OPT Program Assistant Jobs
Program Assistant roles are a strong fit for F-1 OPT students, particularly those with degrees in public administration, nonprofit management, education, or social sciences. Most positions qualify as professional employment under OPT guidelines. Your 12-month authorization window, or 24 months with a STEM extension, gives you time to build meaningful program experience.
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Recruitment/Posting Title Program Assistant (Research) PopQuIS
Job Category Staff & Executive - Administrative & Support
Department RWJ - Pediatrics Hospital Medi
Overview
New Jersey’s academic health center, Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences (RBHS) takes an integrated approach to educating students, providing clinical care, and conducting research, all with the goal of improving human health. Aligned with Rutgers University–New Brunswick and collaborating university wide, RBHS includes eight schools, a behavioral health network, and five centers and institutes that focus on cancer treatment and research, neuroscience, advanced biotechnology and medicine, environmental and occupational health, and health care policy and aging research.
Our faculty are teachers, clinicians, and scientists with unparalleled experience who advance medical innovation and provide patient care informed by the latest research findings. We offer an outstanding education in medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, public health, nursing, biomedical research, and the full spectrum of allied health careers.
Our clinical and academic facilities are located throughout the state—at Rutgers University–New Brunswick, including Piscataway; and at locations in Newark, Scotch Plains, Somerset, Stratford, and other locations. Clinical partners include Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital in New Brunswick, Newark’s University Hospital in Newark, and other affiliates.
Through this community of healers, scientists, and scholars, Rutgers is equipped as never before to transform lives.
Posting Summary
Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, is seeking a Program Assistant for the department of Pediatrics at the Robert Wood Johnson Medical School.
The Program Assistant works closely with the Pediatrics, Division of Population Health, Quality, and Implementation Science (PopQuIS) Division Director, Clinical Operations Manager, and Program Manager under the direct supervision of the Division Director. The Program Assistant (Research) will provide high level administrative support, mid-level support to research projects, and high-level program support, which may include the direction of research personnel and/or conduct of independent sub projects in the PopQuIS Division. Responsible for the timely completion and efficient flow of required research related documentation. This role requires flexibility and responsiveness to help plan, organize, coordinate, and manage day-to-day activities related to various research, quality, and scholarly projects within the Division, this includes IRB, REDCap, REACH360, AMBRA and CLOCK related matrix.
Among the key duties of this position are the following:
- Coordinates PopQuIS division research related activities, projects and staffing needs.
- Works with Division Director and Operations Manager to provide orientation and ensure integration of new staff members into the Division.
- The Research Program Assistant may be a team member or a team leader depending upon the assignment. As assigned, completes research-related projects. These projects may be individual or team based.
- Handle research data as directed to support or advancing research projects.
- Develop and design databases and workbooks to support both administrative and research activities.
- As assigned, Program Assistant conducts tasks such as subject enrollment, administer or witness informed consent, conduct surveys in person and virtually, on site and off site, as assigned.
FLSA Exempt
Grade 21S
Salary Details
Minimum Salary 58953.000
Mid Range Salary 70476.000
Maximum Salary 83479.000
Offer Information
The final salary offer may be determined by several factors, including, but not limited to, the candidate’s qualifications, experience, and expertise, and availability of department or grant funds to support the position. We also take into consideration market benchmarks, if and when appropriate, and internal equity to ensure fair compensation relative to the university’s broader compensation structure. We are committed to offering competitive and flexible compensation packages to attract and retain top talent.
Benefits
Rutgers provides a comprehensive benefits package to eligible employees. The specific benefits vary based on the position and may include:
- Medical, prescription drug, and dental coverage
- Paid vacation, holidays, and various leave programs
- Competitive retirement benefits, including defined contribution plans and voluntary tax-deferred savings options
- Employee and dependent educational benefits (when applicable)
- Life insurance coverage
- Employee discount programs
Position Status Full Time
Working Hours
Standard Hours 37.50
Daily Work Shift
Work Arrangement
Consistent with the current application of Rutgers Policy 60.3.22 or the applicable provisions of relevant collective negotiations agreements, this position may be eligible for a hybrid work arrangement. Flexible work arrangements are not permanent, are subject to change or discontinuation, and contingent on the employee receiving approval in the FlexWork@RU Application System.
