OPT Engagement Specialist Jobs
Engagement Specialist roles on OPT typically fall under communications, marketing, or community relations, all fields that qualify as specialty occupations for F-1 work authorization. Your 12-month OPT window starts on your program end date, so targeting employers with experience hiring international students gives you the strongest shot at a smooth start.
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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 268+ OPT Engagement Specialist Jobs
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Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding OPT Sponsorship as an Engagement Specialist
Lead with your communication credentials
Engagement Specialist roles live and die on written and verbal communication skills. Highlight campaigns you've run, communities you've built, or content you've produced. Concrete outcomes, like audience growth or event attendance, make your application stand out to hiring managers.
Target organizations already familiar with OPT
Nonprofits, universities, and mid-size marketing agencies tend to have prior experience hiring OPT students. They understand the timeline and paperwork involved, which means fewer delays between offer and your first day on the job.
Address your OPT status early and confidently
Don't wait until the offer stage to mention your work authorization. Frame it as a straightforward process: you're authorized to work immediately, and your employer simply verifies your EAD. Candidates who communicate this clearly reduce employer hesitation significantly.
Apply before your OPT clock starts burning
USCIS recommends applying for OPT up to 90 days before your program ends. Start your job search during that window so you have an offer lined up by the time your EAD arrives, avoiding unnecessary gaps in your authorized work period.
Emphasize cross-cultural communication experience
As an international student, you bring a perspective most domestic candidates don't. Engagement roles often serve diverse audiences, and hiring managers value candidates who can authentically connect across cultural contexts. Position this as a professional asset, not an afterthought.
Understand the STEM OPT extension opportunity
If your degree is in a STEM-designated field, you may qualify for a 24-month OPT extension, giving you up to three years of work authorization. Check your program's CIP code with your DSO and factor this into conversations with employers evaluating long-term hiring decisions.
Engagement Specialist OPT: Frequently Asked Questions
Does an Engagement Specialist role qualify as a specialty occupation for OPT purposes?
Yes, in most cases. Engagement Specialist positions that require a bachelor's degree in communications, marketing, public relations, or a related field qualify as specialty occupations under OPT guidelines. The key is that the role must directly relate to your degree field. If your job description emphasizes strategic communication, content development, or stakeholder relations tied to your academic background, your DSO should have no issue authorizing it.
Can I start working as an Engagement Specialist before my EAD card arrives?
No. You cannot begin working until you have your EAD card in hand and your OPT start date has passed. USCIS processing currently takes two to three months, so apply as early as 90 days before your program end date. If your card hasn't arrived by your authorized start date, you must wait, even if you have a signed offer letter.
How do I find Engagement Specialist jobs that are open to OPT candidates?
Migrate Mate is built specifically for F-1 OPT students and filters job listings by visa sponsorship willingness, so you're not wasting applications on employers who won't consider international candidates. Engagement Specialist roles span nonprofits, higher education, healthcare, and marketing agencies, all sectors where OPT hiring is relatively common. Filtering by industry on Migrate Mate helps you focus your search efficiently.
What happens to my OPT authorization if my Engagement Specialist job ends?
You have a 60-day grace period after your OPT employment ends to either find a new qualifying position, apply for a change of status, or prepare to depart the United States. During this period you are not authorized to work. OPT rules also require that you report any job changes to your DSO within 10 days, so keep your SEVP portal information current throughout your authorized period.
Does my Engagement Specialist role need to be full-time during OPT?
Post-completion OPT requires that you work at least 20 hours per week to maintain valid status. Full-time positions are strongly preferred and easier to document, but part-time arrangements above the 20-hour threshold are permissible. If you hold multiple part-time Engagement Specialist positions simultaneously, the combined hours must meet the 20-hour minimum and all roles must relate to your degree field.