OPT Addiction Counselor Jobs
Addiction Counselor jobs on OPT typically require a bachelor's or master's degree in counseling, social work, or a related behavioral health field. Most roles are at hospitals, nonprofits, and community health centers. STEM OPT extension does not apply to this field, so a 12-month OPT timeline is standard for most candidates.
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Get Access To All JobsINTRODUCTION
The Assistant Dean of Students and Director of the Sandler Center for Alcohol and Other Drug Education is a professional staff member in the Division of Student Affairs reporting to the Associate Vice President for Student Affairs and Dean of Students. This position serves as the University’s primary resource on Alcohol and Other Drug Education programs. The Assistant Dean of Students also plays a key role in the area of student discipline and supports the Associate Vice President for Student Affairs and Dean of Students in areas including parental communication, crisis management, and assessment and evaluation of services.
PRIMARY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
This position is a member of the Dean of Students Office (DOSO) staff and is responsible for the overall administration of the University’s alcohol and other drug education programs, including the supervision of the Student Affairs and Public Health Graduate Assistants for the Sandler Center for Alcohol and Other Drug Education. This position interacts regularly with parents, community and national agencies and associations, donors, vendors, and various members of the University community.
Alcohol and Other Drug Education Responsibilities:
- Hire, train, and supervise the Student Affairs and Public Health Graduate Assistants for the Sandler Center.
- Hire, train, and supervise Sandler Center Peer Educators (undergraduate students).
- Create and present dynamic and innovative substance misuse education programs and activities to the University community.
- Collaborate with all pertinent campus partners (including but not limited to Housing and Residence Life, Student Activities and Student Organizations, and The Butler Center for Service and Leadership) to provide intentional educational programs.
- Administer the implementation of online alcohol education and sanctioning programs.
- Administer the implementation of online drug education and sanctioning programs.
- Coordinate Peer Led Workshops attended by students as an educational judicial sanction.
- Coordinate and manage Vector’s Alcohol/Other Drug, Hazing, and Sexual Misconduct modules.
- Manage the compilation of a comprehensive resource library on substance misuse.
- Work with faculty to incorporate substance misuse education into the curriculum.
- Maintain and update Sandler Center website and publications.
- Prepare reports related to substance misuse for presentation to the Presidents Commission on Mental Health and Alcohol and Other Drug Education and other reporting structures.
- Form and cultivate relationships with current and potential supporters of and donors to the Center in support of alcohol and other drug related programs and initiatives.
ADDITIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Supervise graduate intern(s) and/or practicum student(s).
- Serve as advisor to the peer educators and attend regularly scheduled meetings.
- Plan and execute training for the peer educators.
- Strengthen the Sandler Center for Alcohol and Other Drug Education’s online and social media presence.
- Broaden the use of Artificial Intelligence to maximize the effectiveness of the Sandler Center for Alcohol and Other Drug Education, workflow, and community engagement.
- Accompany students to regional and or national peer education conferences.
- Supervise and maintain all Alcohol and Other Drug Education-related financial transactions and budgets.
- Be available for service as a Hearing Officer for undergraduate disciplinary cases.
- Participate in campus activities within the Division of Student Affairs (Orientation, Leadership Programs, Homecoming, Convocation, etc.).
- Assume duty on 24-hour crisis response roster.
- Responsible for the oversight of multiple financial and endowment accounts.
- Serve on Student Affairs or University committees as assigned or requested.
- Document, draft, revise and make recommendations to the Associate Vice President and Dean of Students on changes, additions, deletions to the major and university disciplinary procedures and all regulations contained in the Student Rights and Responsibilities manual.
- Perform other general or specific duties as assigned by the Associate Vice President for Student Affairs and Dean of Students.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITIES (KSA):
- Knowledge of and professional experience working with alcohol and other drug education programs.
- Strong administrative and problem-solving skills.
- Excellent communications skills.
- Very organized and detail oriented.
- Excels in a fast-paced environment.
EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS:
Master’s degree in college student personnel, higher education administration, enrollment management or related field.
WORK EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS:
Minimum of 3-5 years full-time professional student affairs or related experience.
