University of South Carolina OPT Eligible Jobs USA
University of South Carolina hires OPT students across education, research, and administrative roles, making it a practical target for F-1 graduates seeking university employment. Its academic environment supports the OPT-to-H-1B visa transition, particularly for research, IT, and faculty-adjacent positions requiring specialized degrees.
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Get Access To All JobsPosting Number STA00326PO26
Job Family Academic and Career Counseling
Job Function Academic Advising
USC Market Title Exploratory Academic Advisor
Job Level P1 - Professional
Business Title (Internal Title) Exploratory Advisor I
Campus Columbia
Work County Richland
College/Division Division of Academic Affairs and Provost
Department PROV University Advising Center
State Pay Range G09
USC Market Range MRF - $52,526 $65,658 $78,789
Anticipated Hiring Range $54,960-$64,960
Location of Vacancy
Part/Full Time Full Time
Hours per Week 37.5
Work Schedule
* Standard working schedule: 8:30am – 5:00pm
* Must be willing to work a flexible schedule to meet the needs of the department.
Basis 12 months
Job Search Category Student Services
About USC
About University of South Carolina
From the Upstate to the Lowcountry, the University of South Carolina system is transforming the lives of South Carolinians through the impact of our eight institutions and 20 locations throughout the state. More than 50,000 students are enrolled at one of eight institutions, including the research campus in Columbia and comprehensive four-year universities in Aiken, Upstate and Beaufort. In addition, our Palmetto College campuses in Salkehatchie, Union, Lancaster and Sumter enable students to earn associate or bachelor’s degrees through a combination of in-person, online or blended learning. All of our system institutions place strong emphasis on service — helping to build healthier, more educated communities in South Carolina and beyond.
Veterans' Preference Statement
The University of South Carolina is committed to equal opportunity and proudly values the skills and experience military veterans bring to our workforce. Across South Carolina, we are making veterans a priority for employment and recognize their vital contributions to our state and our communities.
Benefits for FTE Positions
The University of South Carolina (USC), through the State of SC and Public Employee Benefit Authority (PEBA), offers employees a valuable benefits package, including health and life insurance, generous paid leave and retirement programs. To learn more about USC benefits, access the "Working at USC" section on the Applicant Portal.
Position Description
Advertised Job Summary
The University Advising Center’s Exploratory Advisor provides prescriptive academic advising to students in transition, particularly those changing or declaring their major, to facilitate intentional academic decision-making. Exploratory Advisors have a working knowledge of all college curricula (i.e. 140+ majors and concentrations), major-change policies and procedures for all 11 academic colleges/schools and must communicate regularly with campus partners. In addition, this position must maintain an average advising schedule of 30 hours per week, participate in ongoing training, conduct various outreach efforts, and regularly assess the effectiveness of Exploratory Advising programs.
Job Related Minimum Required Education and Experience
* Requires a Master’s degree in a job related field and 1 year of job related experience, OR Bachelor’s degree in a job related field and 3 years of job related experience.
Preferred Qualifications
* Masters degree and 2 years advising experience or an equivalent combination of certification, training, education, and/or experience.
Knowledge/Skills/Abilities
* The position requires strong critical thinking, memorization, attention to detail, and communication skills, as well as the ability to work independently while developing strong collaborative relationships with colleagues, students, and student affairs and academic affairs units.
* The individual must be able to exercise excellent professional judgment and discretion, making decisions on a regular basis that impact student welfare and the institution.
Job Duties
Exploratory Advising/Major Change: Provide Exploratory Advising to undergraduate students interested in changing majors. Learn curriculum and program requirements for all majors/minors/focus options at USC-Columbia including academic regulations, university policies/procedures. Support undecided students and students transitioning into their major of choice. Assist students with learning major and course requirements and developing academic plans. Use DegreeWorks, CRM Advise, and Self-Service Carolina to facilitate the major change process. Incorporate Appreciative Advising techniques in student interactions. Evening work is required during peak advising times. Other duties as assigned.
Essential Function Yes
Percentage of Time 70
Documentation and Assessment: Maintain accurate and confidential records of every student interaction including in-person, phone, and online visits. Regularly communicate with students. Develop reports and assist in the assessment of the University Advising Center. Assist with the planning and facilitation of training and professional development activities. Develop expertise in areas related to one-on-one academic support of college students.
