OPT Program Coordinator Jobs
Program Coordinator roles are a strong fit for F-1 OPT students with backgrounds in public administration, education, nonprofit management, or healthcare. Most positions qualify as specialty occupations, supporting 12-month standard OPT. STEM extension eligibility depends on whether your degree field aligns with the employer's classification.
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Get Access To All JobsPosting Number RTF00182PO26
USC Market Title Program Coordinator
Business Title (Internal Title) Training Program Coordinator
Campus Columbia
Work County Georgetown
College/Division College of Arts and Sciences
Department CAS Belle W. Baruch Institute for Marine and Coastal Sciences
Anticipated Hiring Range $53,550
Location of Vacancy Georgetown, SC
Part/Full Time Full Time
Hours per Week 37.5
Work Schedule
* Monday – Friday, 8:30am – 5:00pm
* Must be willing to work a flexible schedule to meet the needs of the department.
Type of Staff Position Staff Research Grant (SRGP)
Basis 12 months
Job Search Category Administrative
About University of South Carolina
From the Upstate to the Lowcountry, the University of South Carolina system is transforming the lives of South Carolinians through the impact of our eight institutions and 20 locations throughout the state. More than 50,000 students are enrolled at one of eight institutions, including the research campus in Columbia and comprehensive four-year universities in Aiken, Upstate and Beaufort. In addition, our Palmetto College campuses in Salkehatchie, Union, Lancaster and Sumter enable students to earn associate or bachelor’s degrees through a combination of in-person, online or blended learning. All of our system institutions place strong emphasis on service — helping to build healthier, more educated communities in South Carolina and beyond.
Benefits for Research Grant or Time-Limited Positions Are Indicated Below
The University of South Carolina (UofSC), through the State of SC and Public Employee Benefit Authority (PEBA), offers employees a valuable benefits package, including health and life insurance, generous paid leave and retirement programs. To learn more about UofSC benefits, access the "Working at USC" section on the Applicant Portal. Research Grant or Time-limited positions may be eligible for all, some, or no benefits, based on the grant or project funding.
South Carolina Retirement Yes
State Insurance Programs Yes
Annual Leave Yes
Sick Leave Yes
Advertised Job Summary
Make a meaningful impact on coastal resilience and environmental stewardship. As the Training Coordinator for the North Inlet-Winyah Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve, you will lead the Reserve’s NOAA-funded Training and Engagement Program by designing, coordinating, and delivering professional training and technical assistance for partner organizations and coastal decision-makers. This highly collaborative role strengthens science-informed management, builds stakeholder capacity, and supports the Reserve’s mission to protect and sustain South Carolina’s coastal resources through education, engagement, and applied science.
Job Related Minimum Required Education and Experience
Requires a bachelor’s degree in a job related field and 1 or more years of job related experience, which may be substituted by an equivalent combination of job related certification, training, education, and/or experience.
Required Certification, Licensure/Other Credentials
N/A
Preferred Qualifications
* Master’s degree in a relevant field preferred.
* Experience in the development, implementation, and evaluation of educational programs, with demonstrated ability to support program planning, delivery, and continuous improvement.
Knowledge/Skills/Abilities
* Knowledge and experience in coastal ecosystems and policy.
* Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
* Ability to communicate effectively with adult audiences one-on-one and in small and large group settings.
* Familiarity with planning and regulatory processes at the local level, facilitation experience, website design and maintenance, and database skills.
Job Duties
Job Duty
Develop, market, and implement training activities and provide relevant materials for coastal decision-makers to address priority coastal issues, based on needs assessments and market analyses.
Essential Function Yes
Percentage of Time 40
Job Duty
Provide or facilitate technical assistance for decision-maker audiences. Technical assistance may involve small-group interactions, such as ordinance, development plan, and/or grant reviews; community environmental assessments and training; or customized training on specialized subjects.
Essential Function Yes
Percentage of Time 30
Job Duty
Participate as a member of SC Coastal Information Network and other relevant state-wide and local program coordinating entities and provide regular program updates to committee members, program partners, and other training providers.
Essential Function Yes
Percentage of Time 10
Job Duty
Coordinate training program activities with other Reserve staff and complete other duties related to the mission of the Reserve as required.
Essential Function Yes
Percentage of Time 10
Job Duty
Contribute to the annual action plans and performance reports for the North Inlet – Winyah Bay NERR and participate in NERR Training & Engagement Program activities at state, regional, and national levels, including participating in the NERR System-wide integrated workshops, NERRS annual meetings, and NERRS Training and Engagement Program meetings.
Essential Function Yes
Percentage of Time 10
Position Attributes
Hazardous weather category Non-Essential
Employees in Safety-Sensitive or Security-Sensitive positions will be subject to pre-employment and post-employment drug testing in accordance with University policy HR 1.95 Drug and Alcohol Testing. No
Number of Vacancies 1
Desired Start Date 09/16/2026
Position End Date 09/15/2027
Job Open Date 08/07/2026
Job Close Date 09/21/2026
Open Until Filled No
Special Instructions to Applicant
Positions are advertised for a minimum of thirty (30) business days on our job website. After thirty (30) business days, positions can be closed at the discretion of the department at any time. This employment site is updated on a regular basis. The length of the recruitment and screening process may vary from position to position, depending upon a variety of factors. Should review of your qualifications result in a decision to pursue your candidacy, you will be contacted by phone or email.
