OPT CRT Jobs
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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Get Access To All JobsJOB DESCRIPTION
The Respiratory Therapist-CRT performs all aspects of cardiopulmonary function assessment and care as outlined in national and departmental clinical standards of practice, and in accordance with written verbal physician orders or approved protocols. This is an entry level position.
Shift:
Part-time
Job Requirements
- Applicable Experience: Less than 1 year
- Basic Life Support - American Heart Association or Red Cross
- Certified Respiratory Therapist - Various
- License-Respiratory Therapy - Various
- Associate Degree
JOB DETAILS
- Job Type: Part Time
- Work Hours: Day (United States of America)
JOB DESCRIPTION
The Respiratory Therapist-CRT performs all aspects of cardiopulmonary function assessment and care as outlined in national and departmental clinical standards of practice, and in accordance with written verbal physician orders or approved protocols. This is an entry level position.
Shift:
Part-time
Job Requirements
- Applicable Experience: Less than 1 year
- Basic Life Support - American Heart Association or Red Cross
- Certified Respiratory Therapist - Various
- License-Respiratory Therapy - Various
- Associate Degree
JOB DETAILS
- Job Type: Part Time
- Work Hours: Day (United States of America)
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Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding OPT 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 visa 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.
CRT OPT: Frequently 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.