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How much does a Social Services Specialist make?

The average salary for a Social Services Specialist is $55,560 per year in the US.

Social Services Specialists often find themselves in a rewarding career, helping individuals and families navigate through difficult times. On average, these specialists earn around $55,560 per year. This is a good income for someone looking for job stability and the chance to make a difference in people's lives.

The salaries for Social Services Specialists can vary based on experience and location. For instance, those just starting might earn closer to $31,260. As they gain more experience, earnings can rise significantly. Those with several years under their belt can expect to make anywhere from $65,482 to over $88,000. Specializations and certifications can also lead to higher salaries. Working in a high-cost area or a place with a high demand for social services can boost earnings even more.

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What are the highest paying cities for a Social Services Specialist?

Social Services Specialists enjoy competitive salaries in several cities. Bend, Oregon, tops the list with an average salary of about $89,845. This high pay reflects the demand for skilled professionals in this area. Other cities like Fresno, California, and Spokane, Washington, also offer strong compensation packages, making them attractive options for job seekers. Apart from Bend, cities like Fresno, San Diego, and Seattle provide solid earnings for specialists in social services. Fresno offers an average salary of $85,176, while Seattle pays around $72,124. These cities have growing needs for social service professionals, which helps boost salaries. Job seekers can find both high pay and rewarding work in these locations.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Social Services Specialist jobs, highlighting Bend, OR with the highest at $89,845 and Baltimore, MD with the lowest at $65,723.
  1. Bend, OR
    Average Salary: $89,845
    In Bend, a Social Services Specialist can find work with local nonprofits and government agencies. The serene environment makes it ideal for impactful community service work. Organizations like Central Oregon Community Action offer rewarding positions.
    Find Social Services Specialist jobs in Bend, OR


  2. Fresno, CA
    Average Salary: $85,176
    Fresno provides a dynamic setting for those in social services. Here, specialists work with a variety of clients, tackling issues like homelessness and child welfare. Agencies like Fresno County Department of Social Services play a key role in community welfare.
    Find Social Services Specialist jobs in Fresno, CA


  3. Spokane, WA
    Average Salary: $78,410
    Spokane offers a mix of urban and natural environments for Social Services Specialists. They often work with local nonprofits and healthcare providers. The area provides a supportive community for those making a difference in people's lives.
    Find Social Services Specialist jobs in Spokane, WA


  4. San Diego, CA
    Average Salary: $77,956
    San Diego has a bustling social services scene. Specialists here help with a wide range of community needs. Working with organizations like the San Diego County Department of Social Services offers a chance to positively impact many lives.
    Find Social Services Specialist jobs in San Diego, CA


  5. Seattle, WA
    Average Salary: $72,124
    Seattle's social services field offers many opportunities. Specialists often work with non-profits and government bodies. Companies like King County offer diverse roles, making a real difference in the community.
    Find Social Services Specialist jobs in Seattle, WA


  6. Anchorage, AK
    Average Salary: $71,884
    In Anchorage, Social Services Specialists often engage with local Native communities. The role involves addressing unique challenges, such as ensuring access to essential services. Work with organizations like the Alaska Mental Health Trust Authority can be very fulfilling.
    Find Social Services Specialist jobs in Anchorage, AK


  7. Little Rock, AR
    Average Salary: $70,880
    Little Rock provides a chance for specialists to engage with a diverse population. They often work with state agencies and local charities. The city's supportive community fosters a rewarding work environment.
    Find Social Services Specialist jobs in Little Rock, AR


  8. Fayetteville, AR
    Average Salary: $68,044
    Fayetteville offers a mix of rural and urban social services opportunities. Specialists can find roles with both government and non-profit organizations. The close-knit community makes for a collaborative work environment.
    Find Social Services Specialist jobs in Fayetteville, AR


  9. Austin, TX
    Average Salary: $65,743
    Austin's social services field is growing fast. Specialists work on issues like homelessness and education. The city's vibrant culture provides a unique backdrop for impactful work, often with local non-profits.
    Find Social Services Specialist jobs in Austin, TX


  10. Baltimore, MD
    Average Salary: $65,723
    Baltimore has a rich social services landscape. Specialists here often focus on urban issues like poverty and youth services. The city's many non-profits and government agencies offer diverse opportunities to make a difference.
    Find Social Services Specialist jobs in Baltimore, MD

What are the best companies a Social Services Specialist can work for?

