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Opt Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

PHYSICIAN SPECIALIST - OPT D

Elgin, IL · On-site

$226K - $317K/yr

​ Job Requisition ID: 56838 Opening Date: 07/31/2026 Closing Date: 08/27/2026 ​Agency: Department of Human Services Class Title: PHYSICIAN SPECIALIST OPTION D (32224) Skill Option: Special ...

PHYSICIAN SPECIALIST OPT D

Hines, IL · On-site

$226K - $304K/yr

​ Job Requisition ID: 55583 Opening Date: 07/27/2026 Closing Date: 08/21/2026 ​Agency: Department of Human Services Class Title: PHYSICIAN SPECIALIST OPTION D (32224) Skill Option: Special ...

PHYSICIAN SPECIALIST - OPT C

Hines, IL · On-site

$226K - $304K/yr

​ Job Requisition ID: 55596 Opening Date: 07/24/2026 Closing Date: 08/20/2026 ​Agency: Department of Human Services Class Title: PHYSICIAN SPECIALIST OPTION C (32223) Skill Option: Special ...

Showing results 21-40

Opt information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$16

$35

$80

How much do opt jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for opt in Chicago, IL is $35.76, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.58 and $57.93 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an opt?

An OPT (Optional Practical Training) job is a temporary employment opportunity for international students in the U.S. on an F-1 visa. It allows students to gain practical experience related to their field of study for up to 12 months (or 24 months for STEM graduates). OPT can be undertaken before (pre-completion) or after (post-completion) graduation. Students must obtain authorization from USCIS before starting OPT employment.

What does a typical day look like for an optometrist in a private practice or clinic setting?

In a private practice or clinic, Optometrists usually spend their days conducting comprehensive eye exams, diagnosing vision problems, prescribing corrective lenses, and detecting eye diseases. You may also perform minor procedures, consult with other healthcare providers, and educate patients on eye health and preventive care. The role typically involves a balance of direct patient care and administrative work, such as updating medical records and managing follow-up appointments. Collaboration with opticians and other support staff is common to ensure patients receive complete and coordinated care. This variety makes the position engaging and allows you to build lasting relationships with your patients.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the opt position, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Optometrist (Opt), you need a Doctor of Optometry degree, state licensure, and a thorough understanding of vision science and ocular health. Familiarity with diagnostic instruments such as phoropters, autorefractors, and electronic health record (EHR) systems is essential for evaluating and documenting patient care. Strong interpersonal, problem-solving, and patient education skills help you build trust and communicate effectively with patients. These competencies ensure thorough eye examinations and optimal vision solutions, contributing to high levels of patient satisfaction and quality care.

What are the most commonly searched types of Opt jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Opt jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What job categories do people searching Opt jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Opt jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Opt jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Opt job openings:

Infographic showing various Opt job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, and 8% Nights. Highlights an 89% In-person, and 11% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $74,381 per year, or $35.8 per hour.

PHYSICIAN SPECIALIST - OPT D

State of Illinois

Elgin, IL • On-site

$226K - $317K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 24 days ago


State Of Illinois rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 74 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

15th of 50 rated states


Job description

Job Requisition ID: 56838 

Opening Date: 07/31/2026
Closing Date: 08/27/2026
​Agency: Department of Human Services
Class Title: PHYSICIAN SPECIALIST OPTION D (32224) 
Skill Option: Special License - IL License to Practice Medicine - Psychiatry & Neurology 
Bilingual Option: None
Salary: Anticipated Salary: (Eff 7/1/26) $18,908 - $26,486 per month ($226,896 - $317,832 per year)
Job Type: Salaried
Category: Full Time 
County: Kane
Number of Vacancies: 11
Bargaining Unit Code: RC063 Professional Employees, Educators,Juvenile Justice School Counselors and Special Education Resources Coordinators,and Physicians AFSCME
Merit Comp Code: 

​ 

This position is a union position; therefore, provisions of the relevant collective bargaining agreement/labor contract apply to the filling of this position.

