A Quality Assurance Specialist for The Department of Human Services in the state of Nevada is responsible for monitoring and evaluating health service processes to ensure they meet established standards and regulatory requirements. Key characteristics of this role include strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to identify areas for improvement. This field impacts the community by promoting high-quality health services, ensuring patient safety, and contributing to the overall well-being of Nevada residents. Individuals interested in government employment will find this position both vital and rewarding.
Salary Range
- $53,000 – $70,000/ year
Required Experience
- A minimum education with a bachelor’s degree in nursing, social work, human development, special education, health science, public health or other behavioral or social science, or related field Duration: ~4 years.
- To become a Quality Assurance Specialist I, one year of professional experience in client services, program evaluation, quality assurance/improvement, and/or utilization review activities for a human services program is required.
- To become a Quality Assurance Specialist II and III, an additional two to four years of professional experience.
- To advance to become a Quality Assurance Specialist IV, four years of professional experience in an institutional setting, reviewing and evaluating healthcare, mental health care, or disability services, is required. This experience should include program evaluation, quality assurance/improvement, and/or utilization review activities.
Additional Information
Quality Assurance Specialist Class Specification | DHS
Career Choices & Growth
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Scholarships Are Currently Available!
Social Workers are dedicated professionals who help individuals, families, and communities overcome challenges, providing support and resources to those in need. Whether it’s helping a child succeed in school, assisting someone in finding a job, or supporting a family through tough times, social workers are there to lend a hand. They work in various settings like schools, hospitals, and community centers, always ready to help. Key traits include empathy, a good listener, strong communication skills, and excellent problem-solving skills. They advocate for social justice, help people navigate difficult situations, and strive to make a positive impact on society.
Salary Range
- $54,000 – $159,000/ year
Education & Timeframe
- Start Your Journey
- Associate’s Degree in Human Services, Social Work, or related field Duration: ~2 years
- Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work, Psychology, or related field Duration: ~2 years (if transferring credits from associate’s degree) ~4 years (without associate’s degree)
- Advance Your Expertise: Master’s Degree in Social Work Duration: ~2 years
- Obtain Licensure and Certification as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, or complete supervised clinical experience. Duration: 2-3 years
- Continue Professional Development in specialized areas (mental health, child welfare, ect.) Continuing education Duration: Varies
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 Nevada Health Service Corps (NHSC) offers a state loan repayment program that provides funding to help pay off educational loans for those who commit to working in underserved areas of Nevada. This is a fantastic opportunity for students interested in pursuing a career in healthcare. By joining the NHSC, You can make a real difference in communities that need healthcare professionals the most. Nevada Health Service Corps | School of Medicine
- 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:
- College of Southern Nevada, Las Vegas:
- Western Nevada College, Las Vegas:
- Great Basin College, Elko:
- University of Nevada, Reno:
- University of Nevada, Las Vegas:
Additional Information
- Social Work Class Specification | DHS
- What Does A Social Worker Do? Roles And Responsibilities | Zippia
- Social Workers: Occupational Outlook Handbook: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
- 11 Reasons Why You Should Major in Social Services | Geneva College
- Certificate of Achievement in Substance Abuse Counselor Training Program | GBCN
- Certificate of Achievement in Human Services Program | GBCN
Career Choices & Growth
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- Other Potential Careers
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A Senior Peer Advocate is vital in providing guidance, support, and advocacy for individuals navigating various life challenges, such as healthcare, mental health, or recovery. This position requires key characteristics like empathy, strong communication skills, and resilience. Senior Peer Advocates work closely with clients, offering mentorship and helping them access essential resources. This field not only changes lives on an individual level but also strengthens communities by promoting well-being and empowerment. It is a fulfilling career that makes a significant difference.
