OPT Rehabilitation Specialist Jobs
Rehabilitation Specialist jobs are a strong fit for F-1 OPT students in healthcare, kinesiology, social work, and counseling. Most roles qualify as STEM-adjacent or fall under STEM OPT extension fields, giving you up to three years of authorized work experience while building a credential-heavy career in patient care and recovery.
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DSHS's Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR) is hiring for a Lead Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor.
As a Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor 4, you will help people with disabilities achieve their goals of employment and independence. This role is about more than finding jobs—it’s about helping individuals discover their strengths, overcome barriers, and creating opportunities for people to thrive.
You’ll lead complex vocational rehabilitation work, serving as a subject matter expert for counselors and staff. Your guidance ensures services are effective, consistent, and tailored to the needs of each client. In this position, you’ll combine professional counseling skills, knowledge of employment resources, and leadership abilities to improve outcomes for Washingtonians.
Flexible hybrid work schedule is available after initial onboarding period is complete.
Some of what you'll do:
- Provide advanced vocational rehabilitation counseling that is responsive and unique to each client
- Determine eligibility for services by gathering and analyzing relevant information
- Conduct comprehensive assessments, including arranging and interpreting diagnostic testing
- Develop, approve, and monitor individualized employment plans that align with client goals and program requirements
- Offer guidance, support, and post-employment services to help clients and employers achieve long-term success
- Obtain and interpret benefit analysis reports to support informed client decision-making
- Manage case service funds responsibly and effectively
- Document and track client progress using the Service Tracking and Reporting System
- Train, coach, and mentor other counselors, providing oversight and support on complex cases
- Represent the office with employers, community partners, and in professional forums to expand opportunities for individuals with disabilities
Professionals with the following should apply:
Four years of paid experience as a vocational rehabilitation counselor or similar paid experience in vocational counseling, job placement, vocational assessment, or other areas of rehabilitation counseling. This experience may be gained either before or after obtaining the qualifying education or CRCC certification. One year of the paid experience may be substituted with unpaid experience consisting of:
- Direct work with people with disabilities in a setting such as an independent living center; or
- Direct service or advocacy activities that provide people with experience and skills in working with people with disabilities; or
- Direct experience as an employer, as a small business owner or operator, or in self-employment, or other experience in human resources, recruitment, or experience in supervising employees, training, or other activities that provide experience in integrated employment environments.
And, one of the following:
- Current certification as a Rehabilitation Counselor by the Commission on Rehabilitation Counselor Certification (CRCC)
- Or, a master's degree in rehabilitation counseling, psychology, counseling, or a field related to vocational rehabilitation (such as one that promotes the physical, psychosocial, or vocational well-being of people with disabilities)
- Or, a master's degree with at least 18 quarter or 12 semester credit hours of rehabilitation counseling courses
Additional knowledge, skills, and abilities we are looking for:
- Advanced knowledge of DVR service delivery policies: Understanding of policies, procedures, and practices that support successful employment outcomes for individuals living with varied disabilities
- Leadership skills: Demonstrated ability to apply effective leadership practices that support staff and enhance program results
- Knowledge of employer expectations: Awareness of what employers look for when hiring students and individuals with disabilities
- Time management ability: Capacity to handle multiple and competing priorities within required timeframes
- Communication skills: Skill in clearly conveying information through both written and oral presentations
- Technology proficiency: Ability to use office computer tools such as MS Word, Outlook, internet browsers, and DVR-specific applications
- Counseling techniques: Ability to apply a variety of counseling methods to meet the diverse needs of customers
Interested? Apply today!
To learn more about DSHS, go to www.dshs.wa.gov.
Questions? Please contact sean.brauner@gmail.com and reference #01031.
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.
Relationship and Reporting Structure (Nepotism) Disclosure: If you are selected for hire, you must disclose whether you have a relative, household member, close friend, or romantic partner within your potential supervisory chain of command. DSHS has a Relationships and the Reporting Structure policy that prohibits nepotism and can be reviewed here. Applicants whose appointment would result in a prohibited reporting relationship are not eligible for appointment to that position.
E-Verify® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security
More than Just a Paycheck!
