Career Outlook for Social Workers in New Jersey

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Social workers are an integral part of the mental health industry. Without qualified social workers, several people who need emotional, mental, or behavioral support would be left to fend for themselves. On a state by state basis, the job outlook for social workers vary somewhat. However, there is a consistent positive job growth outlook for the field of social work overall.

Overall U.S. Job Statistics

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, there is an expected overall job growth of over 607,300 new jobs being added through the year 2022. The average pay scale for social workers in the U.S. is roughly $21.25 per hour or $44,200 per year.

New Jersey Social Workers Job Outlook

When considering pursuit of a career as a social worker in the state of New Jersey, candidates should expect the following job outlook statistics over the next ten years:

•62,640 new jobs
•1.3% employment rate increase
•$26.95 (current hourly rate)
•$56,060 (median annual salary)
•0.7% wage increase annually

Why NJ Social Work?

Entering a career such as that of a social worker is a smart choice for candidates who want stability and the ability to help others on a regular basis. New Jersey is a great location for social workers for several reasons, including higher than average job growth, above average salary, and a higher overall population, which creates a greater need for more social workers.

What it takes to become a Social Worker

Like most mental health careers, social workers have to commit to extensive education and training in their field. Bachelor in Social Work (BSW) degrees and even Master in Social Work (MSW) degrees are standard requirements for social work. In addition, every state requires state-specific licensing and certification.

Social Work Specialties in New Jersey

New Jersey’s large population offers social workers a wide variety of options regarding areas of concentration in social work. Social workers in New Jersey can work as counselors in settings like Government offices, hospitals, mental health clinics, substance abuse clinics, schools, and more. Depending on the type of client a social worker wants to help, there are a number of locations available to assist.

What Exactly Does a Social Worker Do?

Regardless of location, social workers all have similar basic job responsibilities. Social workers must first identify who needs their help and why. Diagnosing a client’s problem is the first step toward helping them, but it is only the beginning. Social workers must determine the needs of their clients and assist them in improving their situation through counseling, evaluation, and planning.

Overview

Social workers are a vital component to the world of mental health. Whether practicing in New Jersey or other states, social work serves the same purpose. For anyone who enjoys helping others solve complicated, personal issues, social work is a good choice.

Compassion, intelligence, commitment and dedication are all necessary for a successful career in social work and to show the clients who depend on these social workers that they are depending on the right person. If helping others is more a passion than just a passing thought, consider becoming a social worker and let that passion make a difference in the lives of those who need it.