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Optional Practical Training Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Bolton & Menk, Inc.

Survey Manager (PLS)

Wilmington, NC · On-site

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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$15

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$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:
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Optional Practical Training jobs near you
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.
DOD SkillBridge Program - Survey Technician

DOD SkillBridge Program - Survey Technician

Bolton & Menk, Inc

Raleigh, NC

Full-time

Posted 6 hours ago

Job description

Bolton & Menk is seeking a Survey Technician through our DOD SkillBridge Program. SkillBridge is a Department of Defense (DOD) program that helps service members gain civilian work experience. 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 Southeast, Midwest, and beyond.

DOD SkillBridge Program - Survey Technicians engage in a 3-month immersive experience predominately collaborating with seasoned crew chiefs in the field, where they can apply their newly acquired skills to actually work projects.

What You Will Be Doing:

  • You will assist with boundary surveys, construction staking, topographic surveys, ALTA surveys, and GPS data collection
  • You will be on construction staking
  • You will be gaining experience with Trimble, Robotic Total Station, and GPS equipment
  • This position will interact with staff, landowners, contractors, and subcontractors

What We Are Looking For:

  • Must be a Military Service Member with 180 days of service or fewer remaining after your separation date
  • Must have the ability to work in extended outdoor conditions and be physically capable of navigating rugged terrain for the purpose of performing the duties outlined above
  • General knowledge of land surveying and AutoCAD drafting are preferred
  • Must possess a valid driver’s license and be insurable under the firm’s standard rates. Must also own their own transportation. You will be reimbursed for business-related travel. A check of the candidate's motor vehicle record will be conducted as part of the on-boarding

Relocation and housing are not included. Wages and Benefits provided by Department of Defense while participating in the program.

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.

Supporting Our Service Members:

Your opportunities for growth, success, and personal fulfillment continue well beyond your military service. Bolton & Menk offers a variety of benefit programs and amenities designed to support you and your family at every stage of life.

Benefits:

  • Military Affinity Group
  • Competitive compensation plan - overtime compensation available to most employees
  • Discretionary bonuses available to most employees
  • ESOP - Employee ownership (ESOP); 100% company-paid contributions
  • 401(k) Match Program
  • Paid time off (PTO)
  • Volunteer Time Off (VTO)
  • Six paid company holidays
  • Two floating personal holidays for events that are important in your life
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • Parental leave
  • Short term and Long-term disability
  • Dependent care reimbursement
  • Employee assistance program
  • Health insurance
  • Flexible spending account
  • Life insurance
  • Vision insurance

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 40 locations in Minnesota, Iowa, North Dakota, Wisconsin, Colorado, North Carolina, and South Carolina providing services to more than 400 communities and agencies. Learn more about our history here: https://www.bolton-menk.com/about-us/

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.