OPT Development Director Jobs
Development Director roles sit at the intersection of fundraising strategy, donor relations, and organizational leadership, making them a strong fit for OPT students with nonprofit management, communications, or business backgrounds. Most employers treat these as specialty occupations eligible for H-1B visa sponsorship, and STEM OPT extensions may apply for data-driven fundraising roles.
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Since our founding in 1924, we've cut cardiovascular disease deaths in half, but there is still so much more to do. To overcome today’s biggest health challenges and accelerate this progress, we need passionate individuals like you. Join our movement, be part of the progress, and help ensure a healthier future for all. You matter, and so does the impact you can make with us.
We are currently hiring a Development Director, Youth Engagement. This is a full time, field-based position that requires extensive travel across South Central and Southeast Minnesota and four counties in Northeast Iowa. Flexibility in working hours, including early mornings and evenings, is essential to accommodate the needs of schools and events.
In this fast-paced fundraising/sales position, you will engage K-12 students with the Kids Heart Challenge and American Heart Challenge, working with hundreds of schools to promote physical activity and learning. The role also involves extensive data management, continuously updating account information in our customer relationship management (CRM) databases and Microsoft Office products.
Combine your love for fundraising and sales with your passion for kids' health! The American Heart Association's Kids Heart Challenge is all about equipping kids with ways to keep their hearts and brains healthy and raising funds for the health of all hearts. Meet one of our heart heroes here and learn more!
The Association offers many resources to help you maintain work-life harmonization through your changing needs and life situations. To help you be successful, you will have access to Heart U, our award-winning corporate university, as well as additional training and support, locally.
TheAHALife is more than a company culture; it is our way of life. It embodies our commitment to work-life harmonization and is guided by our core values where our employees can thrive both personally and professionally. Discover why you will Be Seen. Be Heard. Be Valued at the American Heart Association by following us on LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, X, and at heart.jobs.
Responsibilities
This position is directly responsible for meeting an overall fundraising goal of $300,000+ (participant income and corporate sponsorship) through exceptional volunteer recruitment and engagement, customer service and account management - all while motivating kids to take their health to heart.
- Recruit and engage students and their families through schools and districts in life-saving initiatives including Kids Heart Challenge and American Heart Challenge programs.
- Implement strategies and initiatives to fully engage students through classroom challenges, activities and student assemblies (in-person and digital experiences).
- Develop and cultivate relationships on an ongoing basis with teachers, principals, district superintendents, and survivor families.
- Establish and maintain outstanding customer service with volunteers and other collaborators. This includes detailed planning and kick-off meetings to set schools up for success.
- Manage and continuously update account information within our customer relationship management (CRM) databases and Microsoft products.
- High volume account management that regularly involves working with 5-10 schools each day - in-person where possible or online/by phone.
Qualifications
- 3 years of relevant experience in fundraising, sales, or other related experience.
- Ability to do daily local travel; requires access to reliable transportation at all times on an immediate basis.
- University/College degree or equivalent experience.
- Ability to work productively and efficiently from a home office and in the field consistent with the Association's flexible work arrangements policy.
- Demonstrated ability to work independently and communicate proactively.
- Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, "we can do this" environment.
- This position demands extensive data management, requiring the continuous updating of account information within our CRM databases; Proficiency with Microsoft Office and the ability to efficiently manage and report on data using CRMs are essential.
- Ability to lift and/or move large objects (such as boxes) with the expectation that heavier items would be broken down into smaller components or requesting additional assistance may be required before lifting and/or moving.
- Candidates must be willing to work flexible hours, including early mornings and evenings, to effectively engage with schools and manage events.
Here are some of the preferred skills we are looking for:
- Experience managing and cultivating volunteer relationships.
- Knowledge of corporate and community networks.
Compensation & Benefits
The American Heart Association invests in its people. Here are the main components of our total rewards package. Visit Rewards & Benefits to see more details.
