CRT Jobs for OPT Students
CRT roles in education and healthcare settings are a strong fit for F-1 OPT students with degrees in respiratory therapy, health sciences, or related fields. Most CRT positions qualify for standard 12-month OPT, and STEM OPT extension may apply if your degree falls under an eligible CIP code.
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Hourly Pay Range:
$17.00 - $23.80 - The hourly pay rate offered is determined by a candidate's expertise and years of experience, among other factors.
Position Highlights:
- Position: Patient Safety Observer - Central Resource Team
- Location: Edward Hospital - Naperville, IL
- Full Time: 0.9 FTE - 36 hour work week
- Hours: Nights: 6:30pm-7:00am
What you will do:
Under direct supervision of the department manager, clinical leader or charge nurse, observes and monitors the condition of patients. Provides patients in need of supervision compassionate and caring attention while ensuring a safe environment.
- Protects the patient’s safety.
- Positions themselves in their assigned patient’s room to maintain constant visual observation of the patient. Ensures patient is never alone or out of sight of a direct caregiver unless instructed otherwise.
- Accompanies the patient for testing or procedures and remains with patient unless directed otherwise by the person performing the test or procedure.
- Observes the patient for increased anxiety, escalating behavior, changes in mental condition, and immediately relays this information to the nurse.
- Listens to patient for signs of worry or concern or if patient symptoms are worsening. Immediately relays information to the staff so that further action can be taken if necessary.
- Provides comfort and compassion for the patient while ensuring their safety. Follows staff directives as it relates to patient mobility, etc. and what to observe, what to report and to whom this information should be reported.
- Maintains accurate and legible records as directed.
- Maintains professional behavior while sitting with patient; i.e., no use of personal cell phones, sleeping, engaging in conversation with other staff members or leaving patient unattended.
- Educates patient and family as to role and expectations of unit as directed by the nurse.
- Demonstrates appropriate communication skills and behaviors with patient as required.
- Maintains the privacy and security of all confidential and protected health information. Uses and discloses only that information which is necessary to perform the function of the job.
- Regular on-time & on-site attendance, due to patient care needs, is an essential function of this position.
What you will need:
- High School Diploma or GED
- Ability to read, to exchange information with patients and others, and/or to do basic arithmetic.
- Basic level of analytical ability to read and understand simple instructions, enter data into logs, charts, records, maintain files, etc.
- Basic level of communication skills to exchange information on factual matters, understand and transmit instructions, and perform other duties that require basic communication skills.
- Patience and compassion for such tasks as listening to patient worries & concerns.
- Physical stamina to remain alert, awake and attentive to patient, regardless of assigned shift.
- Care Companion class completion, which includes on-the-job training, within two weeks of position start date.
- Must be available to work assigned shifts.
- Work is performed under close supervision or in accordance with specific and detailed instruction or procedures.
- Work is generally performed in a clinical environment where employee must adhere to unit and patient-specific safety and infection control precautions.
- Work requires the ability to lift and position patients, and the ability to work in a confined area for two or more hours.
Benefits (For full time or part time positions):
- Eligibility for our Annual Incentive Plan, which offers the potential to earn a certain percentage amount of your base salary based on organizational performance. (For AIP eligible positions)
- Premium pay such as shift, on call, holiday and more based on an employee’s job (For eligible positions)
- Incentive pay for select positions
- Opportunity for annual increases based on performance
- Career Pathways to Promote Professional Growth and Development
- Various Medical, Dental, Pet and Vision options
- Tuition Reimbursement
- Free Parking
- Wellness Program Savings Plan
- Health Savings Account Options
- Retirement Options with Company Match
- Paid Time Off and Holiday Pay
- Community Involvement Opportunities
Endeavor Health is a fully integrated healthcare delivery system committed to providing access to quality, vibrant, community-connected care, serving an area of more than 4.2 million residents across six northeast Illinois counties. Our more than 25,000 team members and more than 6,000 physicians aim to deliver transformative patient experiences and expert care close to home across more than 300 ambulatory locations and eight acute care hospitals – Edward (Naperville), Elmhurst, Evanston, Glenbrook (Glenview), Highland Park, Northwest Community (Arlington Heights), Skokie and Swedish (Chicago) – all recognized as Magnet hospitals for nursing excellence.
