OPT Neurosurgeon Jobs
Neurosurgeon roles on OPT are rare but possible, typically requiring ACGME-accredited residency or fellowship training that itself counts as authorized OPT employment. Your 12-month OPT clock starts at graduation, so most F-1 students pursue residency match pathways rather than direct attending positions. STEM OPT extension does not apply to MD programs.
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Get Access To All JobsThe Department of Neurosurgery at the Medical College of Wisconsin (MCW) invites applications for a full-time faculty position at the assistant or associate professor level. The opportunity exists for a junior or experienced Neurosurgeon to staff a community-based practice in a growing metropolitan area. Kenosha is a growing market comprised of 2 hospitals; St. Catherine’s Medical Center and Kenosha Medical Center which combined are the Froedtert South Campus. The growth of the Kenosha market along with an expanding community demand for access to Neurosurgical care have created a tremendous practice opportunity.
Position Highlights:
- Patient Care: Clinical activities will be primarily focused on clinic and hospital coverage at Froedtert South in Kenosha, WI and Pleasant Prairie, WI.
- Research, Teaching, and Scholarly Activities: Faculty appointment will be offered but the amount of academic involvement will be at the candidate’s discretion based on individual interests.
- Administration/Service: The candidate will be expected to participate actively in multi-disciplinary conferences organized by the Department.
- Performs other duties as assigned by Chair or Chair-Designate
Department/Division Highlights:
The MCW Department of Neurosurgery advances the field of neurological surgery through world-class adult and pediatric clinical care, groundbreaking research, and innovative education.
Our renowned team utilizes both surgical and non-surgical methods to treat disorders in the skull, brain, spine, spinal cord, spinal nerves, and peripheral nerves.
Qualifications
- Medical degree (MD, DO, or equivalent) from an accredited institution.
- Board certification or eligibility
- State medical licensure, or eligibility to obtain license, in the state of Wisconsin.
- Rank will be determined by the qualifications and experience of the successful finalist.
Procedure for Candidacy
To submit your application, please click on “Apply Now.” You will create a candidate profile, and you will be prompted to upload your CV and your cover letter, describing your interest and qualifications. References will be required at an appropriate time in the process. All interactions will remain confidential, and no inquiries will be made without the consent of the applicant. Application review will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.
For inquiries or to learn more, please contact:
Jen Van Abel Thibodeau, Physician & APP Recruiter
jvathibodeau@mcw.edu
LI-JV1
Medical College of Wisconsin
The Medical College of Wisconsin (MCW) is the state’s only private medical school and health sciences graduate school. MCW consists of a School of Medicine with campuses in Milwaukee, Green Bay and Central Wisconsin, a School of Graduate Studies, and a School of Pharmacy. MCW is a major national research center ranking in the top third of U.S. medical schools in NIH funding and is the second largest research institution in Wisconsin. Academic medicine is at the core of everything we do at MCW, bringing together scientists, clinicians, students and community members to solve the most complex challenges in health and society. MCW is a diverse group of thought leaders collaborating to pioneer pathways to a healthier world. Every study we conduct and every patient we see leads to new learning and a continuous cycle of life-changing knowledge and innovation.
Approximately 1,780 MCW physicians and approximately 905 advanced practice providers care for more than 484,000 patients of all ages annually at Froedtert Hospital, Zablocki VA Medical Center, Children’s Wisconsin, and many other hospitals and clinics throughout eastern Wisconsin, representing more than 5.1 million patient visits annually.
The beautiful, safe and modern campus of the Milwaukee Regional Medical Center (MRMC) houses Froedtert Hospital, Children’s Wisconsin, Curative Care Network, Versiti Blood Research Institute and the Milwaukee County Behavioral Health Division. These member entities share a common mission of excellence in patient care, medical education, biomedical research and community service.
Commitment to MCW Values
All of our endeavors at MCW, from our internal operations to our interactions with our partners, are driven by our shared organizational values: acting in Caring ways – engaging in Collaborative efforts – approaching our world with Curiosity – advancing Inclusive practices – demonstrating Integrity in all we do – treating everyone with Respect. We are committed to fostering an inclusive environment that values diversity in backgrounds, experiences and perspectives through merit-based processes, and in alignment with all applicable laws. We believe that embracing human differences is critical to realize our vision of a healthier world, and we recognize that a healthy and thriving community starts from within. Our values define who we are, what we stand for and how we conduct ourselves at MCW. If you believe in embracing individuality and working together according to these principles to improve health for all, then MCW is the place for you.
Milwaukee, the largest city in Wisconsin, is located on Lake Michigan’s western shore. A metropolitan area with more than 1.6 million people, Milwaukee is an affordable, comfortable place to live, work, and play, big enough to be exciting and uncongested enough to get around easily. Milwaukee’s many neighborhoods have incredible charm, accommodating a variety of lifestyles, from high-rise apartments to small farms. Nestled along a magnificent bluff overlooking Lake Michigan, Milwaukee’s downtown is home to botanical gardens, lakefront museums, a theater district, the world champion Milwaukee Bucks, the Milwaukee Brewers, bustling nightlife, and award-winning restaurants. The lake and its harbors are skirted by scenic parklands and provide first-class opportunities for recreation, including hiking, cycling, boating, and more. A recent study ranked Milwaukee as the 15th most walkable of the 50 largest US cities. Milwaukee has all the advantages of a large, vibrant city but without the stress or cost.