Salary Range
- $28,000 – $75,000/ year
Education & Timeframe
- Start Your Journey: Obtain certifications in peer support, mental health first aid, or related areas
- Advance Your Expertise: Complete advanced training programs in peer counseling, crisis intervention, and trauma-informed care
- Gain Experience: Internships or work experience in social work agencies, mental health organizations, or counseling centers. Stay current with best practices in peer advocacy, mental health support strategies, and crisis intervention techniques.
Additional Information
- NCB Requirements for Certified Peer Recovery and Support Specialists – Nevada Certification Board
- Senior Advocate: What Is It? and How to Become One?
Career Choices & Growth
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A Rehabilitation Aide assists healthcare professionals in providing therapeutic care to patients recovering from injuries or managing physical disabilities. Key characteristics of this role include strong communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to follow detailed treatment plans. Rehabilitation Technicians help patients perform exercises, monitor their progress, and ensure a safe and supportive environment. This career significantly impacts the community by aiding individuals in their recovery, improving their quality of life, and promoting overall health and well-being. If you’re looking for a rewarding career that makes a difference, consider becoming a Rehabilitation Technician.
Salary Range
- $24,000 – $60,000/ year
Education & Timeframe
- Start Your Journey: Complete a high school education or equivalent with a focus on science and health-related courses. Pursue relevant certifications such as Certified Rehabilitation Therapy Technician (CRTT) or Certified Physical Therapy Aide (CPTA)
- Advance Your Expertise: Bachelor’s Degree in Rehabilitation Science, Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, or a related field Duration: ~4 years
- Gain Experience: Internships or work experience in rehabilitation centers, physical therapy clinics, or hospitals. Stay current with best practices in rehabilitation techniques, patient care strategies, and safety protocols.
Academic Institutions
Discover a wide range of academic institutions and programs tailored to enhance your professional development. For more information, visit our Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy page and start planning your future today!
Additional Information
- What does a Rehabilitation Technician do? Career Overview, Roles, Jobs | AFCPE
- Rehab Technician: What Is It? and How to Become One?
Career Choices & Growth
Explore ways to upskill and specialize within this field:
- Other Potential Careers
- Other Career Pathways
A Rehabilitation Technician in Social Work supports clients with physical disabilities, mental health challenges, or substance abuse issues by assisting in the implementation of therapeutic activities and monitoring client progress. Key characteristics of this role include strong communication skills, empathy, and attention to detail. Rehabilitation Technicians help ensure a safe and supportive environment, directly contributing to the well-being and recovery of individuals. This career plays a crucial role in enhancing the quality of life for clients and promoting overall community health.
Salary Range
- $24,000 – $64,000/ year
Education & Timeframe
- Start Your Journey: Complete a high school education or equivalent.
- Advance Your Expertise: Pursue relevant certifications such as Certified Rehabilitation Therapy Technician (CRTT) or Certified Physical Therapy Aide (CPTA) or gain a Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work, Psychology, Counseling, or a related field Duration: ~4 years
- Gain Experience: Internships or work experience in rehabilitation centers, social service agencies, or community organizations. Stay current with best practices in social work strategies, mental health support, and rehabilitation techniques
Academic Institutions
Discover a wide range of academic institutions and programs tailored to enhance your professional development. For more information, visit our Social Worker page and start planning your future today!
Additional Information
- Rehabilitation Manager Class Specification | DHHS
- Rehabilitation Chief Class Specification | DHHS
- The Role of Social Care Workers in Rehabilitation and Reintegration
- What is the role of social worker in rehabilitation? – Quick-Advices
Career Choices & Growth
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- Other Potential Careers
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A Rehabilitation Manager works closely with social services. They play a crucial role in helping people with disabilities live better lives by understanding their needs, offering personalized support, and coordinating care. They work hard to ensure their clients’ rights and accessibility needs are met, helping them overcome social, emotional, and job-related challenges. These professionals are dedicated to making a positive difference with empathy, patience, problem-solving skills, and strong communication. They empower individuals to live more independently, find jobs, and become active members of their communities, creating a more inclusive and supportive society.
