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Optional Practical Training Jobs (NOW HIRING)

New England Baptist Hospital

$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 ...

New England Baptist Hospital

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 ...

International Americian University

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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 ...

Lancesoft

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 Jul 20, 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.

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 advanced education, 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.

How can I make 2000 a week working from home?

To earn $2000 weekly working from home, individuals often pursue high-paying remote roles such as freelance consulting, software development, or digital marketing, which require relevant skills and experience. Building a strong portfolio, acquiring certifications, and utilizing online platforms can help access such opportunities, but achieving this income level typically involves consistent effort and specialized expertise.

How can F-1 students make money?

F-1 students on Optional Practical Training (OPT) can work in jobs related to their field of study, including internships, employment, or co-op positions, often with employer sponsorship and proper authorization. They must adhere to specific employment rules, such as working within approved dates and maintaining full-time student status outside of work hours. Employment must be authorized by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and reported to their school's international student office.

What jobs can I work on OPT?

On Optional Practical Training (OPT), international students can work in jobs related to their field of study, including internships, part-time, or full-time positions. The work must be directly related to their major and can include roles in various industries such as technology, healthcare, engineering, education, and business, often requiring relevant skills and sometimes certifications. Employment can be in diverse settings like companies, research institutions, or startups, and students must adhere to OPT employment rules and reporting requirements.

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:
What job categories do people searching Optional Practical Training jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Optional Practical Training jobs are:
Optional Practical Training jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optional Practical Training job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 3% 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.
International Student and Scholar Advisor

International Student and Scholar Advisor

University of North Carolina at Charlotte

Charlotte, NC • On-site

$50K/yr

Full-time

Posted 26 days ago

The University Of North Carolina At Charlotte rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

448th of 555 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Position Information
General Information
Position Number
000089
Vacancy Open to
All Candidates
Working Title
International Student and Scholar Advisor
Position Designation
EHRA Non-Faculty
Employment Type
Permanent - Full-time
Months per Year
12
Work Schedule
University hours are 8:00 am - 5:00 pm, Monday - Friday; this position may require occasional weekends.
Hours per week
40
FLSA Status
Exempt
Division
Academic Affairs
Department
International Programs (Adm)
Work Location
CHHS 202E
Salary Range
$50,000
Primary Purpose of Department
The International Student and Scholar Office is charged with ensuring UNC Charlotte's compliance with federal regulations about the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), the Department of State (DOS), and other governmental agencies. Additionally, ISSO administers programs and services for over 1,800 international students, scholars, faculty, and their dependents; these services include and are not limited to immigration advising, planning and executing orientations and other cultural programs for new students and scholars, and providing outreach to the campus community.
Primary Purpose of Position
The International Student and Scholar Advisor performs duties in the two primary functional areas of institutional immigration compliance and educational outreach to support the mission of the International Student and Scholar Office at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. The ISSO Advisor's main immigration role is for F-1 international students; the Advisor will further support the ISSO Director and Associate Director as needed for J-1 student and scholar matters. The second ISSO functional area supported by the Advisor includes responsibility for initiating retention programs and services that promote intercultural exchange, knowledge, and understanding within and between the U.S. domestic and international communities. UNC Charlotte enrolls approximately 1,800 international students in addition to 1,300 students on OPT and 100 international scholars.
The International Student and Scholar Advisor will report to the Associate Director of the International Student and Scholar Office.
Summary of Position Responsibilities
The successful candidate will:
  • Serve as Designated School Official (DSO) for the F-1 visa program
  • Advise international students in F-1 in areas of immigration, cultural, personal, and financial concerns
  • Manage F-1 and J-1 records regarding international students, exchange visitors, and dependent populations for accurate reporting to the Student and Exchange Visitor Program.
  • In coordination with other ISSO staff, participate in discussions about policies and procedures regarding ISSO services and programs
  • Assist and support students with immigration applications and petitions
  • Review STEM-Optional Practical Training applications and issue I-20s recommending 24-month STEM Optional Practical Training extension (full review of I-983, analysis and troubleshooting of current Student and Exchange Visitor Information System record, resulting in issuance, maintenance, and store I-20)
  • Maintenance and storage of all forms I-983
  • Develop and maintain web resources to help answer questions on STEM-Optional Practical Training
  • Create, implement, and assess educational programs such as seminars, workshops, and activities for international students
  • Consult with the ISSO Director and Associate Director to ensure accurate and current presentation of immigration information to students via the internet, e-mail, listserv, and other means of communication
  • Assist in the maintenance and update of UNC Charlotte databases, such as BANNER and ISSS batching software
  • Build and maintain positive working relationships with various campus partners to further collaborative efforts (e.g., Graduate and Undergraduate Admissions, Dean of Students, Registrar, Housing and Residence Life, etc.)
  • Support with the coordination and implementation of ISSO orientations and cross-cultural programs for international students and their dependents
  • Assist in the office transition to Terra Dotta Systems (SEVIS batch software) to include working on custom internal enhancements, troubleshooting, creating e-forms, and ensuring efficiency in ISSO application processing.
  • Serve and participate in the coordination and implementation of Charlotte Global events.

Minimum Education/Experience
  • Bachelor's Degree and
  • One year of experience in international student and scholar advising, or an
  • Equivalent combination of education and experience.

Preferred Education, Knowledge, Skills and Experience
  • Familiarity with laws and regulations related to U.S. higher education, F-1 and J-1 visa/status regulations
  • Experience working with Banner or PeopleSoft student information system, SEVIS, Sunapsis, TDS, ISSM, or Drupal
  • Experience working with a large international student population
  • Experience working, living, and/or studying abroad
  • Familiarity with working in a university environment, ability to work effectively with faculty and administrators
  • Proficiency in a foreign language
  • Ability to work well in groups, work independently, and advise on confidential issues
  • Ability to manage software systems to streamline processes and communications
  • Must be detail-oriented in working with databases, applications, and advising students
  • Must have an understanding of international student development, as well as excellent communication, organizational, and customer service skills
  • Ability to be flexible with other duties and special projects as assigned
  • Ability to communicate effectively with students, faculty, staff, and administrators with patience and diplomacy within a teamwork environment
  • U.S. citizenship or lawful U.S. permanent resident status [as required by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and U.S. Department of State]

Necessary Certifications/Licenses
N/A
Preferred Certifications/Licenses
N/A
Special Notes to Applicants
  • Thank you for applying for this position. We appreciate your interest and will work diligently to fill the position as expeditiously as possible. We will be in touch regarding the next steps in the process.
  • This posting will be used to fill two positions, 000089 and 007860.
  • The finalist will be subject to a Criminal Background Check and/or a Motor Vehicle Report
  • The Search Committee will not contact references without first verifying permission with the finalist.
  • Please ensure your resume reflects the knowledge, skills, abilities, and experiences to support your answers to the supplemental questions.
  • UNC Charlotte Benefits Information: https://hr.charlotte.edu/benefits/benefits-overview/

Posting Open Date
06/25/2026
Posting Close Date
07/26/2026
Open Until Filled
No
Proposed Hire Date
09/01/2026
If time-limited please indicate appointment end date
Contact Information

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