Social Services Specialist Jobs in USA with Visa Sponsorship
Social Services Specialist positions qualify for H-1B visa sponsorship when requiring a bachelor's degree in social work, psychology, or related fields. Government agencies and nonprofit organizations frequently sponsor these roles, with social work licensure often strengthening visa applications through documented professional credentials. For detailed occupation requirements, see the O*NET profile.
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Our vision is to ensure that “All Washington's children and youth grow up safe and healthy, thriving physically, emotionally, and educationally, nurtured by family and community".
Job Title: CPS/FAR Social Service Specialist 1-3 In Training (SSS3)
Location: Yakima, WA (Hybrid - Work will include a mixture of in-person, telework, and field work.)
Closes: 5/8/26
Salary: $57,252 - $91,464 Annually. This position may receive 10% assignment pay when the incumbent reaches the goal class of Social Service Specialist 3. This is in addition to the regular base salary; the required duties include performing visits in unregulated environments, such as private residences, to conduct investigations for allegations of abuse and/or neglect to assess the safety of vulnerable children.
We're looking for a Child Protective Services (CPS) Family Assessment Response (FAR) to join our amazing Yakima team. Our office environment excels at team support, including cross-program communication and assistance, and collaborative supervision. Would you like a career where you make a significant difference in the lives of children? If so, apply today.
Click here to learn more about DCYF.
The Opportunity:
In this role, you will assess complex family situations, interview children and parents, evaluate child safety, develop plans to protect children in their homes, and offer services to children and families.
Some of what you'll do:
- Investigate, assess, and evaluate reports of child abuse.
- Interview children, family members, caregivers, and collateral sources to gather information necessary to assess child safety and determine the service needs of the family.
- Provide ongoing safety and risk assessment of the family throughout the life of the case and take appropriate action to protect children, correct parental deficits through services, and provide support to the family.
- Provide comprehensive and ongoing assessment of casework needs for child, parent(s)/guardian, and foster parent(s) with a focus and priority on child safety.
- Assess the need for out-of-home placement, and work with the family to find the most appropriate placement.
- Monitor the health and safety of children through regular visitation.
- Utilize FAMLINK to document case activities and maintain case records.
- Prepare and document cases for court proceedings.
What we are looking for (Required Qualifications):
The goal class is a Social Service Specialist 3, however, we will consider candidates at the Social Service Specialist 1 and 2 levels, with two different options to meet the qualifications through an In-Training plan.
In-Training Plan Option #1 - Experience with Required Credits OR Degree with the Required Credits
Applicants applying under this training option must have at least four (4) years of on the job social service experience and 30 semester or 45 quarter credits in a Social Service discipline OR a Bachelor’s degree (or higher) in Social Service, Human Service, or Behavioral Science, or any completed Bachelor's degree field that included 30 semester or 45 quarter credits in a Social Service discipline.
- Social Service Specialist 1: Four (4) years of paid work experience in one of the following: caring for children, social care, counseling youth, education, or home visitations AND 30 semester or 45 quarter credits in a Social Service discipline OR a Bachelor’s degree in social services, human services, behavioral sciences, or any degree which includes 30 semester or 45 quarter credits in a Social Service discipline; no experience necessary.
- Social Service Specialist 2: Five (5) years of paid social service experience AND 30 semester or 45 quarter credits in a Social Service discipline OR Bachelor’s degree in social services, human services, behavioral sciences, or any degree which includes 30 semester or 45 quarter credits in a Social Service discipline AND one (1) year of paid social service experience OR a Master's degree in social services, human services, behavioral sciences, or Master’s degree which includes 30 semester or 45 quarter credits in a Social Services discipline AND completed practicum.
- Social Service Specialist 3: Six (6) years of paid social service experience AND 30 semester or 45 quarter credits in a Social Service discipline OR a Bachelor’s degree in social services, human services, behavioral sciences, or any degree that includes 30 semester or 45 quarter credits in a Social Service discipline AND two (2) years of paid social service experience OR a Master's degree in social services, human services, behavioral sciences, or any degree which includes 30 semester or 45 quarter credits in a Social Service discipline AND one (1) year of paid social service experience OR one (1) year of experience as a Social Service Specialist 2. Paid Social Service experience must include at least one year of assessing risk and safety to children and providing direct family-centered practice services.
