Program Coordinator Jobs for OPT Students
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 JobsProject Safety & Asbestos Program Coordinator
Facilities & Services
Job Summary
Under the administrative direction of the Assistant Director, Occupational Safety & Health, Programs, assist with the management of campus occupational safety and health programs and provide professional-level services related to those programs.
Duties & Responsibilities
-
Perform building inspections for asbestos-containing building materials including sample collection, material condition assessments, and potential for damage. Prepare asbestos inspection reports, submit work orders for corrective actions, and follow-up to ensure completion. Update and maintain asbestos record drawings. Collect and maintain all project records including inspection reports, abatement plans, and project manager reports, to compile and maintain an inventory of asbestos materials and its locations in all campus facilities. Maintain an inventory of lead-based paint in all campus facilities. Formulate recommendations for updating existing and creating new asbestos management plans and lead-based paint inventories in campus facilities. Provide consultation and support to in-house Facilities & Services asbestos abatement crew. Provide professional level asbestos and lead consultation to Facilities & Services Planning, Capital Projects, and Engineering & Construction Services divisions during project planning, design, and construction.
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Serve as primary liaison to Planning, Capital Projects, and Engineering and Construction Services on behalf of Safety & Compliance. Review and comment on project program statements, basis of design, and design documents for asbestos, lead, and other occupational safety and health issues. Attend project meetings as requested. Perform site safety inspections to promote the safety of university personnel, stormwater BMP inspections, and commissioning inspections. Serve as owner for Facility Standards assigned to the Occupational Safety & Health Department.
-
Research, interpret, and communicate federal, state, and local regulations regarding the protection of faculty, staff, students, and visitors (OSHA, IL OSHA, IDPH, C-U PHD, USEPA, IEPA, ASHRAE, NFPA) with an emphasis on AHERA, Asbestos NESHAP, 77 IAC 855, 77 IAC 845, 40 CFR 745, and LRRP, and maintain liaison with local, state and federal regulatory agencies to ensure compliance with applicable codes, standards or regulations.
-
Advise college/unit leadership, facilities and operations personnel, project staff, maintenance, and custodial personnel on asbestos and lead-based paint regulatory requirements for safe and compliant operations within campus buildings. Develop, maintain, and deliver training in-person or online for each constituency as necessary.
-
Any other duties as assigned including supporting the Mission, Values and Guiding Principles of Facilities and Services; Serve as the Asbestos Designated Person (ADP) for AHERA buildings during vacancies within campus LEAs and ensure all ADP responsibilities per current management plans and applicable regulations are achieved, including consultation with LEAs and maintenance personnel to complete response actions in a timely manner and resources are provided for implementation of the AHERA management plans; Participate in the OSH 24-hour response for fatality/catastrophe notification and investigation, and Campus Emergency Operations Plan response as well as respond to asbestos fiber release incidents and emergency operations that require asbestos/lead assessments and consultations; and Participate on campus committees as an Occupational Safety and Health subject matter expert.
Physical Demands
-
Mix of office and field work. : Occasionally
-
May involve extensive walking for job site reviews and staff communications. : Occasionally
-
Must be able to climb ladders and stairs. : Occasionally
-
Must be able to work in mechanical/electrical rooms, fabrication shops, laboratories and farms. : Occasionally
-
Position involves frequently lifting tools, toolboxes, technical equipment, equipment cases/containers, and packages for shipment weighing up to 25 pounds. : Occasionally
Working Conditions
-
May work in high heat/steam, UV light or extreme weather conditions. : Occasionally
-
May be exposed to potential danger from moving parts and equipment. : Occasionally
-
May be exposed to heavy dust, loud noise, chemical fumes, welding torches, and other general conditions found within the construction trades, pollen, allergens, and animal dander. : Occasionally
-
May work around radiation, biohazards, and chemicals with proper training. : Occasionally
-
May have to climb ladders, work from elevated surfaces, access tunnels, work around/in confined spaces, and other hazards. : Occasionally
-
Must be able to enter asbestos and lead regulated areas including negative pressure containments with hygiene facilities. : Occasionally
-
Must be capable of wearing all required personal protective equipment including respiratory protection, eye/face protection, hearing protection, protective footwear, and protective clothing. : Occasionally
-
May have to climb ladders, work from elevated surfaces, access tunnels, work around/in confined spaces, and other hazards. : Occasionally
Minimum Qualifications
-
Bachelor’s degree in occupational health and safety, environmental engineering, environmental health, safety engineering, industrial hygiene, or a closely related field.
