OPT Design Manager Jobs
Design Manager jobs are available to F-1 OPT students with a background in graphic design, UX/UI, or product design. Most roles require portfolio evidence of leading creative teams. Your OPT period gives you 12 months of work authorization, extendable to 36 months with a STEM OPT extension if your degree qualifies.
See All OPT Design Manager JobsOverview
Showing 5 of 168+ Design Manager jobs
Have you applied for this role?
Have you applied for this role?
Have you applied for this role?
Have you applied for this role?
Have you applied for this role?
See all 168+ Design Manager Jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new Design Manager roles.
Get Access To All JobsJob Overview
AvidXchange is seeking a highly conceptual and strategically driven Motion Graphics & Animation Designer to lead the development of modern, high-impact motion experiences across digital, video, and interactive platforms. This role goes beyond execution—requiring strong conceptual thinking, problem-solving, and storytelling skills to translate complex product and platform capabilities into visually compelling narratives.
The ideal candidate brings a deep understanding of animation for SaaS/product UI, system-driven storytelling, and modern motion techniques, with the ability to craft elevated visual experiences that align with brand, user behavior, and business objectives. This role will play a key part in shaping how AvidXchange visually communicates its platform, products, and value through motion.
What You'll Do
Concept Development & Problem Solving
- Lead conceptual ideation for motion-driven campaigns, product storytelling, and brand narratives that simplify complex ideas into engaging visual solutions
- Apply strategic thinking to translate abstract or technical concepts into intuitive motion frameworks
- Develop storyboards, animation systems, and visual approaches aligned to campaign goals and user understanding
- Translate product workflows, data, and UI interactions into compelling motion stories that drive clarity and engagement
Motion Graphics & Animation
- Design and produce high-quality 2D, 2.5D, and light 3D animations using Adobe After Effects and Cinema 4D
- Build advanced motion systems including kinetic typography, modular animation frameworks, and scalable templates
- Apply modern animation techniques such as parallax, depth layering, camera movement, and micro-interactions
- Demonstrate strong timing, pacing, and visual hierarchy across all motion outputs
Product UI & Visual Storytelling
- Create product UI animations and software mockups that showcase platform functionality and user value
- Animate dashboards, data flows, and system interactions with a polished, intuitive, and modern feel
- Develop 2.5D UI environments and interface-driven storytelling grounded in real product experiences
- Partner with product marketing and UX teams to ensure alignment with product positioning and usability principles
HTML5 & Interactive Animation
- Develop interactive motion experiences using Google Web Designer, GSAP, Lottie, CSS, and SVG animation
- Build responsive, performance-optimized animations for web, display ads, and digital platforms
- Explore modern technologies such as WebGL, Rive, and real-time animation frameworks to enhance interactivity
- Ensure accessibility, cross-browser compatibility, and mobile responsiveness across deliverables
Video Editing & Post-Production
- Edit and enhance video content for campaigns, product marketing, and brand storytelling using Adobe Premiere Pro and After Effects
- Integrate motion graphics, UI animation, overlays, and light VFX to elevate narrative clarity and visual impact
- Align motion with audio, voiceover, and pacing to deliver cohesive video experiences
Innovation, Systems & Collaboration
- Stay current on motion design trends, emerging technologies, and modern visual styles
- Develop scalable motion systems, templates, and reusable components to improve efficiency and consistency
- Explore new tools, workflows, and AI-assisted techniques to enhance speed, quality, and creativity
- Collaborate cross-functionally with brand, product marketing, digital, and development partners while managing multiple projects and deadlines
What We're Looking For
- Expert-level proficiency in Adobe After Effects, with strong expression skills preferred
- Proven experience creating product UI animation, software mockups, and system-based storytelling
- Advanced motion design skills across typography, composition, pacing, and visual hierarchy
- Proficiency with Google Web Designer and HTML5 animation frameworks
- Strong video editing capabilities using Adobe Premiere Pro
- Working knowledge of SVG, CSS animations, GSAP, and responsive motion techniques
- Deep understanding of motion design for digital platforms, including performance optimization and rendering workflows
- Demonstrated ability to concept, problem-solve, and deliver high-quality motion design end-to-end
- Strong communication, collaboration, and time-management skills
Preferred Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Graphic Design, Motion Graphics, Digital Media, or a related field
- 3+ years of professional experience in motion graphics, animation, or interactive design
- Experience with LottieFiles, Rive, WebGL, or real-time animation tools
- Familiarity with Cinema 4D or similar 3D tools for motion enhancement
- Adobe Suite Expert
About AvidXchange
AvidXchange is a leading provider of accounts payable ("AP") automation software and payment solutions for middle-market businesses and their suppliers. By trade, we are a technology company, but if you ask anyone who works here, they'll tell you our people are at the core of who we are. At AvidXchange, mindset is everything. We are Connected as People, Growth Minded, and Customer Obsessed. These three mindsets represent our culture – who we are, who we've always been, and they guide us to improve every day. Since our founding in 2000 in Charlotte, NC, we've created a company of over 1,500 teammates working across the U.S., or remotely. AvidXchange is proud to be Certified™ as a Great Place to Work®. The prestigious recognition is based on anonymous data from our teammates and makes official what our teammates have known for years – that AvidXchange is a Great Place to Work®.