Employee benefits are not just about the kind of services you get, they are also about how much you may have to pay out of pocket. Washington State offers one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation.
We understand that your life revolves around more than just your career. Like everyone, your first priority is ensuring that you and your family will maintain health and financial security. That's why choice is a key component of our benefits package. We have a selection of health and retirement plans, paid leave, staff training and other compensation benefits that you can mix and match to meet your current and future needs.
Read about our benefits:
The following information describes typical benefits available for full-time employees who are expected to work more than six months. Actual benefits may vary by appointment type or be prorated for other than full-time work (e.g. part-time); view the job posting for benefits details for job types other than full-time.
Note: If the position offers benefits which differ from the following, the job posting should include the specific benefits.
Insurance Benefits
Employees and their families are covered by medical (including vision), dental and basic life insurance. There are multiple medical plans with affordable monthly premiums that offer coverage throughout the state.
Staff are eligible to enroll each year in a medical flexible spending account which enables them to use tax-deferred dollars toward their health care expenses. Employees are also covered by basic life and long-term disability insurance, with the option to purchase additional coverage amounts.
To view premium rates, coverage choice in your area and how to enroll, please visit the Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB) website. The Washington Wellness program from the Health Care Authority works with PEBB to support our workplace wellness programs.
Dependent care assistance allows the employee to save pre-tax dollars for a child or elder care expenses.
Other insurance coverage for auto, boat, home, and renter insurance is available through payroll deduction.
The Washington State Employee Assistance Program promotes the health and well-being of employees.
Retirement and Deferred Compensation
State Employees are members of the Washington Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS). New employees have the option of two employer contributed retirement programs. For additional information, check out the Department of Retirement Systems' web site.
Employees also have the ability to participate in the Deferred Compensation Program (DCP). This is a supplemental retirement savings program (similar to an IRA) that allows you control over the amount of pre-tax salary dollars you defer as well as the flexibility to choose between multiple investment options.
Social Security
All state employees are covered by the federal Social Security and Medicare systems. The state and the employee pay an equal amount into the system.
Public Service Loan Forgiveness
If you are employed by a government or not-for-profit organization, and meet the qualifying criteria, you may be eligible to receive student loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.
Holidays
Full-time and part-time employees are entitled to paid holidays and one paid personal holiday per calendar year.
Note: Employees who are members of certain Unions may be entitled to additional personal leave day(s), please refer to position specific Collective Bargaining Agreements for more information.
Full-time employees who work full monthly schedules qualify for holiday compensation if they are employed before the holiday and are in pay status for at least 80 nonovertime hours during the month of the holiday; or for the entire work shift preceding the holiday.
Part-time employees who are in pay status during the month of the holiday qualify for the holiday on a pro-rata basis. Compensation for holidays (including personal holiday) will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status in the month to that required for full-time employment, excluding all holiday hours. Pay status includes hours worked and time on paid leave.
Sick Leave
Full-time employees earn eight hours of sick leave per month. Overtime eligible employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month, earn a monthly proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Overtime exempt employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month do not earn a monthly accrual of sick leave.
Sick leave accruals for part-time employees will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.
Vacation (Annual Leave)
Full-time employees accrue vacation leave at the rates specified in WAC 357-31-165(1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA). Full-time employees who are in pay status for less than 80 nonovertime hours in a month do not earn a monthly accrual of vacation leave.
Part-time employees accrue vacation leave hours in accordance with WAC 357-31-165(1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA) on a pro rata basis. Vacation leave accrual will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment.
Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.
As provided in WAC 357-58-175, an employer may authorize a lump-sum accrual of vacation leave or accelerate the vacation leave accrual rate to support the recruitment and/or retention of a candidate or employee for a Washington Management Service position. Vacation leave accrual rates may only be accelerated using the rates established WAC 357-31-165.
Note: Most agencies follow the civil service rules covering leave and holidays for exempt employees even though there is no requirement for them to do so. However, agencies are required to adhere to the applicable RCWs pertaining holidays and leave.
Military Leave
Washington State supports members of the armed forces with 21 days paid military leave per year.