The University of Miami is recognized as one of the nation’s premier research institutions and academic health systems and is among the largest employers in South Florida.
With more than 20,000 faculty and staff, the University is committed to excellence and guided by a mission to positively impact the lives of students, patients, and communities locally and globally.
We are dedicated to fostering a culture where every individual feels valued and empowered to contribute meaningfully. United by shared values, the University community works together to build an environment defined by purpose, collaboration, and service.
The University of Miami is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Applicants and employees are protected from discrimination based on certain categories protected by Federal law.
Job Status:
Full time
Employee Type:
Staff
INTRODUCTION
The Assistant Dean of Students and Director of the Sandler Center for Alcohol and Other Drug Education is a professional staff member in the Division of Student Affairs reporting to the Associate Vice President for Student Affairs and Dean of Students. This position serves as the University’s primary resource on Alcohol and Other Drug Education programs. The Assistant Dean of Students also plays a key role in the area of student discipline and supports the Associate Vice President for Student Affairs and Dean of Students in areas including parental communication, crisis management, and assessment and evaluation of services.
PRIMARY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
This position is a member of the Dean of Students Office (DOSO) staff and is responsible for the overall administration of the University’s alcohol and other drug education programs, including the supervision of the Student Affairs and Public Health Graduate Assistants for the Sandler Center for Alcohol and Other Drug Education. This position interacts regularly with parents, community and national agencies and associations, donors, vendors, and various members of the University community.
Alcohol and Other Drug Education Responsibilities:
- Hire, train, and supervise the Student Affairs and Public Health Graduate Assistants for the Sandler Center.
- Hire, train, and supervise Sandler Center Peer Educators (undergraduate students).
- Create and present dynamic and innovative substance misuse education programs and activities to the University community.
- Collaborate with all pertinent campus partners (including but not limited to Housing and Residence Life, Student Activities and Student Organizations, and The Butler Center for Service and Leadership) to provide intentional educational programs.
- Administer the implementation of online alcohol education and sanctioning programs.
- Administer the implementation of online drug education and sanctioning programs.
- Coordinate Peer Led Workshops attended by students as an educational judicial sanction.
- Coordinate and manage Vector’s Alcohol/Other Drug, Hazing, and Sexual Misconduct modules.
- Manage the compilation of a comprehensive resource library on substance misuse.
- Work with faculty to incorporate substance misuse education into the curriculum.
- Maintain and update Sandler Center website and publications.
- Prepare reports related to substance misuse for presentation to the Presidents Commission on Mental Health and Alcohol and Other Drug Education and other reporting structures.
- Form and cultivate relationships with current and potential supporters of and donors to the Center in support of alcohol and other drug related programs and initiatives.
ADDITIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Supervise graduate intern(s) and/or practicum student(s).
- Serve as advisor to the peer educators and attend regularly scheduled meetings.
- Plan and execute training for the peer educators.
- Strengthen the Sandler Center for Alcohol and Other Drug Education’s online and social media presence.
- Broaden the use of Artificial Intelligence to maximize the effectiveness of the Sandler Center for Alcohol and Other Drug Education, workflow, and community engagement.
- Accompany students to regional and or national peer education conferences.
- Supervise and maintain all Alcohol and Other Drug Education-related financial transactions and budgets.
- Be available for service as a Hearing Officer for undergraduate disciplinary cases.
- Participate in campus activities within the Division of Student Affairs (Orientation, Leadership Programs, Homecoming, Convocation, etc.).
- Assume duty on 24-hour crisis response roster.
- Responsible for the oversight of multiple financial and endowment accounts.
- Serve on Student Affairs or University committees as assigned or requested.
- Document, draft, revise and make recommendations to the Associate Vice President and Dean of Students on changes, additions, deletions to the major and university disciplinary procedures and all regulations contained in the Student Rights and Responsibilities manual.
- Perform other general or specific duties as assigned by the Associate Vice President for Student Affairs and Dean of Students.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITIES (KSA):
- Knowledge of and professional experience working with alcohol and other drug education programs.
- Strong administrative and problem-solving skills.
- Excellent communications skills.
- Very organized and detail oriented.