Salary Range
- $67,000 – $98,000/ year
Education & Timeframe
- Start Your Journey: Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work, Psychology, Counseling, or a related field Duration: ~4 years
- Advance Your Expertise: Master’s Degree in Social Work, Clinical Psychology, Counseling, or a related field Duration: ~2 years
- Gain Experience: Internships or work experience in rehabilitation centers, social service agencies, or community organizations. Stay current with best practices in social work strategies, mental health support, and rehabilitation techniques
Academic Institutions
Discover a wide range of academic institutions and programs tailored to enhance your professional development. For more information, visit our Social Worker page and start planning your future today!
Additional Information
- Rehabilitation Manager Class Specification | DHS
- Rehabilitation Chief Class Specification | DHS
- The Role of Social Care Workers in Rehabilitation and Reintegration
- What Does A Rehabilitation Specialist Do? Roles And Responsibilities – Zippia
- How to Become a Rehabilitation Services Manager | WGU
- Rehabilitation Counselors: Occupational Outlook Handbook: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Career Choices & Growth
Explore ways to upskill and specialize within this field:
- Other Potential Careers
- Other Career Pathways
Scholarships Are Currently Available!
A Treatment Home Provider, also known as a residential care worker or residential counselor, supports individuals who need assistance with daily living, behavioral health issues, or other specialized needs. These facilities can include group homes, residential treatment centers, and therapeutic communities. They help enhance the quality of life, reduce hospitalizations, and promote community health. They help residents become more independent and self-sufficient. Key traits for this role are empathy, compassion, patience, and strong communication skills. They are dedicated to making a positive impact on the lives of those they care for.
Salary Range
- $56,000 – $94,000/ year
Education & Timeframe
- Start Your Journey: Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work, Psychology, Counseling, or a related field Duration: ~4 years
- Advance Your Expertise: Master’s Degree in Social Work, Clinical Psychology, Counseling, or a related field Duration: ~2 years
- Gain Experience: Internships or work experience in treatment facilities, rehabilitation centers, or social service agencies. Stay current with best practices in treatment planning, mental health support strategies, and safety protocols.
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 contact: 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.
Academic Institutions
- Truckee Meadows Community College, Reno:
- College of Southern Nevada, Las Vegas:
- Western Nevada College, Las Vegas:
- Great Basin College, Elko:
- University of Nevada, Reno:
- University of Nevada, Las Vegas:
Additional Information
- Treatment Home Provider Class Specification | DHS
- Residential Care Worker Job Description | Interview Guy
Career Choices & Growth
Explore ways to upskill and specialize within this field:
- Other Potential Careers
- Other Career Pathways
Scholarships Are Currently Available!
Speech-Language Pathologists and Audiologists are dedicated professionals who help people communicate and hear better. They work with individuals of all ages to diagnose and treat speech, language, and hearing issues. These specialists are patient, attentive, and skilled problem solvers. They help children articulate words clearly, support adults in overcoming speech difficulties, and ensure everyone can enjoy the sounds of life. This career is impactful because it enhances communication, fosters connections, and improves overall quality of life.
Salary Range
- $51,000 – $113,000/ year
Education & Timeframe
- Start Your Journey: Bachelor’s Degree in Speech Pathology, Audiology, Communication Sciences and Disorders, or a related field Duration: ~4 years
- Advance Your Expertise: Master’s Degree in Speech-Language Pathology, Audiology, or a related field Duration: ~2 years
- Gain Experience: Internships or work experience in speech pathology clinics, hospitals, schools, or private practices. Stay current with speech and hearing assessment techniques, therapeutic interventions, and related technologies.
Academic Institutions
- University of Nevada, Reno:
- University of Nevada, Las Vegas:
- Nevada State University, Henderson:
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.
- 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
- What Can You Do with a Speech Pathology Bachelor’s Degree?
