OPT Legal Associate Jobs
Legal Associate roles in the U.S. are open to F-1 OPT students with degrees in law, political science, or a related field. Most positions involve legal research, drafting, and case support under attorney supervision. Your 12-month OPT window is enough to establish yourself, and a STEM extension is not available for this field, so timing your job search matters.
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Get Access To All JobsPosition Number: 999881
Unit/Department: Law Instruction
Salary: Commensurate with qualifications and experience
Department Summary:
Drake University Law School sustains a vibrant intellectual culture, and Des Moines has been recognized as one of the top ten Best Places to Live (US News) and Best Places for Business and Careers (Forbes), with a robust and growing economy (Wall Street Journal). The Law School features innovative and nationally recognized programs in constitutional law, agricultural law, legal writing, and practical training.
Job Summary:
DRAKE UNIVERSITY LAW SCHOOL invites applications from entry level and lateral candidates for one tenure-track Assistant or Associate Professor of Law position. We welcome applications from candidates with demonstrated teaching and research interests in Criminal Law/Criminal Procedure, Family Law or Legal Writing.
Minimum Qualifications:
Applicants must hold a J.D. degree (or the equivalent) and should have a record of academic excellence, substantial academic or practice experience, a passion for teaching, as well as a record or evidence of the potential for accomplishments in scholarship. Appointment rank will be determined commensurate with the candidate’s qualifications and experience.
Special Instructions to Applicants:
Confidential review of applications will begin immediately. Applications should include (1) a letter of interest, (2) a complete CV, (3) teaching evaluations (if available), (4) a statement of teaching philosophy, (5) a research agenda, and (6) the names and addresses of at least three references. Applications should be sent directly to Professor Christoph Henkel, Chair, Faculty Appointments Committee, Drake University Law School, 2507 University Ave., Des Moines, IA 50311 or e-mail: christoph.henkel@drake.edu.
Please do not attach additional documents at this time. Supplemental documents may be requested or required of semi-finalists and finalists.
Have Questions?
Questions about this position can be directed to the search chair: Christoph Henkel, Professor, Christoph.henkel@drake.edu
Questions about the application process, working at Drake, spouse/partner support, reasonable accommodations, benefits, or additional information about Drake or Des Moines, Iowa may be directed to Drake Human Resources at jobs@drake.edu.
All job offers are contingent upon satisfactory completion of a background check, satisfactory reference checks, and proof of authorization to work in the United States.
Review of Applications Begins:
The position will remain posted until filled.
Salary and Benefits:
Salary is competitive with peer schools and will be commensurate with qualifications and experience of the selected candidate.
At Drake, we are proud to offer our employees, their spouses, and eligible dependents a comprehensive benefits package, which includes a wide range of core benefits, perks, and discounts.
Tuition Benefits.
For faculty positions, selection will depend on the receipt of recommendation confirming the candidate's scholarly achievements and teaching abilities and/or on the candidate's satisfactory passing of a teaching demonstration if selected for an on-campus interview. For staff positions, selection will depend upon careful review of each applicant’s references, education, and, if applicable, experience.
ABOUT DRAKE
Drake University is recognized as a top private university in the Midwest. Drake is a midsize university in Des Moines, Iowa, with an increasingly diverse student body. We are deeply committed to equity and inclusion and creating a sense of belonging for all members of the campus community—faculty, staff, and students alike. More than 900 faculty and staff are part of the Bulldog pack, a close-knit group of colleagues enthusiastic about preparing students to be global citizens and leaders, challenging assumptions. Drake University is not only an outstanding institution of higher learning, it is also a wonderful place to work. We are enthusiastically committed to welcoming new ideas and people into the fold, and to retaining and rewarding stellar employees.
All positions at Drake provide opportunities to contribute to Drake University’s core mission of creating an exceptional learning environment that prepares students of all backgrounds for meaningful lives and professional accomplishments.