Union Description HPAE 5094
Payroll Designation PeopleSoft
Seniority Unit
Terms of Appointment Staff - 12 month
Position Pension Eligibility ABP
Qualifications
Minimum Education and Experience
- Bachelor’s Degree in a relevant field plus two (2) years related administrative and/or program support experience in a business office, government agency or university setting required.
- Equivalent experience, education and/or training may be substituted for the education requirements.
Certifications/Licenses
Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
- Must be proficient in Microsoft software (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Visio and Access Database).
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience of operational, or financial and/or program management preferred.
Equipment Utilized
Physical Demands and Work Environment
- Physical Demands: Standing, sitting, walking, talking or hearing. No special vision requirements.
- Work Environment: Moderate noise. Multitasking within fast paced environment.
Special Conditions
- Must pass employee health clearance, Tuberculosis (TB) test and required safety training.
Posting Details
Posting Number 26ST1359
Posting Open Date
Special Instructions to Applicants
Regional Campus Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences (RBHS)
Home Location Campus Downtown New Brunswick
City New Brunswick
State NJ
Location Details
Pre-employment Screenings
All offers of employment are contingent upon successful completion of all pre-employment screenings.
Immunization Requirements
Under Policy 100.3.1 Immunization Policy for Covered Individuals, if employment will commence during Flu Season, Rutgers University may require certain prospective employees to provide proof that they are vaccinated against Seasonal Influenza for the current Flu Season, unless the University has granted the individual a medical or religious exemption. Additional infection control and safety policies may apply. Prospective employees should speak with their hiring manager to determine which policies apply to the role or position for which they are applying. Failure to provide proof of vaccination for any required vaccines or obtain a medical or religious exemption from the University will result in rescission of a candidate’s offer of employment or disciplinary action up to and including termination.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
It is university policy to provide equal employment opportunity to all its employees and applicants for employment regardless of their race, creed, color, national origin, age, ancestry, nationality, marital or domestic partnership or civil union status, sex, pregnancy, gender identity or expression, disability status, liability for military service, protected veteran status, affectional or sexual orientation, atypical cellular or blood trait, genetic information (including the refusal to submit to genetic testing), or any other category protected by law. As an institution, we encourage all qualified applicants to apply. For additional information please see the Non-Discrimination Statement at the following web address: http://uhr.rutgers.edu/non-discrimination-statement
Supplemental Questions
Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).
- Do you have a Bachelor’s Degree in a relevant field plus two years of related administrative and/or program support experience in a business office, government agency or university setting?
- Yes
- No
Applicant Documents
Required Documents
- Resume/CV
Optional Documents
- Cover Letter/Letter of Application
Position Details
Recruitment/Posting Title Program Assistant (Research) PopQuIS
Job Category Staff & Executive - Administrative & Support
Department RWJ - Pediatrics Hospital Medi
Overview
New Jersey’s academic health center, Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences (RBHS) takes an integrated approach to educating students, providing clinical care, and conducting research, all with the goal of improving human health. Aligned with Rutgers University–New Brunswick and collaborating university wide, RBHS includes eight schools, a behavioral health network, and five centers and institutes that focus on cancer treatment and research, neuroscience, advanced biotechnology and medicine, environmental and occupational health, and health care policy and aging research.
Our faculty are teachers, clinicians, and scientists with unparalleled experience who advance medical innovation and provide patient care informed by the latest research findings. We offer an outstanding education in medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, public health, nursing, biomedical research, and the full spectrum of allied health careers.
Our clinical and academic facilities are located throughout the state—at Rutgers University–New Brunswick, including Piscataway; and at locations in Newark, Scotch Plains, Somerset, Stratford, and other locations. Clinical partners include Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital in New Brunswick, Newark’s University Hospital in Newark, and other affiliates.
Through this community of healers, scientists, and scholars, Rutgers is equipped as never before to transform lives.
Posting Summary
Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, is seeking a Program Assistant for the department of Pediatrics at the Robert Wood Johnson Medical School.
