OPT Clinical Medical Assistant Jobs
Clinical Medical Assistant jobs are a strong fit for F-1 OPT students with degrees in health sciences, medical assisting, or allied health. Most roles qualify under STEM-adjacent healthcare fields, giving you up to 12 months of OPT work authorization, with potential STEM OPT extension if your program is STEM-designated.
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INTRODUCTION
Penn Highlands Healthcare has been awarded on the Forbes list of Best-in-State Employers 2022. This prestigious award is presented by Forbes and Statistica Inc., the world leading statistics portal and industry ranking provider.
$5,000 Sign-On/Retention Bonus for Qualified Candidates
AS A MEDICAL ASSISTANT: The Medical Assistant, in support of the physician or mid-level provider will assist in the development, implementation and evaluation of patient care in the office. He/she will be required to coordinate the care with other Penn Highlands services, or outside health care providers. The Medical Assistant will serve as a liaison between the physician, the mid-level provider and all other health care providers.
QUALIFICATIONS
- High School Diploma or equivalent
- Completion of a Medical Assistant program required
- Completion of a Clinical Medical Assistant program or Completion of a Medical Assistant program with eligibility to sit for NCCT certification or NHA certification
- NCCT or NHA certification must be obtained within 2 years of start date
- Experience in administrative office procedures within a physician office preferred
- Healthcare provider CPR certification through the American Heart Association within the first year of hire
WHAT WE OFFER:
- Competitive Compensation based on experience
- Shift Differentials
- Referral Bonus Opportunities
- Professional Development
- Supportive and Experienced Peers
BENEFITS:
- Medical, Dental, and Vision offered the first month after start date
- Paid Time Off
- 403(b) retirement plan with company match
- Flex Spending Account
- 25% discount on all services at Penn Highlands Healthcare facilities
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
- Health & Wellness Programs
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Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding OPT Sponsorship as a Clinical Medical Assistant
Verify your program's OPT eligibility before applying
Clinical Medical Assistant roles typically require a degree in medical assisting, health sciences, or a related field. Confirm your DSO has authorized OPT for your specific program before submitting applications to avoid complications with employers.
Clarify your authorization type upfront with employers
Many healthcare employers are unfamiliar with OPT. Come prepared to explain that OPT is USCIS-issued work authorization, requires no employer sponsorship for the initial period, and that you have a valid EAD card to prove it.
Target health systems and hospital networks over solo practices
Large hospital systems and multi-location health networks have HR teams experienced with international employees. They are more likely to understand OPT authorization and have processes in place for onboarding students on work authorization.
Start your job search at least 90 days before OPT begins
Clinical hiring in healthcare can move slowly due to background checks and credentialing requirements. Beginning your search early gives you enough runway to clear these steps before your OPT start date on your EAD.
Highlight any clinical certifications alongside your OPT status
Certifications like CMA or CCMA from AAMA or NHA strengthen your application and signal readiness to employers. Pair this with a clear, one-line explanation of OPT in your cover letter to reduce hesitation from hiring managers.
Track your OPT days carefully if you work part-time
OPT requires at least 20 hours of work per week to maintain valid status. If you take a part-time clinical role, confirm it meets this threshold with your DSO, as falling below it can jeopardize your F-1 status.
Clinical Medical Assistant OPT: Frequently Asked Questions
Can I work as a Clinical Medical Assistant on OPT?
Yes, if your degree is in medical assisting, health sciences, or a closely related field, Clinical Medical Assistant roles qualify for OPT. The work must be directly related to your area of study. Your DSO will confirm this connection when authorizing OPT, so check with them before applying if you're unsure whether your degree aligns with this role.
Do Clinical Medical Assistant employers need to sponsor my OPT?
No. During your initial OPT period, employers do not file any petition or pay any fees. Your EAD card is your work authorization, and you present it during the I-9 process like any other employment document. Some employers confuse OPT with H-1B visa sponsorship, so be ready to clarify that no employer action is required to hire you.
Where can I find Clinical Medical Assistant jobs that are open to OPT students?
Migrate Mate is built specifically for F-1 OPT and international students seeking U.S. jobs. You can browse Clinical Medical Assistant listings from employers who are already open to candidates on OPT work authorization, which removes the uncertainty of explaining your visa status to employers who have never hired international students before.
Does a Clinical Medical Assistant role qualify for a STEM OPT extension?
It depends on your degree's Classification of Instructional Programs code, not the job title itself. If your medical assisting or health informatics program carries a STEM-designated CIP code, you may qualify for a 24-month STEM OPT extension. Confirm the CIP code with your DSO and verify the role still relates to your degree before applying for the extension.
What happens to my OPT if I leave a Clinical Medical Assistant job?
You have a 90-day unemployment buffer during your OPT period. If you leave a job or are let go, that clock starts running. For Clinical Medical Assistant roles specifically, finding a new position quickly matters because healthcare hiring involves credentialing and background checks that take time. Report any job changes to your DSO within 10 days to keep your SEVIS record current.