Who you are:
- A go-getter with an entrepreneurial mindset – that means you are not afraid of taking risks, winning big or facing the unknown.
- Someone who understands that business is people centric. Connecting with others as humans first allows you to develop mutually beneficial working relationships.
- Focused on making a difference for our customers. AvidXchange exists to help solve complex problems for our customers so we can all realize our potential.
What you'll get:
AvidXchange teammates (we call them AvidXers) get the perks and prestige of a growing tech company paired with the flexibility of a founder-led startup. We help our AvidXers develop as professionals and as human beings, providing work/life balance, development programs, and competitive benefits. At AvidXchange, we are building more than a tech company – we are building an experience. We remain committed to a culture where you can fully be 'you' – connected with others, chasing big goals, and making a meaningful impact. If you want to help us grow while realizing your potential and creating stories you'll tell for years, you've come to the right place.
AvidXers enjoy:
- 18 days PTO*
- 11 Holidays (8 company recognized & 3 floating holidays)
- 16 hours per year of paid Volunteer Time Off (VTO)
- Competitive Healthcare
-
- High Deductible Heath Plan Option that has $0 monthly premium for teammate-only coverage
- 100% AvidXchange paid Dental Base Plan Coverage
- 100% AvidXchange paid Life Insurance
- 100% AvidXchange paid Long-Term Disability
- 100% AvidXchange paid Short-Term Disability
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP) - Provides counseling services, legal and financial consultations and health advocacy for Teammates and their eligible dependents
- Onsite Health Clinic with Atrium Health - available to Teammates and their eligible dependents
- 401(k) Match: 100% match on the first 3% of your salary, plus 50% match on the next 2%
- Parental Leave: 8 weeks 100% paid by AvidXchange**
- Discounts on Pet, Home, and Auto insurance
- WeeCare Childcare Service: helps teammates find affordable daycare, childcare, and tutors 40% less expensive than traditional daycare centers
- Perks at Work: free discount program that provides teammates the opportunity to save on items from electronics, movie tickets, car buying, vacations, and more
- Onsite gym fitness center, yoga studio, and basketball court
- Tuition Reimbursement up to the federal maximum of $5,250***
- Hybrid Workplace Flexibility
- Free parking
*Fully granted from beginning of year, pro-rated if hired mid-year
Must be full-time for at least 3 months
**Must be full-time for at least one year
Equal Employment Opportunity
AvidXchange is an equal opportunity employer. AvidXchange is committed to equal employment opportunity in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws. AvidXchange will not discriminate against applicants for employment on any legally recognized basis. This includes, but is not limited to veteran status, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, age and physical or mental disability.
Job Overview
AvidXchange is seeking a highly conceptual and strategically driven Motion Graphics & Animation Designer to lead the development of modern, high-impact motion experiences across digital, video, and interactive platforms. This role goes beyond execution—requiring strong conceptual thinking, problem-solving, and storytelling skills to translate complex product and platform capabilities into visually compelling narratives.
The ideal candidate brings a deep understanding of animation for SaaS/product UI, system-driven storytelling, and modern motion techniques, with the ability to craft elevated visual experiences that align with brand, user behavior, and business objectives. This role will play a key part in shaping how AvidXchange visually communicates its platform, products, and value through motion.