-
Two (2) years (24 months) of professional work experience in a safety or compliance related field.
-
One of the following:
- Demonstrated experience in the asbestos industry as an accredited inspector and/or project supervisor
OR -
Demonstrated experience in direct planning of construction projects and/or conducting inspections for construction projects.
-
Must obtain an Illinois Department of Public of Health Asbestos Building Inspector license within 6 months of the date of hire, which must be maintained throughout the duration of the employment period in the position.
-
Possession of a valid State of Illinois driver’s license at the time of hire, which must be maintained throughout the duration of the employment period in the position.
Preferred Qualifications
One or more of the following lead licenses, certifications, or accreditations: Inspector, Risk Assessor, Abatement Supervisor, and/or Renovator. CSP, CIH, or other nationally recognized certification. OSHA Outreach 10- or 30-hour training for General and/or Construction Industry.
Appointment Information
The Project Safety & Asbestos Program Coordinator is a 100% full-time Civil Service position, appointed on a 12-month basis. The annual salary for this position is $84,000.
This position is not eligible for any type of sponsorship for work authorization.
Application Procedures & Deadline Information
Applications must be received by 6:00 pm (Central Time) on April 1, 2026. Apply for this position using the Apply Now button at the top or bottom of this posting. In order to be considered as a transfer candidate, you must apply for this position. Applications not submitted through https://jobs.illinois.edu will not be considered. If required by the position, transcripts or other documentation of credentials are to be provided no later than the first day of employment. For further information about this specific position, please contact Lance Oliver- OliverL@illinois.edu. For questions regarding the application process, please contact 217-333-2137.
At the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign — the state’s flagship public university and one of the world’s leading research institutions — every staff member helps shape what’s next. Founded in 1867, Illinois is home to a vibrant community of 59,000 students from all 50 states and 129 countries, supported by 15 colleges and instructional units, more than 20 research institutes, and one of the most comprehensive student service ecosystems in the nation. Whether you’re empowering first-generation students, fueling breakthrough innovation, or strengthening communities across Illinois and beyond, your work here has a far-reaching and deeply meaningful impact. The university offers a highly competitive benefits package designed to support your well-being, growth, and financial security. Join a top 10 public university that has launched over 330 startups and continues to redefine excellence — where the Illinois Value Proposition ensures that your contributions are recognized, your potential is nurtured, and your career can thrive.
LOCATION: Champaign-Urbana
Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools may be used in some portions of the candidate review process for this position; however, all employment decisions will be made by a person.
This position is intended to be eligible for benefits. This includes Health, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, a Retirement Plan, Paid time Off, and Tuition waivers for employees and dependents.
The University of Illinois System is an equal opportunity employer, including but not limited to disability and/or veteran status, and complies with all applicable state and federal employment mandates. Please visit Required Employment Notices and Posters to view our non-discrimination statement and find additional information about required background checks, sexual harassment/misconduct disclosures, and employment eligibility review through E-Verify.
Applicants with disabilities are encouraged to apply and may request a reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act (2008) to complete the application and/or interview process. Accommodations may also be requested on the basis of pregnancy, childbirth, and related conditions, or religion. Requests may be submitted through the reasonable accommodation portal, or by contacting the Office for Access & Equity at 217-333-0885, option #1, or accessibility@illinois.edu.
