1

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 ...

Showing results 41-60

Optional Practical Training information

See salary details

$15

$29

$43

How much do optional practical training jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 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.

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 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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $62,140 per year, or $29.9 per hour.

Fall Intern, Social Media Marketing

NAFSA Association of International Educators

Washington, DC โ€ข On-site

$18.40/hr

Full-time, Internship

Posted 22 days ago


Job description

NAFSA Association of International Educators is the world's largest association of professionals committed exclusively to advancing international education and exchange. The association provides professional development and learning opportunities, promotes research and knowledge, and convenes conferences and collaborative dialogues.
Fall 2026 Intern Projects (September through Mid-December):
As a member of the NAFSA Marketing team, you will gain hands-on experience supporting the execution of NAFSA's social media content and video production, working closely with the Social Media and Content Specialist to elevate our digital presence and engage our global community of followers.
Key Responsibilities:
1. Content Creation & Creative Production
  • Develop social-first content, including graphics, captions, and short-form video, aligned with NAFSA's brand and voice.
  • Assist in building and maintaining content calendars to support campaigns, events, and organizational priorities.
  • Support the creation and organization of visual assets and member stories for ongoing content use.
  • Collaborate with the Social Media and Content Specialist to bring campaigns and storytelling initiatives to life.

2. Social Media Execution & Community Engagement
  • Assist with day-to-day social media management, including scheduling, posting, and monitoring content across platforms (Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, and X/Twitter).
  • Stay up to date on social trends and platform features, contributing ideas to keep content fresh and relevant.

3. Cross-Team Collaboration
  • Support promotion of NAFSA programs, events, and initiatives through coordinated social efforts.
  • Contribute to brainstorming sessions and creative campaign ideation.

The Ideal Candidate:
  • Strong interest in social media, content creation, and video production
  • Excellent writing skills, especially for short-form, engaging social copy.
  • Familiarity with trending content; comfort creating content for different audiences.
  • Basic graphic design skills (Canva, Photoshop)
  • Video editing skills (In-app tools, CapCut, Premiere Pro).
  • Detail-oriented, organized, and able to manage multiple creative tasks.
  • Collaborative, proactive, and eager to learn in a fast-paced environment.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Interest or knowledge in higher education and international education.
  • Career aspirations that include social media, marketing, and project management.
  • Experience managing personal, academic, or organizational social media accounts.
  • Interest in events and live/social coverage.
  • A self-starter who is eager to learn.

Compensation: $18.40/hour for 20 hours per week with opportunity for holiday, retirement benefits, if eligible.
Requirements
To be considered, you must be able to demonstrate that you are authorized to work in the US without requiring NAFSA's sponsorship. We welcome students with valid work authorization wishing to complete their experiential learning through their established curricular practical training (CPT), optional practical training (OPT) or academic training eligibility.
Salary Description
$18.40/hour for up to 20 hours per week