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Optional Practical Training Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

AEM

Production Worker

Hayward, CA · On-site

$24.18/hr

F-1 visa holders with Optional Practical Training (OPT) who will require H-1B status, TNs, or current H-1B visa holders will not be considered. H1-B and green card sponsorship is not available for ...

AEM-D

Production Worker

Hayward, CA

$24.18/hr

F-1 visa holders with Optional Practical Training (OPT) who will require H-1B status, TNs, or current H-1B visa holders will not be considered. H1-B and green card sponsorship is not available for ...

AEM

Production Worker

Hayward, CA · On-site

$24.18/hr

F-1 visa holders with Optional Practical Training (OPT) who will require H-1B status, TNs, or current H-1B visa holders will not be considered. H1-B and green card sponsorship is not available for ...

AEM

Intern: Manufacturing & Test Engineering

Hayward, CA · On-site

$19 - $26/hr

F-1 visa holders with Optional Practical Training (OPT) who will require H-1B status, TNs, or current H-1B visa holders will not be considered. H1-B and green card sponsorship is not available for ...

AEM

Intern: Manufacturing & Test Engineering

Hayward, CA · On-site

$19 - $26/hr

F-1 visa holders with Optional Practical Training (OPT) who will require H-1B status, TNs, or current H-1B visa holders will not be considered. H1-B and green card sponsorship is not available for ...

Brookdale Senior Living, Inc.

LVN

Scotts Valley, CA · On-site

$31.90 - $39.88/hr

Optional voluntary benefits including ID theft protection and pet insurance Full Time Only Benefits ... Extensive corporate support including a robust training program.

NextDeavor Inc.

Production Machine Operator 1

Simi Valley, CA · On-site

$11.94 - $14.93/hr

... Optional 401k Plan (excludes employer match) Opportunity to get your foot in the door at a well ... Troubleshoot machines and implement practical solutions to restore performance * Maintain adequate ...

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Optional Practical Training information

See California salary details

$15

$29

$43

How much do optional practical training jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for optional practical training in California is $29.48, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.42 and $33.22 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.
What are popular job titles related to Optional Practical Training jobs in California? For Optional Practical Training jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Optional Practical Training jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Optional Practical Training jobs in California are:
Optional Practical Training jobs near you
Infographic showing various Optional Practical Training job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,326 per year, or $29.5 per hour.

Coordinator DSO

International Americian University

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$17.87 - $27.43/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Re-posted 24 days ago

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Job description

Description:
We are seeking a Coordinator/Designated School Official (DSO), Career & Alumni Services, who supports students by providing career advising, assistance with employment authorizations (CPT/OPT), job placement, employment verification, résumé writing, interview preparation, and professional development workshops. Additionally, the coordinator is responsible for identifying new employment opportunities for CPT/OPT students by maintaining relationships with previous employers and actively engaging with new potential employers. Candidates must be a U.S. resident or citizen to qualify.
Key Responsibilities:

  • Understands the demographics and needs of the IAU student body. 
  • Knows SEVP regulations as well as the work authorizations and employment challenges that impact F-1 students.
  • Assist students with questions about F-1 employment authorizations and advise students applying for said authorizations, i.e., CPT, OPT.
  • Issue Forms I-20 and maintain SEVIS records accurately and in a timely manner.
  • Monitor SEVIS alerts, submit correction requests or data fix requests to SEVP/SRC as needed, and respond to DHS/USCIS inquiries.
  • Establishes relationships with employers, HR administrators, and headhunters to connect students/graduates to potential employers. Attends functions to expand the network of potential employers.
  • Promotes employment opportunities to students, including but not limited to sharing opportunities on the IAU website and keeping track of students looking for CPT opportunities in the upcoming semester as well as students looking for OPT jobs.
  • Collects job verification surveys to gather job placement and salary data for state and accreditation reporting.
  • Works with other staff to design and administer employer satisfaction surveys 
  • 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 with resume writing, interview tips, and mock interviews.
  • Performs duties related to the job description, as assigned by the supervisor.