Essential Function Yes
Percentage of Time 10
Outreach: Provide outreach and partnership management for the University Advising Center and the academic advising campus community. Manage existing and new academic and campus partnerships. Facilitate academic success presentations and workshops to various campus partners. Serve as UAC representative on campus committees and outreach events as needed. Weekend work may be required.
Essential Function Yes
Percentage of Time 10
Training and Certification: Exploratory Advisors participate in ongoing training to ensure accurate and effective advising, knowledge of current issues and trends related to students’ academic success and retention. Responsibilities include but are not limited to: certification at Level I and II in the Academic Advisor training and Certification program provided by the University Advising Center, participation in UAC trainings, and completed mastery rubrics for Tier I Exploratory Advisors.
Essential Function Yes
Percentage of Time 10
Position Attributes
Employees in Safety-Sensitive or Security-Sensitive positions will be subject to pre-employment and post-employment drug testing in accordance with University policy HR 1.95 Drug and Alcohol Testing.
Safety Sensitive or Security Sensitive No
Hazardous weather category Non-Essential
Posting Detail Information
Number of Vacancies 1
Job Open Date 05/08/2026
Job Close Date 06/22/2026
Open Until Filled No
Special Instructions to Applicant
Positions are advertised for a minimum of five (5) business days on our job website. After five (5) business days, positions can be closed at the discretion of the department at any time. This employment site is updated on a regular basis. The length of the recruitment and screening process may vary from position to position, depending upon a variety of factors. Should review of your qualifications result in a decision to pursue your candidacy, you will be contacted by phone or email.
We are only accepting applications submitted by June 22, 2026.
The University of South Carolina offers a valuable benefits package including but not limited to:
- Health and Life Insurance
- Retirement Programs
- Paid Tuition
- Dependent Scholarships
- Annual Leave
- Sick Leave
- 13 Paid Holidays (including an extended December holiday)
- Paid Parental Leave
- Professional Development Opportunities
EEO Statement
The University of South Carolina does not discriminate in educational or employment opportunities or decisions for qualified persons on the basis of age, ancestry, citizenship status, color, disability, ethnicity, familial status, gender (including transgender), gender identity or expression, genetic information, HIV/AIDs status, military status, national origin, pregnancy (false pregnancy, termination of pregnancy, childbirth, recovery therefrom or related medical conditions, breastfeeding), race, religion (including religious dress and grooming practices), sex, sexual orientation, veteran status, or any other bases under federal, state, local law, or regulations.
Posting Number STA00326PO26
Job Family Academic and Career Counseling
Job Function Academic Advising
USC Market Title Exploratory Academic Advisor
Job Level P1 - Professional
Business Title (Internal Title) Exploratory Advisor I
Campus Columbia
Work County Richland
College/Division Division of Academic Affairs and Provost
Department PROV University Advising Center
State Pay Range G09
USC Market Range MRF - $52,526 $65,658 $78,789
Anticipated Hiring Range $54,960-$64,960
Location of Vacancy
Part/Full Time Full Time
Hours per Week 37.5
Work Schedule
* Standard working schedule: 8:30am – 5:00pm
* Must be willing to work a flexible schedule to meet the needs of the department.
Basis 12 months
Job Search Category Student Services
About USC
About University of South Carolina
From the Upstate to the Lowcountry, the University of South Carolina system is transforming the lives of South Carolinians through the impact of our eight institutions and 20 locations throughout the state. More than 50,000 students are enrolled at one of eight institutions, including the research campus in Columbia and comprehensive four-year universities in Aiken, Upstate and Beaufort. In addition, our Palmetto College campuses in Salkehatchie, Union, Lancaster and Sumter enable students to earn associate or bachelor’s degrees through a combination of in-person, online or blended learning. All of our system institutions place strong emphasis on service — helping to build healthier, more educated communities in South Carolina and beyond.
Veterans' Preference Statement
The University of South Carolina is committed to equal opportunity and proudly values the skills and experience military veterans bring to our workforce. Across South Carolina, we are making veterans a priority for employment and recognize their vital contributions to our state and our communities.
Benefits for FTE Positions
The University of South Carolina (USC), through the State of SC and Public Employee Benefit Authority (PEBA), offers employees a valuable benefits package, including health and life insurance, generous paid leave and retirement programs. To learn more about USC benefits, access the "Working at USC" section on the Applicant Portal.