Requisition ID: 1035608
Job Category: Professional and Administrative
Project Safety & Asbestos Program Coordinator
Facilities & Services
Job Summary
Under the administrative direction of the Assistant Director, Occupational Safety & Health, Programs, assist with the management of campus occupational safety and health programs and provide professional-level services related to those programs.
Duties & Responsibilities
-
Perform building inspections for asbestos-containing building materials including sample collection, material condition assessments, and potential for damage. Prepare asbestos inspection reports, submit work orders for corrective actions, and follow-up to ensure completion. Update and maintain asbestos record drawings. Collect and maintain all project records including inspection reports, abatement plans, and project manager reports, to compile and maintain an inventory of asbestos materials and its locations in all campus facilities. Maintain an inventory of lead-based paint in all campus facilities. Formulate recommendations for updating existing and creating new asbestos management plans and lead-based paint inventories in campus facilities. Provide consultation and support to in-house Facilities & Services asbestos abatement crew. Provide professional level asbestos and lead consultation to Facilities & Services Planning, Capital Projects, and Engineering & Construction Services divisions during project planning, design, and construction.
-
Serve as primary liaison to Planning, Capital Projects, and Engineering and Construction Services on behalf of Safety & Compliance. Review and comment on project program statements, basis of design, and design documents for asbestos, lead, and other occupational safety and health issues. Attend project meetings as requested. Perform site safety inspections to promote the safety of university personnel, stormwater BMP inspections, and commissioning inspections. Serve as owner for Facility Standards assigned to the Occupational Safety & Health Department.
-
Research, interpret, and communicate federal, state, and local regulations regarding the protection of faculty, staff, students, and visitors (OSHA, IL OSHA, IDPH, C-U PHD, USEPA, IEPA, ASHRAE, NFPA) with an emphasis on AHERA, Asbestos NESHAP, 77 IAC 855, 77 IAC 845, 40 CFR 745, and LRRP, and maintain liaison with local, state and federal regulatory agencies to ensure compliance with applicable codes, standards or regulations.
-
Advise college/unit leadership, facilities and operations personnel, project staff, maintenance, and custodial personnel on asbestos and lead-based paint regulatory requirements for safe and compliant operations within campus buildings. Develop, maintain, and deliver training in-person or online for each constituency as necessary.
-
Any other duties as assigned including supporting the Mission, Values and Guiding Principles of Facilities and Services; Serve as the Asbestos Designated Person (ADP) for AHERA buildings during vacancies within campus LEAs and ensure all ADP responsibilities per current management plans and applicable regulations are achieved, including consultation with LEAs and maintenance personnel to complete response actions in a timely manner and resources are provided for implementation of the AHERA management plans; Participate in the OSH 24-hour response for fatality/catastrophe notification and investigation, and Campus Emergency Operations Plan response as well as respond to asbestos fiber release incidents and emergency operations that require asbestos/lead assessments and consultations; and Participate on campus committees as an Occupational Safety and Health subject matter expert.
Physical Demands
-
Mix of office and field work. : Occasionally
-
May involve extensive walking for job site reviews and staff communications. : Occasionally
-
Must be able to climb ladders and stairs. : Occasionally
-
Must be able to work in mechanical/electrical rooms, fabrication shops, laboratories and farms. : Occasionally
-
Position involves frequently lifting tools, toolboxes, technical equipment, equipment cases/containers, and packages for shipment weighing up to 25 pounds. : Occasionally
Working Conditions
-
May work in high heat/steam, UV light or extreme weather conditions. : Occasionally
-
May be exposed to potential danger from moving parts and equipment. : Occasionally
-
May be exposed to heavy dust, loud noise, chemical fumes, welding torches, and other general conditions found within the construction trades, pollen, allergens, and animal dander. : Occasionally
-
May work around radiation, biohazards, and chemicals with proper training. : Occasionally
-
May have to climb ladders, work from elevated surfaces, access tunnels, work around/in confined spaces, and other hazards. : Occasionally
-
Must be able to enter asbestos and lead regulated areas including negative pressure containments with hygiene facilities. : Occasionally
-
Must be capable of wearing all required personal protective equipment including respiratory protection, eye/face protection, hearing protection, protective footwear, and protective clothing. : Occasionally
-
May have to climb ladders, work from elevated surfaces, access tunnels, work around/in confined spaces, and other hazards. : Occasionally
Minimum Qualifications
-
Bachelor’s degree in occupational health and safety, environmental engineering, environmental health, safety engineering, industrial hygiene, or a closely related field.
