OPT Ultrasound Technologist Jobs
Ultrasound Technologist jobs are a strong fit for F-1 OPT students with a degree in diagnostic medical sonography or a related imaging field. Most roles qualify as STEM OPT extensions under CIP code 51.0910, giving eligible graduates up to 36 months of authorized work in clinical or hospital settings.
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Performs diagnostic medical sonograms. Maintains patient records. Answers phone calls relative to the department and initial report. Responsible for assigned area.
Qualifications
Age of Patients Served:
All Age Groups.
Required Education:
Vocational Training. Specific course work: Graduate of an allied healthcare program
Preferred Education:
N/A
Necessary Skills:
- Knowledge of modern diagnostic sonography.
- Communicate procedures to patients.
Required Licensure/Certifications:
- BLS from the American Heart Association or the American Red Cross
- Sonography certification from American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers or American Registry of Radiologic Technologists
Effective November 1, 2022, within one (1) year of hire or transfer one of the following vascular certifications is required:
- Registered Vascular Specialist from Cardiovascular Credentialing International
- Registered Vascular Technologist from American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers
- Vascular Sonography from American Registry of Radiologic Technologists
For employees assigned to the following cost centers FSED New Kings (713300), FSED Lane Avenue (713301), FSED Baymeadows (713302), one of the following vascular certifications is required at hire or transfer:
- Registered Vascular Specialist from Cardiovascular Credentialing International
- Registered Vascular Technologist from American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers
- Vascular Sonography from American Registry of Radiologic Technologists
Required Experience:
Less than one year
Preferred Experience:
One year performing general, vascular, and OB/GYN sonography
Preferred Licensure/Certifications:
Sonography certification and vascular certification at hire or transfer
Overview:
Performs diagnostic medical sonograms. Maintains patient records. Answers phone calls relative to the department and initial report. Responsible for assigned area.
Qualifications
Age of Patients Served:
All Age Groups.
Required Education:
Vocational Training. Specific course work: Graduate of an allied healthcare program
Preferred Education:
N/A
Necessary Skills:
- Knowledge of modern diagnostic sonography.
- Communicate procedures to patients.
Required Licensure/Certifications:
- BLS from the American Heart Association or the American Red Cross
- Sonography certification from American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers or American Registry of Radiologic Technologists
Effective November 1, 2022, within one (1) year of hire or transfer one of the following vascular certifications is required:
- Registered Vascular Specialist from Cardiovascular Credentialing International
- Registered Vascular Technologist from American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers
- Vascular Sonography from American Registry of Radiologic Technologists
For employees assigned to the following cost centers FSED New Kings (713300), FSED Lane Avenue (713301), FSED Baymeadows (713302), one of the following vascular certifications is required at hire or transfer:
- Registered Vascular Specialist from Cardiovascular Credentialing International
- Registered Vascular Technologist from American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers
- Vascular Sonography from American Registry of Radiologic Technologists
Required Experience:
Less than one year
Preferred Experience:
One year performing general, vascular, and OB/GYN sonography
Preferred Licensure/Certifications:
Sonography certification and vascular certification at hire or transfer
See all 283+ OPT Ultrasound Technologist Jobs
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Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding OPT Sponsorship in Ultrasound Technologist
Confirm your program's STEM designation before applying
Not all sonography programs are STEM-designated. Check your I-20 and your school's STEM CIP code list before targeting roles that require STEM OPT. This affects whether you qualify for the 24-month extension beyond your initial 12 months.
Apply to hospital systems and large imaging networks first
Large healthcare employers like hospital networks and radiology groups are far more experienced with OPT work authorization than small private clinics. They have HR infrastructure to handle EAD documentation and are less likely to withdraw offers over visa questions.
Time your OPT application around your ARRT registry exam
Most employers require ARRT certification before your start date. File your OPT application at least 90 days before graduation so your EAD arrives in time to sit for the registry exam and accept an offer without a gap in authorization.
Address your EAD proactively in applications
Bring up OPT early rather than waiting for employers to ask. Explain that your EAD authorizes full-time employment now, that STEM extension is available if your degree qualifies, and that H-1B visa sponsorship is a future step, not an immediate requirement.
Target specialty modalities to differentiate yourself
Employers are more willing to navigate work authorization paperwork for candidates with skills in vascular, cardiac, or pediatric sonography. A specialized credential like RVT or RDCS signals clinical value that makes sponsorship a straightforward business decision for hiring managers.
Build relationships with radiology program directors and clinical supervisors
Many ultrasound technologist positions are filled through clinical rotation contacts before they are ever posted publicly. Supervisors who already know your skill level and professionalism are far more likely to advocate for OPT hires within their department.
Ultrasound Technologist OPT: Frequently Asked Questions
Do Ultrasound Technologist jobs qualify for the STEM OPT extension?
Many do, but it depends on your specific degree program. Diagnostic Medical Sonography programs classified under CIP code 51.0910 are STEM-designated, which makes you eligible for the 24-month STEM OPT extension after your initial 12 months. Confirm your program's CIP code on your I-20 or with your DSO before assuming you qualify.
Will hospitals hire Ultrasound Technologists on OPT?
Yes. Large hospital systems and imaging centers regularly hire OPT students, particularly those with ARRT certification and clinical rotation experience. Smaller outpatient clinics may be less familiar with EAD documentation, so targeting larger healthcare employers first is the practical approach. You can browse OPT-friendly ultrasound positions on Migrate Mate.
Does an Ultrasound Technologist role qualify as a specialty occupation for H-1B sponsorship?
It can, but it is position-dependent. Roles requiring a bachelor's degree or higher in a specific field, such as diagnostic medical sonography, generally meet the specialty occupation standard. Associate-level positions are harder to support. Employers pursuing H-1B sponsorship will need to document why the role requires at minimum a bachelor's-level education.
Can I work as an Ultrasound Technologist on OPT before receiving my ARRT certification?
Most employers require ARRT registration before your first day of patient contact, regardless of your OPT status. Some facilities allow limited supervised work under a temporary permit while you await your exam results, but full independent practice requires the credential. Check your state's specific sonographer licensure requirements, as a few states have additional licensing beyond ARRT.
What should I do if my OPT EAD has not arrived before a job offer deadline?
Contact your DSO immediately and ask for an expedited USCIS inquiry if the application has been pending more than 90 days. Communicate your EAD timeline to the employer honestly and provide your I-797 receipt notice as evidence of a pending, timely-filed application. Many healthcare employers in competitive hiring markets will push back a start date for a strong candidate rather than withdraw the offer entirely.