While not required, a Resume/Curriculum Vitae (CV) is recommended. When applicable, titles that require specific coursework, professional license or certification will include a notation requesting the appropriate document(s) be uploaded in the Additional Documents section of your application. Failure to upload requested transcripts, license and/or proof of certification when specified may result in ineligibility. Please note that the Department of Human Services must verify proof of higher education for any degree earned (if applicable) regardless of vacancy title before any offer can be extended.

All applicants who want to be considered for this position MUST apply electronically through the illinois.jobs2web.com website. State of Illinois employees should click the link near the top left to apply through the SuccessFactors employee career portal.

Applications submitted via email or any paper manner (mail, fax, hand delivery) will not be considered.

Why Work for Illinois?

Working with the State of Illinois is a testament to the values of compassion, equity, and dedication that define our state. Whether you’re helping to improve schools, protect our natural resources, or support families in need, you’re part of something bigger—something that touches the lives of every person who calls Illinois home.

No matter what state career you’re looking for, we offer jobs that fit your life and your schedule—flexible jobs that provide the gold standard of benefits. Our employees can take advantage of various avenues to advance their careers and realize their dreams. Our top-tier benefits and great retirement packages can help you build a rewarding career and lasting future with the State of Illinois.

Position Overview

The Division of Behavioral Health and Recovery is seeking to hire a Physician Specialist Option D for the Elgin Mental Health Center located in Elgin, Illinois to practice as a psychiatrist utilizing psychiatry specialty 80% or more of the working time, performs general physician duties as expected of a Licensed Physician for the balance of the work time, such as conducting medical examinations, providing medical diagnosis, making medical observations and providing medical treatment. Provides for psychiatric diagnosis on the treatment unit. Assists or coordinates the treatment planning for various types of patients. Serves as consultant to other non-psychiatric physicians and professional staff on the unit regarding patient progress, medical or psychometric procedures and development of overall treatment plans.

Essential Functions
  • As a primary physician specializing in the field of psychiatry, conducts evaluations, orders, and interprets laboratory tests and other medical diagnostic and clinical procedures.
  • Participates as a unit psychiatrist and coordinates medical audits or medical program review and evaluation.
  • Serves as consultant to other non-psychiatric physicians and professional staff on the unit regarding recipient progress, medical or psychometric procedures and development of overall treatment plans.
  • May participate in the staff development program for medical, nursing, and direct care personnel through classroom lectures and/or facility in-service training programs.
  • Performs other duties as required or assigned which are reasonably within the scope of the duties enumerated above.
Minimum Qualifications
  • Requires a valid State of Illinois Physician and Surgeon License.
  • Requires American Board Certification on the job-related medical specialty of psychiatry.  
Preferred Qualifications
  • One (1) year of professional experience evaluating the quality of specialized medical care and treatment for patients with a mental illness.
  • One (1) year of professional experience coordinating medical services with other professional disciplines and supportive personnel.
  • One (1) year of professional experience conducting comprehensive psychiatric evaluations of patients.
  • One (1) year of professional experience identifying most appropriate positive treatment option and carrying out that treatment in accordance with best practices.
  • One (1) year of professional experience communicating effectively both orally and in writing.
  • One (1) year of professional experience preparing comprehensive and specialized medical records and reports.
Conditions of Employment
  • Requires the possession of a valid Illinois Controlled Substance License.
  • Requires the possession of a valid United States Drug Enforcement Administration Certificate of Registration.
  • Requires the ability to meet the requirements of and be appointed to the medical staff association of Elgin Mental Health Center within 30 days of employment.
  • Requires the ability to stand and walk for a significant period of time, including stooping, bending, lifting or exerting up to 20 pounds of force occasionally.
  • Requires ability to maintain current Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and Automated External Defibrillator (AED) certifications.
  • Requires the ability to testify in court.  
  • Requires the ability to travel in the performance of job duties.
  • Requires the ability to participate in patient management interventions that may include participating in restraint interventions.
  • Requires the ability to maintain current Basic Life Support Certification.
  • Requires the ability to serve as Medical Officer of the Day (MOD) after business hours, weekends and holidays in case of emergency.
  • Requires ability to pass the IDHS background check.
  • Requires ability to pass a drug screen for drugs prohibited from recreational use under Illinois Law.