Bereavement Leave
Most employees whose family member or household member dies, or for loss of pregnancy, are entitled to five (5) days of paid bereavement leave. In addition, the employer may approve other available leave types for the purpose of bereavement leave.
Additional Leave
- Leave Sharing
- Parental Leave
- Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
- Leave Without Pay
Please visit the State HR Website for more detailed information regarding benefits.
Updated 01-07-2026
Description
DSHS's Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR) is hiring for a Lead Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor.
As a Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor 4, you will help people with disabilities achieve their goals of employment and independence. This role is about more than finding jobs—it’s about helping individuals discover their strengths, overcome barriers, and creating opportunities for people to thrive.
You’ll lead complex vocational rehabilitation work, serving as a subject matter expert for counselors and staff. Your guidance ensures services are effective, consistent, and tailored to the needs of each client. In this position, you’ll combine professional counseling skills, knowledge of employment resources, and leadership abilities to improve outcomes for Washingtonians.
Flexible hybrid work schedule is available after initial onboarding period is complete.
Some of what you'll do:
- Provide advanced vocational rehabilitation counseling that is responsive and unique to each client
- Determine eligibility for services by gathering and analyzing relevant information
- Conduct comprehensive assessments, including arranging and interpreting diagnostic testing
- Develop, approve, and monitor individualized employment plans that align with client goals and program requirements
- Offer guidance, support, and post-employment services to help clients and employers achieve long-term success
- Obtain and interpret benefit analysis reports to support informed client decision-making
- Manage case service funds responsibly and effectively
- Document and track client progress using the Service Tracking and Reporting System
- Train, coach, and mentor other counselors, providing oversight and support on complex cases
- Represent the office with employers, community partners, and in professional forums to expand opportunities for individuals with disabilities
Professionals with the following should apply:
Four years of paid experience as a vocational rehabilitation counselor or similar paid experience in vocational counseling, job placement, vocational assessment, or other areas of rehabilitation counseling. This experience may be gained either before or after obtaining the qualifying education or CRCC certification. One year of the paid experience may be substituted with unpaid experience consisting of:
- Direct work with people with disabilities in a setting such as an independent living center; or
- Direct service or advocacy activities that provide people with experience and skills in working with people with disabilities; or
- Direct experience as an employer, as a small business owner or operator, or in self-employment, or other experience in human resources, recruitment, or experience in supervising employees, training, or other activities that provide experience in integrated employment environments.
And, one of the following:
- Current certification as a Rehabilitation Counselor by the Commission on Rehabilitation Counselor Certification (CRCC)
- Or, a master's degree in rehabilitation counseling, psychology, counseling, or a field related to vocational rehabilitation (such as one that promotes the physical, psychosocial, or vocational well-being of people with disabilities)
- Or, a master's degree with at least 18 quarter or 12 semester credit hours of rehabilitation counseling courses
Additional knowledge, skills, and abilities we are looking for:
- Advanced knowledge of DVR service delivery policies: Understanding of policies, procedures, and practices that support successful employment outcomes for individuals living with varied disabilities
- Leadership skills: Demonstrated ability to apply effective leadership practices that support staff and enhance program results
- Knowledge of employer expectations: Awareness of what employers look for when hiring students and individuals with disabilities
- Time management ability: Capacity to handle multiple and competing priorities within required timeframes
- Communication skills: Skill in clearly conveying information through both written and oral presentations
- Technology proficiency: Ability to use office computer tools such as MS Word, Outlook, internet browsers, and DVR-specific applications
- Counseling techniques: Ability to apply a variety of counseling methods to meet the diverse needs of customers
Interested? Apply today!
To learn more about DSHS, go to www.dshs.wa.gov.
Questions? Please contact sean.brauner@gmail.com and reference #01031.
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.
Relationship and Reporting Structure (Nepotism) Disclosure: If you are selected for hire, you must disclose whether you have a relative, household member, close friend, or romantic partner within your potential supervisory chain of command. DSHS has a Relationships and the Reporting Structure policy that prohibits nepotism and can be reviewed here. Applicants whose appointment would result in a prohibited reporting relationship are not eligible for appointment to that position.
E-Verify® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security
More than Just a Paycheck!
