H-1B Visa Social Services Specialist Jobs
Social Services Specialist roles qualify for H-1B visa sponsorship when the position requires a bachelor's degree in social work, psychology, or a related field. Employers in healthcare systems, government contractors, and nonprofit organizations have active LCA filing histories for this occupation. The annual H-1B cap and lottery apply unless your employer is a cap-exempt institution.
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DSHS ESA CSD – Social Service Specialist 2
Are you committed to helping individuals and families overcome barriers to stability and self-sufficiency? The Economic Services Administration (ESA), Community Services Division (CSD), is seeking a Social Service Specialist 2 to join our team at the Renton Community Services Office, located in Renton, WA.
As a Social Service Specialist 2, you will provide professional-level social services to a caseload of individuals and families who face barriers to self-sufficiency. You will conduct comprehensive assessments, develop employability and service plans, interpret medical evidence, and coordinate services that support participation in the WorkFirst program and eligibility for Aged, Blind, and Disabled and Housing and Essential Needs (ABD/HEN) programs, as well as Supplemental Security Income (SSI) pathways.
Please note: This is an on-site role, requiring hands-on outreach and collaboration with clients and community partners.
Some of what you'll do:
- Conduct comprehensive social service assessments for the Aged, Blind, and Disabled and Housing and Essential Needs programs (ABD/HEN) and the WorkFirst program to identify physical, psychological, vocational, and social barriers to self-sufficiency.
- Develop clear case plans and Individual Responsibility Plans with each person you serve.
- Review medical evidence to determine incapacity, disability-related exemptions, and eligibility pathways.
- Process Aged, Blind, and Disabled and Housing and Essential Needs decisions within required timelines.
- Support and track Supplemental Security Income and Social Security Disability Insurance applications, including referrals and appeals.
- Monitor WorkFirst participation, review required reports, and take timely action when activities are overdue.
- Complete specialized assessments such as Pregnancy to Employment and Time Limit Extensions.
- Coordinate services with medical providers, mental health professionals, chemical dependency treatment providers, domestic violence advocates, and community partners.
- Document all case actions accurately in agency systems and follow established policies and procedures.
Desired skills, knowledge, and abilities:
- Comfort supporting people with complex needs: Ability to partner with individuals experiencing homelessness, mental health challenges, or substance use needs, offering grounded, consistent support in a respectful and nonjudgmental way.
- Client-focused planning: Skill in listening deeply, understanding each person’s circumstances, and using that information to shape assessments, case plans, and participation requirements that support stability and progress.
- Clear, respectful communication: Ability to interact with clients, coworkers, medical providers, and community partners with tact, professionalism, and courtesy — even during challenging conversations or emotionally charged moments.
- Assessment and decision-making: Capability to interpret medical documentation, determine eligibility pathways, take timely case actions, and make sound decisions in a fast-paced environment with competing demands.
- Technical and regulatory proficiency: Comfort using multiple automated systems and applying program manuals, the Washington Administrative Code, and agency procedures to ensure accurate, policy-aligned work.
- Adaptability and conflict management: Skill in navigating change, managing stress, and de-escalating conflict while maintaining focus, professionalism, and a steady presence for the people you support.
Who should apply?
- Twelve months of experience as a Social Service Specialist 1 AND completion of the agency’s Social Service Specialist training program.
OR
- A master's degree in social services, human services, behavioral sciences, criminal law/justice, or an allied field, AND one year as a Social Service Specialist 1 or equivalent paid social service experience. A two-year master's degree in one of the above fields that included a practicum will be substituted for one year of paid social service experience.
OR
- A bachelor's degree in social services, human services, behavioral sciences, criminal law/justice, or an allied field, AND two years of paid social service experience performing functions equivalent to a Social Service Specialist 1.
OR
- An equivalent combination of education/experience totaling six or more years.
Note: Paid Social Service experience must include assessing risk and safety to children and/or adults and providing direct family-centered practice services.
Note: Employees must successfully complete the formal training course within eighteen months of their appointment.
Additional information:
- Work schedule: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday
King County employees receive 5% premium pay in addition to the advertised salary and are eligible to receive a free ORCA card for transportation use.
Ready to start a rewarding career? Apply today!
Along with your application, please include:
- An updated resume
- Three professional references with contact information
Questions?
Please reach out to DSHS Recruiter Ricky Luna at ricky.luna@dshs.wa.gov and reference job number #04931.
The Department of Social and Health Services’ (DSHS) vision that people find human services to shape their own lives requires that we come together with a sense of belonging, common purpose, shared values, and meaningful work. It is crucial to our agency’s vision that you bring a fairness, access, and social justice commitment to your work with DSHS. We strive to support all Washingtonians, including Black, Indigenous, and People of Color, people with physical, behavioral health, and intellectual disabilities, elders, LGBTQIA+ individuals, immigrants and refugees, and families building financial security.