In-Training Plan Option #2 - Experience or Degree without the Required Credits
This option is for applicants who have four (4) years of paid work experience in one of the following: caring for children, social care, counseling youth, education, or home visitations and do not have 30 semester or 45 quarter credits in the social service field but are willing to obtain them within 18 months of hire OR applicants who have a Bachelor's or Master's degree in an unrelated field and do not have the required 30 semester or 45 quarter hours in the social service field but are willing to obtain them within 18 months of hire.
This option is great for candidates who have some or most of the required credits and only need to complete a few classes to meet this requirement. Applicants who apply under this hiring option will begin employment at the Social Service Specialist 1 level and must complete the educational course requirements within 18 months of hire to advance to the next in-training step.
AND
- The ability to take action to learn and grow.
- The ability to take action to meet the needs of others.
Preferred/Desired Qualifications:
- Prior public child welfare experience.
- Case management experience.
- Knowledge of social casework principles and practices, risk assessment and decision-making, interviewing techniques, solution-based casework, principles of child development, applicable Federal and State laws, and community resources.
- Experience assessing risk and safety concerning child abuse and neglect or developing safety or service plans with families.
- Familiarity with community resources and the local community.
- Ability to organize information to meet FAMLINK documentation requirements.
Salary Ranges:
- Social Service Specialist 1: Range 52 ($57,252 - $76,968)
- Social Service Specialist 2: Range 57 ($64,776 – $87,048)
- Social Service Specialist 3: Range 59 ($67,992 - $91,464)
Worker Core Training (WCT):
As a Social Service Specialist, you are required to successfully complete a mandatory 9.5-week Worker Core Training (WCT). This training provides the foundational knowledge and skills needed to perform core job functions, including assessing risk and safety, supporting child well-being, gathering information, and conducting case and permanency planning. During the training, you will have opportunities to practice these skills through classroom activities, simulation exercises, and debriefs. Upon hire, you will be assigned to the nearest available training cohort. The training includes four (4) weeks at our Seattle training site (scheduled for Weeks 2, 4, 6, and 8). For those eligible for travel from their assigned duty location, DCYF covers hotel accommodations and per diem costs.
The WCT curriculum is designed to prepare Social Service Specialists for the responsibilities of the role, including:
- Understanding the child welfare system
- Familiarity with the Revised Code of Washington (RCW) related to child welfare
- Policies, procedures, and best practices
- Assessing child safety through environmental observation, interviews with children and caregivers, and collateral contacts
- Collecting records and collaborating with community partners, including medical providers, law enforcement, and chemical dependency services
- Completing assessments and documenting case notes
- Writing dependency petitions and court reports
- Preparing for and testifying in court
How do I apply?
Complete your applicant profile and attach the following:
- Transcripts (Unofficial transcripts are acceptable for application submission)
- Cover Letter
- Current resume detailing experience and education.
Supplemental Information:
The Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) is committed to Washington’s children and youth growing up safe, healthy, and thriving. We invite all candidates to join us in our mission to create a diverse and equitable workplace that reflects the communities we serve. If you are excited about this role but you believe that your education and/or experience might not align perfectly with every qualification in the job posting, we encourage you to apply anyway.
The Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of age, sex, marital status, sexual orientation, race, creed, color, national origin, honorably discharged veteran or military status, or the presence of any sensory, mental, or physical disability or the use of a trained service animal by a person with a disability.
Prior to a new hire, a background check including criminal history will 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 position.
This position is included in the supervisory bargaining unit represented by the Washington Federation of State Employees (WFSE). This recruitment may be used to fill multiple vacancies.
This position requires a minimum of at least two years of driving experience and a valid driver’s license.
The incumbent must successfully complete formal training courses as required by law, policy, and regional requirements within one year of their appointment.
Degrees must be obtained from an accredited college or university whose accreditation is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA), or a foreign equivalent verified by a NACES-approved organization at naces.org. Foreign Equivalency certification must be attached to the application for degrees obtained outside the U.S.
For more information about this position or if you need an accommodation throughout the application/interview process, please contact DCYF recruiter. If you're experiencing technical difficulties creating, accessing or completing your application, call NEOGOV toll-free at (855) 524-5627 or email support@neogov.com. Persons needing accommodation in the application process or this announcement in an alternative format may call the Telecommunications Device for the Deaf (TDD) at 360-664-1960.
