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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 ยท 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 ยท 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 ...

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Optional Practical Training information

See salary details

$15

$29

$43

How much do optional practical training jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 4, 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 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 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 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.

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.

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 May 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, and 13% Part Time. 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.

Marketing Research Operations & Support (Volunteer & OPT)

eMarketing Foundation

Manhattan, NY โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

Type: Volunteer Marketing Operations Assistant, Operations and Research, OPT (Optional Practical Training), and CPT (Curricular Practical Training)

Location: Manhattan (and remote)

Company: eMarketing Foundation (501c3 nonprofit) in collaboration with Giving Forward (also 501c3) Truth Nutrition (nutritional supplement company), Didit (an agency) and Voiceoo.com to allow for volunteers to learn on the job about marketing and operations.

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 eMarketing Foundation?

  • We focus on marketing, operations and cause marketing: We deliver value to businesses and nonprofits but they don't know about our platforms and services. The marketing support 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
  • GoodPics: Charity Headshots at events, and GoodPicsKids:
  • Truth Nutrition: Fitness Supplement Company
  • Didit: Marketing Agency
  • Voiceoo: AI powered voicemail drop platform

Apply now!