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Image of career: Social Worker

Social Worker

Overview

Social workers guide those in need through tough times via counselling, and providing resources and support.

Description

  • Conduct sessions with clients to provide support and guidance.
  • Conduct case and care planning, and client goal setting.
  • Record session details and write reports.
  • Connect clients to resources like financial assistance, and housing support.
  • Reach out to people who may benefit from available support.

Entry requirements

  • You'll need at least a Bachelor's Degree in Social Work. NITEC holders start as social service assistants, while Diploma holders work as social work associates.
  • Start by interning or volunteering at different agencies - it helps you find your specialisation and build networks.

Salary

$3,900 – 5,400

/mo

Salary ranges are estimated based on public information found on Singaporean job portals, including MyCareersFuture, MySkillsFuture. Updated as of 2026.

Trivia

It's important for social workers to care for their own mental and physical health, as the job may be emotionally draining and cause stress or burnout.

What to expect

You might have to manage complex family or social dynamics in your work. Be open, understanding, non-judgmental, and cautious.

Soft
skills

Communication

Able to communicate clearly and effectively for client understanding.

Interpersonal Skills

Able to build trust and strong bonds with different clients.

Compassionate Service

Able to show commitment to helping and supporting others.

Professional Consultation

Trained to provide advice based on established social work theories and practices.

Case and Care Planning

Ability to develop personalised care plans based on clients' needs.

Casework Intervention

Knowledge and application of social work methods to assist and support clients.

Hard
skills

Isaac Teo, Social Worker
"We also want to enable our clients to be capable of doing things on their own."

Isaac Teo, Social Worker

Social Service Institute

Frequently asked questions

Official hours are usually 9am-6pm, but social workers often work off-hours to handle crisis cases. These situations may require home visits, even at night.

Social workers may specialise in different areas, such as eldercare, youth, family, disability support, rehabilitation, or protection services.

They may work in various industries, including healthcare, mental health services, child welfare, schools and education sectors.

They frequently work with mental health professionals, like psychologists or psychiatrists, to address clients' psychological wellbeing.

Research provides social workers with the knowledge and evidence needed to make informed decisions.