MCW as an Equal Opportunity Employer and Commitment to Non-Discrimination
The Medical College of Wisconsin (MCW) is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to fostering an inclusive community of outstanding faculty, staff, and students, as well as ensuring equal educational opportunity, employment, and access to services, programs, and activities, without regard to an individual's race, color, national origin, religion, age, disability, sex, gender identity/expression, sexual orientation, marital status, pregnancy, predisposing genetic characteristic, or military status. Employees, students, applicants or other members of the MCW community (including but not limited to vendors, visitors, and guests) may not be subjected to harassment that is prohibited by law or treated adversely or retaliated against based upon a protected characteristic.
The Department of Neurosurgery at the Medical College of Wisconsin (MCW) invites applications for a full-time faculty position at the assistant or associate professor level. The opportunity exists for a junior or experienced Neurosurgeon to staff a community-based practice in a growing metropolitan area. Kenosha is a growing market comprised of 2 hospitals; St. Catherine’s Medical Center and Kenosha Medical Center which combined are the Froedtert South Campus. The growth of the Kenosha market along with an expanding community demand for access to Neurosurgical care have created a tremendous practice opportunity.
Position Highlights:
- Patient Care: Clinical activities will be primarily focused on clinic and hospital coverage at Froedtert South in Kenosha, WI and Pleasant Prairie, WI.
- Research, Teaching, and Scholarly Activities: Faculty appointment will be offered but the amount of academic involvement will be at the candidate’s discretion based on individual interests.
- Administration/Service: The candidate will be expected to participate actively in multi-disciplinary conferences organized by the Department.
- Performs other duties as assigned by Chair or Chair-Designate
Department/Division Highlights:
The MCW Department of Neurosurgery advances the field of neurological surgery through world-class adult and pediatric clinical care, groundbreaking research, and innovative education.
Our renowned team utilizes both surgical and non-surgical methods to treat disorders in the skull, brain, spine, spinal cord, spinal nerves, and peripheral nerves.
Qualifications
- Medical degree (MD, DO, or equivalent) from an accredited institution.
- Board certification or eligibility
- State medical licensure, or eligibility to obtain license, in the state of Wisconsin.
- Rank will be determined by the qualifications and experience of the successful finalist.
Procedure for Candidacy
To submit your application, please click on “Apply Now.” You will create a candidate profile, and you will be prompted to upload your CV and your cover letter, describing your interest and qualifications. References will be required at an appropriate time in the process. All interactions will remain confidential, and no inquiries will be made without the consent of the applicant. Application review will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.
For inquiries or to learn more, please contact:
Jen Van Abel Thibodeau, Physician & APP Recruiter
jvathibodeau@mcw.edu
LI-JV1
Medical College of Wisconsin
The Medical College of Wisconsin (MCW) is the state’s only private medical school and health sciences graduate school. MCW consists of a School of Medicine with campuses in Milwaukee, Green Bay and Central Wisconsin, a School of Graduate Studies, and a School of Pharmacy. MCW is a major national research center ranking in the top third of U.S. medical schools in NIH funding and is the second largest research institution in Wisconsin. Academic medicine is at the core of everything we do at MCW, bringing together scientists, clinicians, students and community members to solve the most complex challenges in health and society. MCW is a diverse group of thought leaders collaborating to pioneer pathways to a healthier world. Every study we conduct and every patient we see leads to new learning and a continuous cycle of life-changing knowledge and innovation.
Approximately 1,780 MCW physicians and approximately 905 advanced practice providers care for more than 484,000 patients of all ages annually at Froedtert Hospital, Zablocki VA Medical Center, Children’s Wisconsin, and many other hospitals and clinics throughout eastern Wisconsin, representing more than 5.1 million patient visits annually.
The beautiful, safe and modern campus of the Milwaukee Regional Medical Center (MRMC) houses Froedtert Hospital, Children’s Wisconsin, Curative Care Network, Versiti Blood Research Institute and the Milwaukee County Behavioral Health Division. These member entities share a common mission of excellence in patient care, medical education, biomedical research and community service.
Commitment to MCW Values
All of our endeavors at MCW, from our internal operations to our interactions with our partners, are driven by our shared organizational values: acting in Caring ways – engaging in Collaborative efforts – approaching our world with Curiosity – advancing Inclusive practices – demonstrating Integrity in all we do – treating everyone with Respect. We are committed to fostering an inclusive environment that values diversity in backgrounds, experiences and perspectives through merit-based processes, and in alignment with all applicable laws. We believe that embracing human differences is critical to realize our vision of a healthier world, and we recognize that a healthy and thriving community starts from within. Our values define who we are, what we stand for and how we conduct ourselves at MCW. If you believe in embracing individuality and working together according to these principles to improve health for all, then MCW is the place for you.
