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Social work jobs in Luxembourg
Social workers assist individuals or groups facing economic, administrative, family, work-related, housing, health, social, or psychological challenges. In the following article, we will share the details about getting a job in this field in Luxembourg.
The primary objective of a social worker is to provide tailored assistance to individuals based on their difficulties, helping them achieve autonomy and facilitating their social and/or professional integration. Due to the increasing precarity, aging population, and the complexity of support systems, the demand for local social services is on the rise.
What is the job of a social worker?
A social worker helps people or groups who have different kinds of problems. These can be about money, work, family, living situations, health, or feelings. They deal with many issues, like debt, family violence, taking care of children, and finding a place to live. Their main goal is to give the right kind of help for each person's situation, help people do things on their own, and make it easier for them to be part of society or work again.
Direct duties and objectives
The specific tasks of social workers depend on the structure in which they work and the individuals they assist. For instance, working in an adoption center differs significantly from supporting a person with disabilities in their professional integration.
Tasks may include conducting interviews with individuals in distress, identifying possible solutions, providing support and advice, informing individuals of their rights, defining services to help them, liaising with relevant partners, and monitoring the progress of cases through individual or group meetings.
Beyond direct assistance, social workers are also engaged in substantial administrative work, including regulatory compliance, dossier management, report creation, and statistical analysis.
Fields of action
Social workers may specialize in specific areas such as school health, child welfare, substance abuse, or domestic violence. They may find themselves responding to emergencies, addressing issues like domestic violence, child abuse, or other critical scenarios.
Pros and cons of being a social worker to consider
Each case is unique, ensuring a lack of routine and a multitude of diverse situations.
The focus on individual well-being makes the profession emotionally enriching.
Given the societal challenges, social workers are in high demand, leading to rapid professional opportunities.
Social workers often contend with demanding hours and schedules, including weekends and holidays.
Tight schedules and limited resources can be frustrating, hindering the ability to provide optimal support.
Early career phases may involve temporary contracts and part-time positions.
Requirements and training needed to work as a social worker in Luxembourg
Aspiring social workers in Luxembourg undergo a comprehensive education that not only equips them with theoretical knowledge but also hone their practical skills. The combination of formal education and the development of these essential skills prepares individuals to address the diverse and complex needs of the community effectively.
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Necessary education
In Luxembourg, aspiring social workers must complete a Professional Bachelor's program in Social and Educational Sciences. This comprehensive three-year curriculum, offered by the University of Luxembourg, integrates theory and practice. Students embark on two internships of 6 and 14 weeks during the 3rd and 6th semesters. The program provides a robust theoretical foundation in social sciences while allowing students to specialize in areas like disability and non-discrimination, migration, interculturality, and diversity.
What you learn during the course?
The curriculum encompasses diverse subjects such as sociology, psychology, information and communication sciences, and education sciences. Additionally, students delve into legislation, social policies, law, and social ethics.
Where to study?
Regarding the degree, one must either possess a Professional Bachelor's in Social and Educational Sciences obtained in Luxembourg or an equivalent Bachelor's degree in the field of social work from elsewhere, such as the French Diplôme d'État d'assistant de service social (DEASS).
If you already have a degree?
For international degrees, recognition of the Bachelor's diploma must be sought from the Ministry of Higher Education and Research. Details about this process can be found on the dedicated page of the Ministry of Research and Higher Education.
Aptitude test in Law
Prospective social workers must gain the right to practice the profession by successfully completing an aptitude test on Luxembourgish social law.
To register for this test you need to
- Check the dates
The exams are held twice a year, and specific dates are available on the dedicated page of the Ministry of Research and Higher Education.
- Pay the fee
Participation in the exams requires the prior payment of a participation fee amounting to 300 euros. This fee should be transferred via bank transfer to the following account:
- IBAN: LU36 0019 5955 4436 2000
- BIC: BCEELULL
- Payee: Administration de l'enregistrement, des domaines et de la TVA
- Reference: MESR, professional health recognition, aptitude test registration "profession," applicant's name, date of the request
- Complete the registration
To register, submit a participation request via email to rqp@mesr.etat.lu, clearly stating the intended profession and attaching proof of payment for the participation fee.
For more detailed information, it is recommended to refer to the dedicated page on the Ministry of Research and Higher Education's website.
Apart from formal education, social workers need a diverse set of skills and competencies to navigate the complex landscape of human needs and challenges:
Strong empathy
Becoming a social worker often stems from a deep desire to assist others. Hence, empathy is a natural predisposition for these professionals
Organization skills
A social worker's schedule is often filled, requiring organizational skills. Prioritizing the needs of those they assist is crucial
Open-mind and respect
Interacting with individuals from diverse backgrounds necessitatesopen-mindedness. Social workers must refrain from passing judgment
Effective communication
Advocating for the interests of people requires effective communication skills, including keen observation of body language and non-verbal cues
What types of positions can be found and are in-demand in the social area?
