Social work roles and vacancies

Social work is a challenging but rewarding career through which you can make a real difference for children and families.

You will need to build relationships with families facing difficult times, show a lot of patience and be a good listener. You’ll also need good observational skills, analytical thinking and sound judgement to make the right decisions and protect children.

Social work regularly tests resilience, stamina and resolve – all of which you will need to succeed. But social work can be life changing for those you support and help.

Roles and salaries

  • Newly Qualified Social Worker
    £34,452 (Grade 10) rising to £39,215 (Grade 11) on successful completion of Assessed and Supported Year in Employment (ASYE) (includes market supplement on the basis that you remain in your team or move to another frontline team)
  • Social Worker
    £39,215 to £45,334 (Grade 11–12) [Note]
  • Senior Social Worker
    £46,998 to £50,379 (Grade 13) [Note]
  • Professional Educator
    £42,725 to £45,799 (Grade 13)
  • Practice Manager
    £52,149 to £56,797 (LMG2) [Note]
  • Advanced Practitioner
    £52,149 to £56,797 (LMG2) [Note]
  • Operations Manager
    £58,439 to £63,665 (LMG3) [Note]
  • Principal Social Worker
    £59,564 to £64,912 (LMG4)

[Note] Please note that these salaries include a time-limited market supplement in July 2021 and are subject to a 3 yearly review. You can view the basic salary on our salaries scales page.

Our social workers help children and families across East Sussex (excluding Brighton & Hove). We’re based in four offices located in Eastbourne, Hailsham, Hastings and Lewes. Read more about the work we do and where you will work in locations and teams.

Our benefits package includes relocation costs of up to £8,000 (subject to terms and conditions).

Qualifications and routes into employment

There are three routes into social work – a university course, postgraduate training or an apprenticeship – which all include on-the-job training. Newly Qualified Social Workers (NQSW) will need to complete an assessed year of training following their qualification. Read about:

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Looking for a different job working with children? See our vacancies in children’s services.

For advice on completing your application form and the interview process, see Help applying for jobs with the County Council.