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Optional Practical Training Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Bolton & Menk will currently not be providing visa sponsorship or Optional Practical Training Extensions for STEM Students. Individuals must be legally authorized to work in the US at the start of ...

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Optional Practical Training information

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$15

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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.
Civil Project Engineer (PE) - Traffic Analysis

Civil Project Engineer (PE) - Traffic Analysis

Bolton & Menk, Inc

Greenville, SC

$79K - $106K/yr

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

Our Transportation Services team is looking for a confident and passionate Traffic Project Engineer (PE) to join our team in the Southeast. As a Top Workplace, this is a fantastic chance to work with a talented team of professionals and make a lasting impact on the communities we serve. With over 75 years of experience, Bolton & Menk specializes in providing community infrastructure solutions across the Midwest, Southeast, and beyond.

We are looking to add a Traffic Analysis Project Engineer (PE) who will help foster our mission that All People Should Live in Safe, Sustainable and Beautiful Communities! As a Traffic Analysis Project Manager (PE) , you will assist with private traffic analysis projects and provide technical support in the Charlotte or Raleigh markets.

What You Will Be Doing:

  • Cultivate client relationships in dynamic markets for private transportation projects to position for growth of our business in the Charlotte/Raleigh market.
  • Lead and manage private traffic analysis projects from concept through completion.
  • Drive growth through strategic networking and proposal development.
  • Collaborate with internal teams to ensure high-quality deliverables and client satisfaction.
  • Work with contractors and owners to develop innovative approaches to construction staging.
  • Provide technical expertise and guidance on traffic engineering standards and best practices to junior staff.

What We Are Looking For:

  • Bachelor’s degree in civil engineering or transportation engineering from an accredited college or university
  • Licensed Professional Engineer in the State of North Carolina
  • Strong working technical knowledge of engineering principles and practices is required
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills and the ability to work in a team environment is essential
  • Strong active listening and team building skills
  • Possess valid driver’s license

Bolton & Menk will currently not be providing visa sponsorship or Optional Practical Training Extensions for STEM Students. Individuals must be legally authorized to work in the US at the start of employment without a need for current or future visa sponsorship.

    WHY BOLTON & MENK?

    Bolton & Menk, Inc. specializes in providing community infrastructure solutions. Since 1949, we have been committed to improving quality of life through engineering excellence and client satisfaction. From advocating for our communities to designing their dreams to finding funding; we take pride in our work because we live in these same communities. Today, Bolton & Menk has more than 1,000 employees throughout more than 35 locations in Minnesota, Iowa, North Dakota, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Colorado providing services to more than 400 communities and agencies. Learn more about our history here: https://www.bolton-menk.com/about-us/

      OUR BENEFITS

      At Bolton & Menk, we value our people and provide an exceptional Total Compensation and Benefits Package to protect our most valuable asset. We are committed to the well-being of our employees and their families. Perks of being a Bolton & Menk employee include peace of mind with our benefits package and competitive compensation plan, flexible schedules, and career development opportunities. Learn more here: https://www.bolton-menk.com/careers

      We thank all applicants in advance for their interest in this position, however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

      Bolton & Menk does not accept unsolicited resumes from individual recruiters or third-party agencies in response to Bolton & Menk job postings. No fee will be paid to third parties who submit unsolicited candidates directly to our hiring managers. Pre-approval from the Bolton & Menk Talent Acquisition team is required after any external candidate can be submitted and such candidate must be submitted to the Bolton & Menk Talent Acquisition team.

      Bolton & Menk will currently not be providing visa sponsorship or Optional Practical Training Extensions for STEM Students. Individuals must be legally authorized to work in the US at the start of employment without a need for current or future visa sponsorship.

      It is our responsibility and privilege to embrace the diversity of people, thoughts, and experiences necessary to develop infrastructure systems that serve all people. Bolton & Menk, Inc., is an Equal Employment Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer including disability and vets.