OPT Science Teacher Jobs
Science Teacher jobs on OPT are available across K-12 public schools, private schools, and tutoring centers. STEM educators are in high demand nationally, and many districts actively recruit international candidates. Your OPT period gives you 12 months of work authorization, with a 24-month STEM extension available if your science degree qualifies.
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History Social Science Regular Teacher - 9th - 12th Grade
Job Number: 260002O5
Posting Date: Nov 5, 2026, 12:21:53 PM
Primary Location: North/Northwest Side - 2957 N Hoyne Ave (Alcott College Prep HS)
Salary Range: $64,469.94 to $82,839.39
JOB DESCRIPTION
CLASS TITLE: Teacher
CHARACTERISTICS OF THE CLASS: Under the supervision of the school principal, responsible for the instruction, progress, and discipline of all pupils in assigned classes, and performs related duties as required.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
- Responsible for instructional planning, including, but not limited to, providing written lesson plans and preparation in accordance with the objectives of the instructional program, establishing positive learning expectation standards for all pupils, and evaluating pupils' progress and maintaining current and accurate records of pupils' achievements.
- Implements instructional methods, including, but not limited to, applying contemporary principles of learning theory and teaching methodology, drawing from the range of instructional materials available in the school, participating in the development and implementation of new teaching techniques, and providing bulletin board and interest areas reflective of pupils' current work.
- Exhibits and applies knowledge of the curriculum content related to subject areas and instructional level.
- Participates in programs to improve student attendance; promotes anti-vandalism programs in the schools.
- Establishes and maintains reasonable rules of conduct within the classroom and on school grounds, including, but not limited to, playgrounds, corridors, and lunchrooms, consistent with the provisions of the Chicago Public Schools' Uniform Discipline Code.
- Maintains accurate attendance records and seating charts.
- Encourages student growth in self-discipline and positive self-concept.
- Ensures fairness in teacher-pupil relationships and exhibits an understanding and respect for students.
- Initiates appropriate conferences with parents, guardians, administrators, and/or ancillary personnel, in accordance with school procedures.
- Communicates with parents or guardians and counsels pupils on the pupil's academic progress, attendance, and conduct.
- Participates in in-service meetings and professional staff meetings and uses pertinent information and materials provided.
- May coordinate and attend class field trips; may work in extra-curricular and after-school activities.
- Utilizes appropriate resources available in the community.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
Education and Experience: Successful completion of all student teaching requirements as well as all course work required to obtain the appropriate teaching certificate(s) issued by the Illinois State Board of Education.
License Requirements: Teachers must possess at least one of the following valid teaching licenses issued by the Illinois State Board of Education: Professional Educator License (PEL) or Educator License with Stipulations (ELS), properly endorsed for this position.
Knowledge, Abilities, and Skill:
- Knowledge of subject matter consistent with state certification requirements.
- Knowledge of contemporary principles and practices of teaching.
- Knowledge of classroom and behavior management techniques.
- Ability to modify instruction to meet student needs.
- Ability to cooperate with the school faculty and administration in the development and implementation of an articulated program of instruction.
- Ability to work effectively with pupils, parents and guardians, staff members, and community representatives in providing an appropriate educational program.
- Ability to understand the physical, intellectual, social, and emotional patterns of pupils.
- Skill in the application of contemporary principles and practices of teaching.
- Good oral and written communication skills.
- Good interpersonal skills.
- Skill in exercising sound and professional judgment.
Physical Requirements: Light Work: Exerting up to twenty (20) pounds of force occasionally, or up to ten (10) pounds of force frequently, or a negligible amount of force constantly to move objects. Physical demands include the ability to stoop occasionally, reach frequently, handle and finger objects occasionally, talk and hear constantly, frequent use of near visual acuity, and occasional use of far visual acuity.