- Excels in a fast-paced environment.
EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS:
Master’s degree in college student personnel, higher education administration, enrollment management or related field.
WORK EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS:
Minimum of 3-5 years full-time professional student affairs or related experience.
The University of Miami is recognized as one of the nation’s premier research institutions and academic health systems and is among the largest employers in South Florida.
With more than 20,000 faculty and staff, the University is committed to excellence and guided by a mission to positively impact the lives of students, patients, and communities locally and globally.
We are dedicated to fostering a culture where every individual feels valued and empowered to contribute meaningfully. United by shared values, the University community works together to build an environment defined by purpose, collaboration, and service.
The University of Miami is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Applicants and employees are protected from discrimination based on certain categories protected by Federal law.
Job Status:
Full time
Employee Type:
Staff
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Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding OPT Sponsorship as an Addiction Counselor
Target nonprofit and public health employers
Nonprofit treatment centers and county health departments are more accustomed to hiring international staff than private practices. They often have HR infrastructure to support OPT work authorization and are motivated by mission over cost concerns about sponsorship.
Get your licensure documentation in order early
Most states require a Licensed Professional Counselor or CADC credential to practice. Research your state's requirements before applying so you can show employers you're on a clear path to licensure, even if you haven't completed it yet.
Lead with your EAD, not your visa status
When reaching out to employers, frame your work authorization around your Employment Authorization Document. Most hiring managers understand EAD more readily than OPT terminology, which reduces confusion and keeps the conversation focused on your qualifications.
Apply early and track your OPT end date carefully
Addiction Counselor hiring cycles at clinics and hospitals can move slowly. Start applying at least three to four months before your OPT expires to leave room for background checks, credentialing processes, and any H-1B visa or other sponsorship discussions.
Emphasize bilingual skills or cultural specializations
Employers serving diverse patient populations actively seek counselors who speak languages other than English or understand specific cultural contexts. These qualifications make you a stronger candidate and can differentiate you from applicants who don't need sponsorship consideration.
Ask about H-1B sponsorship before accepting offers
Addiction Counselor roles can qualify for H-1B if the position requires a specific degree. Confirm whether the employer has sponsored H-1B workers before and whether they're willing to, so you're not caught off guard as your OPT end date approaches.
Addiction Counselor OPT: Frequently Asked Questions
Can I work as an Addiction Counselor on OPT?
Yes, you can work as an Addiction Counselor on OPT as long as the role is directly related to your degree field, such as counseling, social work, psychology, or a related behavioral health discipline. You'll need a valid EAD card before starting work. The position must constitute practical training in your field of study to remain compliant with F-1 regulations.
Does the Addiction Counselor field qualify for the STEM OPT extension?
No. Addiction Counseling, Social Work, and Clinical Mental Health Counseling are not classified under STEM CIP codes, so the 24-month STEM OPT extension does not apply. You're limited to the standard 12-month OPT period unless you transition to a different visa status such as H-1B. Planning your job search timeline around the 12-month window is essential for this field.
Can an Addiction Counselor role qualify for H-1B sponsorship?
It can, but the role must qualify as a specialty occupation, meaning it requires at least a bachelor's degree in a specific field like counseling or social work. Entry-level or paraprofessional addiction counselor roles that accept any degree may not meet the threshold. Roles requiring a master's degree, such as Licensed Clinical Social Worker or Licensed Professional Counselor positions, are stronger H-1B candidates.
Where can I find Addiction Counselor jobs that are open to OPT students?
Migrate Mate is built specifically for F-1 OPT students and filters for employers willing to hire candidates on work authorization. Browsing Migrate Mate gives you direct access to Addiction Counselor listings where sponsorship or OPT acceptance is already part of the employer's expectations, saving you time compared to applying broadly and discovering authorization issues late in the process.
Do I need a counseling license to work as an Addiction Counselor on OPT?
Licensing requirements vary by state and role level. Many entry-level positions allow you to work under supervision while pursuing credentials like the CADC or state licensure. However, some clinical roles require active licensure before hire. Confirm your state's specific requirements and be transparent with employers about your current credential status and your timeline for completing any outstanding requirements.