Supplemental Information
Prior to a new hire, a background check including criminal record history may be conducted. Information from the background check will not necessarily preclude employment but will be considered in determining the applicant’s suitability and competence to perform in the job. This announcement may be used to fill multiple vacancies. Employees driving on state business must have a valid driver's license. Employees driving a privately owned vehicle on state business must have liability insurance on the privately owned vehicle.
Washington State Department of Social and Health Services is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate in any area of employment, its programs or services on the basis of age, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity/expression, marital status, race, creed, color, national origin, religion or beliefs, political affiliation, military status, honorably discharged veteran, Vietnam Era, recently separated or other protected veteran status, the presence of any sensory, mental, physical disability or the use of a trained dog guide or service animal by a person with a disability, equal pay or genetic information. Persons requiring accommodation in the application process or this job announcement in an alternative format may contact the Recruiter at (360) 725-5810. Applicants who are deaf or hard of hearing may call through Washington Relay Service by dialing 7-1-1 or 1-800-833-6384.
E-Verify® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.
Description
DSHS ESA CSD – Social Service Specialist 2
Are you committed to helping individuals and families overcome barriers to stability and self-sufficiency? The Economic Services Administration (ESA), Community Services Division (CSD), is seeking a Social Service Specialist 2 to join our team at the Renton Community Services Office, located in Renton, WA.
As a Social Service Specialist 2, you will provide professional-level social services to a caseload of individuals and families who face barriers to self-sufficiency. You will conduct comprehensive assessments, develop employability and service plans, interpret medical evidence, and coordinate services that support participation in the WorkFirst program and eligibility for Aged, Blind, and Disabled and Housing and Essential Needs (ABD/HEN) programs, as well as Supplemental Security Income (SSI) pathways.
Please note: This is an on-site role, requiring hands-on outreach and collaboration with clients and community partners.
Some of what you'll do:
- Conduct comprehensive social service assessments for the Aged, Blind, and Disabled and Housing and Essential Needs programs (ABD/HEN) and the WorkFirst program to identify physical, psychological, vocational, and social barriers to self-sufficiency.
- Develop clear case plans and Individual Responsibility Plans with each person you serve.
- Review medical evidence to determine incapacity, disability-related exemptions, and eligibility pathways.
- Process Aged, Blind, and Disabled and Housing and Essential Needs decisions within required timelines.
- Support and track Supplemental Security Income and Social Security Disability Insurance applications, including referrals and appeals.
- Monitor WorkFirst participation, review required reports, and take timely action when activities are overdue.
- Complete specialized assessments such as Pregnancy to Employment and Time Limit Extensions.
- Coordinate services with medical providers, mental health professionals, chemical dependency treatment providers, domestic violence advocates, and community partners.
- Document all case actions accurately in agency systems and follow established policies and procedures.
Desired skills, knowledge, and abilities:
- Comfort supporting people with complex needs: Ability to partner with individuals experiencing homelessness, mental health challenges, or substance use needs, offering grounded, consistent support in a respectful and nonjudgmental way.
- Client-focused planning: Skill in listening deeply, understanding each person’s circumstances, and using that information to shape assessments, case plans, and participation requirements that support stability and progress.
- Clear, respectful communication: Ability to interact with clients, coworkers, medical providers, and community partners with tact, professionalism, and courtesy — even during challenging conversations or emotionally charged moments.
- Assessment and decision-making: Capability to interpret medical documentation, determine eligibility pathways, take timely case actions, and make sound decisions in a fast-paced environment with competing demands.
- Technical and regulatory proficiency: Comfort using multiple automated systems and applying program manuals, the Washington Administrative Code, and agency procedures to ensure accurate, policy-aligned work.
- Adaptability and conflict management: Skill in navigating change, managing stress, and de-escalating conflict while maintaining focus, professionalism, and a steady presence for the people you support.
Who should apply?
- Twelve months of experience as a Social Service Specialist 1 AND completion of the agency’s Social Service Specialist training program.
OR
- A master's degree in social services, human services, behavioral sciences, criminal law/justice, or an allied field, AND one year as a Social Service Specialist 1 or equivalent paid social service experience. A two-year master's degree in one of the above fields that included a practicum will be substituted for one year of paid social service experience.
OR
- A bachelor's degree in social services, human services, behavioral sciences, criminal law/justice, or an allied field, AND two years of paid social service experience performing functions equivalent to a Social Service Specialist 1.
OR
- An equivalent combination of education/experience totaling six or more years.
Note: Paid Social Service experience must include assessing risk and safety to children and/or adults and providing direct family-centered practice services.
Note: Employees must successfully complete the formal training course within eighteen months of their appointment.
Additional information:
- Work schedule: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday
King County employees receive 5% premium pay in addition to the advertised salary and are eligible to receive a free ORCA card for transportation use.
Ready to start a rewarding career? Apply today!
Along with your application, please include:
- An updated resume
- Three professional references with contact information
Questions?
