Rheumatologist Jobs in USA with Visa Sponsorship
Rheumatologists qualify for H-1B visa, O-1 visa, and EB-2 NIW visas based on their medical degree and specialized training. Most positions require board certification or eligibility, which strengthens visa petitions. Academic medical centers and large health systems frequently sponsor international rheumatologists. For detailed occupation requirements, see the O*NET profile.
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Get Access To All JobsINTRODUCTION
The Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, at the University of South Florida Morsani College of Medicine is seeking a fellowship-trained, board-certified/board-eligible rheumatologist at the rank of Assistant, Associate, or Full Professor (Open Rank) with specialized clinical expertise in Myositis (idiopathic inflammatory myopathies). This recruitment will establish and grow a dedicated Myositis program, expand patient access to specialized care across the Tampa Bay region, strengthen multidisciplinary clinical services, and advance the Division's clinical, educational, and research missions.
The successful candidate will provide comprehensive care for patients with dermatomyositis, polymyositis, inclusion body myositis, immune-mediated necrotizing myopathy, antisynthetase syndrome, overlap myositis, and myositis-associated interstitial lung disease (ILD), as well as general rheumatologic conditions. This is a full-time, 12-month salaried faculty appointment with attending staff privileges at Tampa General Hospital (TGH) and affiliated hospitals. Practice locations may include the Morsani Center for Advanced Healthcare, USF South Tampa Center, TGH Health Park, and Tampa General Hospital.
ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES
- Clinical - A typical schedule may include:
- Outpatient Rheumatology clinics with a dedicated Myositis focus
- Participation in multidisciplinary clinics and care conferences (e.g., ILD/Rheumatology with Pulmonary, Derm/Rheum, Neurology/Neuromuscular)
- Inpatient rheumatology consult coverage as assigned
-
Coordination of advanced and immunomodulatory therapies (e.g., IVIG, biologics, emerging cellular therapies) Scheduling may be tailored based on faculty interests and divisional needs.
-
Teaching - Participate in the teaching of medical students, internal medicine residents, and rheumatology fellows in clinic, inpatient consult, and conference settings. Contribute to divisional didactics, case conferences, and Grand Rounds, including education on the diagnosis and management of inflammatory myopathies. Supervise and mentor trainees in accordance with ACGME and Morsani College of Medicine requirements.
-
Research - Participate in clinical research and scholarly activity commensurate with rank, with an emphasis on Myositis and related autoimmune diseases. Opportunities include developing a Myositis patient registry and biorepository, participating in industry-sponsored and investigator-initiated clinical trials, collaborating on multidisciplinary research with Pulmonary (ILD), Neurology, and Dermatology, and disseminating findings through peer-reviewed publications and national presentations.
-
Administrative - Serve as clinical lead for the development and growth of the Myositis program, including care pathways, referral relationships, and community and physician outreach. Protected time for administration, research, and/or education is consistent with holding specific leadership roles and fulfilling said responsibilities. Should you no longer hold those leadership roles (for any reason), the protected time may be removed and will be made up by an increase in cFTE assignments related to clinical patient care. Complete clinical obligations such as chart completion and patient follow-up.
-
Call responsibilities are shared among division faculty and generally include inpatient rheumatology consultation coverage on a collegial and equitable call schedule. Participate in divisional, departmental, and hospital committees as assigned. Specifics of call frequency and responsibilities will be discussed with candidates during the recruitment process.
-
Responsible to a Chair or other appropriate higher-level administrator of a State university.
-
Responsible for teaching, research, service, and related administrative activities.
-
Responsible for academic advising and related activities.
-
May represent the university, college/school, or department.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Medical degree from an accredited institution or the highest degree appropriate in the field of specialization with a demonstrated record of achievement in teaching, academic research, and service. Must meet university criteria for appointment to the rank of Assistant, Associate, or Full Professor. For Associate/Full Professor - Normally will have produced creative work, professional writing or research in refereed and other professional journals, and be a recognized authority in the field of specialization.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
Must hold or be eligible for a full, unrestricted Florida Medical License or foreign equivalent required. To perform this position, the candidate will need to obtain and maintain a full unrestricted FL Medical License, maintain credentials in the USF Health faculty practice plan, and be a medical staff member in good standing at the hospitals he/she is assigned to perform clinical duties. The candidate will participate in the teaching of residents, fellows, and medical students in clinical medicine.
