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Social and human service assistants provide those in need with the support and resources necessary to overcome major obstacles, like poverty or disabilities. The work can be incredibly gratifying, but also difficult. The first step toward becoming an excellent service professional is understanding the job and all that it entails.

What do social and human service assistants do?

Social and human service assistants help people overcome difficulty and provide them with the resources necessary to find additional support. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS.gov, 2012), these professionals support other social service professionals, like social workers. While their duties can change from one position -- or even one case -- to the next, they typically tend to the following tasks:

• Support social workers, psychologists or other professionals with more education or experience
• Help identify clients' needs and match them with the appropriate services
• Help create treatment plans
• Research community services available to their clients
• Determine clients' eligibility for those services
• Monitor clients to ensure services are provided appropriately
• Assist clients with daily activities, like eating

The BLS notes that social and human service assistants must be compassionate by nature and exhibit excellent time-management, organizational and problem-solving skills. They must also work and communicate with a broad range of people.

How can I become a social or human service assistant?

When clients' welfare is at stake, the proper training is imperative. According to the BLS, a high school diploma is the minimum requirement for social and human service assistants, but employers increasingly prefer those with work experience or formal education (BLS). Certificates and associate degrees in related fields such as human services are often sufficient, though some employers require a bachelor's or master's degree in social services or a related field. Students may even be able to complete some of their social and human service assistant training online. However you choose to attend class, the BLS notes that in general, the more educated you are, the more responsibility you assume on the job.

How much do social and human service assistants earn?

The BLS reports that the national annual social and human service assistant median salary in 2011 was $28,740, with the lowest 10 percent earning up to $19,180 and the top 10 percent earning up to $45,710 (BLS). As with most professions, earnings can depend on a number of factors. According to the BLS, the industries that reported the highest average earnings within this field the same year include insurance related firms; the federal government; and management, scientific and technical consulting services.

Location can also impact earnings. The BLS reports the following states reported the highest median social and home service assistant salaries in 2011 (BLS):

• The District of Columbia: $45,650
• Connecticut: $38,530
• Alaska: $38,320

Training and experience can also impact your salary as a social or home service assistant.

What is the career outlook for social and human service assistants?

If career projections hold true for social and human services assistants, their future could be bright. According to the BLS, employment of these professionals is expected to grow by 28 percent between 2010 and 2020. A growing elderly population coupled with a rising demand for health care and social services are expected to contribute to the boom. Just as with salary, however, where you work can affect your career outlook. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, the following states projected the fastest career growth among social and human service assistants between 2008 and 2018 (CareerInfoNet.org):

• Idaho: 42 percent
• Georgia: 40 percent
• Utah: 38 percent

Perhaps one of the best ways to improve your employment prospects, however, is investing in the right education. For those considering this investment, it is wise to research a number of social and home service assistant schools to ensure you find the one that best suits your goals and your learning style.