Function

• Human service workers function within a variety of individual, organization and community settings. Working with computer technology systems, these workers arrange, coordinate and evaluate social programs that promote both health and well-being and rehabilitation. Human service professionals use diagnostic tools to identify and select strategies to help people attain a desired outcome. These tools include computer scheduling systems to provide assistance in the form of referrals, advocacy or counseling. Human service professionals coordinate activities between multiple agencies. Because human services positions work with people who are impaired and tend to be vulnerable, employee selection is careful.
  
  

Skills and Experience

• Human resource technicians typically require a high school diploma and two to four years of clerical experience. Volunteer work in the related is recognized and appreciated. Previous knowledge of state codes and laws associated with human service is often needed. Experience with such duties such as typing, maintaining and copying records is also expected. The ability to work well with diverse groups is essential. You must be able to work confidentially with discretion. Be prepared to operate with many interruptions and changes.
  
  

Working Conditions

• Human service workers usually only spend part of the day in the office and the rest in the field for a standard 40-hour work week. Residential programs require evening and weekend hours. Human service technicians work with social workers, psychologists and sometimes law enforcement professionals.
  
  

Expert Insight on Job Outlook

• Human service worker jobs are expected to grow faster than other jobs due to the high turnover rate, according to the National Human Services Organization. In addition, as the general population ages, the need for services increases. Depending on the amount of responsibility you want to assume, you can work independently or advance into supervisory positions.
  
  

Salary

• Human services workers such as personal and home care aides earned a median hourly wage of $8.54 in May 2006, according to the U. S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. On-call hourly workers can earn more by being available for emergency situations.