STRONG COMMITMENT TO A DIVERSE AND INCLUSIVE COMMUNITY
At Drake University, we don’t just accept differences—we celebrate them, we support them, and we thrive on them for the benefit of our students, our employees, and our community. As reflected in our Core Values, we embrace a diverse and inclusive community.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY
Drake University is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to creating an inclusive and diverse workplace. We provide equal employment opportunities to all individuals regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic under applicable law. Drake University is committed to providing access and reasonable accommodations in its services, programs, activities, education, and employment for individuals with disabilities. If you would benefit from an accommodation at any point in the recruitment process (including using our online application process), please contact Drake Human Resources (p: 515.271.3133; e: jobs@drake.edu) and let us know how we can assist you.
Position Number: 999881
Unit/Department: Law Instruction
Salary: Commensurate with qualifications and experience
Department Summary:
Drake University Law School sustains a vibrant intellectual culture, and Des Moines has been recognized as one of the top ten Best Places to Live (US News) and Best Places for Business and Careers (Forbes), with a robust and growing economy (Wall Street Journal). The Law School features innovative and nationally recognized programs in constitutional law, agricultural law, legal writing, and practical training.
Job Summary:
DRAKE UNIVERSITY LAW SCHOOL invites applications from entry level and lateral candidates for one tenure-track Assistant or Associate Professor of Law position. We welcome applications from candidates with demonstrated teaching and research interests in Criminal Law/Criminal Procedure, Family Law or Legal Writing.
Minimum Qualifications:
Applicants must hold a J.D. degree (or the equivalent) and should have a record of academic excellence, substantial academic or practice experience, a passion for teaching, as well as a record or evidence of the potential for accomplishments in scholarship. Appointment rank will be determined commensurate with the candidate’s qualifications and experience.
Special Instructions to Applicants:
Confidential review of applications will begin immediately. Applications should include (1) a letter of interest, (2) a complete CV, (3) teaching evaluations (if available), (4) a statement of teaching philosophy, (5) a research agenda, and (6) the names and addresses of at least three references. Applications should be sent directly to Professor Christoph Henkel, Chair, Faculty Appointments Committee, Drake University Law School, 2507 University Ave., Des Moines, IA 50311 or e-mail: christoph.henkel@drake.edu.
Please do not attach additional documents at this time. Supplemental documents may be requested or required of semi-finalists and finalists.
Have Questions?
Questions about this position can be directed to the search chair: Christoph Henkel, Professor, Christoph.henkel@drake.edu
Questions about the application process, working at Drake, spouse/partner support, reasonable accommodations, benefits, or additional information about Drake or Des Moines, Iowa may be directed to Drake Human Resources at jobs@drake.edu.
All job offers are contingent upon satisfactory completion of a background check, satisfactory reference checks, and proof of authorization to work in the United States.
Review of Applications Begins:
The position will remain posted until filled.
Salary and Benefits:
Salary is competitive with peer schools and will be commensurate with qualifications and experience of the selected candidate.
At Drake, we are proud to offer our employees, their spouses, and eligible dependents a comprehensive benefits package, which includes a wide range of core benefits, perks, and discounts.
Tuition Benefits.
For faculty positions, selection will depend on the receipt of recommendation confirming the candidate's scholarly achievements and teaching abilities and/or on the candidate's satisfactory passing of a teaching demonstration if selected for an on-campus interview. For staff positions, selection will depend upon careful review of each applicant’s references, education, and, if applicable, experience.
ABOUT DRAKE
Drake University is recognized as a top private university in the Midwest. Drake is a midsize university in Des Moines, Iowa, with an increasingly diverse student body. We are deeply committed to equity and inclusion and creating a sense of belonging for all members of the campus community—faculty, staff, and students alike. More than 900 faculty and staff are part of the Bulldog pack, a close-knit group of colleagues enthusiastic about preparing students to be global citizens and leaders, challenging assumptions. Drake University is not only an outstanding institution of higher learning, it is also a wonderful place to work. We are enthusiastically committed to welcoming new ideas and people into the fold, and to retaining and rewarding stellar employees.
All positions at Drake provide opportunities to contribute to Drake University’s core mission of creating an exceptional learning environment that prepares students of all backgrounds for meaningful lives and professional accomplishments.
