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Social Worker Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Behavioral Center of Michigan

Social Worker

Detroit, MI · On-site

The Behavioral Center of Michigan, an accredited psychiatric hospital providing high levels of psychiatric care to adult patients and committed to person focused care is looking for a Social Worker ...

Oakland Schools

Social Worker

Auburn Hills, MI · On-site

Certified Student Support Services/Social Worker Date Posted: 11/11/2025 Location: Avondale Schools Administrative Offices District: Avondale School District AVONDALE SCHOOL DISTRICT Join the ...

Oakland Schools

Social Worker

Waterford, MI · On-site

Social Worker IN THIS ROLE: Join a passionate team where innovation, collaboration, and student-centered learning thrive. As a Social Worker, you'll engage curious, energetic learners during a ...

Behavioral Center of Michigan

Social Worker

Detroit, MI · On-site

The Behavioral Center of Michigan, an accredited psychiatric hospital providing high levels of psychiatric care to adult patients and committed to person focused care is looking for a Social Worker ...

St Maries Plc

Social Worker

Southfield, MI · On-site

$70K/yr

Orients, Supervises, mentors and educates other social workers within the state licensed in. Contributes to development of policies and procedures applicable to area of expertise. St. Marie's Hospice ...

Behavioral Center of Michigan

Social Worker

Warren, MI · On-site

The Behavioral Center of Michigan, an accredited psychiatric hospital providing high levels of psychiatric care to adult patients and committed to person focused care is looking for a Social Worker ...

Behavioral Center of Michigan

Social Worker

Warren, MI · On-site

The Behavioral Center of Michigan, an accredited psychiatric hospital providing high levels of psychiatric care to adult patients and committed to person focused care is looking for a Social Worker ...

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Social Worker information

See Michigan salary details

$30.1K

$66.5K

$102K

How much do social worker jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for social worker in Michigan is $66,473.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,400.00 and $79,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a social worker?

Social workers are professionals who help individuals, families, and communities overcome challenges and improve their well-being. They provide support, advocacy, and resources for people facing issues like mental health, poverty, abuse, or family problems. Social workers may work in schools, hospitals, government agencies, or community organizations, and they often help clients navigate complex social systems to access needed services.

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

To thrive as a Social Worker, you need a solid understanding of social work theory, case management, and a relevant degree with state licensure. Familiarity with case management software, client record systems, and ongoing professional development or certifications in areas like mental health are common requirements. Strong interpersonal skills, cultural competence, and resilience help social workers build trust and effectively support diverse clients. These skills ensure ethical, effective advocacy and intervention for individuals and communities facing complex challenges.

What are some common challenges social workers face when balancing caseloads and client needs?

Social Workers often manage a high volume of cases, which can make it challenging to give each client the individualized attention they need. Prioritizing urgent situations while ensuring ongoing support for all clients requires strong organizational skills and time management. Additionally, Social Workers must navigate complex systems, such as healthcare or social services, to advocate effectively for their clients. Regular supervision and teamwork can help manage these challenges and provide support in high-stress situations.

What is the difference between Social Worker vs Counselor?

AspectSocial WorkerCounselor
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Social Work (BSW or MSW), licensure often requiredTypically a Master's in Counseling, Psychology, or related field; licensure varies
Work EnvironmentHospitals, schools, social service agencies, community organizationsPrivate practice, clinics, schools, mental health facilities
Employer & Industry UsagePublic and non-profit sectors, social servicesHealthcare, mental health, educational institutions
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles, qualifications, and job dutiesCareer differences, certification requirements

Social Workers and Counselors both support mental health and well-being but differ in their training, work settings, and focus. Social Workers often address broader social issues and connect clients with resources, while Counselors typically focus on individual therapy and mental health treatment. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job role.

What does a social worker really do?

A social worker helps individuals and families improve their well-being by assessing their needs, providing counseling, connecting them to community resources, and advocating for their rights. They work in settings such as hospitals, schools, and social service agencies, often requiring strong communication skills and relevant certifications. Their responsibilities include addressing mental health, housing, and social challenges to support positive outcomes.

What type of jobs do social workers do?

Social workers perform a variety of roles including helping individuals and families cope with challenges, connecting clients to community resources, and advocating for social justice. They work in settings such as healthcare, schools, mental health clinics, and child welfare agencies, often requiring strong communication skills and relevant certifications or licenses.
More about Social Worker jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Social Worker jobs in Michigan?

The most popular types of Social Worker jobs in Michigan are:

What are popular job titles related to Social Worker jobs in Michigan?

For Social Worker jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Social Worker jobs in Michigan look for?

The top searched job categories for Social Worker jobs in Michigan are:

What cities in Michigan are hiring for Social Worker jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most Social Worker job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Social Worker jobs in MI?

For Social Worker jobs in MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Social Worker jobs near you
Infographic showing various Social Worker job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 4% Temporary. Highlights an 96% In-person, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $66,473 per year, or $32 per hour.

