OPT EMT Jobs
EMT jobs on OPT are available across hospital systems, fire departments, and private ambulance services, though most positions require active state EMT certification, which F-1 students can pursue while on OPT. Your 12-month OPT window (or 24-month STEM extension if your degree qualifies) should align with your certification timeline before applying.
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Southwest Virginia Community College (SWCC) offers career-training programs in numerous technical, industrial and medical fields at a reasonable cost, going so far as to even waive tuition for certain eligible students. Located in Richlands, Virginia, Southwest offers associate’s degrees in such fields as business, education, general studies, liberal arts and science. These degrees are primarily intended for students who wish to transfer to a four-year university. Southwest also has associate’s degrees that feature programs intended to lead directly to a career in fields such as Nursing, Radiography and Administration of Justice.
Southwest Virginia Community College is seeking two candidates to fill adjunct teaching faculty positions in the Emergency Medical Services Program beginning in Spring 2027. One position will be located on the main campus location in Cedar Bluff, Virginia, and the other position will be located at the Southern Gap location in Buchanan County, Virginia.
Adjunct EMS Instructors are responsible for effectively planning, delivering, and evaluating Emergency Medical Services (EMS) instruction for students enrolled in EMS programs. Instruction may be provided in a variety of formats, including face-to-face, hybrid, remote, laboratory, and online settings. Courses may include Emergency Medical Responder (EMR), Emergency Medical Technician (EMT), Advanced Emergency Medical Technician (AEMT), Paramedic, and other EMS-related courses.
Adjunct faculty are employed to teach up to 12 credit hours during the fall and spring semesters and/or up to 8 credit hours during the summer session. Teaching assignments are based on program needs, student enrollment, and staffing requirements. Employment is on a semester-by-semester basis, and adjunct faculty appointments carry no expectation or guarantee of continued employment.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
- Teach assigned EMS courses in accordance with established course outcomes, state regulations, and accreditation standards.
- Deliver classroom, laboratory, simulation, clinical, and field internship instruction as assigned.
- Develop and maintain course syllabi, lesson plans, examinations, and instructional materials.
- Evaluate student performance and provide timely feedback regarding academic and clinical progress.
- Maintain accurate attendance, grading, clinical tracking, and student records.
- Submit required reports and documentation by established deadlines.
- Support student success through academic advising, remediation, and professional mentoring as appropriate.
- Ensure compliance with Virginia Office of EMS requirements, National EMS Education Standards, and program accreditation standards.
- Collaborate with program leadership, faculty, clinical affiliates, and community partners.
- Utilize instructional technology and learning management systems to support teaching and learning.
- Maintain current knowledge and competency in EMS education, clinical practice, and instructional methodologies.
- Adhere to all policies, procedures, and regulations of the college and the Virginia Community College System (VCCS).
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
As part of the primary responsibility to provide high-quality instruction, the College expects each faculty member to:
- Meet all assigned classes, labs, simulations, clinicals, and field experiences as scheduled.
- Teach the prescribed curriculum using approved instructional materials and established course outcomes.
- Submit required records, grades, evaluations, and reports accurately and on time.
- Maintain professional relationships with students, colleagues, clinical partners, and community stakeholders.
- Demonstrate ethical and professional conduct in accordance with college policies and EMS professional standards.
- Create a safe and effective learning environment that promotes student engagement and success.
- Participate in required faculty meetings, orientations, training programs, and assessment activities as assigned.
- Maintain all required EMS credentials and instructional qualifications necessary to teach assigned courses.
Teaching assignments may occur during daytime, evening, weekend, or online schedules. Adjunct faculty may be assigned to teach at multiple campus locations, clinical affiliates, or off-site educational facilities depending on program needs. Employment is contingent upon successful completion of required background checks, credential verification, and maintenance of all required certifications and licenses.
Instructional faculty must reside in the state of Virginia or be available to teach in-person classes at one of the Southwest Virginia Community College (SWCC) locations (Main Campus, Lebanon, Bluefield, Southern Gap).
KSA's/REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Current certification as a Virginia Emergency Medical Technician, Advanced EMT, Paramedic, or eligibility for Virginia certification, as appropriate for instructional assignments.
