A Forensic Specialist for The Department of Human Services in the state of Nevada is responsible for analyzing and interpreting evidence from crime scenes to support criminal investigations and legal proceedings. Key characteristics of this role include strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and proficiency with forensic techniques and technologies. This field impacts the community by ensuring accurate and reliable forensic analysis, aiding in the pursuit of justice, and contributing to public safety. Individuals interested in government employment will find this position both essential and rewarding.
Salary Range
- $48,000 – $85,000/ year
Required Experience
- A minimum of a high school diploma or equivalent education is required, along with two years of general work experience, one of which must be in a mental health, medical, correctional, law enforcement, or related setting. Alternatively, one year of college coursework in health, behavioral science, or criminal justice, plus one year of general work experience, is acceptable.
- As a Forensic Specialist I and II, two to three years of experience in a mental health, medical, correctional, law enforcement, or related setting are required, including one year of providing care, treatment, and supervision for individuals with mental illness.
- To advance as a Forensic Specialist III and IV, three to four years of experience are necessary, along with maintaining valid certification in accordance with statute and regulation.
Additional Information
Career Choices & Growth
Explore ways to upskill and specialize within this field:
- Other Potential Careers
- Other Career Pathways
Scholarships Available – Apply Now!
Casework Management is a vital and dynamic profession where dedicated individuals support clients in navigating complex systems and accessing essential services. This role involves assessing clients’ needs, developing personalized action plans, and coordinating resources to ensure they receive comprehensive support. Key characteristics of a successful casework manager include strong organizational skills, empathy, advocacy, and effective communication. By helping clients overcome barriers and achieve their goals, casework managers make a significant positive impact on the community.
Salary Range
- $53,000-$122,000/ year
Education & Timeframe
- Start Your Journey: Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice, Psychology, Social Work, or a related field Duration: ~4 years
- Advance Your Expertise: Obtain relevant certifications and training in probation and parole. Complete courses or training programs related to probation, parole, and criminal justice procedures. Duration: ~1-2 years
- Gain Experience: Complete internships, volunteer work, or entry-level positions in probation offices, social service agencies, or law enforcement to gain specialized training and experience.
Scholarship Opportunities
- The Nevada Public Health Foundation, Inc. is promoting workforce development and employee retention through the Social Work Workforce Development Scholarship program. Each scholarship, up to $1,000, may be awarded to social work students who work with the Department of Human Services (DHS) as employees, interns, practicum students, volunteers, or contractors. For more information email: info@nphf.org.
- The Behavioral Health Education, Retention, and Expansion Network of Nevada (BeHERE NV) is offering a scholarship for UNLV students pursuing careers in behavioral health, to address the state’s mental health workforce shortage and improve access to care. This scholarship not only provides financial support but also opens doors to valuable educational and professional opportunities, empowering students to make a meaningful impact in their communities. Please contact roberta.miranda@unlv.edu for more information.
- The Nevada Health Equity & Loan Assistance (HEAL) Program was launched by the Nevada Treasury in 2025 to reward healthcare providers who choose to practice in Nevada. The Nevada HEAL Program provides student loan repayment up to $120,000 to providers who commit to at least 5 years of clinical practice in an eligible Nevada community. See Nevada HEAL Program for details.
Academic Institutions
- Truckee Meadows Community College, Reno:
- Great Basin College, Elko:
- College of Southern Nevada, Las Vegas:
- Western Nevada College, Las Vegas:
- University of Nevada, Reno:
- University of Nevada, Las Vegas:
Additional Information
- Casework Managment Class Specification | DHS
- What is Case Management in Social Work? | CaseWorthy
- Definition and Philosophy of Case Management | Commission for Case Manager Certification
Career Choices & Growth
Explore ways to upskill and specialize within this field:
- Other Potential Careers
- Other Career Pathways
A Medical Assistant plays a crucial role in healthcare by performing both administrative and clinical tasks, such as taking patient histories, assisting with exams, and managing medical records. Key characteristics of a successful medical assistant include strong communication skills, attention to detail, empathy, and a proactive attitude. This field significantly impacts the community by providing essential support to healthcare professionals, ensuring efficient and compassionate patient care, and contributing to the overall well-being of the public.
Salary Range
- $35,000 – $55,000/ year
Education & Timeframe
- Start Your Journey: High School Diploma or GED Duration: ~4 years
- Advance Your Expertise: Complete an Accredited Medical Assisting Program a certificate or Associate’s Degree in Medical Assisting Duration: ~1-2 years
- Gain Experience: Gain hands-on experience through clinical training or internships in healthcare settings. Stay current with medical assisting techniques, patient care practices, and relevant research.
Academic Institutions
- Nevada Career Institute, Las Vegas:
- Great Basin College, Elko:
- College of Southern Nevada, Las Vegas:
Additional Information
Career Choices & Growth
- With the appropriate education, training, or experience, individuals can pursue careers in positions and settings such as:
- Healthcare Facilities
- Hospitals
- Phlebotomist
- Pharmacy
- Emergency Management
- Outpatient Care Centers
- Community Health Centers
- Medical Research Centers
Scholarships Available!
A Lactation Consultant is a specialized healthcare professional trained to provide support and guidance to breastfeeding mothers. They help with issues such as latching difficulties, milk supply concerns, and breastfeeding techniques. Key characteristics of this role include strong communication skills, empathy, patience, and a deep understanding of human lactation. This field plays a crucial role in promoting maternal and infant health, reducing healthcare costs, and fostering strong community bonds by supporting families in their breastfeeding journeys. Pursuing a career as a lactation consultant offers the opportunity to make a significant impact on public health and well-being.