When you work for Endeavor Health, you will be part of an organization that encourages its employees to achieve career goals and maximize their professional potential.
Endeavor Health is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodation to individuals with disabilities. Please refer to the main career page for more information.
At Endeavor Health, we are united by a shared commitment to working together to create a culture of connection and belonging—each of us bringing different skills and experiences as we deliver safe, seamless, and personal care. Every person, every time. We are committed to fostering an environment where all team members can be their best, learn, and pursue excellence together.
EOE: Race/Color/Sex/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity/Religion/National Origin/Disability/Vets, VEVRRA Federal Contractor.

Hourly Pay Range:
$17.00 - $23.80 - The hourly pay rate offered is determined by a candidate's expertise and years of experience, among other factors.
Position Highlights:
- Position: Patient Safety Observer - Central Resource Team
- Location: Edward Hospital - Naperville, IL
- Full Time: 0.9 FTE - 36 hour work week
- Hours: Nights: 6:30pm-7:00am
What you will do:
Under direct supervision of the department manager, clinical leader or charge nurse, observes and monitors the condition of patients. Provides patients in need of supervision compassionate and caring attention while ensuring a safe environment.
- Protects the patient’s safety.
- Positions themselves in their assigned patient’s room to maintain constant visual observation of the patient. Ensures patient is never alone or out of sight of a direct caregiver unless instructed otherwise.
- Accompanies the patient for testing or procedures and remains with patient unless directed otherwise by the person performing the test or procedure.
- Observes the patient for increased anxiety, escalating behavior, changes in mental condition, and immediately relays this information to the nurse.
- Listens to patient for signs of worry or concern or if patient symptoms are worsening. Immediately relays information to the staff so that further action can be taken if necessary.
- Provides comfort and compassion for the patient while ensuring their safety. Follows staff directives as it relates to patient mobility, etc. and what to observe, what to report and to whom this information should be reported.
- Maintains accurate and legible records as directed.
- Maintains professional behavior while sitting with patient; i.e., no use of personal cell phones, sleeping, engaging in conversation with other staff members or leaving patient unattended.
- Educates patient and family as to role and expectations of unit as directed by the nurse.
- Demonstrates appropriate communication skills and behaviors with patient as required.
- Maintains the privacy and security of all confidential and protected health information. Uses and discloses only that information which is necessary to perform the function of the job.
- Regular on-time & on-site attendance, due to patient care needs, is an essential function of this position.
What you will need:
- High School Diploma or GED
- Ability to read, to exchange information with patients and others, and/or to do basic arithmetic.
- Basic level of analytical ability to read and understand simple instructions, enter data into logs, charts, records, maintain files, etc.
- Basic level of communication skills to exchange information on factual matters, understand and transmit instructions, and perform other duties that require basic communication skills.
- Patience and compassion for such tasks as listening to patient worries & concerns.
- Physical stamina to remain alert, awake and attentive to patient, regardless of assigned shift.
- Care Companion class completion, which includes on-the-job training, within two weeks of position start date.
- Must be available to work assigned shifts.
- Work is performed under close supervision or in accordance with specific and detailed instruction or procedures.
- Work is generally performed in a clinical environment where employee must adhere to unit and patient-specific safety and infection control precautions.
- Work requires the ability to lift and position patients, and the ability to work in a confined area for two or more hours.
Benefits (For full time or part time positions):
- Eligibility for our Annual Incentive Plan, which offers the potential to earn a certain percentage amount of your base salary based on organizational performance. (For AIP eligible positions)
- Premium pay such as shift, on call, holiday and more based on an employee’s job (For eligible positions)
- Incentive pay for select positions
- Opportunity for annual increases based on performance
- Career Pathways to Promote Professional Growth and Development
- Various Medical, Dental, Pet and Vision options
- Tuition Reimbursement
- Free Parking
- Wellness Program Savings Plan
- Health Savings Account Options
- Retirement Options with Company Match
- Paid Time Off and Holiday Pay
- Community Involvement Opportunities
Endeavor Health is a fully integrated healthcare delivery system committed to providing access to quality, vibrant, community-connected care, serving an area of more than 4.2 million residents across six northeast Illinois counties. Our more than 25,000 team members and more than 6,000 physicians aim to deliver transformative patient experiences and expert care close to home across more than 300 ambulatory locations and eight acute care hospitals – Edward (Naperville), Elmhurst, Evanston, Glenbrook (Glenview), Highland Park, Northwest Community (Arlington Heights), Skokie and Swedish (Chicago) – all recognized as Magnet hospitals for nursing excellence.