- Compensation – Expected pay range will be $64,575 to $82,700. Pay is commensurate with experience; geographic differentials to the pay range may apply. The American Heart Association reserves the right to pay more or less than the posted range. Our goal is to ensure you have a competitive base salary. That’s why we regularly review the market value of jobs and make adjustments, as needed.
- Performance and Recognition – You are rewarded for achieving success through annual salary planning and incentive programs; this position is incentive eligible based on achieving certain targets.
- Benefits – We offer a wide array of benefits including medical, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance, along with a robust retirement program that includes an employer match and automatic contribution. As a mark of our commitment to employee well-being, we also offer an employee assistance program, employee wellness program and telemedicine, and medical consultation.
- Professional Development – You can join one of our many Employee Resource Groups (ERG) or be a mentor/mentee in our professional mentoring program. Heart U is the Association’s national online university, with more than 100,000 resources designed to meet your needs and busy schedule.
- Work-Life Harmonization – The Association offers Paid Time Off (PTO) at a minimum of 16 days per year for new employees. The number of days will increase based on seniority level. You will also have a total of 12 paid holidays off each year, which includes several days off at the end of the year.
- Tuition Assistance – We support the career development of all employees. This program provides financial assistance to employees who wish to further their education and career in relation to their current duties and responsibilities, or for potential future positions in the organization.
The American Heart Association’s 2028 Goal: Building on over 100 years of trusted leadership in cardiovascular and brain health, by 2028 the Association will drive breakthroughs and implement proven solutions in science, policy, and care for healthier people and communities. The greatest discoveries in health must reach everyone where they are.
At American Heart Association | American Stroke Association, our mission is to be a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives, regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, gender identity, religion, age, language, sexual orientation, national origin and physical or cognitive abilities.
This position not a match with your skills? Click here to see other opportunities.
In accordance with local and state laws where applicable, qualified applicants with arrest or conviction records will be considered for employment.
EOE/Protected Veterans/Persons with Disabilities
AHAIND1, #LI-Hybrid
Join our Talent Community!
Join our Talent Community to receive updates on new opportunities and future events.
Location: Location: US-MN-Mankato
Posted Date 3 months ago (7/29/2026 1:50 PM)
Requisition ID 2026-17960
Job Category Field Campaigns
Position Type Full Time
American Heart Association Offers
- Health Benefits
- Medical, Dental, and Vision Plans
- Disability & Insurance
- Well onTarget – Wellness Program
- Holidays & Paid Time Off
- Employee Assistance Programs (EAP)
Overview
Since our founding in 1924, we've cut cardiovascular disease deaths in half, but there is still so much more to do. To overcome today’s biggest health challenges and accelerate this progress, we need passionate individuals like you. Join our movement, be part of the progress, and help ensure a healthier future for all. You matter, and so does the impact you can make with us.
We are currently hiring a Development Director, Youth Engagement. This is a full time, field-based position that requires extensive travel across South Central and Southeast Minnesota and four counties in Northeast Iowa. Flexibility in working hours, including early mornings and evenings, is essential to accommodate the needs of schools and events.
In this fast-paced fundraising/sales position, you will engage K-12 students with the Kids Heart Challenge and American Heart Challenge, working with hundreds of schools to promote physical activity and learning. The role also involves extensive data management, continuously updating account information in our customer relationship management (CRM) databases and Microsoft Office products.
Combine your love for fundraising and sales with your passion for kids' health! The American Heart Association's Kids Heart Challenge is all about equipping kids with ways to keep their hearts and brains healthy and raising funds for the health of all hearts. Meet one of our heart heroes here and learn more!
The Association offers many resources to help you maintain work-life harmonization through your changing needs and life situations. To help you be successful, you will have access to Heart U, our award-winning corporate university, as well as additional training and support, locally.
TheAHALife is more than a company culture; it is our way of life. It embodies our commitment to work-life harmonization and is guided by our core values where our employees can thrive both personally and professionally. Discover why you will Be Seen. Be Heard. Be Valued at the American Heart Association by following us on LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, X, and at heart.jobs.
