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If you’ve Googled “medical social worker job description”, you’ve probably seen dozens of generic templates. The problem? Most of them don’t actually teach you how to attract a great medical social worker—they just give you bland bullet points and filler content.
But here’s the truth: the best candidates—the ones who are empathetic, mission-driven, and skilled at navigating sensitive situations—aren’t inspired by checklists. They want to know what your hospital, clinic, or healthcare organization stands for. They want to see your culture, your values, and the real impact of the role.
That’s why before we dive into the specifics for medical social workers, I recommend reading our full guide on how to write a job post that attracts top talent , Link https://workscreen.io/how-to-write-a-job-post/ . It explains why generic job posts fail to convert quality applicants and gives you the step-by-step framework to write one that connects.
This article builds on that guide—but tailored specifically for medical social workers. We’ll cover:
- ✅ What the role actually is (in plain English, not jargon)
- ✅ Good and bad examples of medical social worker job posts
- ✅ Sample templates you can copy, paste, and customize
- ✅ Extra tips to make your post stand out and attract the right people
Let’s get started.
Don’t let bad hires slow you down.
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What a Medical Social Worker Actually Does - Their Role Explained
A medical social worker isn’t just someone who “coordinates care” or “provides support services.” At its core, this role is about being the bridge between patients, families, and the healthcare system.
Medical social workers step in when people are at their most vulnerable—whether it’s navigating a new diagnosis, dealing with the stress of long-term treatment, or figuring out financial and emotional support. They connect patients with resources, advocate for their needs, and make sure no one feels left behind in the process.
That’s why the best medical social workers aren’t only good at paperwork and case management—they bring empathy, clear communication, and problem-solving skills to every interaction. They’re often the ones who ensure that care feels human, not just clinical.
In short: they’re the patient’s ally, the family’s guide, and the healthcare team’s partner.
Great Job Description Templates for a Medical Social Worker
We’ll provide two tailored job description options:
1.✅ Option 1: For employers looking to hire an experienced candidates with prior experience.
2.Option 2: For employers open to hiring entry-level candidates or those willing to train someone with potential
✅ Template 1: Medical Social Worker (Experienced Hire)
📌 Job Title: Licensed Medical Social Worker – Riverside Health Network
📍 Location: Chicago, IL (On-Site)
💼 Full-Time | Salary Range: $68,000–$82,000 (Based on Experience)
🕒 Schedule: Monday–Friday, 8AM–5PM
🎥 Meet the Team
Before you apply, hear from our team directly:
👉 Watch this short video from our Social Work & Care Team Lead on why this role matters.
About Riverside Health Network
At Riverside, we believe healthcare is more than treatment—it’s about compassion, dignity, and trust. As a not-for-profit hospital system serving Chicago for over 40 years, we’ve built a reputation for providing holistic, patient-centered care. Our social work team plays a vital role in supporting patients through some of the most difficult moments of their lives.
Your Role as a Medical Social Worker
You’ll be the person patients and families turn to for guidance, resources, and advocacy. Whether it’s helping someone understand their treatment options, connecting them with community resources, or supporting them emotionally during a crisis—you’ll ensure care feels human, not just clinical.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Conduct psychosocial assessments for patients and families.
- Provide counseling and emotional support for patients navigating illness, trauma, or long-term care.
- Collaborate with doctors, nurses, and care teams to build comprehensive treatment plans.
- Connect patients with financial, housing, or community resources to support recovery.
- Maintain accurate, timely documentation of patient interactions and progress.
What We’re Looking For
- Master’s Degree in Social Work (MSW) required.
- Current Illinois LCSW (Licensed Clinical Social Worker).
- 2+ years of hospital or clinical social work experience.
- Strong communication and crisis-intervention skills.
- Deep empathy and ability to support diverse patient populations.
Why You’ll Love Working Here
- Transparent salary & growth path.
- Comprehensive health, dental & vision insurance.
- 401(k) with employer match.
- Paid time off & flex days.
- Ongoing training and leadership development opportunities.