Employee benefits are not just about the kind of services you get, they are also about how much you may have to pay out of pocket. Washington State offers one of the most competitive benefits packages in the nation.
We understand that your life revolves around more than just your career. Like everyone, your first priority is ensuring that you and your family will maintain health and financial security. That's why choice is a key component of our benefits package. We have a selection of health and retirement plans, paid leave, staff training and other compensation benefits that you can mix and match to meet your current and future needs.
Read about our benefits:
The following information describes typical benefits available for full-time employees who are expected to work more than six months. Actual benefits may vary by appointment type or be prorated for other than full-time work (e.g. part-time); view the job posting for benefits details for job types other than full-time.
Note: If the position offers benefits which differ from the following, the job posting should include the specific benefits.
Insurance Benefits
Employees and their families are covered by medical (including vision), dental and basic life insurance. There are multiple medical plans with affordable monthly premiums that offer coverage throughout the state.
Staff are eligible to enroll each year in a medical flexible spending account which enables them to use tax-deferred dollars toward their health care expenses. Employees are also covered by basic life and long-term disability insurance, with the option to purchase additional coverage amounts.
To view premium rates, coverage choice in your area and how to enroll, please visit the Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB) website. The Washington Wellness program from the Health Care Authority works with PEBB to support our workplace wellness programs.
Dependent care assistance allows the employee to save pre-tax dollars for a child or elder care expenses.
Other insurance coverage for auto, boat, home, and renter insurance is available through payroll deduction.
The Washington State Employee Assistance Program promotes the health and well-being of employees.
Retirement and Deferred Compensation
State Employees are members of the Washington Public Employees' Retirement System (PERS). New employees have the option of two employer contributed retirement programs. For additional information, check out the Department of Retirement Systems' web site.
Employees also have the ability to participate in the Deferred Compensation Program (DCP). This is a supplemental retirement savings program (similar to an IRA) that allows you control over the amount of pre-tax salary dollars you defer as well as the flexibility to choose between multiple investment options.
Social Security
All state employees are covered by the federal Social Security and Medicare systems. The state and the employee pay an equal amount into the system.
Public Service Loan Forgiveness
If you are employed by a government or not-for-profit organization, and meet the qualifying criteria, you may be eligible to receive student loan forgiveness under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.
Holidays
Full-time and part-time employees are entitled to paid holidays and one paid personal holiday per calendar year.
Note: Employees who are members of certain Unions may be entitled to additional personal leave day(s), please refer to position specific Collective Bargaining Agreements for more information.
Full-time employees who work full monthly schedules qualify for holiday compensation if they are employed before the holiday and are in pay status for at least 80 nonovertime hours during the month of the holiday; or for the entire work shift preceding the holiday.
Part-time employees who are in pay status during the month of the holiday qualify for the holiday on a pro-rata basis. Compensation for holidays (including personal holiday) will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status in the month to that required for full-time employment, excluding all holiday hours. Pay status includes hours worked and time on paid leave.
Sick Leave
Full-time employees earn eight hours of sick leave per month. Overtime eligible employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month, earn a monthly proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Overtime exempt employees who are in pay status for less than 80 hours per month do not earn a monthly accrual of sick leave.
Sick leave accruals for part-time employees will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment. Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.
Vacation (Annual Leave)
Full-time employees accrue vacation leave at the rates specified in WAC 357-31-165(1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA). Full-time employees who are in pay status for less than 80 nonovertime hours in a month do not earn a monthly accrual of vacation leave.
Part-time employees accrue vacation leave hours in accordance with WAC 357-31-165(1) or the applicable collective bargaining agreement (CBA) on a pro rata basis. Vacation leave accrual will be proportionate to the number of hours in pay status, in the month to that required for full-time employment.
Pay status includes hours worked, time on paid leave and paid holiday.
As provided in WAC 357-58-175, an employer may authorize a lump-sum accrual of vacation leave or accelerate the vacation leave accrual rate to support the recruitment and/or retention of a candidate or employee for a Washington Management Service position. Vacation leave accrual rates may only be accelerated using the rates established WAC 357-31-165.
