OPT Business Development Jobs
Business Development roles on OPT are widely available across tech, SaaS, consulting, and financial services, where employers regularly sponsor F-1 students. Your 12-month OPT window, extendable to 36 months with a STEM OPT extension if your degree qualifies, gives you real runway to build a pipeline career in the U.S.
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Get Access To All JobsAbout us
For Business Professionals, Winston & Strawn presents an exciting opportunity to be a part of a leading global law firm. With our commitment to excellence, diversity, a collaborative work environment, and an emphasis on professional growth, Winston offers a platform for individuals seeking to advance their careers in a dynamic and rewarding environment. Winston is known for its collaborative and collegial culture. We believe teamwork is an essential component in providing high-quality legal services and we value the talents and skills of our entire business professional team.
Position Summary
The Business Development (BD) Specialist supports the overall marketing and business development efforts of the department, collaborating with team members to implement key initiatives for the assigned department, its practices, and its attorneys, as well as other informally assigned groups or teams.
This role supports the business development efforts of the Finance (Structured Finance), Tax and Restructuring practice groups and their respective business development teams, reporting to the Business Development Manager.
The BD Specialist also assists in the development and execution of practice-wide and cross-practice initiatives, as directed.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
- Staff Development Framework: Adhere to Professional Excellence, Client Focus, and Leadership & Professionalism standards set forth in the firm’s Staff Development Framework.
- Talent Development: Provide feedback on BD Coordinator performance to manager.
- Lateral Recruiting & Integration: Work with Manager to create all materials needed for pre-arrival packet. Assist in implementing integration plan initiatives.
- Service Delivery: Participate in day-to-day delivery of BD services for assigned practices.
- Strategic Planning: As requested, support execution of strategic planning initiatives.
- Directories & Rankings: Support development of ranking and directory submissions, including referee lists, as requested. Experience with directories such as Chambers USA and Legal 500 is preferred.
- Content & Knowledge Management:
- Actively participate in ongoing maintenance of the firm’s experience system.
- Review materials and input revised or new content into experience system, including deal specific metrics, opposing counsel, and/or other information that may be used again.
- Update or add experience to the experience system, as requested, including from completed directory and ranking submissions.
- Track pitch and proposal activity in the new experience system.
- Proposals/Marketing Collateral: Support development of proposal materials and RFP response content for assigned practices; develop routine pitch materials. Support Manager in developing and maintaining print collateral suite and electronic content in collaboration with brand marketing team on messaging, design, and visual storytelling.
- Marketing & Operations:
- With guidance from Manager, work directly with attorneys on CLE presentations, client briefings, blogs, newsletters, etc., focusing on development of content and distribution list.
- Handle all logistics related to firm-produced events and conference sponsorships including follow-up/ROI with assistance of BD Coordinator; utilize event team support as necessary.
- Update and add experience reports to experience database for assigned practices.
- Track BD expenses against budget for assigned practices; review finance reports and correct misclassified expenses.
- Practice-wide Meetings: Support scheduling and logistical arrangements and other preparations for regular and special practice meetings, including agenda and materials development as assigned.
- Brand Marketing: Support advancing omni-channel marketing strategies and tactics for assigned practices.
- Markets/Offices: Occasionally assist with regional activities and/or office activities as requested, including assisting with planning and executing of local events hosted both in and outside of the office, booth set-ups, and day-of logistical support.
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS
- Bachelor’s degree required.
- 3+ years of business development, sales, marketing, or writing experience in a law firm required.
- Must live within a commutable distance to a firm office with the ability to come into the office 3-4 days per week.
COMPETENCIES
- Experience preparing proposal (RFP) responses, pitch materials, presentations, and other related materials is a plus.
- Strong project management skills/ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines.
- High proficiency with Microsoft Office suite (Word, Excel, Power Point, etc.).
- Experience with CRM, information systems, and database functionality/concepts is a plus.
- Creative, resourceful, and ability to work independently, and as part of a team.
- The ability to build credibility and develop internal and external relationships by demonstrating:
- Excellent oral and written communication skills (email, telephone, and in-person) as well as editing skills.
- Proactive, confident attitude and approach.
- The ability to work under pressure and prioritize projects with enthusiasm.
- The ability to collaborate with colleagues at all levels.
- The ability to provide consistently superior level of service to internal and external clients.
- Professional appearance and ability to speak comfortably in professional and social settings.
This description indicates the general level and nature of work performed by employees within this classification. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of employees assigned to this job.
BENEFITS
Winston offers comprehensive benefits that provide a full spectrum of coverage and support for our full-time employees and their families.