📥 How to Apply
We care about making our hiring process transparent and respectful. Apply through our WorkScreen portal:
👉 Apply Here [insert application link]
You’ll complete a short skills-based evaluation (no resumes lost in a black hole here). Every applicant receives a response, and shortlisted candidates will be invited for an interview within two weeks.
✅ Template 2: Medical Social Worker (Entry-Level / Willing-to-Train)
📌 Job Title: Medical Social Worker Assistant – Riverside Health Network
📍 Location: Chicago, IL (On-Site, with Training Provided)
💼 Full-Time | Salary Range: $52,000–$60,000 (Based on Experience)
🕒 Schedule: Monday–Friday, 8AM–5PM
🎥 Meet the Team
Before you apply, hear what it’s like working with us:
👉 Watch this video from our Care & Support team on how they grew into their roles.
About Riverside Health Network
At Riverside, we don’t just treat patients—we walk with them through every step of their journey. For over 40 years, we’ve cared for our Chicago community with compassion, integrity, and respect. We know that great medical social workers aren’t just born—they’re nurtured. That’s why we’re open to training passionate, mission-driven people who want to make a difference.
Your Role as a Medical Social Worker Assistant
This is a learning role where you’ll support our licensed social workers, gain hands-on experience, and build your career in healthcare. You’ll work alongside experienced mentors who will guide you in supporting patients and families with both practical and emotional care.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Support licensed social workers in patient care planning.
- Assist families in accessing resources and community programs.
- Provide emotional support and reassurance to patients during care.
- Shadow and learn crisis-intervention strategies.
- Handle administrative support tasks (documentation, scheduling, follow-ups).
What We’re Looking For
- Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work, Psychology, or related field. (MSW a plus, but not required).
- Passion for patient care and helping families through challenges.
- Excellent communication and empathy skills.
- Willingness to learn, grow, and train under licensed professionals.
Why You’ll Love Working Here
- Paid training and mentorship from licensed social workers.
- Health, dental & vision insurance.
- Tuition reimbursement for continuing education.
- Paid time off & wellness days.
- A career growth path with opportunities to move into licensed roles.
📥 How to Apply
Apply through our WorkScreen portal:
👉 Apply Here [insert application link]
We evaluate candidates based on passion, problem-solving, and communication—not just resumes. Every applicant will hear back, and selected candidates will be invited for a supportive interview process within two weeks.
Smart Hiring Starts Here
WorkScreen simplifies the hiring process, helping you quickly identify top talent while eliminating low-quality applications. By saving you countless hours and reducing the risk of bad hires, it empowers you to build a team that delivers results
Breakdown of Why These Medical Social Worker Job Posts Work
It’s one thing to share a template—it’s another to understand why it works. Let’s break down the anatomy of these posts and how they attract top talent.
1. Clear, Specific Titles
Instead of a vague title like “Social Worker,” the first template specifies “Licensed Medical Social Worker – Riverside Health Network.” The second clarifies it’s an entry-level assistant role. This instantly tells candidates whether the role matches their qualifications and avoids confusion.
2. Warm, Human Intros with Context
Both posts start with a short video from the team. This personal touch signals to candidates that this isn’t just another faceless job posting—it’s a chance to connect with real people. That’s an instant trust-builder.
3. Transparent Salary & Perks
Including the salary range ($68K–$82K for experienced, $52K–$60K for entry-level) builds credibility and prevents mismatched expectations. Candidates want clarity before they apply, and transparency is proven to attract more serious applicants.
4. Role Descriptions That Go Beyond Tasks
Notice the wording: instead of only listing “conduct psychosocial assessments” or “maintain documentation,” the experienced role emphasizes “ensuring care feels human, not just clinical.” The entry-level role highlights mentorship and growth. This gives purpose to the tasks.
5. Respectful Application Process
Both templates promise:
- Every application will be reviewed.
- Every applicant will receive a response.
- Clear timelines (within two weeks).
That sets you apart instantly, since most candidates are used to being ghosted. It shows respect for their effort.
