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Opt Candidates Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The firm gladly welcomes CPT/OPT candidates to apply for internship but cannot guarantee future sponsorship Requirements * Undergraduate student, Graduate student, Non-traditional student, or Alumni

Zendesk Expert

$100 - $200/hr

We are unable to support H1-B or STEM OPT candidates at this time. About Mercor Mercor partners with leading AI labs and enterprises to train frontier models using human expertise. You will work on ...

IT Intern

Grand Rapids, MI · On-site

$14.50 - $19.25/hr

Hungerford welcomes CPT/OPT candidates to apply for our internships but cannot guarantee future sponsorship About Us Hungerford is a forward-thinking, innovative firm with over 80 years of proud ...

$120/hr

Not eligible for H1-B or STEM OPT candidates Why Apply * Competitive hourly rate: $120/hour * Flexible remote work with consistent workload * Opportunity to shape AI-driven equity research datasets

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Opt Candidates information

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$15

$34

$77

How much do opt candidates jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for opt candidates in the United States is $34.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.95 and $56.25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges OPT candidates face when applying for jobs in the U.S., and how can they overcome them?

OPT candidates often encounter challenges such as limited employer sponsorship for future visas, navigating complex immigration paperwork, and tight application timelines due to visa restrictions. To overcome these, it's helpful to target employers familiar with OPT and H-1B processes, clearly communicate work authorization status in applications, and start the job search early. Proactively networking and leveraging university career resources can also improve the chances of securing a relevant position before OPT timelines expire.

What jobs can you do with OPT?

Opt candidates can work in a variety of fields related to their major, including roles in engineering, IT, healthcare, finance, education, and research. They are allowed to work full-time or part-time, and employment must be related to their field of study. Employers often require OPT documentation and may need to verify employment eligibility and job relevance.

What is the difference between Opt Candidates vs Data Entry Clerks?

AspectOpt CandidatesData Entry Clerks
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require certifications in data managementHigh school diploma or equivalent; basic computer skills
Work EnvironmentOffice settings, remote options, data processing centersOffice environments, data entry centers, remote work
Employer & Industry UsageUsed across industries for data management, healthcare, financeCommon in administrative, healthcare, retail sectors
Search & Comparison IntentLooking for candidates with data processing skillsSearching for data entry roles or job candidates

Opt Candidates and Data Entry Clerks both involve handling data, but Opt Candidates refers to potential job applicants, while Data Entry Clerks are specific roles focused on inputting data. Understanding these differences helps employers find suitable candidates and job seekers identify relevant positions.

Are OPT students getting jobs in the USA?

OPT candidates, who are international students on Optional Practical Training, often find employment related to their field of study in the USA. Many secure jobs in industries such as technology, healthcare, and engineering, especially when they possess relevant skills and certifications, and employers are familiar with OPT regulations. However, job availability can vary based on economic conditions and individual qualifications.

What is the 70 30 rule in hiring?

The 70 30 rule in hiring suggests that employers should spend approximately 70% of their interview time assessing a candidate's skills, experience, and qualifications, and 30% evaluating cultural fit and interpersonal skills. For roles like Opt Candidates, balancing technical competence with soft skills is essential to ensure a well-rounded hire.

What job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

Opt candidates can potentially earn $10,000 a month through roles such as sales representatives, real estate agents, or skilled trades like electricians and plumbers, which often rely on experience, certifications, or licensing rather than formal degrees. Success in these fields depends on skills, client base, and market demand, with some individuals reaching high income levels through commissions or project-based work.

What are OPT candidates?

OPT candidates are international students in the United States who are on F-1 visas and are authorized to work temporarily under the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program. OPT allows these students to gain practical experience in their field of study for up to 12 months (or up to 36 months for certain STEM graduates) after graduation or while still in school. Employers can hire OPT candidates without needing to sponsor them for a work visa initially, making it easier to fill specialized roles. However, after the OPT period ends, continued employment typically requires visa sponsorship, such as an H-1B visa.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an OPT (Optional Practical Training) Candidate, and why are they important?

To thrive as an OPT Candidate, you typically need a relevant academic background in your field of study, strong technical or analytical skills, and eligibility for OPT authorization. Proficiency with industry-specific software, familiarity with work authorization processes, and sometimes certifications related to your profession are valuable. Strong communication, adaptability, and networking skills help distinguish you in a competitive job market. These skills and qualifications are crucial for securing employment, excelling in a U.S. workplace, and successfully transitioning from student to professional roles.
More about Opt Candidates jobs
What states have the most Opt Candidates jobs? States with the most job openings for Opt Candidates jobs include:
Infographic showing various Opt Candidates job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $72,204 per year, or $34.7 per hour.

2027 Tax Intern - St. Joseph

Hungerford

Saint Joseph, MI • On-site

Other

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

Description

Winter Semester (January - April 2027)


Summary

Interns are guided and supported by multiple members of our tax team and formal Buddy program, who brief them in advance on the assignments, suggest expeditious methods, answer questions, decide on remedies when difficulties are encountered, and review their progress periodically. Interns generally do not deal directly with client personnel without guidance and supervision by a more senior member of our tax team.


Responsibilities

  • Prepare 1040 individual income tax returns primarily, with opportunity for more complex 1040, personal property tax returns, or business/partnership returns as available
  • Assist in preparing trial balances, working papers and depreciations schedules using Microsoft Excel and Word
  • Become familiar and engaged with the firm's personnel, policies and procedures
  • Understand the rules, regulations and code of ethics of the AICPA
  • Have fun and learn!

Other Details

  • This is a paid internship opportunity
  • We encourage students to seek course credit for their internship in coordination with their schools' faculty and career services policies
  • We host internships on-site in each of our West Michigan office locations; Grand Rapids, Greenville, Muskegon, Holland, St. Joseph
  • The firm gladly welcomes CPT/OPT candidates to apply for internship but cannot guarantee future sponsorship


Requirements

  • Undergraduate student, Graduate student, Non-traditional student, or Alumni
  • Studying accounting or related field
  • Minimum GPA of 3.0 preferred