LPC/IMFT ***SW Trainee can be accepted*** FT, 40 Hours per Week Some holidays and weekends required Pay range is $52,000-$60,000 ...

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Social Services Trainee information

See salary details

$29.5K

$51K

$81.5K

How much do social services trainee jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for social services 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 are some common challenges faced by social services trainees during their initial assignments?

Social Services Trainees often encounter challenges such as managing complex caseloads, handling emotionally charged situations, and adapting to rapidly changing client needs. Balancing administrative duties with direct client interactions can also be demanding, especially when learning to navigate agency protocols and community resources. However, most agencies provide supervision, mentorship, and ongoing training to help trainees build confidence and develop essential skills as they progress in their roles.

What is a social services trainee?

Social Services Trainees are entry-level professionals who assist in providing support services to individuals and families in need. They typically work under the supervision of more experienced social workers or case managers to learn about case management, client assessments, and community resources. Their responsibilities may include conducting interviews, gathering client information, and helping clients access services such as housing, food assistance, and counseling. The trainee position is designed to provide foundational experience and training necessary for advancement in the social services field.

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

AspectSocial Services TraineeSocial Worker
Required CredentialsOften pursuing or have completed relevant coursework, some certificationsTypically hold a bachelor's or master's degree in social work and licensure
Work EnvironmentInternship or entry-level settings, supervised rolesFull professional roles in agencies, hospitals, or community organizations
Employer & Industry UsageTraining programs, internships, entry-level positionsEstablished professionals in social services
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry-level roles, training opportunitiesCareer advancement, professional responsibilities

The main difference between a Social Services Trainee and a Social Worker is experience and qualification level. Trainees are often in training or early in their careers, focusing on gaining practical experience, while Social Workers are fully qualified professionals with the necessary degrees and licensure to handle complex cases independently.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a social services trainee?

To thrive as a Social Services Trainee, you need a foundational understanding of social work principles, human behavior, and case management, often supported by a relevant bachelor's degree. Familiarity with case management software, documentation systems, and knowledge of local social service resources is valuable. Strong interpersonal communication, empathy, critical thinking, and cultural sensitivity help trainees build trust and effectively support diverse clients. These skills are vital for delivering effective services, maintaining accurate records, and fostering positive outcomes for individuals and families in need.

What cities are hiring for Social Services Trainee jobs?

Cities with the most Social Services Trainee job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Social Services jobs?

The most popular types of Social Services jobs are:

What states have the most Social Services Trainee jobs?

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

Infographic showing various Social Services Trainee job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,005 per year, or $24.5 per hour.

Social Worker III - Special Assistance In-Home

Catawba County, NC

Hickory, NC • On-site

$59K - $74K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago

New


Job description

Salary : $59,457.24 - $74,321.55 Annually
Location : Hickory, NC
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: 02377
Department: Social Services
Opening Date: 08/14/2026
Closing Date: 8/28/2026 11:59 PM Eastern
New as of 01/01/2026:
Your well-being matters from the start - benefited new hires are eligible for up to 40 hours of advanced annual leave and 40 hours of advanced sick leave.
Position Description
Catawba County Social Services is seeking a Special Assistance In-Home Social Worker III to serve clients in the Special Assistance In-Home program, helping individuals remain safely at home and avoid placement in an adult care home. The Special Assistance In-Home Social Worker provides services to adults in the community by conducting person-centered assessments and developing service plans with funds that will support an adult's ability to live safely and as independently as possible in the community. This position assesses client needs, develops and monitors service plans, and coordinates care to protect each client's health, safety, and well-being. The social worker also supports weekly intake and may assist clients receiving In-Home Aide Level 1 services.
Trainees, those with Master's or Bachelor's degrees in other areas of human services but do not have the required experience, may be considered. Trainee salary starts at $56,616.46.
Responsibilities
  • Conduct assessments and develop service plans to determine eligibility and support needs for clients seeking to remain safely at home
  • Provide ongoing case management, including monthly contacts and quarterly/annual in-home visits and assessments
  • Monitor client health, safety, and welfare; develop risk agreements, make APS reports, or terminate services when necessary
  • Coordinate services among multiple providers and make referrals for additional services, supplies, or equipment as needed
  • Complete Medicaid Administrative Claiming (MAC) billing and ensure compliance with the Special Assistance In-Home Policy Manual
  • Support clients requiring In-Home Aide Level 1 services alongside a Community Social Services Assistant, as needed
  • Conduct weekly intake and assist other case managers as workload requires

Qualifications
  • Master's degree from an accredited school of social work; OR
  • Master's degree in counseling or human services field and 1 year of social work experience; OR
  • Bachelor's degree from an accredited school of social work and 1 year of social work experience; OR
  • Bachelor's degree in a human services field and 2 years of social work experience; OR
  • Bachelor's degree in a non-human services field and 3 years of social work experience