Applicants who meet the minimum qualifications and wish to claim Veteran's Preference MUST attach a copy of their DD214, NGB Form 22 or Predischarge Certification (issued not more than 120 days prior to End of Term of Service (ETS) by date of submission). If claiming preference based on Predischarge Certification, individual will be required to provide their official discharge documentation, such as a DD form 214, NGB form 22, or equivalent, within 30 days after the date of discharge. Please blackout (redact) the social security number before attaching any documents. For additional information on Veteran's Preference and guidance on how to determine if you are eligible, click here.
DCYF participates in the federal E-Verify program. The selected candidate must provide proof of identity and authorization to work in the United States, consistent with E-Verify requirements, on their first day of employment.
03528
Description
Our vision is to ensure that “All Washington's children and youth grow up safe and healthy, thriving physically, emotionally, and educationally, nurtured by family and community".
Job Title: CPS/FAR Social Service Specialist 1-3 In Training (SSS3)
Location: Yakima, WA (Hybrid - Work will include a mixture of in-person, telework, and field work.)
Closes: 5/8/26
Salary: $57,252 - $91,464 Annually. This position may receive 10% assignment pay when the incumbent reaches the goal class of Social Service Specialist 3. This is in addition to the regular base salary; the required duties include performing visits in unregulated environments, such as private residences, to conduct investigations for allegations of abuse and/or neglect to assess the safety of vulnerable children.
We're looking for a Child Protective Services (CPS) Family Assessment Response (FAR) to join our amazing Yakima team. Our office environment excels at team support, including cross-program communication and assistance, and collaborative supervision. Would you like a career where you make a significant difference in the lives of children? If so, apply today.
Click here to learn more about DCYF.
The Opportunity:
In this role, you will assess complex family situations, interview children and parents, evaluate child safety, develop plans to protect children in their homes, and offer services to children and families.
Some of what you'll do:
- Investigate, assess, and evaluate reports of child abuse.
- Interview children, family members, caregivers, and collateral sources to gather information necessary to assess child safety and determine the service needs of the family.
- Provide ongoing safety and risk assessment of the family throughout the life of the case and take appropriate action to protect children, correct parental deficits through services, and provide support to the family.
- Provide comprehensive and ongoing assessment of casework needs for child, parent(s)/guardian, and foster parent(s) with a focus and priority on child safety.
- Assess the need for out-of-home placement, and work with the family to find the most appropriate placement.
- Monitor the health and safety of children through regular visitation.
- Utilize FAMLINK to document case activities and maintain case records.
- Prepare and document cases for court proceedings.
What we are looking for (Required Qualifications):
The goal class is a Social Service Specialist 3, however, we will consider candidates at the Social Service Specialist 1 and 2 levels, with two different options to meet the qualifications through an In-Training plan.
In-Training Plan Option #1 - Experience with Required Credits OR Degree with the Required Credits
Applicants applying under this training option must have at least four (4) years of on the job social service experience and 30 semester or 45 quarter credits in a Social Service discipline OR a Bachelor’s degree (or higher) in Social Service, Human Service, or Behavioral Science, or any completed Bachelor's degree field that included 30 semester or 45 quarter credits in a Social Service discipline.
- Social Service Specialist 1: Four (4) years of paid work experience in one of the following: caring for children, social care, counseling youth, education, or home visitations AND 30 semester or 45 quarter credits in a Social Service discipline OR a Bachelor’s degree in social services, human services, behavioral sciences, or any degree which includes 30 semester or 45 quarter credits in a Social Service discipline; no experience necessary.
- Social Service Specialist 2: Five (5) years of paid social service experience AND 30 semester or 45 quarter credits in a Social Service discipline OR Bachelor’s degree in social services, human services, behavioral sciences, or any degree which includes 30 semester or 45 quarter credits in a Social Service discipline AND one (1) year of paid social service experience OR a Master's degree in social services, human services, behavioral sciences, or Master’s degree which includes 30 semester or 45 quarter credits in a Social Services discipline AND completed practicum.
- Social Service Specialist 3: Six (6) years of paid social service experience AND 30 semester or 45 quarter credits in a Social Service discipline OR a Bachelor’s degree in social services, human services, behavioral sciences, or any degree that includes 30 semester or 45 quarter credits in a Social Service discipline AND two (2) years of paid social service experience OR a Master's degree in social services, human services, behavioral sciences, or any degree which includes 30 semester or 45 quarter credits in a Social Service discipline AND one (1) year of paid social service experience OR one (1) year of experience as a Social Service Specialist 2. Paid Social Service experience must include at least one year of assessing risk and safety to children and providing direct family-centered practice services.