What You'll Do
Concept Development & Problem Solving
- Lead conceptual ideation for motion-driven campaigns, product storytelling, and brand narratives that simplify complex ideas into engaging visual solutions
- Apply strategic thinking to translate abstract or technical concepts into intuitive motion frameworks
- Develop storyboards, animation systems, and visual approaches aligned to campaign goals and user understanding
- Translate product workflows, data, and UI interactions into compelling motion stories that drive clarity and engagement
Motion Graphics & Animation
- Design and produce high-quality 2D, 2.5D, and light 3D animations using Adobe After Effects and Cinema 4D
- Build advanced motion systems including kinetic typography, modular animation frameworks, and scalable templates
- Apply modern animation techniques such as parallax, depth layering, camera movement, and micro-interactions
- Demonstrate strong timing, pacing, and visual hierarchy across all motion outputs
Product UI & Visual Storytelling
- Create product UI animations and software mockups that showcase platform functionality and user value
- Animate dashboards, data flows, and system interactions with a polished, intuitive, and modern feel
- Develop 2.5D UI environments and interface-driven storytelling grounded in real product experiences
- Partner with product marketing and UX teams to ensure alignment with product positioning and usability principles
HTML5 & Interactive Animation
- Develop interactive motion experiences using Google Web Designer, GSAP, Lottie, CSS, and SVG animation
- Build responsive, performance-optimized animations for web, display ads, and digital platforms
- Explore modern technologies such as WebGL, Rive, and real-time animation frameworks to enhance interactivity
- Ensure accessibility, cross-browser compatibility, and mobile responsiveness across deliverables
Video Editing & Post-Production
- Edit and enhance video content for campaigns, product marketing, and brand storytelling using Adobe Premiere Pro and After Effects
- Integrate motion graphics, UI animation, overlays, and light VFX to elevate narrative clarity and visual impact
- Align motion with audio, voiceover, and pacing to deliver cohesive video experiences
Innovation, Systems & Collaboration
- Stay current on motion design trends, emerging technologies, and modern visual styles
- Develop scalable motion systems, templates, and reusable components to improve efficiency and consistency
- Explore new tools, workflows, and AI-assisted techniques to enhance speed, quality, and creativity
- Collaborate cross-functionally with brand, product marketing, digital, and development partners while managing multiple projects and deadlines
What We're Looking For
- Expert-level proficiency in Adobe After Effects, with strong expression skills preferred
- Proven experience creating product UI animation, software mockups, and system-based storytelling
- Advanced motion design skills across typography, composition, pacing, and visual hierarchy
- Proficiency with Google Web Designer and HTML5 animation frameworks
- Strong video editing capabilities using Adobe Premiere Pro
- Working knowledge of SVG, CSS animations, GSAP, and responsive motion techniques
- Deep understanding of motion design for digital platforms, including performance optimization and rendering workflows
- Demonstrated ability to concept, problem-solve, and deliver high-quality motion design end-to-end
- Strong communication, collaboration, and time-management skills
Preferred Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Graphic Design, Motion Graphics, Digital Media, or a related field
- 3+ years of professional experience in motion graphics, animation, or interactive design
- Experience with LottieFiles, Rive, WebGL, or real-time animation tools
- Familiarity with Cinema 4D or similar 3D tools for motion enhancement
- Adobe Suite Expert
About AvidXchange
AvidXchange is a leading provider of accounts payable ("AP") automation software and payment solutions for middle-market businesses and their suppliers. By trade, we are a technology company, but if you ask anyone who works here, they'll tell you our people are at the core of who we are. At AvidXchange, mindset is everything. We are Connected as People, Growth Minded, and Customer Obsessed. These three mindsets represent our culture – who we are, who we've always been, and they guide us to improve every day. Since our founding in 2000 in Charlotte, NC, we've created a company of over 1,500 teammates working across the U.S., or remotely. AvidXchange is proud to be Certified™ as a Great Place to Work®. The prestigious recognition is based on anonymous data from our teammates and makes official what our teammates have known for years – that AvidXchange is a Great Place to Work®.
Who you are:
- A go-getter with an entrepreneurial mindset – that means you are not afraid of taking risks, winning big or facing the unknown.
- Someone who understands that business is people centric. Connecting with others as humans first allows you to develop mutually beneficial working relationships.
- Focused on making a difference for our customers. AvidXchange exists to help solve complex problems for our customers so we can all realize our potential.
What you'll get:
AvidXchange teammates (we call them AvidXers) get the perks and prestige of a growing tech company paired with the flexibility of a founder-led startup. We help our AvidXers develop as professionals and as human beings, providing work/life balance, development programs, and competitive benefits. At AvidXchange, we are building more than a tech company – we are building an experience. We remain committed to a culture where you can fully be 'you' – connected with others, chasing big goals, and making a meaningful impact. If you want to help us grow while realizing your potential and creating stories you'll tell for years, you've come to the right place.
