H-1B Visa Social Services Specialist Jobs
Social Services Specialist roles qualify for H-1B 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 HCLA HCS Social Service Specialist 3
Join our team as a Social Service Specialist 3 with the Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) in Spokane, WA! In this key role within the Home and Community Living Administration (HCLA), Home and Community Services (HCS), you will work with high-risk, frail, and vulnerable adults residing in residential settings such as Adult Family Homes and Assisted Living Facilities. You will conduct comprehensive, in-home assessments using a laptop-based system to determine functional eligibility for Medicaid long-term care services and develop individualized, client-centered service plans in partnership with clients and their representatives.
This position plays a critical role in improving the quality of life for individuals in need, collaborating with community residential partners, resolving issues, and stabilizing placements to help clients live safe, healthy, and secure lives. Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage a large residential caseload are essential to preventing unnecessary hospitalizations and supporting client independence.
Some of what you'll do:
- Conduct in-home functional assessments using the Comprehensive Assessment Reporting and Evaluation (CARE) tool to determine clients’ level of care and eligibility for long-term services and supports.
- Develop individualized, client-centered service plans in collaboration with clients and/or their representatives.
- Determine eligibility and authorize services for Home and Community Services (HCS) programs such as Medicaid Personal Care (MPC), Community First Choice (CFC), Community Options Program Entry System (COPES), the Residential Support Waiver (RSW), and other long-term care programs and residential placements.
- Provide ongoing case management to support clients in maintaining independence, resolving issues, and preventing unnecessary hospitalization or facility placement.
- Assist clients with financial eligibility, benefit applications, and determining cost of care; authorize payment for approved long-term care services.
- Document assessments, case management activities, and service authorizations using CARE, ProviderOne, ACES, Barcode, and other department systems.
Collaborate with team members, community partners, and collateral contacts; participate in required training, meetings, and professional development activities.
Desired skills, knowledge, and abilities:
- Effectively communicate orally and in writing with clients, families, peers, management, and external partners; conduct client interviews, including with interpreters, and compose professional correspondence.
- Conduct in-home assessments using the CARE tool and other agency systems to evaluate client needs and determine eligibility for long-term care programs.
- Develop individualized, client-centered care plans, link clients to agency and community resources, and provide ongoing case management to support independence and well-being.
- Apply social casework principles and knowledge of Medicaid laws, regulations, and long-term care program policies to make informed client service decisions.
- Navigate and utilize agency computer systems, including ACES, ProviderOne, Outlook/email, Barcode Document Management System, and basic office software for documentation and communication.
- Analyze client, program, and service issues, resolve conflicts, and implement practical solutions while maintaining professionalism, objectivity, and confidentiality.
Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, external agencies, and community partners; follow departmental policies, manuals, and procedures to support the mission and goals of the department.
Who should apply?
We are seeking professionals who meet one of the following qualifications:
- One year as a Social Service Specialist 2.
OR
- A Master’s in social services, human services, behavioral sciences, criminal law/justice, or a related field plus one year of paid social service experience equivalent to a Social Service Specialist 2.
OR
- A Bachelor’s in social services, human services, behavioral sciences, criminal law/justice, or a related field plus two years of paid social service experience performing functions equivalent to a Social Service Specialist 2.
Additional information:
A two-year Master’s degree in the above fields that included a practicum can substitute for one year of paid social service experience. Employees must successfully complete the formal division-sponsored training course within 18 months of appointment. Paid social service experience must include assessing risk and safety for children and/or adults and providing direct family-centered practice services.
Work schedule: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday
About HCLA and HCS
The Home and Community Living Administration (HCLA) oversees Washington state’s nationally recognized system of long-term services and supports for older adults and people with disabilities. This includes home and community-based care, protections against abuse and neglect, regulatory oversight of licensed settings, and case management services. Within HCLA, the Home and Community Services (HCS) Division plans, develops, and provides long-term care services, including Medicaid-funded programs, to help individuals live as independently as possible in their communities.
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 Sharon Sterling at sharon.sterling@dshs.wa.gov and reference job number #03553.