SALARY
Illinois applicants only: The target annual salary range for this role is currently $102,000-$115,000 based on a regular, full-time schedule. The amount of compensation offered will be determined by several factors, including but not limited to experience, qualifications, market data and internal equity. Total compensation includes a comprehensive healthcare benefits package, yearly retirement contribution, and may include an annual discretionary merit bonus.
Los Angeles & Washington, DC applicants only: The target annual salary range for this role is currently $107,000-$121,000 based on a regular, full-time schedule. The amount of compensation offered will be determined by several factors, including but not limited to experience, qualifications, market data and internal equity. Total compensation includes a comprehensive healthcare benefits package, yearly retirement contribution, and may include an annual discretionary merit bonus.
We are an equal opportunity employer and welcome applicants from all backgrounds and experiences. #LI-DC2
About us
For Business Professionals, Winston & Strawn presents an exciting opportunity to be a part of a leading global law firm. With our commitment to excellence, diversity, a collaborative work environment, and an emphasis on professional growth, Winston offers a platform for individuals seeking to advance their careers in a dynamic and rewarding environment. Winston is known for its collaborative and collegial culture. We believe teamwork is an essential component in providing high-quality legal services and we value the talents and skills of our entire business professional team.
Position Summary
The Business Development (BD) Specialist supports the overall marketing and business development efforts of the department, collaborating with team members to implement key initiatives for the assigned department, its practices, and its attorneys, as well as other informally assigned groups or teams.
This role supports the business development efforts of the Finance (Structured Finance), Tax and Restructuring practice groups and their respective business development teams, reporting to the Business Development Manager.
The BD Specialist also assists in the development and execution of practice-wide and cross-practice initiatives, as directed.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
- Staff Development Framework: Adhere to Professional Excellence, Client Focus, and Leadership & Professionalism standards set forth in the firm’s Staff Development Framework.
- Talent Development: Provide feedback on BD Coordinator performance to manager.
- Lateral Recruiting & Integration: Work with Manager to create all materials needed for pre-arrival packet. Assist in implementing integration plan initiatives.
- Service Delivery: Participate in day-to-day delivery of BD services for assigned practices.
- Strategic Planning: As requested, support execution of strategic planning initiatives.
- Directories & Rankings: Support development of ranking and directory submissions, including referee lists, as requested. Experience with directories such as Chambers USA and Legal 500 is preferred.
- Content & Knowledge Management:
- Actively participate in ongoing maintenance of the firm’s experience system.
- Review materials and input revised or new content into experience system, including deal specific metrics, opposing counsel, and/or other information that may be used again.
- Update or add experience to the experience system, as requested, including from completed directory and ranking submissions.
- Track pitch and proposal activity in the new experience system.
- Proposals/Marketing Collateral: Support development of proposal materials and RFP response content for assigned practices; develop routine pitch materials. Support Manager in developing and maintaining print collateral suite and electronic content in collaboration with brand marketing team on messaging, design, and visual storytelling.
- Marketing & Operations:
- With guidance from Manager, work directly with attorneys on CLE presentations, client briefings, blogs, newsletters, etc., focusing on development of content and distribution list.
- Handle all logistics related to firm-produced events and conference sponsorships including follow-up/ROI with assistance of BD Coordinator; utilize event team support as necessary.
- Update and add experience reports to experience database for assigned practices.
- Track BD expenses against budget for assigned practices; review finance reports and correct misclassified expenses.
- Practice-wide Meetings: Support scheduling and logistical arrangements and other preparations for regular and special practice meetings, including agenda and materials development as assigned.
- Brand Marketing: Support advancing omni-channel marketing strategies and tactics for assigned practices.
- Markets/Offices: Occasionally assist with regional activities and/or office activities as requested, including assisting with planning and executing of local events hosted both in and outside of the office, booth set-ups, and day-of logistical support.
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS
- Bachelor’s degree required.
- 3+ years of business development, sales, marketing, or writing experience in a law firm required.
- Must live within a commutable distance to a firm office with the ability to come into the office 3-4 days per week.
COMPETENCIES
- Experience preparing proposal (RFP) responses, pitch materials, presentations, and other related materials is a plus.
- Strong project management skills/ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines.
- High proficiency with Microsoft Office suite (Word, Excel, Power Point, etc.).
- Experience with CRM, information systems, and database functionality/concepts is a plus.
- Creative, resourceful, and ability to work independently, and as part of a team.
- The ability to build credibility and develop internal and external relationships by demonstrating:
- Excellent oral and written communication skills (email, telephone, and in-person) as well as editing skills.
- Proactive, confident attitude and approach.
- The ability to work under pressure and prioritize projects with enthusiasm.