-
Two (2) years (24 months) of professional work experience in a safety or compliance related field.
-
One of the following:
- Demonstrated experience in the asbestos industry as an accredited inspector and/or project supervisor
OR -
Demonstrated experience in direct planning of construction projects and/or conducting inspections for construction projects.
-
Must obtain an Illinois Department of Public of Health Asbestos Building Inspector license within 6 months of the date of hire, which must be maintained throughout the duration of the employment period in the position.
-
Possession of a valid State of Illinois driver’s license at the time of hire, which must be maintained throughout the duration of the employment period in the position.
Preferred Qualifications
One or more of the following lead licenses, certifications, or accreditations: Inspector, Risk Assessor, Abatement Supervisor, and/or Renovator. CSP, CIH, or other nationally recognized certification. OSHA Outreach 10- or 30-hour training for General and/or Construction Industry.
Appointment Information
The Project Safety & Asbestos Program Coordinator is a 100% full-time Civil Service position, appointed on a 12-month basis. The annual salary for this position is $84,000.
This position is not eligible for any type of sponsorship for work authorization.
Application Procedures & Deadline Information
Applications must be received by 6:00 pm (Central Time) on April 1, 2026. Apply for this position using the Apply Now button at the top or bottom of this posting. In order to be considered as a transfer candidate, you must apply for this position. Applications not submitted through https://jobs.illinois.edu will not be considered. If required by the position, transcripts or other documentation of credentials are to be provided no later than the first day of employment. For further information about this specific position, please contact Lance Oliver- OliverL@illinois.edu. For questions regarding the application process, please contact 217-333-2137.
At the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign — the state’s flagship public university and one of the world’s leading research institutions — every staff member helps shape what’s next. Founded in 1867, Illinois is home to a vibrant community of 59,000 students from all 50 states and 129 countries, supported by 15 colleges and instructional units, more than 20 research institutes, and one of the most comprehensive student service ecosystems in the nation. Whether you’re empowering first-generation students, fueling breakthrough innovation, or strengthening communities across Illinois and beyond, your work here has a far-reaching and deeply meaningful impact. The university offers a highly competitive benefits package designed to support your well-being, growth, and financial security. Join a top 10 public university that has launched over 330 startups and continues to redefine excellence — where the Illinois Value Proposition ensures that your contributions are recognized, your potential is nurtured, and your career can thrive.
LOCATION: Champaign-Urbana
Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools may be used in some portions of the candidate review process for this position; however, all employment decisions will be made by a person.
This position is intended to be eligible for benefits. This includes Health, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, a Retirement Plan, Paid time Off, and Tuition waivers for employees and dependents.
The University of Illinois System is an equal opportunity employer, including but not limited to disability and/or veteran status, and complies with all applicable state and federal employment mandates. Please visit Required Employment Notices and Posters to view our non-discrimination statement and find additional information about required background checks, sexual harassment/misconduct disclosures, and employment eligibility review through E-Verify.
Applicants with disabilities are encouraged to apply and may request a reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act (2008) to complete the application and/or interview process. Accommodations may also be requested on the basis of pregnancy, childbirth, and related conditions, or religion. Requests may be submitted through the reasonable accommodation portal, or by contacting the Office for Access & Equity at 217-333-0885, option #1, or accessibility@illinois.edu.
Requisition ID: 1035608
Job Category: Professional and Administrative
How to Get Visa 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.
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 jobs are hiring across the US. Find yours.
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Get Access To All JobsFrequently 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.
See which Program Coordinator employers are hiring and sponsoring visas right now.
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