STRONG COMMITMENT TO A DIVERSE AND INCLUSIVE COMMUNITY
At Drake University, we don’t just accept differences—we celebrate them, we support them, and we thrive on them for the benefit of our students, our employees, and our community. As reflected in our Core Values, we embrace a diverse and inclusive community.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY
Drake University is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to creating an inclusive and diverse workplace. We provide equal employment opportunities to all individuals regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic under applicable law. Drake University is committed to providing access and reasonable accommodations in its services, programs, activities, education, and employment for individuals with disabilities. If you would benefit from an accommodation at any point in the recruitment process (including using our online application process), please contact Drake Human Resources (p: 515.271.3133; e: jobs@drake.edu) and let us know how we can assist you.
See all 614+ OPT Legal Associate Jobs
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Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding OPT Sponsorship as a Legal Associate
Target law firms that regularly hire foreign-educated candidates
Boutique immigration, international arbitration, and compliance firms are more accustomed to OPT work authorization than general practice firms. These employers have existing processes for hiring F-1 students and are less likely to be deterred by your status.
Lead with your OPT authorization upfront
State clearly in your cover letter that you hold a valid EAD and are authorized to work immediately. Removing ambiguity about your status early prevents your application from being filtered out by hiring managers unfamiliar with OPT.
Emphasize legal research and writing skills with concrete examples
Legal Associate roles are highly competitive. Highlight specific memos, briefs, or research projects from your coursework or internships. Employers want evidence of practical output, not just familiarity with legal concepts or academic credentials.
Prioritize roles at companies with existing H-1B sponsorship history
If your goal is long-term sponsorship, focus your search on employers who have sponsored H-1B visas before. Past sponsorship behavior is the strongest signal that a firm will support your transition beyond OPT.
Start your search at least three months before OPT begins
Legal hiring timelines are often slow, with multiple interview rounds and background checks. Starting early gives you enough runway to complete a full process and begin employment while your OPT authorization is still valid.
Be prepared to explain your degree equivalency if you studied abroad
If your law degree is from outside the U.S., some employers will ask how it compares to a J.D. or LL.M. Having a credential evaluation report ready and knowing which tasks you are qualified to perform legally in your role avoids confusion.
Legal Associate OPT: Frequently Asked Questions
Can F-1 OPT students work as Legal Associates in the U.S.?
Yes. F-1 students authorized for OPT can work as Legal Associates as long as the role is directly related to their field of study, such as law, political science, or a related discipline. You must have a valid Employment Authorization Document before your start date. The role must fall within your authorized OPT period.
Does a Legal Associate role qualify for STEM OPT extension?
No. Legal Associate positions fall under law and policy fields, which are not on the STEM Designated Degree Program List. This means F-1 students in this role are limited to the standard 12-month OPT period. If long-term U.S. work authorization is your goal, you will need an employer willing to sponsor an H-1B or another nonimmigrant visa before your OPT expires.
What visa options exist after OPT ends for Legal Associates?
The most common path is H-1B sponsorship. Legal Associate roles typically qualify as specialty occupations requiring at least a bachelor's degree in a specific field, which satisfies the H-1B standard. Some foreign nationals may also qualify for the O-1A if they have exceptional credentials. A few employers in international law also consider TN visa status for Canadian and Mexican nationals in qualifying categories.
How do I find Legal Associate jobs that are open to OPT students?
Migrate Mate is built specifically for F-1 OPT and visa-sponsored job seekers and lists Legal Associate roles from employers open to candidates on work authorization. Filtering by OPT eligibility saves you from applying to roles at firms that will not consider your status, which is a common frustration when using general job search tools.
Do Legal Associate employers typically understand OPT work authorization?
It varies significantly. Large law firms and corporations with established HR teams usually understand OPT, but smaller boutique firms may not. When you apply, be direct about your authorization type and include your EAD expiration date. Offering to answer any compliance questions your employer may have can reduce friction and signal that you are organized about your status.