Benefits:
Health & Wellness: Your Care, Your Choice
CPS is committed to providing comprehensive health coverage to our employees and their eligible dependents. You'll have access to a variety of choices to best fit your needs:
- Medical Plan Options
- Pharmacy
- Dental
- Vision
- Behavioral Health & EAP
- Employee Wellness Program
Financial Security: Planning for Today and Tomorrow
We understand the importance of financial stability, which is why CPS offers strong retirement and savings options:
- Basic Life Insurance
- Life and Disability Insurance
- Pension Plans
- Supplemental Retirement Plans (403(b) and 457(b))
- Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)
- Spot Pet Insurance
Work-Life Balance: Supporting Your Personal and Professional Life
CPS values the well-being of its employees and offers competitive paid time off policies:
- Paid Leave
- Sick Leave
- Vacation Days
- Parental Leaves
- Short-Term Disability
- Religious Holidays
- Leaves
Reference the Chicago Public Schools: A Comprehensive Benefits Overview or the benefits handbook for comprehensive details.
INTRODUCTION
History Social Science Regular Teacher - 9th - 12th Grade
Job Number: 260002O5
Posting Date: Nov 5, 2026, 12:21:53 PM
Primary Location: North/Northwest Side - 2957 N Hoyne Ave (Alcott College Prep HS)
Salary Range: $64,469.94 to $82,839.39
JOB DESCRIPTION
CLASS TITLE: Teacher
CHARACTERISTICS OF THE CLASS: Under the supervision of the school principal, responsible for the instruction, progress, and discipline of all pupils in assigned classes, and performs related duties as required.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
- Responsible for instructional planning, including, but not limited to, providing written lesson plans and preparation in accordance with the objectives of the instructional program, establishing positive learning expectation standards for all pupils, and evaluating pupils' progress and maintaining current and accurate records of pupils' achievements.
- Implements instructional methods, including, but not limited to, applying contemporary principles of learning theory and teaching methodology, drawing from the range of instructional materials available in the school, participating in the development and implementation of new teaching techniques, and providing bulletin board and interest areas reflective of pupils' current work.
- Exhibits and applies knowledge of the curriculum content related to subject areas and instructional level.
- Participates in programs to improve student attendance; promotes anti-vandalism programs in the schools.
- Establishes and maintains reasonable rules of conduct within the classroom and on school grounds, including, but not limited to, playgrounds, corridors, and lunchrooms, consistent with the provisions of the Chicago Public Schools' Uniform Discipline Code.
- Maintains accurate attendance records and seating charts.
- Encourages student growth in self-discipline and positive self-concept.
- Ensures fairness in teacher-pupil relationships and exhibits an understanding and respect for students.
- Initiates appropriate conferences with parents, guardians, administrators, and/or ancillary personnel, in accordance with school procedures.
- Communicates with parents or guardians and counsels pupils on the pupil's academic progress, attendance, and conduct.
- Participates in in-service meetings and professional staff meetings and uses pertinent information and materials provided.
- May coordinate and attend class field trips; may work in extra-curricular and after-school activities.
- Utilizes appropriate resources available in the community.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
Education and Experience: Successful completion of all student teaching requirements as well as all course work required to obtain the appropriate teaching certificate(s) issued by the Illinois State Board of Education.
License Requirements: Teachers must possess at least one of the following valid teaching licenses issued by the Illinois State Board of Education: Professional Educator License (PEL) or Educator License with Stipulations (ELS), properly endorsed for this position.
Knowledge, Abilities, and Skill:
- Knowledge of subject matter consistent with state certification requirements.
- Knowledge of contemporary principles and practices of teaching.
- Knowledge of classroom and behavior management techniques.
- Ability to modify instruction to meet student needs.
- Ability to cooperate with the school faculty and administration in the development and implementation of an articulated program of instruction.
- Ability to work effectively with pupils, parents and guardians, staff members, and community representatives in providing an appropriate educational program.
- Ability to understand the physical, intellectual, social, and emotional patterns of pupils.
- Skill in the application of contemporary principles and practices of teaching.
- Good oral and written communication skills.
- Good interpersonal skills.
- Skill in exercising sound and professional judgment.
Physical Requirements: Light Work: Exerting up to twenty (20) pounds of force occasionally, or up to ten (10) pounds of force frequently, or a negligible amount of force constantly to move objects. Physical demands include the ability to stoop occasionally, reach frequently, handle and finger objects occasionally, talk and hear constantly, frequent use of near visual acuity, and occasional use of far visual acuity.