AvidXers enjoy:
- 18 days PTO*
- 11 Holidays (8 company recognized & 3 floating holidays)
- 16 hours per year of paid Volunteer Time Off (VTO)
- Competitive Healthcare
-
- High Deductible Heath Plan Option that has $0 monthly premium for teammate-only coverage
- 100% AvidXchange paid Dental Base Plan Coverage
- 100% AvidXchange paid Life Insurance
- 100% AvidXchange paid Long-Term Disability
- 100% AvidXchange paid Short-Term Disability
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP) - Provides counseling services, legal and financial consultations and health advocacy for Teammates and their eligible dependents
- Onsite Health Clinic with Atrium Health - available to Teammates and their eligible dependents
- 401(k) Match: 100% match on the first 3% of your salary, plus 50% match on the next 2%
- Parental Leave: 8 weeks 100% paid by AvidXchange**
- Discounts on Pet, Home, and Auto insurance
- WeeCare Childcare Service: helps teammates find affordable daycare, childcare, and tutors 40% less expensive than traditional daycare centers
- Perks at Work: free discount program that provides teammates the opportunity to save on items from electronics, movie tickets, car buying, vacations, and more
- Onsite gym fitness center, yoga studio, and basketball court
- Tuition Reimbursement up to the federal maximum of $5,250***
- Hybrid Workplace Flexibility
- Free parking
*Fully granted from beginning of year, pro-rated if hired mid-year
Must be full-time for at least 3 months
**Must be full-time for at least one year
Equal Employment Opportunity
AvidXchange is an equal opportunity employer. AvidXchange is committed to equal employment opportunity in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws. AvidXchange will not discriminate against applicants for employment on any legally recognized basis. This includes, but is not limited to veteran status, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, age and physical or mental disability.
See all 168+ OPT Design Manager Jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new OPT Design Manager Jobs.
Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding OPT Sponsorship as a Design Manager
Lead with your portfolio, not your resume
Design Manager roles are portfolio-driven. Before outreach, ensure your portfolio shows not just finished work but your process, team direction decisions, and how you handled creative briefs. Hiring managers evaluate leadership through the work itself.
Clarify your STEM OPT eligibility early
If your degree is in a STEM-designated field like human-computer interaction or information science, you may qualify for 36 months of OPT. Confirm your CIP code with your DSO before interviewing so you can answer authorization questions accurately.
Target companies with established design teams
Companies with in-house design departments are more familiar with hiring international talent. Mid-to-large technology, e-commerce, and media companies regularly sponsor design roles and have HR infrastructure to process OPT work authorization without delays.
Frame your international background as a design asset
Cross-cultural perspective is genuinely valuable in design leadership. In interviews, connect your international experience to how you approach user research, accessibility, or inclusive design decisions. This reframes your visa status from a liability into a differentiator.
Understand the timeline before you start the process
OPT authorization can take 90 days from your DSO's I-20 update to USCIS approval. Apply as early as 90 days before your program end date. Starting late compresses your job search window and limits your negotiating position.
Address sponsorship directly and confidently
When a job posting says H-1B visa sponsorship is available, ask in the first interview round whether OPT is also acceptable during the authorization period. Most employers who sponsor H-1B visas are already comfortable with OPT as the bridge.
Design Manager OPT: Frequently Asked Questions
Can I work as a Design Manager on F-1 OPT?
Yes. Design Manager roles fall within standard employment categories covered by F-1 OPT work authorization, provided the role is directly related to your degree field. A degree in graphic design, user experience, visual communication, or a related discipline generally satisfies the relatedness requirement. Confirm with your DSO if your degree field is less direct.
Does a Design Manager role qualify for STEM OPT extension?
It depends on your degree, not the job title. If your undergraduate or graduate degree carries a STEM-designated CIP code, such as human-computer interaction, information science, or a qualifying engineering program, you can apply for the 24-month STEM extension. The Design Manager role itself does not need to be STEM-classified. Check your degree's CIP code with your DSO.
How do I find Design Manager jobs that are open to OPT students?
Browse Design Manager listings on Migrate Mate, which filters specifically for roles open to F-1 OPT and visa-sponsoring employers. This saves significant time compared to filtering through generalist postings that rarely specify work authorization compatibility upfront. Look for employers who have previously sponsored H-1B petitions, as they are typically comfortable with OPT students.
What happens to my OPT status if I get laid off from a Design Manager role?
You have a 60-day unemployment grace period during your OPT authorization window. This does not reset or extend your OPT end date. If you accumulate more than 90 days of unemployment across the standard OPT period, or more than 150 days during the STEM extension, you fall out of status. Reporting changes in employment to your DSO immediately is required.
Do employers typically sponsor H-1B visas for Design Manager positions?
Design Manager roles are generally considered specialty occupations under H-1B criteria, particularly when tied to a specific design discipline requiring a related degree. Companies with large product, technology, or marketing teams, including major technology firms and agencies, regularly file H-1B petitions for design leadership roles. Your OPT period serves as the practical bridge while H-1B sponsorship is processed.