*All conditions of employment listed are incorporated and related to any of the job duties as listed in the job description.

Work Hours: See Below:

(2 vacancies) 8:00 am - 4:00 pm Monday - Friday, 30 minute paid lunch, Unit FTP H/I

(2 vacancies) 8:00 am - 4:00 pm Monday - Friday, 30 minute paid lunch, Unit FTP F/G

(1 vacancy) 8:00 am - 4:00 pm Monday - Friday, 30 minute paid lunch, Unit FTP M/N

(1 vacancy) 8:00 am - 4:00 pm Monday - Friday, 30 minute paid lunch, Unit FTP Pinel

(1 vacancy) 8:00 am - 4:00 pm Monday - Friday, 30 minute paid lunch, Unit FTP White/Pinel

(1 vacancy) 8:00 am - 4:00 pm Monday - Friday, 30 minute paid lunch, Unit FTP Dix/Jenks

(1 vacancy) 8:00 am - 4:00 pm Monday - Friday, 30 minute paid lunch, Unit FTP H/I & M/N

(2 vacancies) 8:00 am - 4:00 pm Monday - Friday, 30 minute paid lunch, Unit FTP K/L

Headquarter Location: 750 S State St, Elgin, Illinois, 60123

Division of Behavioral Health and Recovery

Elgin Mental Health Center

Adult Forensic Treatment Program

Work County: Kane

Agency Contact: DHS.HiringUnit@illinois.gov

Posting Group: Health Services; Social Services

About the Agency:

The Illinois Department of Human Services uplifts individuals and communities across Illinois.  Our mission is to respond to the needs of all people in Illinois so they can lead healthy, safe, and enriched lives.  Our vision is the future we are shaping with dignity and the well-being for everyone in Illinois.  Our values are the principles that guide us as we work to remove systemic barriers and create lasting opportunities with Compassion, Accessibility, Responsibility, and Equity.

As a State of Illinois employee, you will receive a robust benefit package that includes the following:

  • A Pension Program
  • Competitive Group Insurance Benefits including Health, Life, Dental and Vision Insurance
  • 3 Paid Personal Business Days annually
  • 12 Paid Sick days annually (Sick days carry over from year to year)
  • 10-25 days of Paid Vacation time annually - (10 days in year one of employment)
    • Benefit time modified for part-time, 12-hour, & non-standard work schedules (as applicable)
  • 13 Paid Holidays annually, 14 on even numbered years
  • Flexible Work Schedules (when available dependent upon position)
  • 12 Weeks Paid Parental Leave
  • Deferred Compensation Program - A supplemental retirement plan
  • Optional Pre-Tax Programs such as Medical Care Assistance Plan (MCAP), Dependent Care Assistance Plan (DCAP)
  • Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program eligibility
  • GI Bill® Training/Apprenticeship Benefits eligibility for qualifying Veterans
  • 5% Salary Differential for Bilingual Positions
  • Commuter Savings Program (Chicago only)

For more information about our benefits please follow this link: https://cms.illinois.gov/benefits/stateemployee.html

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS

Use the “Apply” button at the top right or bottom right of this posting to begin the application process.

If you are not already signed in, you will be prompted to do so. 

State employees should sign in to the career portal for State of Illinois employees – a link is available at the top left of the Illinois.jobs2web.com homepage in the blue ribbon. 

Non-State employees should log in on the using the “View Profile” link in the top right of the Illinois.jobs2web.com homepage in the blue ribbon.  If you have never before signed in, you will be prompted to c


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About State of Illinois

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The State of Illinois is not a traditional company, but rather a governmental entity encompassing diverse agencies and departments that serve the constituents of Illinois. Based in Illinois, United States, this governmental body communicates with its citizens through the official website illinois.gov. The website is a one-stop resource for Illinois residents to access information about the state's services, including education, healthcare, transportation, and public safety, among others.

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

Springfield, IL, US

Year founded

2009

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