The Program Assistant works closely with the Pediatrics, Division of Population Health, Quality, and Implementation Science (PopQuIS) Division Director, Clinical Operations Manager, and Program Manager under the direct supervision of the Division Director. The Program Assistant (Research) will provide high level administrative support, mid-level support to research projects, and high-level program support, which may include the direction of research personnel and/or conduct of independent sub projects in the PopQuIS Division. Responsible for the timely completion and efficient flow of required research related documentation. This role requires flexibility and responsiveness to help plan, organize, coordinate, and manage day-to-day activities related to various research, quality, and scholarly projects within the Division, this includes IRB, REDCap, REACH360, AMBRA and CLOCK related matrix.
Among the key duties of this position are the following:
- Coordinates PopQuIS division research related activities, projects and staffing needs.
- Works with Division Director and Operations Manager to provide orientation and ensure integration of new staff members into the Division.
- The Research Program Assistant may be a team member or a team leader depending upon the assignment. As assigned, completes research-related projects. These projects may be individual or team based.
- Handle research data as directed to support or advancing research projects.
- Develop and design databases and workbooks to support both administrative and research activities.
- As assigned, Program Assistant conducts tasks such as subject enrollment, administer or witness informed consent, conduct surveys in person and virtually, on site and off site, as assigned.
FLSA Exempt
Grade 21S
Salary Details
Minimum Salary 58953.000
Mid Range Salary 70476.000
Maximum Salary 83479.000
Offer Information
The final salary offer may be determined by several factors, including, but not limited to, the candidate’s qualifications, experience, and expertise, and availability of department or grant funds to support the position. We also take into consideration market benchmarks, if and when appropriate, and internal equity to ensure fair compensation relative to the university’s broader compensation structure. We are committed to offering competitive and flexible compensation packages to attract and retain top talent.
Benefits
Rutgers provides a comprehensive benefits package to eligible employees. The specific benefits vary based on the position and may include:
- Medical, prescription drug, and dental coverage
- Paid vacation, holidays, and various leave programs
- Competitive retirement benefits, including defined contribution plans and voluntary tax-deferred savings options
- Employee and dependent educational benefits (when applicable)
- Life insurance coverage
- Employee discount programs
Position Status Full Time
Working Hours
Standard Hours 37.50
Daily Work Shift
Work Arrangement
Consistent with the current application of Rutgers Policy 60.3.22 or the applicable provisions of relevant collective negotiations agreements, this position may be eligible for a hybrid work arrangement. Flexible work arrangements are not permanent, are subject to change or discontinuation, and contingent on the employee receiving approval in the FlexWork@RU Application System.
Union Description HPAE 5094
Payroll Designation PeopleSoft
Seniority Unit
Terms of Appointment Staff - 12 month
Position Pension Eligibility ABP
Qualifications
Minimum Education and Experience
- Bachelor’s Degree in a relevant field plus two (2) years related administrative and/or program support experience in a business office, government agency or university setting required.
- Equivalent experience, education and/or training may be substituted for the education requirements.
Certifications/Licenses
Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
- Must be proficient in Microsoft software (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Visio and Access Database).
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience of operational, or financial and/or program management preferred.
Equipment Utilized
Physical Demands and Work Environment
- Physical Demands: Standing, sitting, walking, talking or hearing. No special vision requirements.
- Work Environment: Moderate noise. Multitasking within fast paced environment.
Special Conditions
- Must pass employee health clearance, Tuberculosis (TB) test and required safety training.
Posting Details
Posting Number 26ST1359
Posting Open Date
Special Instructions to Applicants
Regional Campus Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences (RBHS)
Home Location Campus Downtown New Brunswick
City New Brunswick
State NJ
Location Details
Pre-employment Screenings
All offers of employment are contingent upon successful completion of all pre-employment screenings.
Immunization Requirements
Under Policy 100.3.1 Immunization Policy for Covered Individuals, if employment will commence during Flu Season, Rutgers University may require certain prospective employees to provide proof that they are vaccinated against Seasonal Influenza for the current Flu Season, unless the University has granted the individual a medical or religious exemption. Additional infection control and safety policies may apply. Prospective employees should speak with their hiring manager to determine which policies apply to the role or position for which they are applying. Failure to provide proof of vaccination for any required vaccines or obtain a medical or religious exemption from the University will result in rescission of a candidate’s offer of employment or disciplinary action up to and including termination.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
It is university policy to provide equal employment opportunity to all its employees and applicants for employment regardless of their race, creed, color, national origin, age, ancestry, nationality, marital or domestic partnership or civil union status, sex, pregnancy, gender identity or expression, disability status, liability for military service, protected veteran status, affectional or sexual orientation, atypical cellular or blood trait, genetic information (including the refusal to submit to genetic testing), or any other category protected by law. As an institution, we encourage all qualified applicants to apply. For additional information please see the Non-Discrimination Statement at the following web address: http://uhr.rutgers.edu/non-discrimination-statement
Supplemental Questions
Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).