- The ability to collaborate with colleagues at all levels.
- The ability to provide consistently superior level of service to internal and external clients.
- Professional appearance and ability to speak comfortably in professional and social settings.
This description indicates the general level and nature of work performed by employees within this classification. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of employees assigned to this job.
BENEFITS
Winston offers comprehensive benefits that provide a full spectrum of coverage and support for our full-time employees and their families.
SALARY
Illinois applicants only: The target annual salary range for this role is currently $102,000-$115,000 based on a regular, full-time schedule. The amount of compensation offered will be determined by several factors, including but not limited to experience, qualifications, market data and internal equity. Total compensation includes a comprehensive healthcare benefits package, yearly retirement contribution, and may include an annual discretionary merit bonus.
Los Angeles & Washington, DC applicants only: The target annual salary range for this role is currently $107,000-$121,000 based on a regular, full-time schedule. The amount of compensation offered will be determined by several factors, including but not limited to experience, qualifications, market data and internal equity. Total compensation includes a comprehensive healthcare benefits package, yearly retirement contribution, and may include an annual discretionary merit bonus.
We are an equal opportunity employer and welcome applicants from all backgrounds and experiences. #LI-DC2
See all 13,214+ OPT Business Development Jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new OPT Business Development Jobs.
Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding OPT Sponsorship in Business Development
Lead with your STEM OPT eligibility
If your degree is in a STEM-designated field like computer science, data analytics, or engineering, mention your 24-month STEM extension eligibility upfront. Employers see three years of work authorization instead of one, which significantly reduces their sponsorship urgency.
Target companies already filing H-1B petitions
Companies with a history of H-1B visa sponsorship are far more likely to sponsor you after OPT. Check OFLC disclosure data to identify employers who have filed for Business Development or Sales roles in the past two fiscal years.
Frame your international background as a revenue asset
Business Development employers value candidates who can open doors in new markets. Your fluency in a second language, cross-cultural communication skills, and international networks are concrete advantages, especially for companies expanding into Asia, Europe, or the Middle East.
Apply to mid-market and growth-stage companies
Early-stage and Series B through D companies often lack dedicated Business Development teams and are actively building. They tend to move faster on hiring decisions and are more flexible on visa status than large enterprises with rigid HR processes.
Be transparent about your OPT timeline early
Disclose your work authorization status before the offer stage, not after. Mentioning your OPT end date and H-1B sponsorship need during the second or third interview signals professionalism and gives employers time to plan their sponsorship process.
Build a pipeline of warm employer contacts
Business Development is a relationship-driven field, and so is your job search. Attending industry events, joining sales and BD communities, and reaching out to hiring managers directly will produce stronger leads than cold applications alone.
Business Development OPT: Frequently Asked Questions
Do Business Development roles commonly sponsor F-1 OPT students?
Yes, but sponsorship rates vary by industry. Tech, SaaS, and consulting companies sponsor at higher rates than traditional industries like retail or manufacturing. Companies that already file H-1B petitions for engineers are often willing to sponsor Business Development hires too. Browse OPT-friendly BD roles on Migrate Mate to find employers with a verified sponsorship track record.
Does my degree field affect my eligibility for a STEM OPT extension in a Business Development role?
Yes. The STEM OPT extension is tied to your degree, not your job title. If your bachelor's or master's degree is in a STEM-designated field such as computer science, management information systems, or applied mathematics, you can apply for the 24-month extension even if your BD role is not technically scientific. Your job must still be directly related to your degree field to satisfy STEM OPT requirements.
Can I work as an independent contractor or in a commission-only Business Development role on OPT?
This is a gray area. OPT requires that your employment be directly related to your degree field, but USCIS has not explicitly prohibited self-employment or commission-based arrangements. However, pure commission-only roles with no guaranteed hours can raise questions about whether the work qualifies as legitimate employment. A salaried or base-plus-commission structure at an established company is the safer path during OPT.
What happens to my OPT if I lose a Business Development job during my authorization period?
F-1 students on OPT are allowed a cumulative unemployment window of 90 days during the standard 12-month period, or 150 days if you are on a STEM OPT extension. If you lose your job, you must find new employment within those limits or risk falling out of status. Report the job change to your DSO promptly and update your SEVIS record to stay compliant.
How do I find Business Development jobs where employers are open to OPT sponsorship?
Most general job boards do not filter by visa sponsorship willingness, which makes the search frustrating and inefficient. Migrate Mate is built specifically for F-1 OPT students and surfaces Business Development roles from employers who have indicated openness to sponsoring international candidates, saving you time and reducing the chance of rejection at the offer stage.