In the field of social work, there are various specializations or sub-areas, each playing a unique role in addressing societal needs. Let's examine some of the most important roles.
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Read articleAvailable jobs in social work field in Luxembourg
Social worker
A social worker accompanies individuals facing difficulties related to housing, employment, health, family violence, and children's education. Acting as a bridge between society and citizens, social workers can be broadly categorized into sectoral generalists who focus on specific geographic areas and category generalists who work within specific sectors such as education, prisons, or businesses.
Delegate for social benefits guardianship
Appointed by a judge, a social benefits guardianship delegate manages social benefits on behalf of individuals or families deemed unable to do so. This role may also involve managing the assets and resources of elderly or disabled individuals declared incapacitated.
Social care assistant
Auxiliary Social Care Professionals assist and support individuals who can no longer manage daily life activities independently. They cater to the needs of the elderly, disabled, or sick, providing essential assistance and support to vulnerable individuals.
Specialized school assistant
They support kindergarten children throughout the day, offering technical and educational assistance to teachers. They play a crucial role in young students' educational and extracurricular activities.
Family mediator
Family mediators specialize in resolving familial conflicts, primarily in situations of separation. Their role involves finding solutions that meet the needs of each family member, promoting understanding and agreement.
Manager of social intervention unit
They serve as intermediate managers who lead and manage a service in the field of social intervention. They oversee teams, supervise projects, and coordinate social actions related to autonomy, social cohesion, citizenship, and prevention of exclusion. This role can involve responsibility for social action in areas such as childhood, home care, or specialized prevention.
Social and family intervention technician
They intervene with families and individuals facing temporary difficulties. Their objective is to preserve autonomy by offering support in daily tasks during critical periods, such as hospitalizations, deaths, births, or disabilities. These professionals also contribute to maintaining the independence of the elderly or disabled and aid in the social inclusion of those at risk of marginalization.
Local development agent
Local development agents work to enhance the quality of life for residents in a neighborhood, city, or rural area. Combining the roles of animators and mediators, these professionals energize and enhance the socio-cultural aspects of the community.
Social and professional integration counselor
Counselors in social and professional integration act as the primary contact for individuals aged 16-25 facing challenges in terms of integration, education, employment, or daily life. They provide personalized assistance to help navigate these critical aspects.
Social and family economy advisor
These professionals are qualified social workers specializing in everyday life domains such as consumption, housing, social and professional integration, and health-related aspects. They intervene with individuals facing financial difficulties, housing access problems, debt issues, or unemployment.
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What sub-areas are most in demand in the field of social work in Luxembourg?
Due to the rising precarity, aging population, and the intricacies of support systems, the demand for local social services is notably high. To delve into specific areas of demand, we turn to a sectoral study conducted by the Ministry of Labour (MT) and the Employment Development Agency (ADEM) covering the period from 2019 to 2021.
59%
of the declared positions are in children, youth, and family
23%
of the declared positions are in the domain of discrimination and equal opportunities
10%
of the declared positions are in elderly care and dependency
4%
of the declared positions are in adult employment and training
Positions by work area and sub-area (2019 - 2021) (only available in French), Source: ADEM
This study highlights the number of declared positions by domain and sub-domain within the social action field. According to the findings, the domain of childhood, youth, and family claims the top spot, representing over 59% of declared positions. More than half of these positions are dedicated to child daycare. The domain of discrimination and equal opportunities follows closely in the second position, constituting 23% of declared positions, with a significant focus on social work with individuals with disabilities. The domains of elderly care and dependency (10%), adult employment and training (4%), health (2%), and crime and resocialization (1%) follow suit.
What is the best way to start a career in social work in Luxembourg?
The surest method that will not only provide you with employment, but also the opportunity for further growth and residency in the country, is to pursue higher education. The University of Luxembourg is known for its multinationality, advanced research areas and nearly free public education.
While the cost of living in Luxembourg is relatively high, public university tuition fees remain reasonable. Notably, the University of Luxembourg, the sole public institution, charges a modest annual tuition ranging from 200 to 450 euros. This accessibility makes Luxembourg an attractive option for quality education without exorbitant expenses.
Blog article on studying in Luxembourg as a student
Where to find a job in the social work field in Luxembourg?
If you're passionate about social work and wondering where to find social work jobs in Luxembourg, we've got you covered. In this section, we will explore the top job portals and discover the best places to secure employment in Luxembourg.
Luxembourg establishments recruiting social workers
While the number of biology-related job offerings in Luxembourg is limited, several notable companies actively recruit in these areas.
The Government of the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg
As the public sector requires a diverse range of professions, social workers play a crucial role in governmental functions.
Social work jobs in Luxembourg
Médecins du Monde Luxembourg
An international medical development organization, Médecins du Monde provides medical care to vulnerable populations worldwide and in Luxembourg. Beyond healthcare, the organization advocates for access and the right to health, addressing issues related to human rights and human dignity.