Position Description
Advertised Job Summary
The University Advising Center’s Exploratory Advisor provides prescriptive academic advising to students in transition, particularly those changing or declaring their major, to facilitate intentional academic decision-making. Exploratory Advisors have a working knowledge of all college curricula (i.e. 140+ majors and concentrations), major-change policies and procedures for all 11 academic colleges/schools and must communicate regularly with campus partners. In addition, this position must maintain an average advising schedule of 30 hours per week, participate in ongoing training, conduct various outreach efforts, and regularly assess the effectiveness of Exploratory Advising programs.
Job Related Minimum Required Education and Experience
* Requires a Master’s degree in a job related field and 1 year of job related experience, OR Bachelor’s degree in a job related field and 3 years of job related experience.
Preferred Qualifications
* Masters degree and 2 years advising experience or an equivalent combination of certification, training, education, and/or experience.
Knowledge/Skills/Abilities
* The position requires strong critical thinking, memorization, attention to detail, and communication skills, as well as the ability to work independently while developing strong collaborative relationships with colleagues, students, and student affairs and academic affairs units.
* The individual must be able to exercise excellent professional judgment and discretion, making decisions on a regular basis that impact student welfare and the institution.
Job Duties
Exploratory Advising/Major Change: Provide Exploratory Advising to undergraduate students interested in changing majors. Learn curriculum and program requirements for all majors/minors/focus options at USC-Columbia including academic regulations, university policies/procedures. Support undecided students and students transitioning into their major of choice. Assist students with learning major and course requirements and developing academic plans. Use DegreeWorks, CRM Advise, and Self-Service Carolina to facilitate the major change process. Incorporate Appreciative Advising techniques in student interactions. Evening work is required during peak advising times. Other duties as assigned.
Essential Function Yes
Percentage of Time 70
Documentation and Assessment: Maintain accurate and confidential records of every student interaction including in-person, phone, and online visits. Regularly communicate with students. Develop reports and assist in the assessment of the University Advising Center. Assist with the planning and facilitation of training and professional development activities. Develop expertise in areas related to one-on-one academic support of college students.
Essential Function Yes
Percentage of Time 10
Outreach: Provide outreach and partnership management for the University Advising Center and the academic advising campus community. Manage existing and new academic and campus partnerships. Facilitate academic success presentations and workshops to various campus partners. Serve as UAC representative on campus committees and outreach events as needed. Weekend work may be required.
Essential Function Yes
Percentage of Time 10
Training and Certification: Exploratory Advisors participate in ongoing training to ensure accurate and effective advising, knowledge of current issues and trends related to students’ academic success and retention. Responsibilities include but are not limited to: certification at Level I and II in the Academic Advisor training and Certification program provided by the University Advising Center, participation in UAC trainings, and completed mastery rubrics for Tier I Exploratory Advisors.
Essential Function Yes
Percentage of Time 10
Position Attributes
Employees in Safety-Sensitive or Security-Sensitive positions will be subject to pre-employment and post-employment drug testing in accordance with University policy HR 1.95 Drug and Alcohol Testing.
Safety Sensitive or Security Sensitive No
Hazardous weather category Non-Essential
Posting Detail Information
Number of Vacancies 1
Job Open Date 05/08/2026
Job Close Date 06/22/2026
Open Until Filled No
Special Instructions to Applicant
Positions are advertised for a minimum of five (5) business days on our job website. After five (5) business days, positions can be closed at the discretion of the department at any time. This employment site is updated on a regular basis. The length of the recruitment and screening process may vary from position to position, depending upon a variety of factors. Should review of your qualifications result in a decision to pursue your candidacy, you will be contacted by phone or email.
We are only accepting applications submitted by June 22, 2026.
The University of South Carolina offers a valuable benefits package including but not limited to:
- Health and Life Insurance
- Retirement Programs
- Paid Tuition
- Dependent Scholarships
- Annual Leave
- Sick Leave
- 13 Paid Holidays (including an extended December holiday)
- Paid Parental Leave
- Professional Development Opportunities
EEO Statement
The University of South Carolina does not discriminate in educational or employment opportunities or decisions for qualified persons on the basis of age, ancestry, citizenship status, color, disability, ethnicity, familial status, gender (including transgender), gender identity or expression, genetic information, HIV/AIDs status, military status, national origin, pregnancy (false pregnancy, termination of pregnancy, childbirth, recovery therefrom or related medical conditions, breastfeeding), race, religion (including religious dress and grooming practices), sex, sexual orientation, veteran status, or any other bases under federal, state, local law, or regulations.