- Current healthcare provider CPR certification.
- Demonstrated competency in the subject matter being taught.
- Ability to communicate effectively with students from diverse educational, cultural, and professional backgrounds.
- Strong organizational, interpersonal, and instructional skills.
- Ability to demonstrate EMS skills and patient care procedures.
- Ability to lift, move, and operate EMS training equipment.
- Ability to stand, walk, bend, and participate in classroom, laboratory, and clinical instruction for extended periods.
- Ability to travel to instructional, clinical, and field internship sites as required.
ADDITIONAL CONSIDERATIONS
- Associate degree or higher in EMS, Healthcare, Education, or a related field.
- Virginia EMS Education Coordinator certification or equivalent instructional experience.
- Previous experience teaching in higher education, workforce development, or public safety education programs.
- Experience with simulation-based education, clinical coordination, or EMS program accreditation processes.
- Knowledge of VCCS policies, National EMS Education Standards, and EMS accreditation requirements.
LOCATION
Work Location: Tazewell - 185
WORK SCHEDULE
Dependent on course schedule, which may include days, evenings, and/or weekend days.
REQUIRED TRAVEL
Travel is required with this position.
SPECIAL ASSIGNMENTS
May be required to perform other duties as assigned. May be required to assist the agency or state government generally in the event of an emergency declaration by the Governor.
EEO STATEMENT
The Virginia Community College System (VCCS) provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, political affiliation, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or other non-merit factors.
ADA STATEMENT
The Virginia Community College System (VCCS) is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer and complies with the Americans with Disabilities Acts (ADA and ADAAA), to provide reasonable accommodation to applicants in need of access to the application, interviewing, and selection processes when requested.
E-VERIFY STATEMENT
VCCS uses E-Verify to check employee eligibility to work in the United States. You will be required to complete an I-9 form and provide documentation of your identity for employment purposes.
POSTING DETAIL INFORMATION
- Posting Number: ADJ_3669P
- Recruitment Type: General Public - G
- Number of Vacancies: 2
- Job Open Date: 10/20/2026
- Job Close Date: 11/15/2026
- Open Until Filled: No
CONTACT NAME
Human Resources
human.resources@sw.edu
PHONE NUMBER
276.964.7339
SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS TO APPLICANTS
To be considered for this position, you must complete the full state application. Please visit.
BACKGROUND CHECK STATEMENT DISCLAIMER
The selected candidate’s offer is contingent upon the successful completion of a criminal background investigation, which may include: fingerprint checks, local agency checks, employment verification, verification of education, credit checks (relevant to employment). Additionally, selected candidates may be required to complete the Commonwealth’s Statement of Economic Interest. For more information, please follow this link: http://ethics.dls.virginia.gov/
INTRODUCTION
Southwest Virginia Community College (SWCC) offers career-training programs in numerous technical, industrial and medical fields at a reasonable cost, going so far as to even waive tuition for certain eligible students. Located in Richlands, Virginia, Southwest offers associate’s degrees in such fields as business, education, general studies, liberal arts and science. These degrees are primarily intended for students who wish to transfer to a four-year university. Southwest also has associate’s degrees that feature programs intended to lead directly to a career in fields such as Nursing, Radiography and Administration of Justice.
Southwest Virginia Community College is seeking two candidates to fill adjunct teaching faculty positions in the Emergency Medical Services Program beginning in Spring 2027. One position will be located on the main campus location in Cedar Bluff, Virginia, and the other position will be located at the Southern Gap location in Buchanan County, Virginia.
Adjunct EMS Instructors are responsible for effectively planning, delivering, and evaluating Emergency Medical Services (EMS) instruction for students enrolled in EMS programs. Instruction may be provided in a variety of formats, including face-to-face, hybrid, remote, laboratory, and online settings. Courses may include Emergency Medical Responder (EMR), Emergency Medical Technician (EMT), Advanced Emergency Medical Technician (AEMT), Paramedic, and other EMS-related courses.
Adjunct faculty are employed to teach up to 12 credit hours during the fall and spring semesters and/or up to 8 credit hours during the summer session. Teaching assignments are based on program needs, student enrollment, and staffing requirements. Employment is on a semester-by-semester basis, and adjunct faculty appointments carry no expectation or guarantee of continued employment.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
- Teach assigned EMS courses in accordance with established course outcomes, state regulations, and accreditation standards.
