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Social Welfare Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Otsego County

Social Welfare Examiner

Cooperstown, NY · On-site

$39K - $46K/yr

Work is performed under the supervision of a higher-ranking Social Welfare Examiner, except in smallest agencies where work is supervised by a high-ranking administrator, may act as a lead worker and ...

MUSC

Social Worker I or II - MSW

Charleston, SC · On-site

Bachelor's degree in a social work or social welfare program accredited by the Council on Social Work Education. Credentials: BSW licensure by the South Carolina Board of Social Work Examiners.

The Chronicle Of Higher Education, Inc.

NY · On-site

$90 - $125/hr

PhD in Social Work, Social Welfare, or a related field. * MSW in Social Work or master's degree in a related field. * Active research agenda. * Experience teaching social work courses in seated ...

CalHR

Social Services Aide

Sacramento, CA

$38K - $47K/mo

Social Service Aide is a paraprofessional class. Incumbents assist Social Workers by relieving them ... Basic rules and regulations regarding In-Home Support Services, child abuse reporting, and Welfare ...

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How much do social welfare jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for social welfare in the United States is $19.41, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $21.15 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is social welfare?

Social welfare jobs are roles focused on supporting individuals and communities in need, often through government or nonprofit organizations. Professionals in this field may provide direct assistance, advocate for policy changes, or administer programs related to health, housing, income support, and child or family services. These jobs aim to improve the quality of life for vulnerable populations and address social inequalities. Common positions include social workers, case managers, community outreach coordinators, and counselors.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in social welfare, and why are they important?

To excel in Social Welfare, a background in social work, psychology, or related human services fields—often with a relevant degree and state licensure—is essential. Familiarity with case management systems, documentation software, and knowledge of local and federal assistance programs is important. Strong communication, cultural competence, and resilience help social welfare professionals build trust and support diverse clients through challenging situations. These skills enable effective advocacy, resource coordination, and positive outcomes for individuals and communities in need.

What are some common challenges faced by social welfare professionals when working with diverse communities?

Social welfare professionals often encounter challenges such as language barriers, cultural differences, and varying levels of trust in social systems when working with diverse communities. Navigating these complexities requires strong communication skills, cultural sensitivity, and adaptability. Professionals must also stay informed about community resources and collaborate closely with other service providers to ensure that clients receive comprehensive support tailored to their unique backgrounds.

What is the difference between Social Welfare vs Social Work?

AspectSocial WelfareSocial Work
CredentialsVaries; often includes social welfare certifications or degreesBachelor's or Master's in Social Work (BSW, MSW)
Work EnvironmentGovernment agencies, non-profits, community organizationsHospitals, schools, social service agencies
Employer & IndustryPublic sector, non-profits, community programsHealthcare, education, social service sectors
Job FocusPolicy, program administration, resource distributionClient counseling, case management, advocacy

Social Welfare generally refers to programs and policies aimed at improving community well-being, often managed by government or non-profit organizations. Social Work involves direct client interaction, counseling, and case management, typically requiring specific degrees like BSW or MSW. While both roles aim to support vulnerable populations, Social Welfare focuses on systemic solutions, whereas Social Work emphasizes individual client support.

What are examples of social welfare jobs?

Social welfare jobs include roles such as social workers, case managers, community outreach coordinators, and counselors. These positions often require strong communication skills, knowledge of social services, and relevant certifications or degrees in social work, psychology, or related fields. They typically involve helping individuals and communities access resources and support systems.

What does a social welfare worker do?

A social welfare worker helps individuals and families access resources and services such as housing, healthcare, and financial assistance. They assess clients' needs, develop support plans, and advocate on their behalf, often working in government agencies, non-profits, or community organizations. Strong communication, problem-solving skills, and knowledge of social policies are essential for this role.
More about Social Welfare jobs

What cities are hiring for Social Welfare jobs?

Cities with the most Social Welfare job openings:

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

The most popular types of Social Welfare jobs are:

What states have the most Social Welfare jobs?