Responsibilities
This position is directly responsible for meeting an overall fundraising goal of $300,000+ (participant income and corporate sponsorship) through exceptional volunteer recruitment and engagement, customer service and account management - all while motivating kids to take their health to heart.
- Recruit and engage students and their families through schools and districts in life-saving initiatives including Kids Heart Challenge and American Heart Challenge programs.
- Implement strategies and initiatives to fully engage students through classroom challenges, activities and student assemblies (in-person and digital experiences).
- Develop and cultivate relationships on an ongoing basis with teachers, principals, district superintendents, and survivor families.
- Establish and maintain outstanding customer service with volunteers and other collaborators. This includes detailed planning and kick-off meetings to set schools up for success.
- Manage and continuously update account information within our customer relationship management (CRM) databases and Microsoft products.
- High volume account management that regularly involves working with 5-10 schools each day - in-person where possible or online/by phone.
Qualifications
- 3 years of relevant experience in fundraising, sales, or other related experience.
- Ability to do daily local travel; requires access to reliable transportation at all times on an immediate basis.
- University/College degree or equivalent experience.
- Ability to work productively and efficiently from a home office and in the field consistent with the Association's flexible work arrangements policy.
- Demonstrated ability to work independently and communicate proactively.
- Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, "we can do this" environment.
- This position demands extensive data management, requiring the continuous updating of account information within our CRM databases; Proficiency with Microsoft Office and the ability to efficiently manage and report on data using CRMs are essential.
- Ability to lift and/or move large objects (such as boxes) with the expectation that heavier items would be broken down into smaller components or requesting additional assistance may be required before lifting and/or moving.
- Candidates must be willing to work flexible hours, including early mornings and evenings, to effectively engage with schools and manage events.
Here are some of the preferred skills we are looking for:
- Experience managing and cultivating volunteer relationships.
- Knowledge of corporate and community networks.
Compensation & Benefits
The American Heart Association invests in its people. Here are the main components of our total rewards package. Visit Rewards & Benefits to see more details.
- Compensation – Expected pay range will be $64,575 to $82,700. Pay is commensurate with experience; geographic differentials to the pay range may apply. The American Heart Association reserves the right to pay more or less than the posted range. Our goal is to ensure you have a competitive base salary. That’s why we regularly review the market value of jobs and make adjustments, as needed.
- Performance and Recognition – You are rewarded for achieving success through annual salary planning and incentive programs; this position is incentive eligible based on achieving certain targets.
- Benefits – We offer a wide array of benefits including medical, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance, along with a robust retirement program that includes an employer match and automatic contribution. As a mark of our commitment to employee well-being, we also offer an employee assistance program, employee wellness program and telemedicine, and medical consultation.
- Professional Development – You can join one of our many Employee Resource Groups (ERG) or be a mentor/mentee in our professional mentoring program. Heart U is the Association’s national online university, with more than 100,000 resources designed to meet your needs and busy schedule.
- Work-Life Harmonization – The Association offers Paid Time Off (PTO) at a minimum of 16 days per year for new employees. The number of days will increase based on seniority level. You will also have a total of 12 paid holidays off each year, which includes several days off at the end of the year.
- Tuition Assistance – We support the career development of all employees. This program provides financial assistance to employees who wish to further their education and career in relation to their current duties and responsibilities, or for potential future positions in the organization.
The American Heart Association’s 2028 Goal: Building on over 100 years of trusted leadership in cardiovascular and brain health, by 2028 the Association will drive breakthroughs and implement proven solutions in science, policy, and care for healthier people and communities. The greatest discoveries in health must reach everyone where they are.
At American Heart Association | American Stroke Association, our mission is to be a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives, regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, gender identity, religion, age, language, sexual orientation, national origin and physical or cognitive abilities.
This position not a match with your skills? Click here to see other opportunities.
In accordance with local and state laws where applicable, qualified applicants with arrest or conviction records will be considered for employment.
EOE/Protected Veterans/Persons with Disabilities
AHAIND1, #LI-Hybrid
Join our Talent Community!