We are only accepting applications submitted by September 21, 2026.
EEO Statement
The University of South Carolina does not discriminate in educational or employment opportunities or decisions for qualified persons on the basis of age, ancestry, citizenship status, color, disability, ethnicity, familial status, gender (including transgender), gender identity or expression, genetic information, HIV/AIDs status, military status, national origin, pregnancy (false pregnancy, termination of pregnancy, childbirth, recovery therefrom or related medical conditions, breastfeeding), race, religion (including religious dress and grooming practices), sex, sexual orientation, veteran status, or any other bases under federal, state, local law, or regulations.
Posting Number RTF00182PO26
USC Market Title Program Coordinator
Business Title (Internal Title) Training Program Coordinator
Campus Columbia
Work County Georgetown
College/Division College of Arts and Sciences
Department CAS Belle W. Baruch Institute for Marine and Coastal Sciences
Anticipated Hiring Range $53,550
Location of Vacancy Georgetown, SC
Part/Full Time Full Time
Hours per Week 37.5
Work Schedule
* Monday – Friday, 8:30am – 5:00pm
* Must be willing to work a flexible schedule to meet the needs of the department.
Type of Staff Position Staff Research Grant (SRGP)
Basis 12 months
Job Search Category Administrative
About University of South Carolina
From the Upstate to the Lowcountry, the University of South Carolina system is transforming the lives of South Carolinians through the impact of our eight institutions and 20 locations throughout the state. More than 50,000 students are enrolled at one of eight institutions, including the research campus in Columbia and comprehensive four-year universities in Aiken, Upstate and Beaufort. In addition, our Palmetto College campuses in Salkehatchie, Union, Lancaster and Sumter enable students to earn associate or bachelor’s degrees through a combination of in-person, online or blended learning. All of our system institutions place strong emphasis on service — helping to build healthier, more educated communities in South Carolina and beyond.
Benefits for Research Grant or Time-Limited Positions Are Indicated Below
The University of South Carolina (UofSC), through the State of SC and Public Employee Benefit Authority (PEBA), offers employees a valuable benefits package, including health and life insurance, generous paid leave and retirement programs. To learn more about UofSC benefits, access the "Working at USC" section on the Applicant Portal. Research Grant or Time-limited positions may be eligible for all, some, or no benefits, based on the grant or project funding.
South Carolina Retirement Yes
State Insurance Programs Yes
Annual Leave Yes
Sick Leave Yes
Advertised Job Summary
Make a meaningful impact on coastal resilience and environmental stewardship. As the Training Coordinator for the North Inlet-Winyah Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve, you will lead the Reserve’s NOAA-funded Training and Engagement Program by designing, coordinating, and delivering professional training and technical assistance for partner organizations and coastal decision-makers. This highly collaborative role strengthens science-informed management, builds stakeholder capacity, and supports the Reserve’s mission to protect and sustain South Carolina’s coastal resources through education, engagement, and applied science.
Job Related Minimum Required Education and Experience
Requires a bachelor’s degree in a job related field and 1 or more years of job related experience, which may be substituted by an equivalent combination of job related certification, training, education, and/or experience.
Required Certification, Licensure/Other Credentials
N/A
Preferred Qualifications
* Master’s degree in a relevant field preferred.
* Experience in the development, implementation, and evaluation of educational programs, with demonstrated ability to support program planning, delivery, and continuous improvement.
Knowledge/Skills/Abilities
* Knowledge and experience in coastal ecosystems and policy.
* Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
* Ability to communicate effectively with adult audiences one-on-one and in small and large group settings.
* Familiarity with planning and regulatory processes at the local level, facilitation experience, website design and maintenance, and database skills.
Job Duties
Job Duty
Develop, market, and implement training activities and provide relevant materials for coastal decision-makers to address priority coastal issues, based on needs assessments and market analyses.
Essential Function Yes
Percentage of Time 40
Job Duty
Provide or facilitate technical assistance for decision-maker audiences. Technical assistance may involve small-group interactions, such as ordinance, development plan, and/or grant reviews; community environmental assessments and training; or customized training on specialized subjects.
Essential Function Yes
Percentage of Time 30
Job Duty
Participate as a member of SC Coastal Information Network and other relevant state-wide and local program coordinating entities and provide regular program updates to committee members, program partners, and other training providers.
Essential Function Yes
Percentage of Time 10
Job Duty
Coordinate training program activities with other Reserve staff and complete other duties related to the mission of the Reserve as required.
Essential Function Yes
Percentage of Time 10
Job Duty
Contribute to the annual action plans and performance reports for the North Inlet – Winyah Bay NERR and participate in NERR Training & Engagement Program activities at state, regional, and national levels, including participating in the NERR System-wide integrated workshops, NERRS annual meetings, and NERRS Training and Engagement Program meetings.
