Careers in human and community service

Occupations in the Human Services career area relate to programs, resources, policies and advocacy to address the wellbeing of individuals, groups, and communities. Positions in this career can be located in government, nonprofit, and faith-based organizations such as mental health clinics, child and youth services, community centers, and education institutions.

Human and Community Services positions can be responsible for:

• advocating to improve social conditions and quality of life for groups of people
• counseling, advising and coaching individuals
• providing food, shelter, income, job help, or other resources to people in need
• offering disaster relief services and crisis support
• supporting wellness and mental health
• Influencing public opinion and advocating for social change

Overall employment in community and social service occupations is projected to grow faster than the average for all occupations from 2022 to 2032. About 281,600 openings are projected each year, on average, in these occupations due to employment growth and the need to replace workers who leave the occupations permanently

Entry-level positions in this career area often have low wages. Experienced workers earn wages that are higher than the national average.