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Social Work Assistant Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Vanderbilt Health

Social Work LMSW PRN

Nashville, TN · On-site

Represents the Social Work department on institutional and community committees/task forces. Provides leadership for department committees/workgroups. Contributes to the plan of care with knowledge ...

NHC HomeCare

Masters Social Worker

Antioch, TN

Educates and supervises designated social work assistants in the implementation of the social service program. * Provides inservice training to other home care team members, focusing on psychosocial ...

NHC HomeCare - Milan

Masters Social Worker

Milan, TN · On-site

Educates and supervises designated social work assistants in the implementation of the social service program * Provides inservice training to other home care team members, focusing on psychosocial ...

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All JobsSocial Work JobsSocial Work Assistant JobsSocial Work Assistant Jobs in Tennessee

Social Work Assistant information

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$13

$17

$19

How much do social work assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for social work assistant in Tennessee is $17.61, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.72 and $19.18 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a social work assistant?

A social work assistant provides support services to families and other clients. In this role, your duties may include giving care to the elderly, homeless, and people with disabilities in a variety of fields like rehab, psychology, and social work. You may work as an aide to a social worker or help clients find the extra services that they might need. In this position, you research various aid services like Medicaid and food stamps to know when these would be helpful for specific clients and help them fill out the proper paperwork. Checking on clients on a regular basis is also part of this job, offering advice and counsel when necessary.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a social work assistant?

To thrive as a Social Work Assistant, you typically need a background in social services, excellent organizational skills, and an understanding of case management, often supported by a certificate or associate degree in social work or a related field. Familiarity with client management software, documentation systems, and sometimes basic knowledge of local social support programs is valuable. Strong interpersonal communication, problem-solving abilities, and cultural sensitivity help you connect with clients and support social workers effectively. These skills are essential to provide meaningful support, coordinate resources, and ensure positive outcomes for individuals and families in need.

What are some typical challenges social work assistants face when supporting clients, and how can they effectively address them?

Social Work Assistants often encounter challenges such as managing a high caseload, handling emotionally charged situations, and balancing administrative duties with direct client support. To address these, it's important to develop strong organizational skills, practice self-care to prevent burnout, and maintain open communication with supervising social workers. Collaborating with multidisciplinary teams and regularly attending supervision sessions can also provide valuable support and guidance when dealing with complex cases.

What is the difference between Social Work Assistant vs Social Worker?

AspectSocial Work AssistantSocial Worker
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require a certificate or associate degreeBachelor’s degree in social work (BSW) or higher
Work EnvironmentHealthcare facilities, schools, community agenciesHospitals, government agencies, private practices
Job ResponsibilitiesAssist with client support, administrative tasks, and basic case managementConduct assessments, develop treatment plans, advocate for clients
Industry UsageSupport roles within social services and healthcareLead case management and intervention efforts

Social Work Assistants typically support social workers by handling administrative tasks and providing basic client assistance, often requiring less formal education. Social Workers have more advanced responsibilities, including client assessments and developing treatment plans, and usually hold a bachelor’s or higher degree. Both roles work in similar environments but differ in scope and qualifications.

Can you be a social work assistant?

A social work assistant is an entry-level position that supports social workers by helping with client intake, case management, and administrative tasks. Typically, it requires a high school diploma or equivalent, and some roles may prefer or require relevant coursework or certification. The role often involves working in social service agencies, healthcare settings, or community organizations.

What are examples of social work assistant jobs?

Examples of social work assistant jobs include helping social workers with client intake, providing support to individuals and families, assisting with case management, and coordinating community resources. These roles often involve administrative tasks, data entry, and direct client interaction, requiring good communication skills and knowledge of social services. They are typically found in settings such as hospitals, schools, community agencies, and government offices.

What are the duties of a social work assistant?

A social work assistant supports social workers by helping clients access services, gathering information, and providing emotional support. They may also assist with case documentation, coordinate appointments, and help implement care plans, often working in community or healthcare settings. Strong communication skills and knowledge of social services are essential for this role.
More about Social Work Assistant jobs

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The most popular types of Social Work jobs in Tennessee are:

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For Social Work Assistant jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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For Social Work Assistant jobs in TN, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Social Work Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Social Work Assistant job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,637 per year, or $17.6 per hour.

Graduate Assistant, School of Social Work

Union University

Jackson, TN • On-site

Full-time, Contractor

Re-posted 29 days ago

Job description

Position Details
Position Information
Position Title
Graduate Assistant, School of Social Work
Position Number
S200PD
Branch
School of Social Work(BR)
Division
School of Social Work (DIV)
Department
School of Social Work
Location
Jackson
FLSA
Exempt
Job Summary
This position assists in the development and administration of all aspects of the School of Social Work services. The Graduate Assistant works closely with the Dean of the School of Social Work, the Dean's Administrative Assistant, the BSW Program Coordinator, the MSW Program Coordinator, the Associate Dean, the Director for the Center for Just & Caring Communities, the Directors for the BSW and MSW programs, and the Director for Field Education. The Graduate Assistant also provides support for other faculty.
About Union University
Founded in 1823, Union University is a private, coeducational liberal arts-based university offering bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees, with a total enrollment of about 2,600. The main campus is located in Jackson, Tenn., with additional campuses in Memphis and Hendersonville. A national leader among colleges and universities in promoting a Christian worldview and a Christ-centered approach to education, Union is consistently ranked among the nation's premier Christian universities.
Essential Job Duties
  • Serve as the primary person responsible for posting regularly to the School of Social Work's social media accounts (Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, etc.)
  • Produce phone, video, and graphical content for social media.
  • Work closely with social work faculty/staff on research projects, literature reviews and/or special projects.
  • Support the work of the Center for Just and Caring Communities by assisting the Director with various events and initiatives.
  • Assist with maintaining an updated website for the School of Social Work.
  • Assist with preview days, prospective student visits, and other SSW marketing functions when needed.
  • Assist with digitizing paper documents to streamline documentation.
  • Other duties, not otherwise specified, in support of the mission of the School of Social Work.

Other Job Duties
Required Qualifications
Graduation from an accredited college or university with a bachelor's degree is required. Acceptance into the Union University School of Social Work MSW Program, as well as full-time course registration into the same program of study is also required. Candidates must be able to be on Jackson campus at least 20 hours a week. Weekly time required may flex to accommodate certain events.
Ideal candidates will have good communication skills and be proficient in use of Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel, Canva, and social media platforms. Ideal candidates will also have basic skills in taking photos and videos with a smartphone or DSLR camera.
Preferred Qualifications
Christian Requirement
Successful candidates must be professing Christians who are active members of a local church, enthusiastically support Union University's Identity, Mission, Core Values, and Statement of Faith, and articulate a Christian worldview in their work and life.
Posting Detail Information
Posting Number
S268P
Special Instructions to Applicants
This is a 10-month position (August 1, 2026- May 31, 2027).
Compensation includes a $1,000/month stipend and 18 credit hours of tuition (per academic year). Graduate Assistants must be enrolled in graduate courses for the duration of the assistantship.

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