Must be board certified/eligible in Internal Medicine/Rheumatology.
WORKING AT USF
With approximately 16,000 employees, the University of South Florida is one of the largest employers in the Tampa Bay area. We are dedicated to cultivating a talented, engaged and driven workforce that strives to be bold. Employees excel in USF‘s rich academic environment, which fosters their development and advancement. In 2025, Forbes recognized USF as one of Florida’s best large employers, ranked No. 1 among the state’s 12 public universities. Our first-class benefits package includes medical, dental and life insurance plans, retirement plan options, employee and dependent tuition programs, generous leave, and hundreds of employee perks and discounts.
ABOUT USF
The University of South Florida is a top-ranked research university serving approximately 50,000 students from across the globe at campuses in Tampa, St. Petersburg, Sarasota-Manatee and USF Health. USF is recognized by U.S. News & World Report as a top 50 public university and the best value in Florida. U.S. News also ranks the USF Health Morsani College of Medicine as the No. 1 medical school in Florida and in the highest tier nationwide. USF is a member of the Association of American Universities (AAU), a group that includes only the top 3% of universities in the U.S. With an all-time high of $738 million in research funding in 2024 and as a top 20 public university for producing U.S. patents, USF uses innovation to transform lives and shape a better future. The university generates an annual economic impact of more than $6 billion. USF’s Division I athletics teams compete in the American Athletic Conference.
COMPLIANCE AND FEDERAL NOTICES
This position may be subject to a Level 1 or Level 2 criminal background check.
Applicants have rights under Federal Employment Laws:
The University of South Florida is an equal opportunity employer that does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment based on any characteristic protected by law. The University maintains programs for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities in accordance with all applicable federal and state laws.
Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
Applicants for USF employment are entitled to request reasonable accommodation(s) in the application process. A request is to be made at least five (5) working days prior to the time the accommodation(s) is needed. Visit the Central Human Resources ADA Accommodations webpage for more information on requesting an accommodation during the application/interview process.
EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY
The University of South Florida is an equal opportunity employer that does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment based on any characteristic protected by law. The University maintains affirmative action programs for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities in accordance with all applicable federal and state laws. This job description does not constitute an employment contract.
INTRODUCTION
The Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, at the University of South Florida Morsani College of Medicine is seeking a fellowship-trained, board-certified/board-eligible rheumatologist at the rank of Assistant, Associate, or Full Professor (Open Rank) with specialized clinical expertise in Myositis (idiopathic inflammatory myopathies). This recruitment will establish and grow a dedicated Myositis program, expand patient access to specialized care across the Tampa Bay region, strengthen multidisciplinary clinical services, and advance the Division's clinical, educational, and research missions.
The successful candidate will provide comprehensive care for patients with dermatomyositis, polymyositis, inclusion body myositis, immune-mediated necrotizing myopathy, antisynthetase syndrome, overlap myositis, and myositis-associated interstitial lung disease (ILD), as well as general rheumatologic conditions. This is a full-time, 12-month salaried faculty appointment with attending staff privileges at Tampa General Hospital (TGH) and affiliated hospitals. Practice locations may include the Morsani Center for Advanced Healthcare, USF South Tampa Center, TGH Health Park, and Tampa General Hospital.
ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES
- Clinical - A typical schedule may include:
- Outpatient Rheumatology clinics with a dedicated Myositis focus
- Participation in multidisciplinary clinics and care conferences (e.g., ILD/Rheumatology with Pulmonary, Derm/Rheum, Neurology/Neuromuscular)
- Inpatient rheumatology consult coverage as assigned
-
Coordination of advanced and immunomodulatory therapies (e.g., IVIG, biologics, emerging cellular therapies) Scheduling may be tailored based on faculty interests and divisional needs.