Milwaukee, the largest city in Wisconsin, is located on Lake Michigan’s western shore. A metropolitan area with more than 1.6 million people, Milwaukee is an affordable, comfortable place to live, work, and play, big enough to be exciting and uncongested enough to get around easily. Milwaukee’s many neighborhoods have incredible charm, accommodating a variety of lifestyles, from high-rise apartments to small farms. Nestled along a magnificent bluff overlooking Lake Michigan, Milwaukee’s downtown is home to botanical gardens, lakefront museums, a theater district, the world champion Milwaukee Bucks, the Milwaukee Brewers, bustling nightlife, and award-winning restaurants. The lake and its harbors are skirted by scenic parklands and provide first-class opportunities for recreation, including hiking, cycling, boating, and more. A recent study ranked Milwaukee as the 15th most walkable of the 50 largest US cities. Milwaukee has all the advantages of a large, vibrant city but without the stress or cost.
MCW as an Equal Opportunity Employer and Commitment to Non-Discrimination
The Medical College of Wisconsin (MCW) is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to fostering an inclusive community of outstanding faculty, staff, and students, as well as ensuring equal educational opportunity, employment, and access to services, programs, and activities, without regard to an individual's race, color, national origin, religion, age, disability, sex, gender identity/expression, sexual orientation, marital status, pregnancy, predisposing genetic characteristic, or military status. Employees, students, applicants or other members of the MCW community (including but not limited to vendors, visitors, and guests) may not be subjected to harassment that is prohibited by law or treated adversely or retaliated against based upon a protected characteristic.
See all 118+ OPT Neurosurgeon Jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new OPT Neurosurgeon Jobs.
Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding OPT Sponsorship in Neurosurgeon
Understand how residency fits your OPT timeline
ACGME-accredited neurosurgery residency programs qualify as OPT-authorized employment. Matching into a residency program is the most realistic path for F-1 graduates, but you must ensure your OPT start date aligns with the July program start.
Apply for OPT well before Match Day
USCIS recommends filing your OPT application 90 days before your intended start date. Neurosurgery Match results come in February, so file early to avoid gaps between Match Day and your residency program start in July.
Confirm your program is ACGME-accredited
Only training at ACGME-accredited institutions qualifies as valid OPT employment for F-1 students. Before accepting any neurosurgery residency or fellowship offer, verify accreditation status directly with your DSO and the program coordinator.
Coordinate with your DSO immediately after matching
Your Designated School Official must authorize your OPT and update your SEVIS record. After matching, notify your DSO at once with your employer details, start date, and job title so your employment authorization reflects the correct program.
Plan for H-1B sponsorship before OPT ends
Neurosurgery residency runs seven or more years, likely outlasting your OPT authorization. Speak with your program's GME office early about H-1B visa cap-exempt sponsorship through the hospital, which most academic medical centers can provide for trainees.
Document all employment accurately for SEVIS compliance
F-1 OPT requires you to report your employer name, address, and start date to your DSO within 10 days of beginning work. For neurosurgery roles, report each rotation site if your program involves multiple affiliated hospitals or clinical settings.
Neurosurgeon OPT: Frequently Asked Questions
Can an F-1 OPT student work as a neurosurgeon in the United States?
F-1 OPT students cannot work as attending neurosurgeons directly after graduation because neurosurgery requires completing a seven-year ACGME-accredited residency first. Most F-1 medical graduates use OPT to cover the early portion of residency training, which counts as authorized OPT employment. You'll need additional visa sponsorship before residency ends.
Does neurosurgery residency count as valid OPT employment?
Yes. Training at an ACGME-accredited neurosurgery residency program qualifies as OPT-authorized employment for F-1 students. Your position must be directly related to your field of study, and your DSO must have your employer information on file in SEVIS. Confirm accreditation status with your program before your start date.
Is there a STEM OPT extension available for medical school graduates?
No. The STEM OPT 24-month extension applies only to graduates of STEM-designated degree programs. MD and DO programs are not on the STEM designation list, so medical school graduates are limited to the standard 12-month OPT period. Planning your visa transition to H-1B or J-1 visa early is critical.
How do I find neurosurgery training programs that support F-1 OPT students?
Most large academic medical centers and university-affiliated hospitals are familiar with sponsoring international trainees on OPT or J-1 exchange visitor status. You can browse employer opportunities and sponsorship-friendly positions on Migrate Mate, which focuses specifically on roles open to F-1 OPT holders. Always confirm visa support with the GME office before accepting.
What happens to my OPT status if my neurosurgery residency match is delayed or I go unmatched?
If you go unmatched or your start is delayed, you must report any unemployment period to your DSO. F-1 OPT allows a cumulative 90-day unemployment limit. An unmatched cycle can put you at risk of exceeding that limit and falling out of status. Explore alternative OPT-eligible clinical or research roles while you reapply.