Manufacturing Associate Jobs for OPT Students
Manufacturing Associate jobs are a strong fit for F-1 OPT students with degrees in industrial engineering, manufacturing technology, mechanical engineering, or supply chain management. Most roles qualify for STEM OPT extension, giving you up to three years of work authorization while you gain hands-on production and operations experience.
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Get Access To All JobsINTRODUCTION
Immediate need for a talented Manufacturing Associate II. This is a 12+ months contract opportunity with long-term potential and is located in Swiftwater, PA (Onsite). Please review the job description below and contact me ASAP if you are interested.
Job ID: 26-09746
Pay Range: $27 - $29/hour. Employee benefits include, but are not limited to, health insurance (medical, dental, vision), 401(k) plan, and paid sick leave (depending on work location).
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
TECHNICAL TASKS AND DELIVERABLES / SCOPE
The Continuous Improvement Contractor will execute the following activities and responsibilities:
Cross-Functional Collaboration and Support
- Serve as an individual contributor and active member of cross-functional teams providing support to Production Control Units (PCUs)
- Act as CAPA (Corrective and Preventive Action) and Change Control point of contact for the Formulation and Filling Improvement Program (FFIP), with emphasis on Formulation and Filling areas
- Facilitate cross-functional interfacing activities with key stakeholders in a positive and collaborative manner, including, but not limited to:
- Quality Control
- Manufacturing Science and Technology (MSAT)
- Sterility Assurance
- Engineering
- Operations
- Quality Assurance
CAPA and Change Control Management
- Complete all required training to independently own CAPA action items, Change Control action items, and author related documents
- Ensure timely closure of assigned CAPA and Change Control action items
- Maintain accountability for deliverables and adherence to established timelines
Technical Support and Process Improvement
- Provide technical support for:
- Component qualification activities
- Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE) improvement initiatives
- Electronic Batch Record (eBR) implementation and optimization
- Opstrakker system utilization
- General factory improvement projects
- Facilitate resolution of unresolved issues and deliverables by:
- Leading cross-functional meetings
- Positively influencing functional managers
- Removing obstacles and barriers to progress
- Managing projects and competing priorities effectively
Operational Excellence and Metrics Management
- Create and maintain a proactive operational environment
- Monitor and communicate key performance metrics to team members and support functions
- Utilize the "+QDCI" Visual Management Systems to drive continuous improvement in key metrics
- Work within the Continuous Improvement framework to identify and implement improvement opportunities
Compliance and Quality Assurance
- Ensure strict compliance with all regulatory requirements and current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMPs)
- Maintain adherence to good documentation practices to ensure delivery of safe, quality, and effective products
- Support regulatory inspections and audits as required
Professional Development
- Proactively identify opportunities for professional growth and development
- Stay current with applicable sciences and methodologies that enhance team capabilities
- Contribute to knowledge sharing and team skill development
KEY REQUIREMENTS AND TECHNOLOGY EXPERIENCE
Key skills:
- Continuous Improvement professional with 3–5 years of experience in pharmaceutical manufacturing and strong knowledge of cGMP environments, particularly in formulation and filling operations.
- Ideal candidates will have hands-on experience managing CAPA and Change Control activities, authoring technical documentation, and supporting cross-functional teams including Quality, MSAT, Engineering, Operations, and Sterility Assurance.
- They should bring expertise in Lean/Six Sigma methodologies, equipment qualification, OEE improvement, and electronic systems such as eBR, Opstrakker, and Qualipso.
- Strong candidates excel in communication, technical writing, project management, and influencing across teams.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office and familiarity with ERP systems (iShift preferred) are important. Candidates must be adaptable, detail-oriented, and capable of driving continuous improvement in a fast-paced, regulated environment.
Experience:
3-5 years experience in technical documentation and cGMP systems.
Manufacturing Operations:
Deep understanding of cGMPs and pharmaceutical manufacturing activities, including:
- Formulation processes
- Filling operations
- Lyophilization (freeze-drying) processes
Continuous Improvement Methodologies:
Comprehensive knowledge of Lean Manufacturing concepts and principles
Six Sigma methodology and tools
Change Management:
Demonstrated experience in Change Management processes and execution
Protocol and Report Development:
Proven experience in authoring protocols and technical reports
Microsoft Office Suite:
Proficient in Excel, Word, and PowerPoint
Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP):
Knowledge of ERP systems (iShift preferred)
Quality Management Systems:
Experience with Quality Management Systems (Qualipso)
Electronic Systems:
Familiarity with eBR and Opstrakker systems
Communication:
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills with ability to engage effectively across all organizational levels
Leadership:
Strong management by influence skills; ability to lead and actively participate on cross-functional teams
Technical Writing:
Excellent technical writing skills for generation of protocols, reports, and Change Controls
Project Management:
Strong project management and organizational skills
Time Management:
Demonstrated ability to prioritize tasks and manage time effectively in a fast-paced environment
Flexibility:
Adaptability to change priorities and business needs
Problem-Solving:
Analytical mindset with ability to identify root causes and implement effective solutions
Our client is a leading Pharmaceutical Industry and we are currently interviewing to fill this and other similar contract positions. If you are interested in this position, please apply online for immediate consideration.
