June 25, 2025 | British Columbia

If you’re passionate about supporting others, creating social impact, and building a career that feels meaningful, a diploma in social services may be your ticket to a brighter future. But what jobs can you get with a social service worker diploma in British Columbia? In this blog, we’ll explore the wide range of employment options available to graduates of the Social Services Worker – Professional Diploma from CDI College, and how this program can launch your career in one of Canada’s most rewarding and essential fields. 

Why Choose a Diploma in Social Services? 

A diploma is a practical, career-focused path that equips you with the skills, experience, and industry certifications needed to step directly into the workforce. The Social Services Worker – Professional Diploma from CDI College combines theory and hands-on training in:  
 

• Psychology and ethics  
• Addiction and mental health  
• Poverty and family systems  
• Youth justice and advocacy  
• Case management and communication  
• Community networking and resources 
   

It also includes two 130-hour practicums in recovery and youth support services, so you graduate with real-world experience employers value. 

Top Jobs You Can Pursue with a Social Service Worker Diploma 
 

1. Youth Worker 

Support at-risk youth facing issues such as homelessness, abuse, school dropout, and mental health struggles. You may work in group homes, shelters, schools, or outreach programs. What you’ll do:  
 

• Build rapport with youth  
• Deliver life-skills workshops  
• Coordinate with schools and families  
• Advocate for their needs 

CDI College’s practicum in youth services prepares you for this role with specialized courses on youth justice, social welfare systems, and cultural diversity. 

2. Addictions Support Worker 

Work with clients on their recovery journey in treatment centres, sober living homes, or outpatient services. What you’ll do:  
 

• Conduct intakes and assessments  
• Provide relapse prevention support  
• Facilitate group therapy sessions  
• Connect clients to housing, employment, and healthcare 
   

You’ll gain the knowledge and skills through modules in addiction, pharmacology, relapse prevention, and group work with recovering individuals. 

3. Community Support Worker 

Offer practical support to clients facing various life challenges—such as disability, housing insecurity, or poverty by connecting them with resources and services. What you’ll do:  
 

• Assess clients’ needs  
• Develop care plans  
• Refer clients to community agencies  
• Help with employment or daily living skills 
   

The program at CDI includes training in working with families, poverty issues, and community networking, making you job-ready for this role. 

4. Crisis Intervention Worker 

Be the first point of contact for people in immediate distress—such as domestic violence survivors, suicidal individuals, or those experiencing homelessness. What you’ll do: 

• Respond to crisis calls or walk-ins  
• De-escalate high-risk situations  
• Provide short-term counselling  
• Arrange shelter or emergency support 

Certifications like ASIST (Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training) and Non-Violent Crisis Intervention (NVCI) offered through CDI are essential for this work. 

5. Mental Health Support Worker 

Support individuals coping with conditions like depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, or PTSD, often in residential care homes or community programs. What you’ll do:  
 

• Help with daily routines  
• Monitor mental health symptoms  
• Coordinate care with health providers  
• Encourage social inclusion and recovery 

 
Your foundational knowledge of mental health disorders and community resources will come directly from CDI College’s curriculum. 

6. Family Support Worker 

Assist families navigating conflict, separation, or parenting challenges. This role is often based in child and family agencies or non-profit organizations. What you’ll do:  
 

• Mediate family issues  
• Educate parents on child development  
• Help access financial or housing support  
• Conduct home visits and case reporting 
   

Training in family systems, case file management, and ethics ensures you’re prepared for this impactful work. 

7. Shelter or Group Home Worker 

Provide direct support to clients living in temporary housing, including youth, women fleeing violence, or people in recovery. What you’ll do:
 

• Supervise residents  
• Organize daily schedules and activities  
• Enforce safety protocols  
• Offer one-on-one guidance and support 

 
This is one of the most hands-on roles available to new graduates, ideal for those who want to be actively involved in clients’ day-to-day lives. 

Additional Career Titles 

According to the National Occupational Classification (NOC 42201), graduates may also work under titles such as:  
 

• Aboriginal Outreach Worker 
• Drop-in Centre Worker  
• Community Development Worker  
• Veteran Services Officer  
• Developmental Services Worker  
• Rehabilitation Worker – Social Services 

Where You Can Work 

Social service worker diploma graduates are hired by:  
 

• Non-profit organizations  
• Mental health agencies  
• Schools and school boards  
• Government programs  
• Addiction and rehabilitation centres  
• Indigenous agencies  
• Shelters and housing organizations  
• Correctional facilities 

How CDI College Helps You Get There 

CDI College’s Social Services Worker – Professional Diploma is designed with employability in mind. You will:  
 

• Earn up to five industry certifications  
• Gain 260 hours of real-world practicum experience  
• Learn from experienced instructors  
• Receive job search support and career coaching 
   

The college’s strong employer network ensures graduates are well-positioned to enter the field quickly and confidently. 

Final Thoughts: A Diploma with Purpose 

So, what jobs can you get with a social service worker diploma? As you can see, the opportunities are diverse, meaningful, and in high demand. Whether you want to work with youth, families, or individuals in recovery, this credential opens doors to roles where you can truly make a difference. If you’re ready to turn your compassion into a career, explore the Social Services Worker – Professional Diploma at CDI College. It’s your first step toward a future of purpose and professional growth.