- Do you have a Bachelor’s Degree in a relevant field plus two years of related administrative and/or program support experience in a business office, government agency or university setting?
- Yes
- No
Applicant Documents
Required Documents
- Resume/CV
Optional Documents
- Cover Letter/Letter of Application
See all 736+ OPT Program Assistant Jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new OPT Program Assistant Jobs.
Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding OPT Sponsorship as a Program Assistant
Align your degree to the role
Program Assistant positions require a clear connection between your degree field and job duties. Highlight coursework in project coordination, policy, or community development. A direct degree-to-role match strengthens your OPT eligibility and makes your application more compelling to hiring managers.
Target mission-driven organizations early
Nonprofits, universities, and government-adjacent organizations hire Program Assistants regularly and tend to have more experience with OPT work authorization than private-sector employers. Focusing your search on these sectors reduces friction during the hiring process and improves your chances of a smooth onboarding.
Be transparent about your OPT timeline
Tell hiring managers upfront when your OPT expires and whether you qualify for a STEM extension. Program roles often involve multi-month projects, so employers want to know you can see a program cycle through. Clarity builds trust and avoids last-minute complications during the offer stage.
Emphasize coordination and administrative skills
Program Assistants are expected to manage schedules, track deliverables, and support multiple team members simultaneously. Concrete examples from internships, graduate assistantships, or campus organizations demonstrate these abilities clearly. Quantify your contributions wherever possible, even in academic or volunteer settings.
Apply before your OPT start date
You can interview and receive a job offer before your OPT authorization begins, but you cannot start work until your EAD card is valid. Begin your search at least two to three months before your program end date to avoid gaps between graduation and your first day of employment.
Prepare documentation your employer will need
Keep your EAD card, current I-20 with OPT authorization, and passport readily available. Many Program Assistant employers, especially in the nonprofit and education sectors, will request copies for HR compliance. Having a complete, organized packet ready signals professionalism and speeds up onboarding considerably.
Program Assistant OPT: Frequently Asked Questions
Do Program Assistant jobs qualify as valid OPT employment?
Yes, in most cases. OPT employment must be directly related to your degree field. A Program Assistant role at a nonprofit, university, or government-affiliated organization typically qualifies for students with degrees in public administration, social work, education, or a related field. The key is documenting how the job duties connect to your academic coursework when required by your DSO.
Can I work as a Program Assistant while waiting for my EAD card to arrive?
No. You cannot begin working until your Employment Authorization Document is physically in hand and the start date on the card has passed. You can interview, sign an offer letter, and complete onboarding paperwork before your EAD arrives, but your first day of actual work must fall on or after the valid start date printed on the card.
How do I find Program Assistant jobs that are open to OPT students?
Browse Migrate Mate to find Program Assistant openings from employers who are familiar with or actively open to OPT work authorization. Many job postings on general boards don't specify OPT compatibility, which makes it easy to waste time on roles that won't move forward. Migrate Mate filters for OPT-friendly employers, which significantly reduces that friction.
Do Program Assistant roles qualify for the STEM OPT extension?
Only if your degree is in a STEM-designated field and the employer is E-Verify enrolled. Program Assistant positions are most common in nonprofit, education, and public administration sectors, where STEM extensions are less frequently applicable. However, students with STEM degrees working in data, research program support, or technology-adjacent program roles may qualify. Confirm with your DSO before assuming eligibility.
What happens to my OPT status if my Program Assistant contract ends early?
Your OPT authorization period continues even if your employment ends, but you must report the job separation to your DSO within 10 days. OPT allows for up to 90 days of unemployment in total, though this resets to 150 days with an approved STEM extension. Starting your next job search immediately is important because unused unemployment days cannot be recovered once they accumulate.