6. Human Tone That Connects
These JDs don’t sound like legal documents. Phrases like:
- “You’ll be the person patients and families turn to for guidance.”
- “Great medical social workers aren’t just born—they’re nurtured.”
This style connects emotionally with mission-driven candidates—the ones you want most in a medical social worker role.
7. Growth & Support Are Emphasized
The experienced post mentions ongoing training, leadership development, and promotions.
The entry-level post highlights tuition reimbursement and a clear path toward licensed roles.
This shows candidates you’re not just filling a seat—you’re investing in careers.
8. Candidate Experience Comes First
By using WorkScreen for the application process, you’re signaling fairness and modern hiring practices: no “resume black holes,” no wasted effort. Applicants know upfront they’ll be evaluated based on real skills and values.
Example of a Bad Medical Social Worker Job Description (And Why It Falls Short)
📌 Job Title: Social Worker
📍 Location: Chicago, IL
💼 Full-Time
Job Summary
We are seeking a Social Worker to provide support services to patients and families. The ideal candidate will be responsible for assessments, referrals, and coordination of care.
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct patient assessments
- Make appropriate referrals to community resources
- Provide support to patients and families as needed
- Maintain records and reports
Requirements
- Master’s Degree in Social Work
- Current state licensure
- 2 years of experience preferred
How to Apply
Please send your CV and cover letter to hr@hospitalmail.com. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
❌ Why This Job Post Falls Short
- The Job Title Is Too Generic
“Social Worker” is vague. It doesn’t specify that this is a medical social worker role in a healthcare setting, nor does it clarify level (entry vs experienced). - The Introduction Feels Cold
“Provide support services” is flat and uninspiring. There’s no mention of mission, purpose, or the human impact of the role. - No Salary or Benefits Mentioned
Omitting compensation signals a lack of transparency and turns away serious candidates. Today’s applicants expect clarity. - Responsibilities Are Overly Broad
The tasks could apply to any social work role, anywhere. There’s no sense of day-to-day context, impact, or why the work matters. - Culture & Values Are Missing
There’s nothing about the team environment, the company’s values, or what it feels like to work there. That leaves candidates guessing. - Dismissive Hiring Process
“Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted” makes applicants feel like just another number. Compare that with the respectful approach in the good examples. - Cold Call to Action
“Send your CV” is impersonal. No encouragement, no personal touch, no hint of what’s next.
Bonus Tips to Make Your Medical Social Worker Job Description Stand Out
Even with a strong structure, small touches can make a big difference in attracting the right candidates. Here are a few advanced ways to elevate your job post:
1. Add a Security & Privacy Notice
Many candidates worry about job scams. Including a short statement builds trust:
🔒 “We take the security and privacy of all applicants seriously. We will never ask for payment, bank details, or personal financial information during any part of the hiring process.”
This reassurance helps candidates feel safe and respected.
2. Mention Paid Leave & Flexibility
Candidates value balance. Instead of burying PTO details in a handbook, highlight it upfront:
🌴 “Enjoy up to 20 paid days off per year, plus flexible scheduling options to help you recharge and maintain work-life balance.”
Healthcare roles can be demanding—flexibility is a huge draw.
3. Highlight Training & Growth Opportunities
The best candidates want careers, not just jobs. Show that you’ll invest in their development:
📚 “We offer tuition reimbursement and professional development workshops to support your path toward advanced licensure and leadership roles.”
This signals you’re serious about long-term employee success.
4. Add a Loom or Team Video
Candidates want to see the people behind the words. A short video from the hiring manager or team builds connection and trust instantly.
🎥 Tip: A 60–90 second Loom from the social work team lead explaining why this role matters can boost candidate engagement dramatically.
Here is an example that we used in our master guide on how to write a great job post description , you can check it out here https://www.loom.com/share/ba401b65b7f943b68a91fc6b04a62ad4
5. Be Explicit About Candidate Experience
Most candidates fear applying into a “black hole.” Counter that directly in your post:
🤝 “We reply to every application. Shortlisted candidates will hear from us within two weeks, and all applicants will be notified once a decision is made.”