Pyramid Consulting, Inc. provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.
By applying to our jobs you agree to receive calls, AI-generated calls, text messages, or emails from Pyramid Consulting, Inc. and its affiliates, and contracted partners. Frequency varies for text messages. Message and data rates may apply. Carriers are not liable for delayed or undelivered messages. You can reply STOP to cancel and HELP for help. You can access our privacy policy here.
INTRODUCTION
Immediate need for a talented Manufacturing Associate II. This is a 12+ months contract opportunity with long-term potential and is located in Swiftwater, PA (Onsite). Please review the job description below and contact me ASAP if you are interested.
Job ID: 26-09746
Pay Range: $27 - $29/hour. Employee benefits include, but are not limited to, health insurance (medical, dental, vision), 401(k) plan, and paid sick leave (depending on work location).
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
TECHNICAL TASKS AND DELIVERABLES / SCOPE
The Continuous Improvement Contractor will execute the following activities and responsibilities:
Cross-Functional Collaboration and Support
- Serve as an individual contributor and active member of cross-functional teams providing support to Production Control Units (PCUs)
- Act as CAPA (Corrective and Preventive Action) and Change Control point of contact for the Formulation and Filling Improvement Program (FFIP), with emphasis on Formulation and Filling areas
- Facilitate cross-functional interfacing activities with key stakeholders in a positive and collaborative manner, including, but not limited to:
- Quality Control
- Manufacturing Science and Technology (MSAT)
- Sterility Assurance
- Engineering
- Operations
- Quality Assurance
CAPA and Change Control Management
- Complete all required training to independently own CAPA action items, Change Control action items, and author related documents
- Ensure timely closure of assigned CAPA and Change Control action items
- Maintain accountability for deliverables and adherence to established timelines
Technical Support and Process Improvement
- Provide technical support for:
- Component qualification activities
- Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE) improvement initiatives
- Electronic Batch Record (eBR) implementation and optimization
- Opstrakker system utilization
- General factory improvement projects
- Facilitate resolution of unresolved issues and deliverables by:
- Leading cross-functional meetings
- Positively influencing functional managers
- Removing obstacles and barriers to progress
- Managing projects and competing priorities effectively
Operational Excellence and Metrics Management
- Create and maintain a proactive operational environment
- Monitor and communicate key performance metrics to team members and support functions
- Utilize the "+QDCI" Visual Management Systems to drive continuous improvement in key metrics
- Work within the Continuous Improvement framework to identify and implement improvement opportunities
Compliance and Quality Assurance
- Ensure strict compliance with all regulatory requirements and current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMPs)
- Maintain adherence to good documentation practices to ensure delivery of safe, quality, and effective products
- Support regulatory inspections and audits as required
Professional Development
- Proactively identify opportunities for professional growth and development
- Stay current with applicable sciences and methodologies that enhance team capabilities
- Contribute to knowledge sharing and team skill development
KEY REQUIREMENTS AND TECHNOLOGY EXPERIENCE
Key skills:
- Continuous Improvement professional with 3–5 years of experience in pharmaceutical manufacturing and strong knowledge of cGMP environments, particularly in formulation and filling operations.
- Ideal candidates will have hands-on experience managing CAPA and Change Control activities, authoring technical documentation, and supporting cross-functional teams including Quality, MSAT, Engineering, Operations, and Sterility Assurance.
- They should bring expertise in Lean/Six Sigma methodologies, equipment qualification, OEE improvement, and electronic systems such as eBR, Opstrakker, and Qualipso.
- Strong candidates excel in communication, technical writing, project management, and influencing across teams.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office and familiarity with ERP systems (iShift preferred) are important. Candidates must be adaptable, detail-oriented, and capable of driving continuous improvement in a fast-paced, regulated environment.
Experience:
3-5 years experience in technical documentation and cGMP systems.
Manufacturing Operations:
Deep understanding of cGMPs and pharmaceutical manufacturing activities, including:
- Formulation processes
- Filling operations
- Lyophilization (freeze-drying) processes
Continuous Improvement Methodologies:
Comprehensive knowledge of Lean Manufacturing concepts and principles
Six Sigma methodology and tools
Change Management:
Demonstrated experience in Change Management processes and execution
Protocol and Report Development:
Proven experience in authoring protocols and technical reports
Microsoft Office Suite:
Proficient in Excel, Word, and PowerPoint
Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP):
Knowledge of ERP systems (iShift preferred)
Quality Management Systems:
Experience with Quality Management Systems (Qualipso)
Electronic Systems:
Familiarity with eBR and Opstrakker systems
Communication:
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills with ability to engage effectively across all organizational levels
Leadership:
Strong management by influence skills; ability to lead and actively participate on cross-functional teams
Technical Writing:
Excellent technical writing skills for generation of protocols, reports, and Change Controls
Project Management:
Strong project management and organizational skills
Time Management:
Demonstrated ability to prioritize tasks and manage time effectively in a fast-paced environment
Flexibility:
Adaptability to change priorities and business needs
Problem-Solving:
Analytical mindset with ability to identify root causes and implement effective solutions
Our client is a leading Pharmaceutical Industry and we are currently interviewing to fill this and other similar contract positions. If you are interested in this position, please apply online for immediate consideration.
