OPT Service Specialist Jobs
Service Specialist roles span customer support, technical assistance, and client-facing operations across industries that regularly hire on OPT. Most positions qualify as OPT-eligible without requiring H-1B visa sponsorship immediately, giving you a practical way to build U.S. work history while your OPT authorization is active.
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DSHS HCLA – Social Service Specialist 3
The Home and Community Living Administration (HCLA) is hiring for a dedicated Social Service Specialist to join our team in Tacoma, WA.
This role supports functions independently and assures that clients receive appropriate quality services that meet their individual needs and recognizes their capabilities and choices through timely and responsive assessment, service delivery and reassessment and case management. This position plans, promotes, develops and provides long-term care services that are responsive to the needs of persons with disabilities and the elderly with priority attention to low-income individuals and families.
This position conducts face to face comprehensive assessment and reassessments at the client’s residence (in-home, hospital, nursing home, residential facility etc.) using a laptop computer to determine clients’ level of care, including determining nursing facility level of care needs. This position develops initial and ongoing care plans that provide the support necessary to allow clients to remain in or return to their community. This position assesses and provides case management to adults at high risk of institutionalization or to those adults whose need for case management is part of a service plan developed following an adult protective service investigation.
Some of what you'll do:
- Conduct and complete face-to-face comprehensive assessments and reassessments of the clients in various settings, including private homes, adult family homes, hospitals, or other facilities, using a state-provided computerized system
- Provide case management services to clients meeting criteria set forth in Aging & Disability Services Long Term Care manuals and policies
- Make referrals to other community resources
- Consult and staff cases with supervisor
- File care documents, draft letters and respond to administrative request for reports or constituent responses
- Refer to the Community Nurse Consultant on Skin Observation Protocols (SPO's) and Critical indicators when triggered, as per ADSA protocol. Consult with nurse as needed on complex medical issues/terminology
- Provide client advocacy as well as consultation, networking, family support and crisis intervention. Coordinate with families, facilities, local office staff and other regional offices and community agencies regarding the needs of clients served
- Take part in case staffing meetings; including A-Team and case coordination meetings which may include internal and external stakeholders
Other duties as assigned
What we're looking for:
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills, both verbal and written, including the ability to work effectively with clients, peers, management, the public, and interpreters
- Ability to prioritize and organize workload according to office policy, timeframes, and workload expectations
- Ability to reprioritize assignments as necessary to meet emergencies and/or provide unit coverage
- Skill and ability to independently resolve complaints, inquiries and client/customer service problems while maintaining appropriate confidentiality
- Skill and ability to provide agency interpretation of laws, regulations, and processes
- Possess word processing and data input (keyboarding) skills, with the ability to use various computer software applications and learn new programs
- Skill and ability to operate various office equipment/machines (fax, keyboard, scanner, printer, etc.) and perform a variety of clerical tasks/duties
- Ability to work independently and make independent decisions
Ability to learn or possess knowledge of DSHS policies, rules and laws
Who should apply?
We are looking for professionals with:
One year as a Social Service Specialist 2
OR
A Master's degree in social services, human services, behavioral sciences, criminal law/justice or an allied field and one year of paid social service experience equivalent to a Social Service Specialist 2
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 2.
NOTE: 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.
NOTE: Employees must successfully complete the formal training course sponsored by their division within eighteen months of their appointment.
NOTE: Paid Social Service experience must include assessing risk and safety to children and/or adults and providing direct family-centered practice services.
Equivalent education/experience.
Ready to start a rewarding career? Apply today!
Along with your application, please include an updated resume.
Questions? Please reach out to DSHS Recruiter peter.bonato@dshs.wa.gov or call Talent Acquisition main line (360) 725-5810 and reference job number 07694.
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.
Description
DSHS HCLA – Social Service Specialist 3
The Home and Community Living Administration (HCLA) is hiring for a dedicated Social Service Specialist to join our team in Tacoma, WA.
This role supports functions independently and assures that clients receive appropriate quality services that meet their individual needs and recognizes their capabilities and choices through timely and responsive assessment, service delivery and reassessment and case management. This position plans, promotes, develops and provides long-term care services that are responsive to the needs of persons with disabilities and the elderly with priority attention to low-income individuals and families.
This position conducts face to face comprehensive assessment and reassessments at the client’s residence (in-home, hospital, nursing home, residential facility etc.) using a laptop computer to determine clients’ level of care, including determining nursing facility level of care needs. This position develops initial and ongoing care plans that provide the support necessary to allow clients to remain in or return to their community. This position assesses and provides case management to adults at high risk of institutionalization or to those adults whose need for case management is part of a service plan developed following an adult protective service investigation.
