Human service workers provide direct and indirect client services. Direct services include emotional support, transportation, and assistance with or instruction in daily living skills such as personal hygiene, job skills, effective communication, or managing relationships and finances. Indirect services are administrative, including assessments to determine eligibility for various services, records maintenance, and leadership/supervision of group programs.
Work conditions vary. Some spend a majority of their time in offices, clinics, group homes, etc.; others spend most of their time in the field with individual clients. Employers see a high turnover rate due to low pay, understaffing, and the effects of emotional drain on the workers. Median annual earnings in 1998 were $21,360.
The number of job opportunities is expected to be high, growing faster then average between 1998 and 2008. Demand for services for the elderly, pregnant teens, the homeless, the mentally disabled and substance abusers will rise. Certificate programs and associate degrees will meet most employer requirements, as public assistance programs seek to lower costs by employing fewer social workers who are more highly paid. Those without a bachelor’s degree will receive extensive on-the-job training for direct care services, while degreed employees will more likely do supportive counseling, coordinate activities, or manage a group home.
In 1998, private agencies employed 50% of human service workers. State and local governments employed 33%. The business sector’s demand for services may increase as streamlining and downsizing create increased demand for job retraining expertise.
Jan F. Taylor