In-Training Plan Option #2 - Experience or Degree without the Required Credits
This option is for applicants who have four (4) years of paid work experience in one of the following: caring for children, social care, counseling youth, education, or home visitations and do not have 30 semester or 45 quarter credits in the social service field but are willing to obtain them within 18 months of hire OR applicants who have a Bachelor's or Master's degree in an unrelated field and do not have the required 30 semester or 45 quarter hours in the social service field but are willing to obtain them within 18 months of hire.
This option is great for candidates who have some or most of the required credits and only need to complete a few classes to meet this requirement. Applicants who apply under this hiring option will begin employment at the Social Service Specialist 1 level and must complete the educational course requirements within 18 months of hire to advance to the next in-training step.
AND
- The ability to take action to learn and grow.
- The ability to take action to meet the needs of others.
Preferred/Desired Qualifications:
- Prior public child welfare experience.
- Case management experience.
- Knowledge of social casework principles and practices, risk assessment and decision-making, interviewing techniques, solution-based casework, principles of child development, applicable Federal and State laws, and community resources.
- Experience assessing risk and safety concerning child abuse and neglect or developing safety or service plans with families.
- Familiarity with community resources and the local community.
- Ability to organize information to meet FAMLINK documentation requirements.
Salary Ranges:
- Social Service Specialist 1: Range 52 ($57,252 - $76,968)
- Social Service Specialist 2: Range 57 ($64,776 – $87,048)
- Social Service Specialist 3: Range 59 ($67,992 - $91,464)
Worker Core Training (WCT):
As a Social Service Specialist, you are required to successfully complete a mandatory 9.5-week Worker Core Training (WCT). This training provides the foundational knowledge and skills needed to perform core job functions, including assessing risk and safety, supporting child well-being, gathering information, and conducting case and permanency planning. During the training, you will have opportunities to practice these skills through classroom activities, simulation exercises, and debriefs. Upon hire, you will be assigned to the nearest available training cohort. The training includes four (4) weeks at our Seattle training site (scheduled for Weeks 2, 4, 6, and 8). For those eligible for travel from their assigned duty location, DCYF covers hotel accommodations and per diem costs.
The WCT curriculum is designed to prepare Social Service Specialists for the responsibilities of the role, including:
- Understanding the child welfare system
- Familiarity with the Revised Code of Washington (RCW) related to child welfare
- Policies, procedures, and best practices
- Assessing child safety through environmental observation, interviews with children and caregivers, and collateral contacts
- Collecting records and collaborating with community partners, including medical providers, law enforcement, and chemical dependency services
- Completing assessments and documenting case notes
- Writing dependency petitions and court reports
- Preparing for and testifying in court
How do I apply?
Complete your applicant profile and attach the following:
- Transcripts (Unofficial transcripts are acceptable for application submission)
- Cover Letter
- Current resume detailing experience and education.
Supplemental Information:
The Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) is committed to Washington’s children and youth growing up safe, healthy, and thriving. We invite all candidates to join us in our mission to create a diverse and equitable workplace that reflects the communities we serve. If you are excited about this role but you believe that your education and/or experience might not align perfectly with every qualification in the job posting, we encourage you to apply anyway.
The Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of age, sex, marital status, sexual orientation, race, creed, color, national origin, honorably discharged veteran or military status, or the presence of any sensory, mental, or physical disability or the use of a trained service animal by a person with a disability.
Prior to a new hire, a background check including criminal history will 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 position.
This position is included in the supervisory bargaining unit represented by the Washington Federation of State Employees (WFSE). This recruitment may be used to fill multiple vacancies.
This position requires a minimum of at least two years of driving experience and a valid driver’s license.
The incumbent must successfully complete formal training courses as required by law, policy, and regional requirements within one year of their appointment.
Degrees must be obtained from an accredited college or university whose accreditation is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA), or a foreign equivalent verified by a NACES-approved organization at naces.org. Foreign Equivalency certification must be attached to the application for degrees obtained outside the U.S.
For more information about this position or if you need an accommodation throughout the application/interview process, please contact DCYF recruiter. If you're experiencing technical difficulties creating, accessing or completing your application, call NEOGOV toll-free at (855) 524-5627 or email support@neogov.com. Persons needing accommodation in the application process or this announcement in an alternative format may call the Telecommunications Device for the Deaf (TDD) at 360-664-1960.