Respect builds your reputation—and attracts better talent.
Should You Use AI to Write a Medical Social Worker Job Description?
These days, it feels like every tool—from ChatGPT to ATS platforms like Workable or Manatal—offers a “one-click job description generator.” And sure, it might seem like a shortcut. But here’s the problem:
If you rely on AI to spit out a job description with no context, you’ll end up with:
- ❌ Generic posts that sound exactly like every other hospital or clinic hiring ad.
- ❌ No human touch, which turns off mission-driven candidates.
- ❌ Missed opportunity to show your culture, values, and what makes your team unique.
Remember: a job post is often the first impression candidates get of your organization. If it feels cold, lifeless, or templated, the best social workers will apply elsewhere.
The Wrong Way to Use AI
Typing something like:
“Write me a job description for a Medical Social Worker.”
You’ll get a bland list of duties and responsibilities that could apply to any role, anywhere. It won’t inspire candidates—and it won’t stand out.
The Right Way to Use AI
AI can be a powerful writing partner if you feed it the right raw materials. Give it:
- Your company mission & values
- What makes your culture unique
- Why the role matters (the human impact)
- Specific benefits & growth opportunities
- The tone you want (warm, conversational, inspiring)
Example prompt:
“Help me write a job description for our hospital, Riverside Health Network. We’re hiring a Medical Social Worker to support patients navigating complex health situations. Our culture is compassionate, collaborative, and mission-driven. We want to attract candidates who are empathetic, resilient, and strong communicators. We offer tuition reimbursement, flexible scheduling, and a salary range of $68K–$82K. Here’s a list of raw notes I’ve drafted… [insert notes]. Please polish this into a clear, human-centered job description.”
By doing this, AI becomes a polishing tool—not a lazy shortcut. You’ll get a tailored, authentic post that reflects your brand and connects with the right candidates.
✅ Bottom line: AI should amplify your message, not replace your voice.
Build a winning team—without the hiring headache.
WorkScreen helps you hire fast, confidently, and without second-guessing.
Need a Quick Copy-Paste Job Description Template?
We get it—sometimes you just need something fast. Maybe you’ve already read this guide and understand what a strong job post looks like, but you also want a solid starting point.
That’s what this is.
✏️ Important Reminder:
Don’t copy this word-for-word and expect magic.
This is a foundation, not a final draft.
Add a Loom video, inject your team culture, and edit the details to reflect your actual company.
In this section, you’ll find two ready-to-use job description templates for quick copy-paste use — but please remember, like we mentioned above, don’t just copy them word-for-word and expect results.
Think of these as starting points, not final drafts.
- Option 1: A more conversational, culture-first job description that highlights personality and team fit.
- Option 2: A more structured format, including a Job Brief, Responsibilities, and Requirements for a traditional approach.
✅ Option 1: Conversational Job Description Template (Culture-First Style)
Job Title: Medical Social Worker – [Company Name]
Location: [Company Location]
Schedule: Full-Time, Mon–Fri, 8AM–5PM
Salary: $XX–$XX (Based on Experience)
About Us
At [Company Name], we believe healthcare isn’t just about medicine—it’s about people. For 40+ years, we’ve been helping patients and families in Chicago navigate life’s hardest moments with compassion and dignity.
Why This Role Matters
As a Medical Social Worker, you’ll be the bridge between patients, families, and our care teams. You’ll guide patients through the emotional, financial, and social challenges of healthcare—ensuring they feel supported every step of the way.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Support patients and families through counseling, advocacy, and resource connections
- Collaborate with doctors, nurses, and staff to build care plans that treat the whole person
- Help patients access financial, housing, or community services
- Provide crisis intervention when needed
- Keep accurate records that ensure patients don’t fall through the cracks
What We’re Looking For
- Master’s in Social Work (MSW) required
- LCSW or eligibility for licensure in Illinois
- Strong communicator, empathetic, and resilient
- Experience in a healthcare or hospital setting (preferred)
Why Join Riverside
- Transparent pay + full health benefits
- Tuition reimbursement & leadership training
- Paid time off & flex days
- A team that values your work as much as your wellbeing
📥 Apply here through our WorkScreen portal: [Insert Link]
We promise to respond to every application within two weeks.