- Deliver classroom, laboratory, simulation, clinical, and field internship instruction as assigned.
- Develop and maintain course syllabi, lesson plans, examinations, and instructional materials.
- Evaluate student performance and provide timely feedback regarding academic and clinical progress.
- Maintain accurate attendance, grading, clinical tracking, and student records.
- Submit required reports and documentation by established deadlines.
- Support student success through academic advising, remediation, and professional mentoring as appropriate.
- Ensure compliance with Virginia Office of EMS requirements, National EMS Education Standards, and program accreditation standards.
- Collaborate with program leadership, faculty, clinical affiliates, and community partners.
- Utilize instructional technology and learning management systems to support teaching and learning.
- Maintain current knowledge and competency in EMS education, clinical practice, and instructional methodologies.
- Adhere to all policies, procedures, and regulations of the college and the Virginia Community College System (VCCS).
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
As part of the primary responsibility to provide high-quality instruction, the College expects each faculty member to:
- Meet all assigned classes, labs, simulations, clinicals, and field experiences as scheduled.
- Teach the prescribed curriculum using approved instructional materials and established course outcomes.
- Submit required records, grades, evaluations, and reports accurately and on time.
- Maintain professional relationships with students, colleagues, clinical partners, and community stakeholders.
- Demonstrate ethical and professional conduct in accordance with college policies and EMS professional standards.
- Create a safe and effective learning environment that promotes student engagement and success.
- Participate in required faculty meetings, orientations, training programs, and assessment activities as assigned.
- Maintain all required EMS credentials and instructional qualifications necessary to teach assigned courses.
Teaching assignments may occur during daytime, evening, weekend, or online schedules. Adjunct faculty may be assigned to teach at multiple campus locations, clinical affiliates, or off-site educational facilities depending on program needs. Employment is contingent upon successful completion of required background checks, credential verification, and maintenance of all required certifications and licenses.
Instructional faculty must reside in the state of Virginia or be available to teach in-person classes at one of the Southwest Virginia Community College (SWCC) locations (Main Campus, Lebanon, Bluefield, Southern Gap).
KSA's/REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Current certification as a Virginia Emergency Medical Technician, Advanced EMT, Paramedic, or eligibility for Virginia certification, as appropriate for instructional assignments.
- Current healthcare provider CPR certification.
- Demonstrated competency in the subject matter being taught.
- Ability to communicate effectively with students from diverse educational, cultural, and professional backgrounds.
- Strong organizational, interpersonal, and instructional skills.
- Ability to demonstrate EMS skills and patient care procedures.
- Ability to lift, move, and operate EMS training equipment.
- Ability to stand, walk, bend, and participate in classroom, laboratory, and clinical instruction for extended periods.
- Ability to travel to instructional, clinical, and field internship sites as required.
ADDITIONAL CONSIDERATIONS
- Associate degree or higher in EMS, Healthcare, Education, or a related field.
- Virginia EMS Education Coordinator certification or equivalent instructional experience.
- Previous experience teaching in higher education, workforce development, or public safety education programs.
- Experience with simulation-based education, clinical coordination, or EMS program accreditation processes.
- Knowledge of VCCS policies, National EMS Education Standards, and EMS accreditation requirements.
LOCATION
Work Location: Tazewell - 185
WORK SCHEDULE
Dependent on course schedule, which may include days, evenings, and/or weekend days.
REQUIRED TRAVEL
Travel is required with this position.
SPECIAL ASSIGNMENTS
May be required to perform other duties as assigned. May be required to assist the agency or state government generally in the event of an emergency declaration by the Governor.
EEO STATEMENT
The Virginia Community College System (VCCS) provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, political affiliation, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or other non-merit factors.
ADA STATEMENT
The Virginia Community College System (VCCS) is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer and complies with the Americans with Disabilities Acts (ADA and ADAAA), to provide reasonable accommodation to applicants in need of access to the application, interviewing, and selection processes when requested.