Join our Talent Community to receive updates on new opportunities and future events.
Location: Location: US-MN-Mankato
Posted Date 3 months ago (7/29/2026 1:50 PM)
Requisition ID 2026-17960
Job Category Field Campaigns
Position Type Full Time
American Heart Association Offers
- Health Benefits
- Medical, Dental, and Vision Plans
- Disability & Insurance
- Well onTarget – Wellness Program
- Holidays & Paid Time Off
- Employee Assistance Programs (EAP)
See all 853+ OPT Development Director Jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new OPT Development Director Jobs.
Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding OPT Sponsorship in Development Director
Target nonprofits with established HR infrastructure
Large nonprofits and foundations with dedicated HR teams are far more likely to have sponsored visas before. Smaller organizations may be willing but lack the legal resources to navigate the process without guidance from you upfront.
Lead with your fundraising track record early
Hiring managers for Development Director roles prioritize revenue impact over immigration logistics. Quantify donor retention rates, campaign results, and portfolio growth in your resume before the sponsorship conversation comes up during interviews.
Clarify your OPT timeline before accepting interviews
Know exactly how many months remain on your OPT authorization. Development Director searches often run three to six months, so aligning your timeline with the hiring cycle prevents last-minute complications around your work authorization expiration date.
Frame H-1B sponsorship as a straightforward process
Many nonprofit hiring managers assume sponsorship is prohibitively complex. Explain that your role likely qualifies as a specialty occupation, that employer costs are manageable, and that you can connect them with immigration counsel if needed.
Pursue organizations already filing LCAs for similar roles
Employers who have previously filed Labor Condition Applications for development or fundraising leadership positions understand the process. This prior experience significantly reduces friction when you raise the sponsorship topic during offer negotiations.
Use your OPT period to demonstrate executive-level ownership
Development Directors are evaluated on strategic judgment, not just execution. Use your current OPT employment to lead a campaign, manage a major donor portfolio, or build a fundraising system you can speak to directly in interviews.
Development Director OPT: Frequently Asked Questions
Can F-1 OPT students work as Development Directors in the United States?
Yes. Development Director is generally recognized as a specialty occupation requiring a bachelor's degree or higher in a related field such as nonprofit management, communications, business administration, or a related discipline. That classification makes the role eligible for OPT work authorization. Your OPT EAD card serves as your work authorization document for the duration of your authorized period.
Do Development Director jobs typically come with H-1B visa sponsorship?
Sponsorship availability varies by employer. Large nonprofits, foundations, universities, and healthcare systems with established legal departments are the most consistent sponsors for Development Director roles. Smaller organizations sponsor less frequently, though they are sometimes open to it when the right candidate is involved. Migrate Mate filters job listings by sponsorship willingness, making it easier to identify which employers are worth pursuing.
Does a STEM OPT extension apply to Development Director positions?
It depends on your degree field and how the role is classified. Development Directors working in data-heavy fundraising environments, such as those using predictive analytics or CRM systems in a quantitative capacity, may qualify if their degree is in a STEM-designated field. The STEM extension is tied to your degree, not the job title itself, so consult your DSO to confirm eligibility before assuming the extension applies.
How should I address my OPT authorization when applying for Development Director roles?
Be straightforward and proactive. Nonprofit and higher education employers in particular appreciate candidates who explain their timeline clearly and demonstrate that they have already researched the sponsorship process. Raising the topic after you have established your value in the interview process, rather than in the initial application, tends to produce better outcomes. Come prepared with basic information about specialty occupation requirements and H-1B visa filing timelines.
What degree backgrounds qualify F-1 students for Development Director roles on OPT?
Nonprofit management, public administration, business administration, communications, and social work are the most common qualifying backgrounds. Some employers also accept degrees in marketing, psychology, or public policy depending on the organization's focus. The key is demonstrating that your degree directly supports the strategic fundraising and leadership responsibilities of the role, which strengthens both your candidacy and any future specialty occupation determination for H-1B purposes.