Job Roles at University of South Carolina
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Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding University of South Carolina OPT Eligible Jobs USA
Target research and IT roles first
University of South Carolina's strongest OPT hiring concentrates in research administration, IT services, and academic support. Prioritize these departments when applying, since they're most likely to have roles matching the specialty occupation standard you'll need for any future H-1B transition.
Confirm E-Verify enrollment before accepting
STEM OPT's 24-month extension requires your employer to be enrolled in E-Verify. Before signing any offer, verify that the specific University of South Carolina department or entity employing you is actively enrolled, since large universities sometimes have units with separate E-Verify registrations.
Align your degree to the job description
University of South Carolina hiring managers in education settings often write broad job descriptions. Request a revised or clarified description that directly references your degree field before your OPT end date, so a future H-1B petition isn't weakened by a mismatch between your credentials and the posted role.
Search OPT-friendly openings on Migrate Mate
Finding University of South Carolina roles that match your OPT authorization and specialty occupation is faster when you filter by employer filing history. Migrate Mate surfaces roles at employers with verified H-1B and OPT hiring records, so you can focus applications where transitions are already established.
Document your training plan from day one
Your DSO must submit a STEM OPT training plan through SEVIS before your extension begins. Work with University of South Carolina's hiring manager to draft specific learning objectives tied to your degree within your first week, since vague plans are a common reason USCIS issues requests for evidence.
Use the OFLC Wage Search before negotiating salary
University of South Carolina salary bands in education roles often follow DOL prevailing wage levels. Run an OFLC Wage Search for your occupation and location before negotiating, since your offer must meet or exceed the prevailing wage to support a STEM OPT extension and any subsequent H-1B filing.
University of South Carolina OPT Eligibility: Frequently Asked Questions
Does University of South Carolina sponsor OPT visas?
University of South Carolina doesn't sponsor OPT directly. OPT is work authorization USCIS grants to F-1 students independently. What University of South Carolina does is hire students who already hold an OPT EAD. For STEM OPT extensions, the university must be enrolled in E-Verify, which allows eligible students to extend their authorization by 24 months.
Which departments at University of South Carolina typically hire OPT students?
Research centers, information technology services, administrative operations, and academic support units are the most consistent sources of OPT-compatible roles at University of South Carolina. These departments frequently post positions requiring specialized degrees in STEM, business, and education fields, making them the most practical targets for F-1 graduates on OPT.
How do I confirm University of South Carolina will support my STEM OPT extension?
Ask your hiring contact or HR representative to confirm that your specific employing unit is enrolled in E-Verify before you accept an offer. E-Verify enrollment is required for STEM OPT and must be in place before your DSO can submit the extension through SEVIS. Don't assume university-wide enrollment covers every department automatically.
How do I find OPT roles at University of South Carolina that could lead to H-1B sponsorship?
Focus on roles in research, IT, and specialized academic administration where the job description clearly ties to your degree field. Migrate Mate helps you filter employer openings by verified H-1B filing history, so you can identify University of South Carolina positions that have supported the OPT-to-H-1B transition for previous employees.
What is the timeline for transitioning from OPT to H-1B at University of South Carolina?
H-1B cap-subject petitions must be filed in April for an October 1 start date. If your OPT ends before October 1, a timely-filed H-1B petition triggers a cap-gap that extends your OPT authorization automatically. Coordinate with University of South Carolina's HR and an immigration attorney well before your OPT expiration to meet USCIS filing deadlines.
How does University of South Carolina hire OPT students?
OPT is work authorization granted directly to F-1 students after graduation — no employer petition is required. University of South Carolina can hire OPT students as soon as their EAD card is approved. STEM degree holders can extend OPT by 24 months when their employer is enrolled in E-Verify. Most companies that hire OPT students also support the transition to H-1B when the student's OPT period is ending. Check University of South Carolina's individual postings on Migrate Mate to confirm OPT acceptance per role.