Social Worker

Wayne County Schools Employment Network

Wayne, MI • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago

Job description

Position Type:
Student Support Services/Social Worker
Date Posted:
5/8/2026
Location:
The Dearborn Academy
(High-Needs School)
District:
Dearborn Academy
Position Specific Responsibilities:
  1. Intervention Tasks:
  • Counsel both special and general education students individually or at the group level.
  • Intervene at the classroom level by spending time with students in the class or (when needed) provide classroom social skills intervention.
  • Plan and prepare individual, group and (when needed) classroom interventions.

  1. Assessment Tasks:

Initial and Re-evaluation Tasks:
  • Assess and make recommendations for students suspected of Emotional Impairment (R. 340.1706) and Autistic Spec/Tom Disorder (R 340.1715) using the appropriate Special Education Guidelines. Tasks include:
    • Systematic observation.
    • Interviews with parent, child and teacher(s). CA-60 and disciplinary file review.
    • Use of rating scales - such as the Achenbach, E.B.P.S., C.A.R.S., A.S.D.S., and adaptive behavior scales such as the A.B.A.S.
    • Social Worker report and recommendation.
  • The school Social Worker may also be asked to complete developmental histories and carryout intervention tasks for children suspected of being A.D.H.D., cognitively impaired or developmentally delayed.

  1. IEP/Manifestation Determination Related Tasks:
  • Complete P.L.A.A.F.P. and goals and, if needed, a behavior plan, for all MET/initial and annual IEP meetings.
  • Provide input on the child and make recommendations as appropriate.

  1. Functional Behavior Assessment and Behavior Intervention Plans:
  • Carry out Functional Behavior Assessment for both RtI Tier III and special education students.
  • Create and assist in the implementation of Behavior Intervention Plans.
  • Maintain a list of students on Behavior Intervention Plans.
  • Set-up Behavior Intervention Plan reviews every four to eight weeks for all K-8 students with intensive behavior issues who have a Behavior Intervention Plan

  1. RTI Process:
  • Attend all relevant Tier III meetings.
  • Set up Tier III meetings, as needed, for students in grades K-3.
  • Coordinate RtI meetings with the School Psychologist and write K-3 meetings on the calendar.

  1. Crisis Intervention Tasks:
  • Edit and update Crisis Plan, Fan Outs and all summary tables.
  • Provide direction to team after a crisis occurs.
  • Keep updated on Crisis Plan information and intervention.
  • Carry out mini-crisis and crisis intervention with students as needed.
  • Mini-crises include dealing with conflict between students, bullying, crying, refusing to work and so forth.
  • Crises include aggressive incidents with students, suicide, bomb threats, threats of harm to others and so forth.
  • Complete all relevant Crisis Intervention Forms and provide a copy to all Crisis Team Members involved with that particular crisis.

  1. Other Tasks:
  • Caseload management in the form of making phone calls or writing letters to outside agencies and medical centers to obtain information or services for both RtI K-3 and special education students.
  • Make contacts with appropriate outside agencies.
  • Take care of holiday package information at the start of the school year.
  • Create and update a caseload list (list of students seen). Document dates on the caseload list of when students were seen during each month of the school year.
  • Keep confidential notes on special education and general education students,
  • Create and revise a caseload schedule (which includes cooperating with the School Psychologist and accommodating changes in the Academy schedule).
  • Complete Quarterly Progress Reports on special and general education students.
  • Attend field trips as requested.
  • Maintain knowledge of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act, Michigan Special Education Law and School Social Worker legislation and regulations.
  • Obtain necessary social work hours of continuing education; maintain a record of hours to submit upon request.

Qualifications:
  1. Master of Social Work from an accredited Council on Social Work graduate school of social work program approved by the State board of education.
  2. The Social Worker must have received Full Approval as a School Social Worker or Temporary Approval (and be working towards meeting the qualifications for full approval).
  3. Must also have a clinical license - either a Limited License Master Social Worker ("LLMSW") and be working towards becoming a licensed social worker; or be a fully Licensed Master Social Worker ("LMSW").
  4. Approval issued through the office of special education.
  5. Satisfactory criminal background check and unprofessional conduct check as required by School Safety Legislation.

Competencies
The Social Worker shall possess applicable knowledge of:
  1. Individual, family, group and family dynamics, as well as mental health concepts and behavior which result from mental, physical, sensory, emotional, speech or other conditions.
  2. Educational organization delivery systems and the Academy as a social institution.
  3. Developmental stages in children and how stages impact the learning process.
  4. The legislative process and the impact of law on education.
  5. Identifying and developing resources with major local human service organizations.
  6. Systematic observation and diagnostic assessment (of emotions and behavior) of an individual pupil or groups of pupils.
  7. Formulating plans of action to address learning and behavior issues.
  8. Identifying the social and emotional needs of pupils and designing appropriate interventions to enhance the learning environment in the Academy.
  9. Communicating to appropriate persons regarding social work knowledge and skills, socio developmental findings, goals and objectives, intervention strategies as well as outcomes and recommendations.
  10. Providing appropriate direct or indirect treatment services to individuals, groups, families and the community.

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