Pyramid Consulting, Inc. provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.
By applying to our jobs you agree to receive calls, AI-generated calls, text messages, or emails from Pyramid Consulting, Inc. and its affiliates, and contracted partners. Frequency varies for text messages. Message and data rates may apply. Carriers are not liable for delayed or undelivered messages. You can reply STOP to cancel and HELP for help. You can access our privacy policy here.
How to Get Visa Sponsorship as a Manufacturing Associate
Confirm your degree qualifies for STEM OPT
Manufacturing Associate roles typically qualify for the 24-month STEM OPT extension if your degree is in engineering, manufacturing technology, or a related STEM field. Verify your CIP code with your DSO before applying to avoid surprises.
Target companies with active H-1B sponsorship history
Large manufacturers like automotive, aerospace, and consumer goods companies sponsor H-1B visas far more often than smaller shops. Look for employers with consistent H-1B filing histories, which signals they have immigration infrastructure already in place.
Highlight process improvement and technical skills on your resume
Employers sponsoring OPT hires want demonstrable technical value. Emphasize Lean, Six Sigma, CAD, ERP systems, or quality control experience. Specific metrics, like reduced defect rates or improved cycle times, make your application significantly stronger.
Apply early relative to your OPT start date
Manufacturing roles often have structured onboarding tied to production schedules. Apply at least two to three months before your OPT start date so employers can plan around your authorization timeline without disrupting their operations.
Be upfront about your work authorization status
Disclose your OPT status early in conversations with recruiters. Many manufacturing employers are unfamiliar with OPT rules, so briefly explaining your authorization period and STEM extension eligibility reduces hesitation and speeds up the hiring decision.
Use Migrate Mate to filter for OPT-friendly manufacturing employers
Not every manufacturing company is equipped to hire OPT students. Migrate Mate surfaces roles from employers already open to sponsoring international candidates, saving you from applying to positions where your authorization will be an automatic disqualifier.
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Get Access To All JobsFrequently Asked Questions
Do Manufacturing Associate jobs qualify for the STEM OPT extension?
Most Manufacturing Associate positions qualify for the 24-month STEM OPT extension if your underlying degree falls under an approved STEM CIP code, such as industrial engineering, mechanical engineering, manufacturing technology, or materials science. Your DSO can confirm your CIP code. If you qualify, you get up to three years of total work authorization, which makes you a much more attractive candidate for employers considering future H-1B sponsorship.
What types of employers hire OPT students for Manufacturing Associate roles?
Large manufacturers in automotive, aerospace, electronics, medical devices, and consumer goods are the most likely to hire OPT students and sponsor future visas. These companies have HR teams familiar with work authorization and established immigration legal support. Smaller manufacturers or job shops often lack the infrastructure to navigate OPT paperwork. Migrate Mate focuses on employers already open to international candidates, which helps you avoid wasting applications on companies that will reject you at the authorization stage.
Can I work as a Manufacturing Associate on OPT if my degree is in supply chain or operations management?
Yes, supply chain and operations management degrees can support Manufacturing Associate roles on OPT, provided the job duties are related to your field of study. USCIS requires that OPT employment be directly related to your major. A Manufacturing Associate role involving production planning, inventory control, or process coordination typically satisfies that requirement. Check with your DSO to confirm the connection between your specific degree and the job description before accepting an offer.
How do I handle the reporting requirements for OPT while working as a Manufacturing Associate?
During standard OPT, you must report your employer information to your DSO within 10 days of starting work. On STEM OPT extension, your employer must enroll in E-Verify, and you must submit a formal training plan using Form I-983. Manufacturing employers will need to document how the role provides hands-on training related to your degree. Keep your DSO updated on any employer changes, job title changes, or gaps in employment, since unemployment periods are capped at 90 days on OPT and 150 days on STEM OPT.
What should I look for in a Manufacturing Associate job posting to assess sponsorship likelihood?
Look for postings that explicitly mention OPT, CPT, or visa sponsorship, or that list E-Verify participation. Job descriptions requiring specific technical skills tied to engineering or manufacturing degrees are a positive sign, since they suggest the employer values specialized qualifications over simply hiring anyone. Avoid postings that list only soft skills or say "must be authorized to work in the U.S. without sponsorship." Migrate Mate filters for employers open to OPT candidates, so browsing there gives you a shortlist of positions worth pursuing.
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