Note: Most agencies follow the civil service rules covering leave and holidays for exempt employees even though there is no requirement for them to do so. However, agencies are required to adhere to the applicable RCWs pertaining holidays and leave.
Military Leave
Washington State supports members of the armed forces with 21 days paid military leave per year.
Bereavement Leave
Most employees whose family member or household member dies, or for loss of pregnancy, are entitled to five (5) days of paid bereavement leave. In addition, the employer may approve other available leave types for the purpose of bereavement leave.
Additional Leave
- Leave Sharing
- Parental Leave
- Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
- Leave Without Pay
Please visit the State HR Website for more detailed information regarding benefits.
Updated 01-07-2026
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Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding OPT Sponsorship as a Rehabilitation Specialist
Target employers already familiar with OPT
Hospitals, rehabilitation networks, and large outpatient therapy chains regularly hire international graduates on OPT. These organizations have HR infrastructure to handle work authorization paperwork, which reduces delays and confusion during onboarding.
Confirm your degree qualifies for STEM OPT extension
Rehabilitation Science, Kinesiology, and Exercise Physiology commonly appear on the STEM OPT eligible CIP code list. Verify your specific program with your DSO before applying, since STEM extension adds 24 months to your standard 12-month OPT period.
Apply before your OPT start date is too close
Many healthcare employers require credentialing and background checks that take four to six weeks. Submitting applications three to four months before your OPT end date gives employers enough runway to complete onboarding before your authorization window closes.
Highlight clinical hours and licensed supervisor experience
Employers sponsoring OPT want demonstrable hands-on experience. Quantify supervised clinical hours, patient caseloads, and any licensure progress such as COTA or PTA exam eligibility, since these signal you can contribute immediately without extensive additional training.
Ask directly about H-1B sponsorship during first-round interviews
Rehabilitation roles can qualify as H-1B visa specialty occupations when a specific bachelor's degree is required. Asking early signals seriousness and helps you avoid investing in employers who categorically will not sponsor before your OPT expires.
Research state licensure requirements before accepting an offer
Rehabilitation Specialists often need state-specific credentials that take months to obtain. Confirm the employer will sponsor your licensure application and that your OPT timeline allows enough time to practice legally in that state before accepting any position.
Rehabilitation Specialist OPT: Frequently Asked Questions
Can I work as a Rehabilitation Specialist on F-1 OPT?
Yes, if your degree is in a qualifying field such as Rehabilitation Science, Kinesiology, Exercise Physiology, Social Work, or a related health discipline. Your employment must be directly related to your major. You will need a valid EAD card before starting work, and your DSO must report your employer in SEVP within 10 days of your start date.
Does a Rehabilitation Specialist role qualify for the STEM OPT extension?
It depends on your specific degree program, not the job title. If your degree CIP code appears on the official STEM Designated Degree Program List, you can apply for a 24-month STEM OPT extension, bringing your total authorized period to 36 months. Common qualifying programs include Exercise Science, Rehabilitation Science, and Biomedical Science. Confirm eligibility with your DSO before applying.
Will employers sponsor OPT students for Rehabilitation Specialist positions?
Many do, particularly large hospital systems, outpatient rehabilitation chains, and skilled nursing facilities with established HR departments. Smaller private practices are less likely to have prior OPT experience and may hesitate. Searching on Migrate Mate helps you identify employers who have already hired OPT students in rehabilitation and allied health roles, which significantly improves your odds.
Can a Rehabilitation Specialist job qualify for H-1B sponsorship after OPT ends?
Yes, if the employer requires a specific bachelor's degree in a directly related field, the role generally meets the H-1B specialty occupation standard. Roles in clinical rehabilitation, occupational health, and neurological recovery often satisfy this requirement. Confirm with the employer early in the process, since H-1B registration opens in March and cap-subject petitions require planning months in advance.
What should I do if my OPT expires before I finish a licensure requirement?
This is a real risk in rehabilitation careers, where state licensure can take three to six months after graduation. You should apply for OPT as early as possible, pursue STEM extension if eligible, and confirm that your employer is willing to support your H-1B or other visa transition before your EAD expires. Unlicensed practice under an expired EAD is a violation of both immigration and state law.