E-VERIFY STATEMENT
VCCS uses E-Verify to check employee eligibility to work in the United States. You will be required to complete an I-9 form and provide documentation of your identity for employment purposes.
POSTING DETAIL INFORMATION
- Posting Number: ADJ_3669P
- Recruitment Type: General Public - G
- Number of Vacancies: 2
- Job Open Date: 10/20/2026
- Job Close Date: 11/15/2026
- Open Until Filled: No
CONTACT NAME
Human Resources
human.resources@sw.edu
PHONE NUMBER
276.964.7339
SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS TO APPLICANTS
To be considered for this position, you must complete the full state application. Please visit.
BACKGROUND CHECK STATEMENT DISCLAIMER
The selected candidate’s offer is contingent upon the successful completion of a criminal background investigation, which may include: fingerprint checks, local agency checks, employment verification, verification of education, credit checks (relevant to employment). Additionally, selected candidates may be required to complete the Commonwealth’s Statement of Economic Interest. For more information, please follow this link: http://ethics.dls.virginia.gov/
See all OPT EMT Jobs
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Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding OPT Sponsorship in EMT
Get state-certified before applying
Most EMT employers require active state certification before hiring. Complete your NREMT exam and state licensing early in your OPT window so you're eligible on day one of your job search. Certification timelines vary by state.
Target hospital-based EMS programs
Hospital systems with large EMS divisions often have established HR processes for work authorization verification. They handle I-9 compliance regularly, making them more comfortable hiring OPT students than smaller independent ambulance companies.
Lead with your EAD card, not your visa
When discussing work authorization, present your Employment Authorization Document as your work permit. Employers verify eligibility through the I-9 process. Your EAD is the document that matters, not your F-1 visa status.
Research STEM OPT eligibility for your degree
Emergency Medical Services degrees may qualify for the 24-month STEM OPT extension under specific CIP codes. Confirm with your DSO whether your program qualifies before assuming you only have 12 months to secure a role.
Apply to fire departments with civilian EMT roles
Many municipal fire departments hire civilian EMTs separately from firefighters. These government positions often have structured HR onboarding familiar with I-9 requirements, reducing employer uncertainty around your OPT work authorization.
Track your OPT end date against certification renewals
EMT certifications require continuing education and periodic renewal. Plan renewal timelines around your OPT expiration and any H-1B visa or other visa transition. Letting certification lapse during a status change complicates future employment significantly.
EMT OPT: Frequently Asked Questions
Can F-1 OPT students legally work as EMTs in the United States?
Yes, F-1 students authorized for OPT can work as EMTs as long as the role is directly related to their field of study, such as Emergency Medical Services, Health Sciences, or a related program. You must have a valid EAD card before your first shift. Employers verify your authorization through the standard I-9 process, so bring your EAD and passport to onboarding.
Do EMT employers commonly hire OPT students?
It depends on the employer type. Hospital-based EMS programs and larger ambulance companies are generally more familiar with work authorization requirements and more willing to hire OPT students. Smaller volunteer or independent services may be less experienced with I-9 compliance for international hires. Browse OPT-friendly EMT listings on Migrate Mate, where employers have already indicated openness to sponsoring or hiring OPT candidates.
Does an EMT role qualify for the STEM OPT extension?
It depends on your specific degree program's CIP code. Emergency Medical Services programs classified under certain health science CIP codes may qualify, but this isn't universal across all EMS degrees. Speak with your Designated School Official to verify whether your program is on the STEM OPT eligible list before planning for a 24-month extension.
What happens if my OPT expires before I find an EMT job?
If your OPT period ends without a job offer, you enter the 60-day grace period. You cannot work during this time. If you haven't transitioned to another visa status by the grace period's end, you must leave the United States. This makes early applications critical. Starting your EMT job search at least three to four months before OPT expiration gives you realistic time to clear hiring, certification verification, and I-9 onboarding steps.
Can I work part-time as an EMT on OPT before graduating?
Before graduation, you may be eligible for pre-completion OPT, which limits you to 20 hours per week while school is in session. Many EMT shift schedules are compatible with part-time arrangements. Post-completion OPT allows full-time work. Confirm your authorization period and hours restriction with your DSO before accepting any EMT position to avoid violating your F-1 status.