When you work for Endeavor Health, you will be part of an organization that encourages its employees to achieve career goals and maximize their professional potential.
Endeavor Health is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodation to individuals with disabilities. Please refer to the main career page for more information.
At Endeavor Health, we are united by a shared commitment to working together to create a culture of connection and belonging—each of us bringing different skills and experiences as we deliver safe, seamless, and personal care. Every person, every time. We are committed to fostering an environment where all team members can be their best, learn, and pursue excellence together.
EOE: Race/Color/Sex/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity/Religion/National Origin/Disability/Vets, VEVRRA Federal Contractor.
How to Get Visa Sponsorship in CRT
Confirm your degree aligns with the role
CRT positions require your OPT authorization to match your field of study. A degree in respiratory therapy or health sciences typically satisfies this. Unrelated degrees, even with clinical experience, can put your OPT status at risk.
Check STEM OPT eligibility before applying
Some health sciences and biomedical programs carry STEM-designated CIP codes, making you eligible for a 24-month extension. Confirm your program's CIP code with your DSO before assuming you qualify. This changes how long you can work without H-1B sponsorship.
Target employers with active USCIS filing history
Hospitals and healthcare networks that regularly hire international staff are more likely to support visa sponsorship long-term. Look for employers with established HR processes for work authorization rather than small clinics navigating it for the first time.
Disclose your OPT status early in the process
Respiratory therapy roles often involve credentialing timelines. Raising your OPT status early lets employers plan around authorization windows and avoids misalignment between your start date and when paperwork clears their HR system.
Secure state licensure before your OPT start date
Most states require CRT licensure before you can practice clinically. Delays in licensing directly affect when you can begin authorized employment. Start your state application immediately after graduation to avoid gaps in your OPT period.
Track your OPT end date against employer timelines
CRT hiring cycles in hospitals can run 8 to 12 weeks from application to start date. Know your OPT expiration before you apply so you and the employer have a realistic window to get you onboarded before your authorization expires.
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Get Access To All JobsFrequently Asked Questions
Can F-1 OPT students work as a CRT in the United States?
Yes, F-1 students authorized for post-completion OPT can work as a Certified Respiratory Therapist if the role is directly related to their field of study. Your Employment Authorization Document must be active before your first day. The position must align with your degree, not just your clinical interests or prior experience.
Does a CRT role qualify for the STEM OPT extension?
It depends on your specific degree program. Respiratory therapy programs typically fall under CIP code 51.0908, which is not STEM-designated. However, some health sciences, biomedical science, or kinesiology programs are STEM-eligible. Verify your program's CIP code with your DSO and confirm with your school's international student office before counting on a 24-month extension.
How do I find CRT employers that support OPT students?
Migrate Mate is built specifically for F-1 OPT students and filters CRT job listings by sponsorship and work authorization compatibility. Searching there surfaces employers who have hired international students before, which significantly improves your chances of finding a role where HR already understands OPT requirements and timelines.
What happens to my OPT if my CRT license is delayed?
Your OPT clock starts on the authorization start date you selected, regardless of whether your state license has been issued. If you cannot legally practice without a license, any unlicensed period may not count as authorized OPT employment. Work with your DSO immediately if licensure delays are pushing past your OPT start date.
Do CRT employers typically sponsor H-1B visas after OPT?
Some do, particularly large hospital systems and healthcare networks with dedicated immigration support. Smaller outpatient clinics and private practices are less likely to have the infrastructure for H-1B sponsorship. When evaluating offers, ask HR directly about their history of sponsoring international employees and whether they have an immigration attorney on retainer.
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