Additional Requirements
  • Valid driver's license with a safe driving record (driving is an essential function of this position)
  • Previous experience working with older and disabled adults, long term care, medical terminology, and knowledge of community resources
  • Strong organizational skills with the ability to prioritize, multitask, and meet deadlines
  • Effective verbal communication skills for working with clients, families, In-Home Aide agencies, physicians, and staff
  • Strong written communication skills for documentation, assessments, and service plans
  • Sound social work judgment for mediating family conflicts and navigating atypical or non-traditional situations
  • Skill in crisis intervention, mediation, and working with diverse populations, religions, and lifestyles
  • Working knowledge of medical terminology and community resources
  • Ability to adapt to changing policies and procedures while maintaining continuity of client services
  • Ability to assist other case managers as needed
  • This is considered Light Work; lifting up to 20 pounds

Preferences:
  • Experience with Medicaid Administrative Claiming (MAC) or Medicaid billing processes
  • Experience working with aging or adult populations in a home- or community-based care setting

As of 7/1/2025:
You will find that Catawba County has one of the best benefits packages around. Our Human Resources staff are dedicated to keeping in touch with trends in benefits on both a local and national level, listening to employees' suggestions regarding benefits, and continually reviewing to ensure our benefits package is of good quality and meets the needs of both our employees and our organization.
Available benefits include:
Health Care
  • Health: For a small bi-weekly premium, employees may choose between a traditional (co-pay) health plan and a high deductible health plan coupled with a Health Savings Account (HSA). Coverage may also be purchased for spouse, child(ren), or family.
  • Dental Insurance: At no cost to full-time employees, the County covers preventive, routine, and non-routine care. Coverage for the same benefits may also be purchased for spouse, child(ren), and family. In addition, a $2,000 benefit toward orthodontia coverage is provided for children up to age 19.
  • Vision Care: Coverage is available, at group rates, for employee and dependents,with 2 plan options to choose from.
  • Supplemental critical care and accident insurance plans: These optional coverage plans are available at a nominal cost.
  • Flexible Spending Accounts: Pre-tax accounts that can be used to pay for qualified out-of-pocket medical, dental, and vision expenses.

Employee Wellness
  • Employee Health Clinic (EHC): An employee medical clinic, available to all County employees, which operates 40 hours a week. Services provided include acute care, first aid, evaluation and care for workers' compensation injuries, pre-employment screenings, health education, and behavioral health referrals. Services are offered both in person and through telehealth. Acute care is available to employee's children ages 3-17, regardless of health insurance coverage, and for employee's adult children (ages 18-26) or employee's spouse if covered on the county's health insurance.
  • Wellness: The County recognizes the importance of our health and well-being. We maintain a very proactive and effective Wellness Program, including reimbursement and discounts for gym membership, incentives for physical activity, on-site nutrition counseling, free exercise opportunities, wellness education, and more.
  • Employee Assistance Program: Counseling services are available to all County employees and immediate family members in the home. Services are provided in a private and confidential setting (in-person or virtually). The County provides coverage for the first six visits.

Work Life Balance
  • Annual Leave:Full-time employees earn from 10-24 days annually based on years of service. Service credit from other NC and Local Governments in the retirement system may be transferred to the County.
    • To help new employees settle in, up to 40 hours of annual leave is advanced upon hire, with first-year accruals adjusted to align with established annual limits.
  • Sick Leave:Full-time employees earn one day (8 hours) of sick leave per month. Sick leave from other NC and Local Governments in the retirement system may be transferred to the County.
    • New hires are advanced up to 40 hours of sick leave, with first-year accruals adjusted to align with established annual limits.
  • Holiday Leave: Throughout the year, 11 days of paid leave are provided in recognition of holidays.
  • Flexible work schedules.
  • Time off for activities that support our local schools.
  • Continuing educational assistance.
  • Discount tickets to recreational venues.
  • Employee appreciation days/activities.
  • Tax-free flexible spending account to pay for dependent care.

Financial Security
  • Local Governmental Employees Retirement System: For employees assigned to work 20 hours per week or more in a benefitted position, participation in this program is automatic. Employees contribute 6% of their salary, which is tax-deferred. After (5) years of creditable service, you become fully vested in the retirement system. Employees may also take advantage of individual and group retirement counseling through the Human Resources department.
  • 401K: The County provides a 2% contribution plus an additional 1% match (up to 3% total contribution by the County). Our sworn law enforcement officers receive a flat 5% contribution to their 401k.
  • Other Tax Deferred Programs: Other tax-sheltering programs are available through IRS Code 125 (Cafeteria Plan), and a 457 supplemental retirement plan (Deferred Compensation).
  • Longevity Pay: After 5 years of creditable service, employees receive an annual longevity payment that is paid every year thereafter. This lump sum payment rewards employees for their length of service to Catawba County. The amount is based on years of service.
  • Life Insurance: Death benefit equal to one times the employee's annual salary, with a minimum coverage amount of $25,000. Optional supplemental life insurance coverage is also available for both employee and dependents through payroll deduction at group rates.
  • Short Term Disability: Available at no cost to employees, benefits are available after a 55-day waiting period.
  • Long Term Disability: Available through payroll deduction at group rates.
  • Eligibility for membership and financial services at State Employees Credit Union (SECU)/Local Government Federal Credit Union (LGFCU).

01
Provide examples of your experience working with adults who are disabled.
02
Why do you think your skills and experience make you a good fit for this position?
Required Question