Social work jobs in Luxembourg
Centre Hospitalier Neuro-Psychiatrique (CHNP)
Located in Ettelbruck, this is Luxembourg's largest psychiatric hospital. Structured into three entities, each is dedicated to specific population types: Rehaklinik, Centre Pontalize & De Park.
Social work jobs in Luxembourg
La Croix-Rouge Luxembourgeoise
As the Luxembourg branch of the world's largest humanitarian organization, La Croix-Rouge Luxembourgeoise boasts a 160-year history and a global network of 192 national organizations.
Social work jobs in LuxembourgJob portals offering vacancies in Luxembourg
To navigate the job market efficiently, the internet is your best ally, hosting numerous job portals with thousands of job listings. These platforms allow you to filter job offers based on your preferred sector, location, educational level, or required work experience.
International job search
Among the international portals are eures.europa.eu (the European Union's portal), eurojobs.com, eurojobsites.com, experteer.com, indeed.com, page.com and LinkedIn.com.
Job platforms for Luxembourg
For local opportunities in Luxembourg, prominent portals include jobfinder.lu, jobs.lu, monster.lu, and moovijob.com. Each portal offers a unique set of opportunities, allowing you to tailor your job search to your preferences and career goals.
Freelance option in social work
Freelancing is not a common practice in the social work field primarily due to economic factors. Social work often involves providing essential services that are traditionally funded by organizations, institutions, or government entities. The nature of social work requires a stable and consistent source of funding to ensure ongoing support for individuals and communities. Freelancing may pose challenges in maintaining financial stability and the ability to offer sustained assistance, making it less prevalent in the social work domain.
What else can you read on the topic of employment in Luxembourg?
You will find a variety of articles on the job search, career development and workplace culture in our dedicated section of the Blog. Check it out.
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Salaries of social workers in 2024
According to talent.com, the average salary for a social worker in Luxembourg is 42,000 euros. Entry-level positions start at approximately 34,944 euros per year, while seasoned professionals can earn up to 80,000 euros annually.
What papers do you need as a foreigner?
For European nationals, the process of working in Luxembourg is relatively straightforward, given the freedom to live and work in any European country. However, if you are not a European national, navigating the paperwork becomes essential.
The requirements vary based on your circumstances, distinguishing between employed and self-employed roles. Additionally, familial situations, such as having a Luxembourgish or European partner, can impact the process.
Common documents and prerequisites typically include
Collect the documents
These are the first basic documents one might need to apply for a work permit and temporary authorisation to stay.
*The mandatory items are marked with red asterisks.
Two fully completed Schengen visa application forms
Two recent identical passport photos
A copy of the passport
Proof of accommodation
An employment contract
Payment of the applicable visa fee
Collect the documents
These are the first basic documents one might need to apply for a work permit and temporary authorisation to stay.
*The mandatory items are marked with red asterisks.
Read more about the process of obtaining work visa to Luxembourg
Work permit in Luxembourg
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the role of a social worker in Luxembourg?
Social workers in Luxembourg play a crucial role in assisting individuals or groups facing diverse challenges, including economic, administrative, family, professional, housing, health, social, or psychological issues. They aim to provide tailored support, fostering autonomy and facilitating social and/or professional integration.
What training and skills are required to work as a social worker in Luxembourg?
To work as a social worker in Luxembourg, a professional bachelor’s degree in social and educational sciences is essential. This three-year program, offered by the University of Luxembourg, combines theoretical knowledge with practical experience through internships. Social workers also need a range of skills, including empathy, organizational abilities, open-mindedness, effective communication, patience, and persuasive talents.
What are the requirements to work as a social worker in Luxembourg?
The profession of social worker in Luxembourg is regulated, requiring a bachelor’s degree in social and educational sciences or an equivalent qualification obtained elsewhere. International degrees need recognition by the Ministry of Higher Education and Research. Additionally, individuals must pass an aptitude test on Luxembourgish social law.
Which sub-areas are most in demand in the field of social work in Luxembourg?
The demand for social workers in Luxembourg is notably high in sub-areas such as childhood, youth, and family services, accounting for over 59% of declared positions. Discrimination and equal opportunity services follow at 23%, with a focus on social work with people with disabilities. Other areas include the elderly and care dependence (10%), adult employment and training (4%), health (2%), and crime and resocialization (1%).
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Source: www.hellowork.com, www.quali-sante.com, fr.indeed.com, beruffer.anelo.lu, www.uni.lu, mesr.gouvernement.lu, guichet.public.lu, adem.public.lu, www.studyrama.com, www.servicesalapersonne.gouv.fr, www.quali-sante.com, www.cidj.com, www.onisep.fr, www.cidj.com, www.servicesalapersonne.gouv.fr, www.onisep.fr, www.onisep.fr, solidarites.gouv.fr, en.moovijob.com, fr.wikipedia.org, www.croix-rouge.lu, en.moovijob.com, www.moovijob.com, lu.talent.com
We took photos from these sources: Unsplash, ADEM, Moovijob
Authors: Luz
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