Essential Function Yes
Percentage of Time 10
Position Attributes
Hazardous weather category Non-Essential
Employees in Safety-Sensitive or Security-Sensitive positions will be subject to pre-employment and post-employment drug testing in accordance with University policy HR 1.95 Drug and Alcohol Testing. No
Number of Vacancies 1
Desired Start Date 09/16/2026
Position End Date 09/15/2027
Job Open Date 08/07/2026
Job Close Date 09/21/2026
Open Until Filled No
Special Instructions to Applicant
Positions are advertised for a minimum of thirty (30) business days on our job website. After thirty (30) business days, positions can be closed at the discretion of the department at any time. This employment site is updated on a regular basis. The length of the recruitment and screening process may vary from position to position, depending upon a variety of factors. Should review of your qualifications result in a decision to pursue your candidacy, you will be contacted by phone or email.
We are only accepting applications submitted by September 21, 2026.
EEO Statement
The University of South Carolina does not discriminate in educational or employment opportunities or decisions for qualified persons on the basis of age, ancestry, citizenship status, color, disability, ethnicity, familial status, gender (including transgender), gender identity or expression, genetic information, HIV/AIDs status, military status, national origin, pregnancy (false pregnancy, termination of pregnancy, childbirth, recovery therefrom or related medical conditions, breastfeeding), race, religion (including religious dress and grooming practices), sex, sexual orientation, veteran status, or any other bases under federal, state, local law, or regulations.
See all 2,937+ OPT Program Coordinator Jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new OPT Program Coordinator Jobs.
Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding OPT Sponsorship as a Program Coordinator
Lead with your coordination experience, not your visa status
Employers hire Program Coordinators to keep operations running. Emphasize project timelines you managed, stakeholders you coordinated, or programs you helped launch. Your OPT authorization becomes a secondary detail once they see you can do the job.
Target nonprofits, universities, and healthcare systems first
These employers hire Program Coordinators frequently, have established HR processes for work authorization, and often have internal immigration support. They're more familiar with OPT than small private employers and less likely to reject candidates over sponsorship concerns.
Clarify your OPT timeline upfront with recruiters
Program Coordinator roles often involve 3-to-6-month hiring cycles. If your OPT expires within 12 months, mention your timeline early so employers can assess H-1B visa sponsorship feasibility before both sides invest heavily in the process.
Frame your international background as an asset
Many Program Coordinator roles involve diverse stakeholders, grant reporting, or cross-cultural communication. Your international perspective and language skills are directly relevant. Connect them explicitly to the program's goals in your cover letter and interviews.
Verify the role qualifies as a specialty occupation
Not every Program Coordinator posting requires a specific degree. Look for postings that require a bachelor's in public administration, social work, education, or a related field. Vague degree requirements can create H-1B sponsorship complications later.
Ask about H-1B sponsorship before accepting an offer
Program Coordinator roles at larger organizations often lead to long-term employment, making H-1B sponsorship a realistic ask. Confirm the employer's sponsorship history before committing, so you're not scrambling for alternatives when your OPT expires.
Program Coordinator OPT: Frequently Asked Questions
Can I work as a Program Coordinator on F-1 OPT?
Yes. Program Coordinator roles at nonprofits, universities, healthcare systems, and government contractors routinely hire F-1 OPT students. The role generally qualifies as a specialty occupation when the employer requires a bachelor's degree in a specific field such as public administration, education, or social work. Confirm the degree requirement in the job posting before applying.
Do Program Coordinator jobs qualify for the STEM OPT extension?
It depends on your degree, not the job title. If you hold a STEM-designated degree, such as public health informatics, health information management, or data-focused social science, and the employer can provide a formal training plan, you may qualify for the 24-month STEM extension. Liberal arts or general administration degrees typically do not qualify, even if the role involves data or technology.
Do Program Coordinator employers commonly sponsor H-1B visas?
Universities, hospitals, and large nonprofits have the strongest track record for H-1B sponsorship of Program Coordinator roles. Smaller nonprofits and startups often lack the HR infrastructure or budget to sponsor. Before accepting an offer, ask whether the organization has sponsored H-1B petitions for similar roles in the past. Migrate Mate's job board filters for employers with active sponsorship history, which makes this research faster.
How should I handle the gap between OPT expiration and the H-1B start date?
If your employer files an H-1B cap-subject petition before your OPT expires, you're eligible for a cap-gap extension that covers the period between OPT expiration and October 1, when the H-1B takes effect. Your work authorization continues automatically under cap-gap. Timing matters here. Your employer needs to file during the March registration window, so coordinating your OPT end date with that timeline is critical.
What types of Program Coordinator roles are most likely to support OPT students?
Roles embedded in structured organizations with dedicated HR teams are your best bet. Program Coordinators at federally funded research centers, Title IV universities, public health departments, and large healthcare nonprofits regularly hire on OPT and have experience navigating work authorization. Browse Program Coordinator listings on Migrate Mate to filter specifically for employers that sponsor work visas.