Please reach out to DSHS Recruiter Ricky Luna at ricky.luna@dshs.wa.gov and reference job number #04931.
The Department of Social and Health Services’ (DSHS) vision that people find human services to shape their own lives requires that we come together with a sense of belonging, common purpose, shared values, and meaningful work. It is crucial to our agency’s vision that you bring a fairness, access, and social justice commitment to your work with DSHS. We strive to support all Washingtonians, including Black, Indigenous, and People of Color, people with physical, behavioral health, and intellectual disabilities, elders, LGBTQIA+ individuals, immigrants and refugees, and families building financial security.
Supplemental Information
Prior to a new hire, a background check including criminal record history may be conducted. Information from the background check will not necessarily preclude employment but will be considered in determining the applicant’s suitability and competence to perform in the job. This announcement may be used to fill multiple vacancies. Employees driving on state business must have a valid driver's license. Employees driving a privately owned vehicle on state business must have liability insurance on the privately owned vehicle.
Washington State Department of Social and Health Services is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate in any area of employment, its programs or services on the basis of age, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity/expression, marital status, race, creed, color, national origin, religion or beliefs, political affiliation, military status, honorably discharged veteran, Vietnam Era, recently separated or other protected veteran status, the presence of any sensory, mental, physical disability or the use of a trained dog guide or service animal by a person with a disability, equal pay or genetic information. Persons requiring accommodation in the application process or this job announcement in an alternative format may contact the Recruiter at (360) 725-5810. Applicants who are deaf or hard of hearing may call through Washington Relay Service by dialing 7-1-1 or 1-800-833-6384.
E-Verify® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.
See all 428+ H-1B Visa Social Services Specialist Jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new H-1B Visa Social Services Specialist Jobs.
Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding H-1B Visa Sponsorship as a Social Services Specialist
Verify your degree meets specialty occupation
USCIS requires your degree field to directly relate to the Social Services Specialist role. A general business degree won't satisfy this, but social work, counseling, or human services degrees typically do. Check the O*NET occupation profile for accepted degree categories.
Target cap-exempt employers first
Hospitals, university-affiliated programs, and government research institutions are often cap-exempt, meaning they can file your H-1B petition any time without lottery risk. Prioritize these when your job search begins so you're not dependent on the annual April registration window.
Search verified sponsors on Migrate Mate
Filter by employers with confirmed LCA filings for social services roles on Migrate Mate. This surfaces organizations that have already cleared the DOL certification step, which signals genuine sponsorship capacity rather than vague intent.
Request the LCA before accepting an offer
Ask the employer to show you the certified Labor Condition Application before you sign. It confirms the wage level meets DOL prevailing wage standards for your location and job title, protecting you from being underpaid relative to similarly employed workers.
Prepare a detailed clinical or case documentation portfolio
Adjudicators reviewing H-1B petitions for social services roles often issue Requests for Evidence questioning whether the position truly requires a degree. A portfolio of complex case assessments and clinical documentation strengthens the employer's specialty occupation argument.
Align your start date with the October 1 cap window
If your employer is cap-subject, USCIS only accepts H-1B petitions for an October 1 start date. Build your job offer timeline so the employer can file in April after lottery selection, giving you enough runway to transition from OPT or another status.
H-1B Visa Social Services Specialist: Frequently Asked Questions
Does a Social Services Specialist role qualify as a specialty occupation for H-1B purposes?
It qualifies when the employer can demonstrate the position normally requires at least a bachelor's degree in a specific related field, such as social work, psychology, counseling, or human services. Generalist roles where any degree is acceptable are harder to support. The stronger the connection between your degree field and the job duties, the more defensible the petition.
Which types of employers commonly sponsor H-1B visas for Social Services Specialists?
Hospital systems, community mental health centers, university-affiliated clinics, and government contractors tend to have established H-1B filing infrastructure for this role. You can identify employers with verified filing histories for social services occupations by searching Migrate Mate, which surfaces organizations that have already filed Labor Condition Applications for similar positions.
Can a nonprofit social services agency sponsor my H-1B visa?
Yes, nonprofits can sponsor H-1B petitions, but most are cap-subject unless they have a formal affiliation with a university or qualify as a nonprofit research organization. A cap-subject nonprofit employer still needs to enter you in the annual lottery. Confirm the employer's cap status and their experience with H-1B filings before accepting an offer.
What happens to my H-1B status if my employer loses a government contract funding my position?
If your position is eliminated due to contract loss, your employer is required to notify USCIS and withdraw the petition. You then enter a 60-day grace period to find a new employer willing to file an H-1B transfer. Acting quickly matters because the transfer must be initiated, not just accepted, before the grace period expires.
Will USCIS question whether my Social Services Specialist role truly requires a degree?
Requests for Evidence are common for social services roles because job postings sometimes list a degree as preferred rather than required. Your employer should document why the specific duties require specialized theoretical knowledge gained through a degree program, not just experience. Industry standards from professional licensing bodies and internal job classification records both support this argument.