TN Visa Rehabilitation Specialist Jobs
Rehabilitation Specialist roles qualify for TN visa sponsorship under the USMCA treaty, covering occupations like physical rehabilitation, occupational therapy support, and vocational rehabilitation counseling. Canadian citizens can apply at the border or port of entry without an annual cap. Mexican citizens require consular processing with a limited allocation.
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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
Click here for a complete list of desirable qualifications.
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@dshs.wa.gov and reference #08834.
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
Click here for a complete list of desirable qualifications.
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@dshs.wa.gov and reference #08834.
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
See all 1,186+ TN Visa Rehabilitation Specialist Jobs
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Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding TN Visa Sponsorship as a Rehabilitation Specialist
Verify your credentials match TN categories
Rehabilitation Specialist is a recognized TN visa occupation, but your degree must align with the specific sub-specialty your employer is hiring for. A mismatch between your credential and the job description is one of the most common TN denials for this role.
Target employers with established rehab programs
Hospital systems, outpatient rehabilitation centers, and school districts that run structured therapy programs process TN sponsorship far more smoothly than smaller private practices unfamiliar with USMCA filing requirements.
Search TN-sponsored roles through Migrate Mate
Filter by Rehabilitation Specialist positions where employers have active TN visa sponsorship history. Migrate Mate lets you identify which organizations have already navigated the filing process so you spend less time educating recruiters.
Request a detailed offer letter before crossing
Canadian professionals applying at a port of entry need an offer letter specifying your title, duties, and that the role qualifies under TN categories. A vague letter describing general support work can result in a denial on the spot.
Confirm Mexican consular appointment timelines early
Mexican citizens must obtain TN status through a U.S. consulate, so factor in consular wait times when negotiating your start date with the employer. Consular backlogs vary by post and can extend several weeks beyond initial estimates.
Prepare a vocational documentation packet upfront
CBP officers reviewing Rehabilitation Specialist TN applications often request supporting evidence beyond the offer letter, including degree transcripts, professional licenses, and a brief description of how your duties align with the USMCA occupation definition.
Rehabilitation Specialist TN Visa: Frequently Asked Questions
Does a Rehabilitation Specialist role qualify for a TN visa?
Yes, Rehabilitation Specialist is listed as a qualifying occupation under the USMCA TN category. Your job duties and credentials must align with the occupation definition, meaning your degree should be in a field like rehabilitation science, kinesiology, or occupational therapy. A clearly written offer letter that maps your role to the TN classification is essential for approval.
How does the TN visa compare to the H-1B for Rehabilitation Specialist positions?
The TN visa has no lottery, no annual cap for Canadian citizens, and no lengthy USCIS petition process, making it significantly faster to obtain than an H-1B visa. Canadians can often begin work within days by applying directly at a port of entry. The key trade-off is that TN is limited to Canadian and Mexican citizens and does not offer a direct path to permanent residency the way H-1B sponsorship sometimes can.
Where can I find Rehabilitation Specialist jobs that offer TN visa sponsorship?
Migrate Mate is built specifically for Canadian and Mexican professionals seeking U.S. roles with TN visa sponsorship. You can filter by occupation and find employers already familiar with the TN filing process, which reduces back-and-forth with HR teams who have never sponsored a TN professional before.
What documents does a Canadian Rehabilitation Specialist need at the border?
You'll need a valid Canadian passport, a qualifying job offer letter that specifies your title and duties under the TN Rehabilitation Specialist category, proof of your educational credentials such as degree transcripts or diplomas, and any applicable professional license required by the state where you'll be working. CBP may also ask for a brief written description of your daily responsibilities.
Can a Mexican Rehabilitation Specialist apply for TN status at the border like Canadians can?
No. Mexican citizens must apply for TN status at a U.S. consulate in Mexico rather than at a port of entry. The consular process requires additional documentation including a valid visa application, and approval timelines depend on consular availability at your nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. Plan your start date with your employer to account for these processing timelines.