Travel Social Worker Careers: Opportunities and Benefits

Travel social work is a flexible career choice that allows you to connect vulnerable people with the care and services they need while exploring new cities and locations.

Whether you are a seasoned professional looking for a career pivot or a recent grad who wants to explore nontraditional opportunities, it is important to understand the increasing demand for social workers in different U.S. regions.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts jobs in the profession will grow 7% between 2023 and 2033, nearly twice the rate of all occupations on average. There is increasing demand for flexible social work professionals nationwide to provide support in many different sectors, from healthcare to government agencies to social service organizations.

What Is a Travel Social Worker?

A travel social worker is a professional who travels throughout the country on assignment to advocate for the mental and physical health needs of vulnerable individuals and families, connecting them with services that will address their acute and long-term issues. Similar to travel nursing, travel social workers typically work on temporary or contract travel assignments.

Travel social workers might work in hospitals, mental health facilities, schools, correctional facilities, or rehabilitation centers. In each of these settings, they may support children, adults, or families by helping them find stability and success in different areas of their lives.

Key Benefits of a Travel Social Worker Career

The field of social work can be highly rewarding. Travel assignments add unique benefits to the profession that make it an attractive option to licensed professionals at all levels.

Career Flexibility & Work-Life Balance

Typically, social workers carry out their work in one location and with one agency or organization. Travel social work introduces greater flexibility, allowing you to choose the locations, schedules, and work environments that work best for you.

You will travel and see new places while gaining experience in diverse settings and situations. The different challenges you encounter can renew your excitement for the profession and help you discover new passions.

Higher Earning Potential

According to BLS data, the median wage for all social workers is just under $60,000 per year. As a travel social worker, you might receive stipends for housing and food as well as travel reimbursements, further increasing your overall compensation.

Because travel social workers are in high demand, salaries are often more competitive than those for permanent roles.

Expanding Professional Experience

The exposure to different healthcare settings and client populations as a travel social worker can expand your professional horizons and boost your resume. You will get an opportunity to build and enhance your skill set in various disciplines, making you a stronger candidate for future roles.

Job Security & Growing Demand

BLS data projects a significant rise in demand for social workers due to an aging population, a substance abuse epidemic, and an increased emphasis on public health and mental health care.

Still, experts predict a shortfall of nearly 75,000 social workers each year for the next decade. There is often exceptionally high demand in rural areas, on crisis response teams, and in government programs. These sectors may experience an increasing need for temporary and contract social workers.

Networking & Career Growth

Travel social work allows you to be involved in diverse teams in healthcare organizations and other settings. By networking with professionals in different specialties and roles, you can grow your career in the direction you choose. As an organization benefits from your knowledge and skill set, you might be asked to transition into a permanent role.

How to Become a Travel Social Worker

The first step to becoming a travel social worker is obtaining your license. In most states, this begins with earning your Bachelor of Social Work (BSW). However, some states require a Master of Social Work (MSW) degree for licensure.

Next, you will decide on the level of licensure you would like to pursue. Each state has different levels of social work licenses, but the following three are common:

• Licensed Baccalaureate Social Worker (LBSW)
• Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW)
• Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

LBSW and LMSW licenses are for those who have completed degree programs. LCSW licenses are required for those who desire to go into clinical practice. Obtaining an LCSW license requires you to complete a master’s degree program. You will also need supervised work experience, with the specific number of hours required depending on your state.

Once you complete your degree program and supervised experience, you should apply for licensure in your state. You must then take and pass the pass the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) exam. A separate 170-question multiple-choice exam is offered for each level of licensure.

Special certifications in the field may enhance your job prospects:

• Certified Social Work Case Manager (C-SWCM)
• Certified Children, Youth and Family Social Worker (C-CYFSW)
• Certified Social Worker in Health Care (C-SWHC)
• Certified Clinical Alcohol, Tobacco & Other Drugs Social Worker (C-CATODSW)
• Clinical Social Worker in Gerontology (CSW-G)
• Diplomate in Clinical Social Work (DCSW)

Once you are fully licensed, your next step in pursuing travel social work roles is to contact a staffing agency like GHR Healthcare. Many organizations offer travel employment opportunities through GHR Healthcare to gain access to a broad, highly vetted talent network and to connect with recruiters who support qualified candidates.

Where Do Travel Social Workers Work?

One of the most significant benefits of travel social work is the ability to work in so many different settings. Travel social workers have the credentials to thrive in a variety of environments, including:

• Hospitals and Behavioral Health Centers: Assist nurses and doctors by connecting patients with community resources
• Government Agencies and Nonprofits: Support vulnerable populations by assessing needs, providing resources, and responding to crises
• Correctional Facilities and Rehab Centers: Address mental health and socio-emotional needs of patients and inmates by helping them gain life skills and providing referrals to resources
• Schools and Community Outreach Programs: Bridge the gaps between school, home, and community by advocating for and supporting students and families

Working in these varied settings can help you discover new passion and direction for your career and open opportunities to gain new skills.

Why Work With GHR Healthcare for Travel Social Work Jobs?

As a top staffing agency, GHR Healthcare helps licensed social workers take the next step in achieving their career goals by offering personalized job placement support. Available roles feature competitive pay and benefits as well as flexible contracts that support a healthy work-life balance.

When you explore current travel social worker jobs with GHR Healthcare, you get access to roles at top healthcare and social work facilities nationwide to enhance your career. Additionally, GHR Healthcare’s experienced recruiters are available for 24/7 support and career guidance to help you make informed decisions.

Is a Travel Social Work Career Right for You?

As allied healthcare professionals, licensed social workers have an unprecedented opportunity to enhance their careers and enjoy the variety of working in new environments. As the need for social workers rises, these opportunities will only continue to grow.

This is an excellent time to explore travel social work roles with GHR Healthcare. We offer opportunities across the country, along with the support you need to find a role that inspires you and helps you build the life you want. Browse job opportunities with GHR Healthcare today!