- How To Become A Speech Pathologist: 6 Crucial Career Steps | USAHS
- Audiologist: What They Do, When to See One, and What to Expect | WebMD
- Speech Pathologist Class Specification | DHHS
Career Choices & Growth
Explore ways to upskill and specialize within this field:
- Other Potential Careers
- Other Career Pathways
Scholarships Are Currently Available!
Sports Medicine is a health focused field on preventing, diagnosing, and treating sports-related injuries. It merges medicine, exercise science, and physical therapy to help athletes and active individuals stay at their best. Key aspects include a strong knowledge of the human body and a passion for health and fitness. Professionals in this field make a positive impact by promoting healthy lifestyles through personalized exercise and nutrition plans, conducting injury prevention workshops, and offering rehabilitative care. They support the community’s overall well-being by collaborating with schools, sports teams, and community centers to create programs that encourage physical activity and educate individuals on maintaining optimal health. For those passionate about science and sports, sports medicine offers a fulfilling career path where they can inspire and improve lives.
Salary Range
- $119,000 – $227,000/ year
Education & Timeframe
- Start Your Journey: Bachelor’s Degree in Exercise Science, Kinesiology, or a related field Duration: ~4 years
- Advance Your Expertise: Master’s Degree in Sports Medicine, Athletic Training, or a related field Duration: ~2 years
- Gain Experience: Internships or work experience in sports medicine clinics, athletic teams, or rehabilitation centers. Stay current with sports medicine techniques, exercise physiology, and injury prevention strategies.
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
- The Nevada Health Service Corps (NHSC) offers a state loan repayment program that provides funding to help pay off educational loans for those who commit to working in underserved areas of Nevada. This is a fantastic opportunity for students interested in pursuing a career in healthcare. By joining the NHSC, You can make a real difference in communities that need healthcare professionals the most. Nevada Health Service Corps | School of Medicine
- 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
- College of Southern Nevada, Las Vegas:
- Truckee Meadows Community College, Reno:
- Touro University Nevada, Las Vegas:
- University of Nevada, Reno:
- University of Nevada, Las Vegas:
Additional Information
- What does a sports medicine physician do? – CareerExplorer
- What Is a Sports Medicine Physician? | Clevelandclinic
- Online NASM Personal Training Certification Course | WNC
Career Choices & Growth
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- Other Potential Careers
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Scholarships Available – Apply Now!
Recreational Therapy is a specialized field within healthcare that uses recreational activities to help individuals improve their physical, emotional, and mental health. Recreational therapists design and implement personalized treatment plans using activities such as sports, arts and crafts, music, dance, and community outings to address the specific needs of their patients. These activities not only provide enjoyment but also help in developing skills, enhancing social interactions, and promoting overall well-being. Key characteristics of recreational therapy include creativity, empathy, and a holistic approach to patient care. By pursuing a career in recreational therapy, you can make a profound impact on your community, helping people of all ages and abilities lead healthier and more fulfilling lives. This field is ideal for those who are compassionate, innovative, and dedicated to making a positive difference in the lives of others.
Salary Range
- $56,000 – $138,000/ year
Education & Timeframe
- Start Your Journey: Bachelor’s Degree in Heatlh Administration, Public Health, Project Management, or a related field Duration: ~4 years
- Advance Your Expertise: Master’s Degree in Health Administration, Project Management, or a related field Duration: ~2 years
- Gain Experience: Internships or work experience in health programs, public health organizations, health facilities, business development, leadership best practices, or related fields.
Academic Institutions
- College of Southern Nevada, Las Vegas:
- Truckee Meadows Community College, Reno:
- University of Nevada, Reno:
- University of Nevada, Las Vegas:
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.
- 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
- Recreational Therapists: Occupational Outlook Handbook: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
- Recreational Therapy: Definition, Benefits, Activities
- Recreational Therapy: Benefits of Play, Activities, Programs
- Activities Therapy Technician Class Specification | DHS
Career Choices & Growth
Explore ways to upskill and specialize within this field:
- Other Potential Careers
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