If you have a H1 visa, you can use it for at least 6 years. You cannot work without a valid H1 visa.
The other solution is to concurrently file I-140 and I-485 for EB1 or EB2 NIW so that you can get EAD card to work first. However it is very risky if your I-140 is denied and you use the EAD to work.
You can find more information about different petition from this forum. Just type a few key words. Good luck.