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Optional Practical Training Jobs (NOW HIRING)

$59K - $78K/yr

OPT's (Optional Practical Training) candidates welcome * 1-2 years' experience preferred * Strong communication skills * Ability to work independently among various hospital departments * Excel ...

Staff Accountant

Boston, MA · On-site

$59K - $78K/yr

OPT's (Optional Practical Training) candidates welcome * 1-2 years' experience preferred * Strong communication skills * Ability to work independently among various hospital departments * Excel ...

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Coordinator DSO

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$17.87 - $27.43/hr

Participate in workshops, meetings, and seminars for students, including, but not limited to, curricular practical training (CPT) and optional practical training (OPT) workshops. * Assists students ...

Production Operators

Whitsett, NC · On-site

$12.50 - $15/hr

This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship, including Optional Practical Training (OPT) or Curricular Practical Training (CPT). All applicants must be currently authorized to work in the ...

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Optional Practical Training information

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How much do optional practical training jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for optional practical training in the United States is $29.88, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.76 and $33.65 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Why is Gen Z struggling to get jobs?

Gen Z faces challenges in securing jobs due to high competition, limited work experience, and evolving employer expectations for digital skills and adaptability. Many entry-level positions require relevant skills, certifications, or internships, which can be difficult for new graduates to obtain without prior experience.

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

High-paying jobs that can reach $10,000 a month without a degree often include roles such as sales managers, real estate brokers, or skilled trades like electricians and plumbers, especially with experience and certifications. These positions typically require strong skills, industry knowledge, and sometimes licensing, but not necessarily a college degree.

What is the difference between Optional Practical Training vs Data Analyst?

AspectOptional Practical TrainingData Analyst
Required CredentialsF-1 visa, student statusBachelor's or higher in data-related fields
Work EnvironmentTemporary employment related to field of studyAnalyzing data, creating reports, using software tools
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, employers hiring international studentsBusinesses, tech companies, finance, healthcare

Optional Practical Training (OPT) is a temporary work authorization for international students on F-1 visas, allowing them to gain practical experience related to their field of study. A Data Analyst is a professional role focused on analyzing data to support business decisions. While OPT provides the legal framework for international students to work, a Data Analyst is a specific job title within various industries. Understanding the difference helps international students plan their career paths effectively.

Which jobs pay 50 an hour in the USA?

Jobs that pay around $50 an hour in the USA include roles such as software developers, registered nurses with specialized skills, project managers, and certain skilled trades like electricians and plumbers. These positions often require relevant experience, certifications, or technical skills and may involve full-time or contract work in professional or technical environments.

What are some common challenges faced by international students during their Optional Practical Training (OPT) period?

International students on OPT often face challenges such as securing employment within the allowed time frame, understanding employer sponsorship options, and staying compliant with visa regulations. Navigating the 90-day unemployment limit and ensuring timely updates to SEVIS are critical. Additionally, students may encounter difficulties in finding employers familiar with OPT requirements, so proactive communication and thorough research are essential for a successful OPT experience.

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

To succeed as an OPT participant, you generally need to be an F-1 visa student with a qualifying degree and a strong academic background in your field of study. Familiarity with job search platforms, resume-building tools, and knowledge of immigration compliance systems like SEVIS are important. Exceptional communication, adaptability, and self-motivation help you network, secure positions, and navigate workplace cultures. These skills and qualifications are crucial for gaining meaningful U.S. work experience and maximizing the benefits of the OPT program.

What kind of jobs can you get on OPT?

Optional Practical Training (OPT) allows international students to work in jobs related to their field of study, including roles in industries such as engineering, healthcare, technology, education, and business. The jobs typically require relevant skills and may involve full-time or part-time work, internships, or co-op positions that help gain practical experience in the chosen field.

What is Optional Practical Training (OPT)?

Optional Practical Training (OPT) is a temporary employment authorization available to eligible F-1 visa students in the United States. It allows international students to work in a job related to their major field of study for up to 12 months, either during or after completing their academic program. STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) graduates may qualify for a 24-month extension. OPT provides valuable work experience that complements academic learning and helps students build professional networks in their field.
More about Optional Practical Training jobs
What cities are hiring for Optional Practical Training jobs? Cities with the most Optional Practical Training job openings:
What states have the most Optional Practical Training jobs? States with the most job openings for Optional Practical Training jobs include:
Infographic showing various Optional Practical Training job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $62,140 per year, or $29.9 per hour.

OPT Volunteer - Marketing Operations - Analytics - Research

eMarketing Foundation

Manhattan, NY • On-site

Other

Posted yesterday


Job description

Type: Volunteer marketing and operations team member, OPT (Optional Practical Training), and CPT (Curricular Practical Training)

Location: Manhattan (and remote)

Company: Giving Forward (501c3 nonprofit) in collaboration with eMarketing Foundation (also 501c3) and industry partners to allow for volunteers to learn on the job.

The Opportunity: Learn hands on, including OPT and CPT students!

We provide you with hands on supervision and an opportunity to learn, grow, add to your resume, and shine.

Why the the eMarketing Foundation and Giving Forward?

  • We focus on the intersections between Marketing, Operations, Research and Cause marketing: We deliver value to businesses and nonprofits but they don't know about our platforms and services. The teams will assist in research, planning and execution

Example companies you'll have an opportunity to help operate, promote and execute marketing around

  • Giving Forward cause marketing platform helps drive sales and leads to businesses, influencers and publishers
  • eMarketing Research: Research for companies and nonprofits executed by supervised student and OPT volunteers
  • GoodPics: Charity Headshots at events, and GoodPicsKids:
  • Truth Nutrition: Fitness Supplement Company
  • Didit: Marketing Agency
  • Voiceoo: AI powered voicemail drop platform


Apply now!