-
Teaching - Participate in the teaching of medical students, internal medicine residents, and rheumatology fellows in clinic, inpatient consult, and conference settings. Contribute to divisional didactics, case conferences, and Grand Rounds, including education on the diagnosis and management of inflammatory myopathies. Supervise and mentor trainees in accordance with ACGME and Morsani College of Medicine requirements.
-
Research - Participate in clinical research and scholarly activity commensurate with rank, with an emphasis on Myositis and related autoimmune diseases. Opportunities include developing a Myositis patient registry and biorepository, participating in industry-sponsored and investigator-initiated clinical trials, collaborating on multidisciplinary research with Pulmonary (ILD), Neurology, and Dermatology, and disseminating findings through peer-reviewed publications and national presentations.
-
Administrative - Serve as clinical lead for the development and growth of the Myositis program, including care pathways, referral relationships, and community and physician outreach. Protected time for administration, research, and/or education is consistent with holding specific leadership roles and fulfilling said responsibilities. Should you no longer hold those leadership roles (for any reason), the protected time may be removed and will be made up by an increase in cFTE assignments related to clinical patient care. Complete clinical obligations such as chart completion and patient follow-up.
-
Call responsibilities are shared among division faculty and generally include inpatient rheumatology consultation coverage on a collegial and equitable call schedule. Participate in divisional, departmental, and hospital committees as assigned. Specifics of call frequency and responsibilities will be discussed with candidates during the recruitment process.
-
Responsible to a Chair or other appropriate higher-level administrator of a State university.
-
Responsible for teaching, research, service, and related administrative activities.
-
Responsible for academic advising and related activities.
-
May represent the university, college/school, or department.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Medical degree from an accredited institution or the highest degree appropriate in the field of specialization with a demonstrated record of achievement in teaching, academic research, and service. Must meet university criteria for appointment to the rank of Assistant, Associate, or Full Professor. For Associate/Full Professor - Normally will have produced creative work, professional writing or research in refereed and other professional journals, and be a recognized authority in the field of specialization.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
Must hold or be eligible for a full, unrestricted Florida Medical License or foreign equivalent required. To perform this position, the candidate will need to obtain and maintain a full unrestricted FL Medical License, maintain credentials in the USF Health faculty practice plan, and be a medical staff member in good standing at the hospitals he/she is assigned to perform clinical duties. The candidate will participate in the teaching of residents, fellows, and medical students in clinical medicine.
Must be board certified/eligible in Internal Medicine/Rheumatology.
WORKING AT USF
With approximately 16,000 employees, the University of South Florida is one of the largest employers in the Tampa Bay area. We are dedicated to cultivating a talented, engaged and driven workforce that strives to be bold. Employees excel in USF‘s rich academic environment, which fosters their development and advancement. In 2025, Forbes recognized USF as one of Florida’s best large employers, ranked No. 1 among the state’s 12 public universities. Our first-class benefits package includes medical, dental and life insurance plans, retirement plan options, employee and dependent tuition programs, generous leave, and hundreds of employee perks and discounts.
ABOUT USF
The University of South Florida is a top-ranked research university serving approximately 50,000 students from across the globe at campuses in Tampa, St. Petersburg, Sarasota-Manatee and USF Health. USF is recognized by U.S. News & World Report as a top 50 public university and the best value in Florida. U.S. News also ranks the USF Health Morsani College of Medicine as the No. 1 medical school in Florida and in the highest tier nationwide. USF is a member of the Association of American Universities (AAU), a group that includes only the top 3% of universities in the U.S. With an all-time high of $738 million in research funding in 2024 and as a top 20 public university for producing U.S. patents, USF uses innovation to transform lives and shape a better future. The university generates an annual economic impact of more than $6 billion. USF’s Division I athletics teams compete in the American Athletic Conference.
COMPLIANCE AND FEDERAL NOTICES
This position may be subject to a Level 1 or Level 2 criminal background check.
Applicants have rights under Federal Employment Laws:
The University of South Florida is an equal opportunity employer that does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment based on any characteristic protected by law. The University maintains programs for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities in accordance with all applicable federal and state laws.
Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
Applicants for USF employment are entitled to request reasonable accommodation(s) in the application process. A request is to be made at least five (5) working days prior to the time the accommodation(s) is needed. Visit the Central Human Resources ADA Accommodations webpage for more information on requesting an accommodation during the application/interview process.
EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY
The University of South Florida is an equal opportunity employer that does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment based on any characteristic protected by law. The University maintains affirmative action programs for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities in accordance with all applicable federal and state laws. This job description does not constitute an employment contract.
See all 83+ Rheumatologist Jobs
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Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding Rheumatologist Jobs
Target academic medical centers first
University hospitals and medical schools have established visa sponsorship processes for physician recruitment. They often handle complex cases like J-1 visa waiver requirements and have dedicated immigration support staff.
Board certification strengthens your petition
ABIM board certification or eligibility demonstrates specialized knowledge for H-1B petitions. Fellowship training in subspecialties like lupus or inflammatory arthritis adds further qualification weight for visa applications.
Consider J-1 waiver opportunities
Many rheumatologists enter on J-1 visas requiring three-year home country return. Conrad 30, rural health, and underserved area waivers can bypass this requirement while securing H-1B sponsorship.
Research visa caps and timing
H-1B applications are cap-exempt at universities and nonprofits, allowing year-round filing. For-profit practices face April lottery registration and October start dates, requiring careful timing coordination.
Highlight subspecialty expertise
Specialized training in pediatric rheumatology, rheumatoid arthritis biologics, or autoimmune disease research strengthens O-1 extraordinary ability petitions and EB-2 NIW self-petitions for permanent residence.
Connect with immigration-friendly practices
Large rheumatology groups in underserved areas often sponsor visas to meet patient demand. Rural and community practices may qualify for expedited visa processing through physician shortage designations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a medical license to get visa sponsorship as a rheumatologist?
You don't need a full medical license for initial H-1B visa sponsorship, but you need ECFMG certification and eligibility for state licensure. Most employers require you to obtain a medical license before starting work, which can be processed during visa approval waiting periods.
Can foreign medical graduates get rheumatologist visa sponsorship?
Yes, foreign medical graduates can secure sponsorship after completing USMLE exams, ECFMG certification, and U.S. residency training in internal medicine followed by rheumatology fellowship. The specialty training pathway strengthens H-1B and O-1 visa petitions significantly.
Which visa is better for rheumatologists - H-1B or O-1?
H-1B works for most rheumatologists with standard qualifications at academic centers or large practices. O-1 suits those with exceptional achievements like published research, speaking engagements, or leadership roles in professional organizations. O-1 offers more flexibility for consulting work.
How to find Rheumatologist jobs with visa sponsorship?
To find Rheumatologist positions with visa sponsorship, use Migrate Mate, which specializes in connecting international medical professionals with sponsoring employers. Focus your search on major hospital systems, academic medical centers, and specialty clinics that commonly sponsor H-1B, O-1, or EB-2 visas for physicians. These healthcare organizations often have established immigration support processes for recruiting specialized doctors like rheumatologists.
Do rheumatology fellowships count as specialized knowledge for visas?
Yes, rheumatology fellowship training demonstrates specialized medical knowledge for H-1B petitions. Subspecialty fellowships in pediatric rheumatology or specific autoimmune conditions provide even stronger qualification evidence, especially for academic positions requiring research expertise.
Can I get permanent residence as a rheumatologist without employer sponsorship?
Yes, through EB-2 National Interest Waiver if you work in underserved areas or conduct significant medical research. Physicians in rural communities or those contributing to public health often qualify for self-petitioned permanent residence without employer involvement.
What is the prevailing wage requirement for sponsored Rheumatologist jobs?
U.S. employers sponsoring a visa must pay at least the prevailing wage, which is what workers in the same role, area, and experience level typically earn. The Department of Labor sets this rate to make sure companies aren't hiring foreign workers simply because they'd accept lower pay than a U.S. worker. It varies by job title, location, and experience. You can look up current prevailing wage rates for any occupation and location using the OFLC Wage Search page.