📑 Option 2: Structured Template (Job Brief + Responsibilities + Requirements)
Job Title: Licensed Medical Social Worker
Location: [Company Location]
Schedule: Full-Time | Mon–Fri, 8AM–5PM
Salary Range: $XX–$XX
Job Brief
[Company Name] is seeking a Licensed Medical Social Worker to join our hospital team. This role is essential in helping patients and families navigate the emotional, social, and financial challenges of medical care. You will work closely with healthcare providers to create holistic treatment plans and ensure patients receive the support they need.
Responsibilities
- Conduct patient and family assessments
- Provide counseling and crisis support
- Connect patients with community and financial resources
- Collaborate with medical teams to develop care strategies
- Document patient progress and maintain compliance with healthcare standards
Requirements
- Master’s in Social Work (MSW)
- LCSW or licensure eligibility in Illinois
- Minimum X years of clinical or hospital experience
- Strong interpersonal and problem-solving skills
Benefits
- Comprehensive health, dental, and vision coverage
- Paid leave and wellness days
- Tuition reimbursement and career development opportunities
- Supportive team culture with growth potential
📥 How to Apply
Submit your application via WorkScreen: [Insert Link]. Every candidate will receive a response, and interviews will be scheduled within two weeks for shortlisted applicants.
After the Job Post: Let WorkScreen Handle the Next Step
Writing a great job description is only half the battle. Once the applications start coming in, you’ll face a new challenge: separating the truly committed, qualified candidates from the generic, low-effort ones.
That’s where WorkScreen.io comes in.
WorkScreen helps you:
🔎 Quickly Identify Top Talent
WorkScreen automatically evaluates, scores, and ranks applicants on a performance-based leaderboard—making it easy to spot top talent, save time, and make smarter, data-driven hiring decisions.
🧪 Easily Run One-Click Skill Tests
Instead of guessing based on a resume, you can assess candidates on real-world ability. With Workscreen’s one-click skill tests, you get a clear picture of problem-solving, communication, and adaptability—the traits that matter most in a medical social worker. This helps you hire more confidently and holistically.
🚫 Filter Out Low-Effort Applicants
WorkScreen detects and eliminates low-effort applicants—including those who use AI Tools to apply, copy-paste answers, or rely on “one-click apply.” This way, you focus only on genuine, committed, and high-quality candidates—helping you avoid costly hiring mistakes.
⏱️ Save Time & Make Smarter Decisions
With automated evaluation and transparent scoring, you cut hours of manual screening—while making data-driven, fair, and faster hiring decisions.
👉 Ready to make your hiring process faster, smarter, and fairer?
let your job description bring in the candidates, while we help you hire the very best.
Frequently Asked Questions - Medical Social Worker Job Description
The average salary for a Medical Social Worker in the United States typically ranges from $55,000 to $75,000 per year, depending on experience, education, and location. In metropolitan areas or specialized hospital settings, licensed clinical social workers (LCSWs) can earn upwards of $80,000+ annually. Always include a transparent salary range in your job post to attract serious applicants and build trust.
Beyond the required education and licensure, great medical social workers excel in:
- Empathy & Active Listening – supporting patients and families during emotional, often life-changing moments.
- Communication Skills – explaining complex healthcare information in clear, compassionate terms.
- Problem-Solving – connecting patients with the right community resources and solutions.
- Crisis Management – staying calm and effective in high-pressure situations.
- Collaboration – working seamlessly with doctors, nurses, and multidisciplinary teams.
Cultural Sensitivity – understanding and respecting diverse backgrounds and needs.
- Master’s in Social Work (MSW) is typically required.
- State licensure (often as an LCSW, Licensed Clinical Social Worker).
- Experience in healthcare, hospital, or clinical settings (preferred).
- For entry-level roles, some hospitals will hire with a bachelor’s degree in social work or psychology if candidates are willing to train.