States with the most job openings for Social Welfare jobs include:

Social Welfare jobs near you
Infographic showing various Social Welfare job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 76% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 22% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,367 per year, or $19.4 per hour.

Social Welfare Examiner

Otsego County

Cooperstown, NY • On-site

$39K - $46K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago

Job description

Department of Social Services
EOE

DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS: May perform any or a combination of assignments in connection with determining financial eligibility, categorical classification, continued financial eligibility and income maintenance depending on the size, organizational structure and work activity needs of the social service district.  The work involves the review and evaluation of applications and records and direct interviews with applicants.  Work is performed under the supervision of a higher-ranking Social Welfare Examiner, except in smallest agencies where work is supervised by a high-ranking administrator, may act as a lead worker and may oversee clerical staff.

EXAMPLES OF WORK: (Illustrative only)
  • Reviews the certification form to determine that all statements are complete and consistent with every other item of information provided, where necessary for clarification or completion of certification form, asks applicant appropriate questions and makes necessary additions or corrections on the form.
  • Makes an evaluation of applicant’s financial eligibility for assistance may determine initial categorical eligibility, evaluates available resource details in relation to financial eligibility.
  • Prepares and computes budget for the applicant.
  • Advises applicant of the eligibility determination, the amount of assistance, and when the first grant can be expected.
  • Advises the applicant about the program under which they are eligible for assistance and any documentation or additional information, which is necessary for final program classification.
  • Recommends emergency grants as needed.
  • Makes re-determination of financial eligibility.
  • Explains the validation process to the applicant.
  • Advises the applicant about their duty to keep the agency informed of any change in status, which may affect their eligibility for assistance.
  • Informs applicants about the range of services in the agency, if mandatory, or requested by applicant or client, or need for services is indicated, refers applicant to social services section, or to other specialists such as resources, housing, employment, legal, medical, etc.
  • Makes referrals for full field investigation where presumption of fraud is indicated.
  • May require the use of a PC or similar computer equipment requiring the manipulation of a standard alphanumeric keyboard in preparing case files, etc.
  • Does related work as required.  

FULL PERFORMANCE KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:
  • Good knowledge of Federal, State and local rules, regulations and laws that govern applicant/recipient eligibility for social services financial assistance and employability requirements.
  • Working knowledge of programs that relate to eligibility for social services programs such as Workers compensation, Social Security, Unemployment Insurance, etc.
  • Ability to operate a personal computer and all necessary functions.
  • Ability to gather and analyze eligibility information in person, on line or via telephone and compare to eligibility criterion and make correct decisions regarding eligibility.
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with others.
  • Good powers of observation and perception.
  • Good judgment.

PROMOTIONAL QUALIFICATIONS: Two (2) years of permanent competitive status as a Clerk in Otsego County, one (1) of which must have been within the Department of Social Services.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:  Either:
  • Graduation from a regionally accredited or New York State registered two-year college with an Associate’s Degree or higher, OR;
  • Graduation from high school or possession of a high school equivalency diploma and two (2) years of full-time experience or its part-time equivalent examining, investigating or evaluating claims for assistance, veterans or unemployment benefits, insurance or a similar program operating under established criteria for eligibility, interviewing, collecting and compiling data, account keeping or related work, OR;
  • Graduation from high school or possession of a high school equivalency diploma and three (3) years of full time or its part-time equivalent clerical experience OR;
  • An equivalent combination of training or experience as defined by the limits of (a), (b), or (c) above.

 Applicants may be required to undergo a Local, State, and/or national criminal history background investigation, which will include a fingerprint check, to determine suitability for appointment.  Failure to meet the standards for the background investigation may result in disqualification.

NOTE: If your degree was awarded by an educational institution outside the United States and its territories, you must provide independent verification of equivalency. A list of acceptable companies who provide this service can be found on the internet at http://www.cs.ny.gov/jobseeker/degrees.cfm . You must pay the required evaluation fee.

CLASSIFICATION:  Competitive