St. Charles Health System and Fairfax County Government pay well for Social Services Specialists, offering average salaries above $90,000. These companies value their social service professionals and provide competitive compensation. For those seeking a rewarding career, these organizations present excellent opportunities. State of Washington, Department of Human Services, and State of Arkansas also provide strong salaries for this role, ranging between $70,000 and $80,000. These positions offer stability and a chance to make a meaningful impact. Job seekers should consider these companies for a fulfilling career in social services.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Social Services Specialist jobs, highlighting St. Charles Health System with the highest at $97,059 and MMS Group with the lowest at $56,667.
  1. St. Charles Health System
    Average Salary: $97,059
    St. Charles Health System offers rewarding Social Services Specialist roles. These positions provide support to patients and their families. The company operates across central Oregon, providing essential services and care.


  2. Fairfax County Government
    Average Salary: $92,275
    Fairfax County Government provides many opportunities for Social Services Specialists. These roles assist in community programs and services. The county is located in Virginia, known for its high quality of life and services.


  3. Exodus Recovery Inc.
    Average Salary: $80,654
    Exodus Recovery Inc. offers roles that support individuals in recovery from addiction. Social Services Specialists play a key role in this process. The company operates in California and Oregon, focusing on rehabilitation services.


  4. State of Washington
    Average Salary: $80,323
    The State of Washington provides numerous opportunities for Social Services Specialists. These professionals work on various state programs. The state is known for its diverse landscapes and progressive policies.


  5. Department of Human Services
    Average Salary: $71,771
    The Department of Human Services offers critical roles for Social Services Specialists. These positions focus on providing assistance and support to those in need. They serve communities across different states, ensuring people receive the help they need.


  6. State of Arkansas
    Average Salary: $67,942
    The State of Arkansas offers rewarding roles for Social Services Specialists. These positions focus on community and individual support. The state is known for its natural beauty and cultural heritage.


  7. State of New Mexico
    Average Salary: $66,524
    The State of New Mexico provides roles for Social Services Specialists that focus on community services. These positions support local programs and initiatives. New Mexico is known for its unique landscapes and vibrant culture.


  8. Women In Need
    Average Salary: $64,486
    Women In Need offers important roles for Social Services Specialists. These positions support women facing various challenges. The organization operates in Missouri, providing essential services and care.


  9. Children's Rescue Fund
    Average Salary: $60,250
    Children's Rescue Fund provides roles that focus on protecting and supporting children. Social Services Specialists play a key role in these efforts. The organization operates in Minnesota, dedicated to child welfare.


  10. MMS Group
    Average Salary: $56,667
    MMS Group offers roles for Social Services Specialists that support various community programs. These positions focus on helping individuals in need. The company operates across different states, providing essential services.

How to earn more as a Social Services Specialist?

A Social Services Specialist can find ways to earn more by focusing on professional growth. Increasing skills and knowledge helps in taking on higher-level tasks. This often leads to more responsibilities and a higher salary. Attending workshops, earning certifications, and pursuing advanced degrees are great ways to boost earnings.

Networking also plays a big role. Building a strong professional network can lead to job opportunities that offer higher pay. Joining professional organizations and attending industry events can connect specialists with potential employers. Good connections can result in salary increases and better job offers. Seeking promotions and advocating for a raise based on performance can also lead to higher earnings. This shows dedication and a commitment to growing within the organization.

Experience matters. Gaining experience in different areas of social services can make a specialist more valuable. Experience in various roles allows specialists to handle more complex tasks. This experience can lead to higher-paying positions. Working in high-demand areas, such as mental health or child welfare, can also increase earning potential.

Location is another factor. Specialists in urban areas or regions with a high demand for social services may earn more. Cost of living and demand for services vary by location. Moving to an area with higher demand can lead to better-paying jobs.

  1. Earn advanced degrees or certifications
  2. Network with professionals in the field
  3. Gain experience in different areas of social services
  4. Seek higher-paying locations or industries
  5. Advocate for promotions and raises based on performance

Currently 339 Social Services Specialist job openings, nationwide.

How's the job market for a Social Services Specialist in the US?

Learn what a Social Services Specialist does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Social Services Specialist today.
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Social Services Specialist
339 Job Openings