How to Find Remote Social Work Jobs

Social work is one of the noblest fields, offering impassioned individuals the ability to change the lives of the marginalized, oppressed, impoverished, or abused. Through this profession, social workers don’t just improve the lives of single individuals, but also the communities around them. Due to the COVID pandemic and a move to the virtual office, finding remote social work jobs is easier now than ever. So if you’re a person who wants to create a better tomorrow and become the change you want to see in the world, social work is the profession that’s been calling you.

Everything You Need to Know About Remote Social Work Jobs

Before you become a social worker, you should note the differences between a social worker and a psychologist. While many outsiders perceive these professions (and degrees) to be one and the same, they have notable differences. Psychologists work more directly with mental health, how it functions, and how it influences behavior. Conversely, social work is a broader profession that has a variety of specializations that may deal with sociology, psychology, counseling, and education. Making this distinction can help you decide which profession is the better fit for what you want to do and whether remote social work jobs are the ideal career path.

How To Become a Remote Social Worker

Becoming a social worker begins with earning a bachelor’s degree in social work (BSW) from an accredited university. However, social workers may also have backgrounds in psychology, sociology, education, or philosophy. However, the rise of social work as a needed resource in blighted or impoverished areas has created BSW programs that prepare you for the job more directly. So if you’re going back to school or just starting school and want to become a social worker, a BSW is the most straightforward path to success.

In most cases, social workers choose to continue their education by earning a Master of Social Work (MSW) from an accredited university. With this degree and two years of experience, you can take the Licensed Clinical Social Worker exam. Passing this exam opens more opportunities for remote social work jobs, including specialized social work positions.

Skills Needed

In addition to classroom learning and experience, social workers must have a strong set of soft skills to excel on the job. In many cases, the plights and situations of patients have a taxing effect on mood and psyche. So you also need to be mentally and emotionally prepared for the position. Other important soft skills include:

Certifications

If you want to get into a particular field of social work or you want to improve your chances for employment, certifications are a must. Some of the most popular certifications for remote social work jobs include:

Salary Information

Salaries for social workers have continued to grow over the past decade. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for social workers is $51,760 or $24.88 per hour. However, specialized certifications may provide a larger earnings potential.

Common Remote Social Work Job Titles

If you’re new to social work, you may want to get an entry-level or part-time job. Both provide the experience you need to advance your career while also helping those in need. Some common remote social work job titles are listed below.

Remote Entry-Level Social Work Jobs

Remote Part-Time Social Work Jobs

Companies Hiring for Remote Social Work Jobs

All types of healthcare and education companies are on the hunt for talented social workers. This gives you more opportunities than ever. And with the advent of video-conferencing software, the ability to communicate with patients in a virtual capacity has broadened the chance for you to land a job. If you’re searching for a reputable employer, here are some of the top companies hiring for remote social work jobs.

Liberty University

If you’re a person who wants to immerse themselves in the educational side of social work, a job as an instructor or adjunct professor is a smart career choice. While many universities hire educators, Liberty University has an acclaimed online program. Based in Lynchburg, Va., Liberty University is a nonprofit Christian-affiliated research university, offering programs in healthcare, social work, and over 700 other programs of study.

Talkspace

Headquartered in New York City, Talkspace has emerged as a leader in online-based therapy sessions. While some of its workforce centers around psychologists, counselors, and psychiatrists, the company has expanded into social work. With over 1 million users, clients are always waiting for someone with your expertise.

UnitedHealth Group

UnitedHealth Group is a managed healthcare and insurance company that’s among the largest corporations in the world. The company has also been the recipient of numerous awards as an employer, including a spot on the Forbes list of the 500 best employers in the United States.

Give Back in the Digital Era With Remote Social Work

If you want to give something back in the virtual age with remote social work, now is the time. With poverty, oppression, and marginalization rampant throughout many of America’s urban and rural areas, the opportunity to make a difference hinges on your ambition to find a job.

That’s where Virtual Vocations can help. Sign up with Virtual Vocations today to gain access to a jobs board, companies database, career services, and more. It just might be the best choice you make to begin your career as a social worker.

What was your motivation to pursue a career in social work? How did your values influence your choice? Connect with Virtual Vocations on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram, and YouTube to share your thoughts and questions. We’d love to hear from you!