Salary Range
- $60,000 – $80,000/ year
Education & Timeframe
- Start Your Journey: Begin with a minimum education requirement of a high school diploma or equivalent.
- Advance Your Expertise: Consider obtaining additional education, such as a nursing degree (RN) or a related healthcare field. Complete at least 90 hours of lactation-specific education and 5 hours of communication skills specific to lactation. You may also pursue certifications like Certified Lactation Counselor (CLC) or International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC).
- Gain Experience: Gain practical experience through internships or work experience in hospitals, clinics, or community health organizations. Stay current with lactation best practices, public health guidelines, and breastfeeding support strategies.
Scholarship Opportunities
The Nevada Lactation Hub Scholarship Program, funded by the Nevada State Department of Health and Human Services, is a collaborative effort between the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV), the Southern Nevada Breastfeeding Coalition (SNBC), and the Northern Nevada Breastfeeding Coalition (NNBC). This program is designed to empower aspiring lactation consultants by providing financial assistance, fostering professional growth, and promoting the health and well-being of families across Nevada. Nevada Lactation Hub Scholarship
Academic Institutions
To explore academic institutions and programs for a career in nursing, visit our Nursing page for more information.
Additional Information
- Lactation Consultant: When You Need One & What To Expect | Mayoclinic
- Lactation Education Resources – CBS Information
- Choosing a Pathway to the IBCLC – IBCLC Commission
- Certified Lactation Educator™ (CLE®) | CAPPA
- Continuing Education: Infant and Young Child Feeding in Emergencies
Career Choices & Growth
Explore ways to upskill and specialize within this field:
- Other Potential Careers
- Other Career Pathways
Scholarships are now available!
Community Health Workers (CHWs) are essential members of the healthcare system who serve as a bridge between healthcare providers and the communities they serve. They are the heartbeat of community wellness. CHWs connect individuals with vital health resources, provide education, and advocate for healthier lifestyles. With compassion and dedication, they empower people to take control of their health, build trust within communities, and break down barriers to healthcare access. They make a tangible difference, ensuring that everyone has the support they need to lead healthier, happier lives. If you’re passionate about helping others and making a real impact, consider becoming a CHW.
Salary Range
- $30,000 – $65,000/year
Education & Timeframe
- Start Your Journey: High School Diploma or Equivalent
- Obtain CHW Certification: Community Health Worker Training Program Duration: ~8 weeks to 1 year
- Pursue Postsecondary Education (Optional but Beneficial): Associate’s Degree in Health Sciences, Public Health, or a related field Duration: ~2 years
- Gain Experience: Internships, volunteer work, or paid positions in healthcare settings, public health agencies, or community organizations. Stay current with health education techniques, community resources, and public health protocols.
Scholarship Opportunities
The American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Nevada Health Workforce Pipeline Grant (NHWPG) will focus on providing funding opportunities that are intended to disseminate financial relief and incentivize individuals to pursue careers in a variety of health-related fields. The expected outcome for these funds is to support and expand the opportunity to increase the number of qualified and competent professionals in the health workforce to improve the overall health of our communities. For more information, please contact Ryan Mills at rmills@health.nv.gov.
Certification & Training
- NV Community Health Worker Association
- College of Southern Nevada, Las Vegas:
Additional Information
- Career Development for Community Health Workers – Community Health Worker Training
- Nevada Certification Board
- Overview of Community Health Workers
- On the Front Lines of Health Equity: Community Health Workers
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics’ Occupational Outlook Handbook for Community Health Workers
Career Choices & Growth
Explore ways to upskill and specialize within this field:
- Other Potential Careers
- Other Career Pathways
Scholarships Available!
A Doula is a trained professional who supports people of childbearing capacity through pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum. They provide emotional, physical, and informational support to expectant parents. Career options include labor and postpartum doulas, lactation consultants, childbirth educators, and advocacy roles. Doulas are empathetic, knowledgeable, and supportive, playing a crucial role in maternal and child health. They help improve birth outcomes and foster strong family bonds, making a significant impact on community well-being. Choosing a doula career means making a profound difference in expectant parents’ lives.
Salary Range
- $63,000 – $88,000/ year
Education & Timeframe
- Training and Certification: Complete a doula approved training program Duration: ~12 weeks to 6 months (varies by program)
- Gain Experience: Participate in practical training sessions and workshops to develop skills in childbirth support, lactation consulting, and newborn care. Stay current with best practices in doula support, childbirth education, and postpartum care.
- Maintain Certification: Engage in continuing education and professional development to stay current with doula practices and maintain certification.
- Optional: Bachelor’s Degree in Public Health, Nursing, Social Work, or a related field Duration: ~4 years
Academic Institutions
- Foundational Training – Nevada Certification Board
- NCB approved training in Trauma Informed Care
- NCB approved training in cultural competency/humility
- NCB approved training in HIPAA
- NCB approved foundational birth doula training- Birth Doula Certification
- Birth Collaborative, Las Vegas: Doula Training Program Enrollment
Scholarship Opportunities
The Nevada Health Equity & Loan Assistance (HEAL) Program was launched by the Nevada Treasury in 2025 to reward healthcare providers who choose to practice in Nevada. The Nevada HEAL Program provides student loan repayment up to $120,000 to providers who commit to at least 5 years of clinical practice in an eligible Nevada community. See Nevada HEAL Program for details.
Additional Information
- 7 Different Types of Doulas and What They Do
- Discover Your Perfect Doula: 8 Types Of Doulas To Consider | Motherhood Center
- Doula Career Growth: From Novice to Specialist | Pasadena Doula Associates
Career Choices & Growth
Explore ways to upskill and specialize within this field:
- Other Potential Careers
- Other Career Pathways