Applicants who meet the minimum qualifications and wish to claim Veteran's Preference MUST attach a copy of their DD214, NGB Form 22 or Predischarge Certification (issued not more than 120 days prior to End of Term of Service (ETS) by date of submission). If claiming preference based on Predischarge Certification, individual will be required to provide their official discharge documentation, such as a DD form 214, NGB form 22, or equivalent, within 30 days after the date of discharge. Please blackout (redact) the social security number before attaching any documents. For additional information on Veteran's Preference and guidance on how to determine if you are eligible, click here.
DCYF participates in the federal E-Verify program. The selected candidate must provide proof of identity and authorization to work in the United States, consistent with E-Verify requirements, on their first day of employment.
03528
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Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding Visa Sponsorship as a Social Services Specialist
Target government agencies and large nonprofits
Federal, state, and county agencies regularly sponsor H-1B visas for social services roles. Large nonprofits with established immigration processes are more likely to navigate sponsorship requirements successfully.
Emphasize your degree field alignment
USCIS closely reviews whether your bachelor's degree directly relates to social services work. Degrees in social work, psychology, sociology, or human services demonstrate the strongest specialty occupation case.
Highlight any professional licensing
Licensed Social Worker (LSW) or Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) credentials provide clear evidence of specialized qualifications that support H-1B specialty occupation requirements for visa approval.
Research Cap-Exempt opportunities first
Universities, government agencies, and qualifying nonprofits are cap-exempt, meaning no lottery. These employers can file H-1B petitions year-round without competing for the limited annual allocation.
Document specialized social work experience
Clinical experience, program management, or work with specific populations strengthens your case. Employers value specialized skills that demonstrate the need for degree-level expertise in social services.
Consider state licensing transfer requirements
Social work licenses vary by state. Research licensing requirements in your target location early, as some employers prefer candidates who can obtain local licensure quickly after arrival.
Social Services Specialist jobs are hiring across the US. Find yours.
Find Social Services Specialist JobsFrequently Asked Questions
Do Social Services Specialist roles qualify for H-1B sponsorship?
Yes, when the position requires a bachelor's degree in social work, psychology, or related field. The role must involve complex casework, program coordination, or clinical assessments that demonstrate specialty occupation requirements. Entry-level positions without degree requirements typically don't qualify for H-1B sponsorship.
What degree do I need for H-1B sponsorship in social services?
A bachelor's degree in social work, psychology, sociology, human services, or closely related field is typically required. Some employers accept degrees in counseling or public administration. The key is demonstrating how your specific degree directly relates to the social services role you're applying for.
Are government social services jobs cap-exempt for H-1B?
Yes, federal, state, and local government agencies are cap-exempt employers, meaning no H-1B lottery. They can file petitions year-round and aren't subject to the 85,000 annual limit. This makes government social services positions particularly attractive for international candidates seeking visa sponsorship.
Do I need social work licensure for H-1B visa approval?
Licensure isn't required for H-1B approval, but it strengthens your case significantly. Licensed Social Worker (LSW) or Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) credentials provide clear evidence of specialized qualifications. However, many entry-level social services positions can qualify with just the appropriate bachelor's degree.
Which employers sponsor H-1B visas for social services roles?
Government agencies at all levels frequently sponsor H-1B visas for social services positions. Large nonprofit organizations, healthcare systems with social services departments, and university-affiliated programs also commonly provide sponsorship. Private social services companies are less likely to sponsor due to cost considerations.
What is the prevailing wage requirement for sponsored Social Services Specialist jobs?
U.S. employers sponsoring a visa must pay at least the prevailing wage, which is what workers in the same role, area, and experience level typically earn. The Department of Labor sets this rate to make sure companies aren't hiring foreign workers simply because they'd accept lower pay than a U.S. worker. It varies by job title, location, and experience. You can look up current prevailing wage rates for any occupation and location using the OFLC Wage Search page.
How to find Social Services Specialist jobs with visa sponsorship?
To find Social Services Specialist jobs with visa sponsorship, use Migrate Mate, which specializes in connecting international candidates with sponsoring employers. Focus your search on healthcare systems, government agencies, non-profit organizations, and community service providers that commonly sponsor H-1B, TN, and O-1 visas for qualified social services professionals with relevant degrees and experience.
See which Social Services Specialist employers are hiring and sponsoring visas right now.
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