RaymondPhD

I am a UK citizen currently working in the USA. My current J1 visa has recently been extended for 2 more years. Prior to the extension of my J1 visa i applied for a job with another company and they are currently apply for my H1B visa.
My question is that i do not want my current employers to know that i am applying for a H1B visa (I guess it may be difficult to hide it from them) and i just wanted to know if i apply for a change of status will i beallowed to stay on my current J1 visa until i obtain a decision regarding my H1B visa application? Also once my H1B is being processed will the DOS inform my current employer?

Thanks for any help you can give.

Many thanks

Ray