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Entry Level Opt Student Jobs in Missouri (NOW HIRING)

Entry Level Opt Student information

See Missouri salary details

$17.9K

$41K

$75.3K

How much do entry level opt student jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level opt student in Missouri is $41,033.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25,690.00 and $50,946.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level opt student?

Entry level OPT (Optional Practical Training) students are international students in the United States, typically on an F-1 visa, who have recently graduated or are close to graduating and are authorized to work in their field of study. OPT allows these students to gain practical experience related to their academic major for up to 12 months, or up to 36 months for those in STEM fields. Entry level positions are jobs that require little to no prior professional experience and are suitable for recent graduates. These roles help OPT students gain valuable skills and potentially transition to longer-term employment or work visas. Employers must ensure that OPT students have valid work authorization before hiring.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level opt student?

To thrive as an Entry Level Optometry Student, you need a solid understanding of basic sciences, strong analytical skills, and typically a bachelor's degree with prerequisite coursework in biology, chemistry, and physics. Familiarity with clinical tools such as phoropters, autorefractors, and electronic health record (EHR) systems is often required. Excellent communication, attention to detail, and a willingness to learn help students excel in both academic and clinical settings. These skills and qualities are crucial for mastering optometric knowledge, providing effective patient care, and succeeding in a rigorous educational environment.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level opt students during their clinical rotations?

Entry Level Opt Students often encounter challenges such as adapting to working with real patients, managing time effectively between coursework and clinical duties, and quickly learning to use diagnostic equipment. It can also be daunting to apply theoretical knowledge to practical situations and communicate clearly with both patients and supervising professionals. However, these challenges are valuable learning experiences that help students build confidence and competency in a supportive environment.

What is the difference between Entry Level Opt Student vs Opt Technician?

AspectEntry Level Opt StudentOpt Technician
Required CredentialsCurrently enrolled in or recent graduate of optometry programHigh school diploma or equivalent; certification may be preferred
Work EnvironmentOptometry clinics, eye care offices, educational settingsOptometry clinics, optical retail stores, healthcare facilities
Employer & Industry UsageOptometry schools, eye care practices, hospitalsOptometry practices, optical retail chains, healthcare providers
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The main difference between an Entry Level Opt Student and an Opt Technician lies in their credentials and roles. An Opt Student is typically enrolled in an optometry program and gaining educational experience, while an Opt Technician usually has certification and assists with patient care and optical procedures. Both roles are essential in eye care settings, but they differ in responsibilities and qualifications.

What are the most commonly searched types of Opt Student jobs in Missouri?

The most popular types of Opt Student jobs in Missouri are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Opt Student jobs in Missouri?

For Entry Level Opt Student jobs in Missouri, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Opt Student jobs in Missouri look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Opt Student jobs in Missouri are:

What cities in Missouri are hiring for Entry Level Opt Student jobs?

Cities in Missouri with the most Entry Level Opt Student job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Opt Student job openings in Missouri as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 64% Full Time, 29% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 18% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,033 per year, or $19.7 per hour.

Structural Engineering Intern (Summer 2027 - Kansas City)

Kansas City, MO โ€ข On-site

Apex Engineers Inc
Civil Engineering Constructionย โ€ขย 51 - 200 employees

$20 - $28/hr

Full-time, Temporary, Internship

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Description

Apex Engineers is seeking civil, structural, or architectural engineering students for our Summer 2027 Structural Internship in our Kansas City office.


Our interns work on active projects from the first week. The program mirrors the first 12 weeks of a full-time new graduate's onboarding, so you finish the summer knowing what starting a career in structural engineering actually involves. You will work alongside licensed engineers across commercial, industrial, multifamily, and residential projects, from entry-level homes to high-end custom residences.


What you'll do

  • Contribute to structural analysis, design, and documentation under the guidance of project engineers.
  • Perform structural calculations in steel, concrete, wood, and masonry, including wind and seismic, using RISA 2D/3D and Enercalc.
  • Build and refine models and drawings in Revit.
  • Apply IBC and IRC provisions to real design decisions.
  • Coordinate with project teams on construction documents and design reviews.
  • Work directly with project managers on timelines, workload, and deliverables.

Compensation and benefits

  • Pay: $20 to $28 per hour, based on class standing and prior experience. This is an hourly, non-exempt position. You are paid for every hour you work, including overtime when it applies.
  • Bonus: Interns are not eligible for bonus or incentive programs.
  • Benefits: As a temporary summer position, this role is not eligible for Apex's medical, dental, vision, holiday/PTO or retirement plans.

Application

Applications will be accepted through October 9, 2026. If the position remains open past that date, this posting will be updated with a revised deadline.


Additional employment information

  • Apex Engineers participates in E-Verify. As required by federal law, we confirm the employment eligibility of all new hires through Form I-9 after they begin work.
  • We are not able to offer visa sponsorship, including CPT and OPT, at this time.
  • Recruiters, please do not contact us regarding this posting.

Apex Engineers, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. If you need a reasonable accommodation to participate in the application or interview process, contact hr@apex-engineers.com.

Requirements

What we're looking for

  • Pursuing a bachelor's degree in civil, structural, or architectural engineering from an ABET-accredited program.
  • Junior-year coursework complete by the start of the internship. Preferred: statics and dynamics, structural analysis, steel, concrete, soils, foundations.
  • GPA of 3.0 or higher preferred. We read the whole application.
  • Coursework or project experience in Revit.
  • Prior construction or design experience is a plus.