Some of what you'll do:
- Conduct and complete face-to-face comprehensive assessments and reassessments of the clients in various settings, including private homes, adult family homes, hospitals, or other facilities, using a state-provided computerized system
- Provide case management services to clients meeting criteria set forth in Aging & Disability Services Long Term Care manuals and policies
- Make referrals to other community resources
- Consult and staff cases with supervisor
- File care documents, draft letters and respond to administrative request for reports or constituent responses
- Refer to the Community Nurse Consultant on Skin Observation Protocols (SPO's) and Critical indicators when triggered, as per ADSA protocol. Consult with nurse as needed on complex medical issues/terminology
- Provide client advocacy as well as consultation, networking, family support and crisis intervention. Coordinate with families, facilities, local office staff and other regional offices and community agencies regarding the needs of clients served
- Take part in case staffing meetings; including A-Team and case coordination meetings which may include internal and external stakeholders
Other duties as assigned
What we're looking for:
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills, both verbal and written, including the ability to work effectively with clients, peers, management, the public, and interpreters
- Ability to prioritize and organize workload according to office policy, timeframes, and workload expectations
- Ability to reprioritize assignments as necessary to meet emergencies and/or provide unit coverage
- Skill and ability to independently resolve complaints, inquiries and client/customer service problems while maintaining appropriate confidentiality
- Skill and ability to provide agency interpretation of laws, regulations, and processes
- Possess word processing and data input (keyboarding) skills, with the ability to use various computer software applications and learn new programs
- Skill and ability to operate various office equipment/machines (fax, keyboard, scanner, printer, etc.) and perform a variety of clerical tasks/duties
- Ability to work independently and make independent decisions
Ability to learn or possess knowledge of DSHS policies, rules and laws
Who should apply?
We are looking for professionals with:
One year as a Social Service Specialist 2
OR
A Master's degree in social services, human services, behavioral sciences, criminal law/justice or an allied field and one year of paid social service experience equivalent to a Social Service Specialist 2
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 2.
NOTE: 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.
NOTE: Employees must successfully complete the formal training course sponsored by their division within eighteen months of their appointment.
NOTE: Paid Social Service experience must include assessing risk and safety to children and/or adults and providing direct family-centered practice services.
Equivalent education/experience.
Ready to start a rewarding career? Apply today!
Along with your application, please include an updated resume.
Questions? Please reach out to DSHS Recruiter peter.bonato@dshs.wa.gov or call Talent Acquisition main line (360) 725-5810 and reference job number 07694.
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.
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Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding OPT Sponsorship as a Service Specialist
Target employers with a history of OPT hiring
Large service organizations in healthcare, financial services, and technology have established OPT onboarding processes. Smaller firms may be willing but unfamiliar with the paperwork. Prioritize employers who have hired OPT students before to reduce friction at the offer stage.
Clarify your OPT authorization timeline upfront
Service Specialist roles often involve client relationships that take months to develop. Employers want continuity. Knowing your OPT end date and STEM extension eligibility before interviews lets you address the timeline question confidently without being caught off guard.
Highlight customer-facing skills with measurable outcomes
Service roles are evaluated on resolution rates, satisfaction scores, and response times. Quantify your experience wherever possible. Numbers make your contributions concrete and give hiring managers evidence that you can perform in a results-driven service environment from day one.
Confirm your role qualifies under your degree field
OPT employment must be directly related to your area of study. Service Specialist positions vary widely in scope. Verify that the core responsibilities align with your degree before accepting an offer, since misaligned employment can jeopardize your OPT status and future extensions.
Ask about STEM OPT extension support during interviews
If your degree is in a STEM field, a 24-month extension is possible but requires employer participation in E-Verify. Raising this during the interview process helps you assess whether the employer is equipped and willing to support your long-term work authorization.
Prepare documentation your employer will need on day one
Your EAD card, Form I-20 with OPT authorization, and offer letter confirming the role aligns with your major are all required for onboarding. Having these organized in advance signals professionalism and prevents delays in your start date with a new employer.
Service Specialist OPT: Frequently Asked Questions
Can I work as a Service Specialist on OPT?
Yes, as long as the role is directly related to your field of study. Service Specialist positions in areas like IT support, financial services, or healthcare administration can qualify depending on your degree. Review the job description carefully and confirm the connection to your major before accepting an offer, since your DSO will ask about it.
How do I find Service Specialist jobs that are open to OPT students?
Migrate Mate lists Service Specialist roles from employers who are open to hiring F-1 OPT students, so you are not wasting time applying to positions that require immediate H-1B visa sponsorship. Filtering by OPT eligibility early in your search saves significant time and reduces the frustration of late-stage rejections based on work authorization.
Does a Service Specialist role qualify for a STEM OPT extension?
It depends on your degree, not the job title. If your degree is in a STEM-designated field and the Service Specialist role genuinely applies that knowledge, such as a technical support or systems analyst position tied to a computer science or engineering degree, you may qualify. The employer must also be enrolled in E-Verify, which is required to support the extension.
What happens to my OPT if I am laid off from a Service Specialist role?
You have a cumulative 90-day unemployment allowance during standard OPT, which extends to 150 days if you are on a STEM extension. The clock starts when your employment ends, not when you report it. Notify your DSO promptly, update your SEVIS record, and begin your next job search immediately to stay within the allowance and maintain your status.
Do Service Specialist employers typically sponsor H-1B visas after OPT?
Sponsorship rates vary significantly by industry and employer size. Large enterprise technology companies and financial institutions in this space have stronger track records of transitioning OPT hires to H-1B. Smaller service firms may be willing but lack internal immigration infrastructure. Ask directly during the offer stage and look for employers who have filed H-1B petitions for similar roles in the past.