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 HCLA HCS Social Service Specialist 3
Join our team as a Social Service Specialist 3 with the Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) in Spokane, WA! In this key role within the Home and Community Living Administration (HCLA), Home and Community Services (HCS), you will work with high-risk, frail, and vulnerable adults residing in residential settings such as Adult Family Homes and Assisted Living Facilities. You will conduct comprehensive, in-home assessments using a laptop-based system to determine functional eligibility for Medicaid long-term care services and develop individualized, client-centered service plans in partnership with clients and their representatives.
This position plays a critical role in improving the quality of life for individuals in need, collaborating with community residential partners, resolving issues, and stabilizing placements to help clients live safe, healthy, and secure lives. Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage a large residential caseload are essential to preventing unnecessary hospitalizations and supporting client independence.
Some of what you'll do:
- Conduct in-home functional assessments using the Comprehensive Assessment Reporting and Evaluation (CARE) tool to determine clients’ level of care and eligibility for long-term services and supports.
- Develop individualized, client-centered service plans in collaboration with clients and/or their representatives.
- Determine eligibility and authorize services for Home and Community Services (HCS) programs such as Medicaid Personal Care (MPC), Community First Choice (CFC), Community Options Program Entry System (COPES), the Residential Support Waiver (RSW), and other long-term care programs and residential placements.
- Provide ongoing case management to support clients in maintaining independence, resolving issues, and preventing unnecessary hospitalization or facility placement.
- Assist clients with financial eligibility, benefit applications, and determining cost of care; authorize payment for approved long-term care services.
- Document assessments, case management activities, and service authorizations using CARE, ProviderOne, ACES, Barcode, and other department systems.
Collaborate with team members, community partners, and collateral contacts; participate in required training, meetings, and professional development activities.
Desired skills, knowledge, and abilities:
- Effectively communicate orally and in writing with clients, families, peers, management, and external partners; conduct client interviews, including with interpreters, and compose professional correspondence.
- Conduct in-home assessments using the CARE tool and other agency systems to evaluate client needs and determine eligibility for long-term care programs.
- Develop individualized, client-centered care plans, link clients to agency and community resources, and provide ongoing case management to support independence and well-being.
- Apply social casework principles and knowledge of Medicaid laws, regulations, and long-term care program policies to make informed client service decisions.
- Navigate and utilize agency computer systems, including ACES, ProviderOne, Outlook/email, Barcode Document Management System, and basic office software for documentation and communication.
- Analyze client, program, and service issues, resolve conflicts, and implement practical solutions while maintaining professionalism, objectivity, and confidentiality.
Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, external agencies, and community partners; follow departmental policies, manuals, and procedures to support the mission and goals of the department.
Who should apply?
We are seeking professionals who meet one of the following qualifications:
- One year as a Social Service Specialist 2.
OR
- A Master’s in social services, human services, behavioral sciences, criminal law/justice, or a related field plus one year of paid social service experience equivalent to a Social Service Specialist 2.
OR
- A Bachelor’s in social services, human services, behavioral sciences, criminal law/justice, or a related field plus two years of paid social service experience performing functions equivalent to a Social Service Specialist 2.
Additional information:
A two-year Master’s degree in the above fields that included a practicum can substitute for one year of paid social service experience. Employees must successfully complete the formal division-sponsored training course within 18 months of appointment. Paid social service experience must include assessing risk and safety for children and/or adults and providing direct family-centered practice services.
Work schedule: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday
About HCLA and HCS
The Home and Community Living Administration (HCLA) oversees Washington state’s nationally recognized system of long-term services and supports for older adults and people with disabilities. This includes home and community-based care, protections against abuse and neglect, regulatory oversight of licensed settings, and case management services. Within HCLA, the Home and Community Services (HCS) Division plans, develops, and provides long-term care services, including Medicaid-funded programs, to help individuals live as independently as possible in their communities.
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 Sharon Sterling at sharon.sterling@dshs.wa.gov and reference job number #03553.
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 401+ Social Services Specialist jobs
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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.
Social Services Specialist jobs are hiring across the US. Find yours.
Find Social Services Specialist JobsSocial Services Specialist H-1B Visa: 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.
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