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Human Services Worker

For the philanthrope in all of us, human services jobs are readily available. The title "human services worker" may seem incredibly vague -- aren't we all, in some way, human services workers? But it really is a large category, covering workers in a huge number of programs meant to, well, serve humans. Because of the immense scope of their possible job duties, human services workers are employed by just about every social program there is. So whether your passion is stopping child abuse or exploitation of the homeless, there's a human service job for you.

Human services jobs involve many of the same tasks as those tackled by social workers, but do not require as much education. Since human services workers come cheaper than social workers, demand for them is expected to increase during the next decades. The most rapid growth is projected to be in programs serving the elderly.

What They Do:

Human services workers may find themselves in any number of work environments, including alcohol and drug abuse prevention programs, group homes for the mentally ill, welfare organizations, and programs for the elderly. Their job description is flexible; they provide many kinds of support and assistance for those who need it. Maybe they will help an elderly person who can't get around anymore, by going shopping or taking them to the doctor. Maybe they will provide emotional support for a battered woman and her children. Maybe they will intervene if a client is having a problem with a landlord.

Why It's Cooler Than It Sounds:

If you have a passion for helping people, this could be a good job for you. It can be very trying, and you'll never get rich, but nothing can replace the warm fuzzy glow of knowing that you are making a difference in someone's life.

What they earn:

Starting salary (1992): $12,000 - $20,000 Median salary (1992): $15,000 - $25,000

How to get involved:

Human services work is one of the few remaining professions that does not require a college degree. However, those with only a high school education will probably only be able to land jobs involving less responsibility, and advancement is usually dependent on training. Training in any of the social or behavioral sciences is good preparation for a job in human services. However, this field can be quite emotionally draining. So, although it may sound a bit trite, the most important qualification for work in human services is a strong desire to help other people.