Benefits:
Health & Wellness: Your Care, Your Choice
CPS is committed to providing comprehensive health coverage to our employees and their eligible dependents. You'll have access to a variety of choices to best fit your needs:
- Medical Plan Options
- Pharmacy
- Dental
- Vision
- Behavioral Health & EAP
- Employee Wellness Program
Financial Security: Planning for Today and Tomorrow
We understand the importance of financial stability, which is why CPS offers strong retirement and savings options:
- Basic Life Insurance
- Life and Disability Insurance
- Pension Plans
- Supplemental Retirement Plans (403(b) and 457(b))
- Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)
- Spot Pet Insurance
Work-Life Balance: Supporting Your Personal and Professional Life
CPS values the well-being of its employees and offers competitive paid time off policies:
- Paid Leave
- Sick Leave
- Vacation Days
- Parental Leaves
- Short-Term Disability
- Religious Holidays
- Leaves
Reference the Chicago Public Schools: A Comprehensive Benefits Overview or the benefits handbook for comprehensive details.
See all 99+ OPT Science Teacher Jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new OPT Science Teacher Jobs.
Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding OPT Sponsorship as a Science Teacher
Confirm your degree qualifies for STEM OPT extension
Science teaching roles often qualify for the 24-month STEM OPT extension if your underlying degree is in biology, chemistry, physics, or a related STEM field. Verify your CIP code with your DSO before applying to longer-term positions.
Target school districts with a history of hiring international teachers
Large urban districts and states with teacher shortages, including Texas, California, and Florida, have established pipelines for international educators. These employers are more familiar with OPT work authorization and less likely to withdraw offers over visa concerns.
Address your work authorization timeline upfront with school HR
School hiring cycles run months in advance. Be transparent with HR about your OPT end date and STEM extension eligibility early. Districts planning ahead need to know your authorization aligns with the full academic year before extending an offer.
Obtain your state teaching license as early as possible
Most public school science teacher roles require state licensure, which can take several months to process. Start your licensure application immediately after graduation so OPT days are not lost waiting for certification approvals before you can legally begin work.
Highlight subject-specific shortages in your applications
Physics, chemistry, and secondary biology teachers are among the most in-demand in U.S. schools. Explicitly noting your specialization in shortage subjects signals to hiring administrators that sponsoring or extending your authorization is worth the administrative effort involved.
Ask about H-1B cap-exempt sponsorship through universities
Teaching roles at universities, community colleges, or nonprofit educational institutions attached to a university system may qualify for cap-exempt H-1B visa petitions. These employers can sponsor H-1B visas year-round without waiting for the annual lottery.
Science Teacher OPT: Frequently Asked Questions
Can I work as a Science Teacher on OPT?
Yes. F-1 students with a degree in a science or education field can work as science teachers on post-completion OPT. Your employment must be directly related to your degree field. If your degree is in biology, chemistry, physics, or a STEM-adjacent education program, most science teaching roles will satisfy that requirement.
Do Science Teacher jobs qualify for the 24-month STEM OPT extension?
It depends on your degree, not the job title. The STEM OPT extension is tied to your CIP code. If your underlying degree is in a qualifying STEM field such as biology, chemistry, or physics, and the teaching role relates to that field, you can likely apply for the extension. Confirm your CIP code with your DSO before accepting a position expecting that extension.
Do schools sponsor H-1B visas for Science Teachers?
Many public school districts sponsor H-1B visas for science teachers, particularly in shortage subjects like physics and chemistry. K-12 districts are subject to the annual H-1B lottery, but universities and nonprofit educational institutions may qualify for cap-exempt H-1B sponsorship, meaning they can file year-round without lottery participation. Migrate Mate lists science teaching roles from employers who have sponsored visas previously.
Does my foreign science degree qualify me to teach in U.S. public schools?
A foreign degree can qualify you, but most states require a credential evaluation to confirm equivalency to a U.S. bachelor's degree before issuing a teaching license. Organizations like NACES-member evaluators assess foreign transcripts. Processing time varies by state but typically takes four to eight weeks. Budget this time into your OPT job search timeline.
What happens to my OPT if there is a gap between science teaching contracts?
OPT allows up to 90 days of cumulative unemployment, or 150 days if you have the STEM extension. Summer breaks between academic year contracts are a known concern. If your contract explicitly covers the full school year, those weeks generally count as employed. If you are between roles entirely, that time counts toward your unemployment limit, so minimizing gaps is important.