To become a social worker requires a minimum of a bachelor's degree in social work, though a master's degree provides more opportunities. Social workers help people of all ages and backgrounds by determining their needs, issues, and helping them through challenges. The job requires strong communication, writing, and people skills to work with clients. Typical hours are standard business hours from 7-5, though some roles may require occasional overtime or different schedules like in schools. Average salaries range from $53,000 to $64,000 annually depending on location and employer, with potential for raises based on performance. In 2006 there were approximately 595,000 social work jobs in the United States.