OPT Program Specialist Jobs
Program Specialist roles sit squarely within the specialty occupation category, making them a strong fit for F-1 OPT students. Most positions require a degree in public administration, communications, or a related field. Your 12-month OPT window, or 24-month STEM extension if eligible, gives you enough runway to demonstrate value and pursue H-1B visa sponsorship.
Find OPT Program Specialist JobsOverview
Showing 5 of 263+ Program Specialist jobs
See all 263+ Program Specialist Jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new Program Specialist roles.
Get Access To All JobsDescription
Title: Program Specialist
Position Number: 0097397T
Hiring Unit: College of Education / School of Teacher Education
Location: Manoa
Date Posted: August 7, 2026
Closing date: August 24, 2026
Band: B
Salary: salary schedules and placement information
Full Time/Part Time: Full-time
Temporary/Permanent: Temporary
Other Conditions: Extramural funds. Appointment to begin September 2026 or soon thereafter. Renewal contingent upon satisfactory performance, department needs, and availability of funds.
Duties and Responsibilities:
- Works under the direction of the Hawai'i Early Childhood Educator Excellence and Equity (ECE3) Project Director (PD) to develop and execute a variety of tasks that the day-to-day operations of the ECE3 Project in a wide range of matters, ensuring alignment with organizational goals and program objectives.
- Acts as the primary liaison for all inquiries, scheduling, resources, and information related to the ECE3 Project, maintaining clear channels of communication to facilitate effective collaboration and information dissemination.
- Oversees the documentation and reporting processes for program results and procedures, ensuring accuracy and compliance with data system and agency requirements. Streamlines internal communication through optimized file structures and web platforms.
- Responsible for project logistics to ensure adherence to scope, schedule, and budgetary constraints, optimizing resources for maximum efficiency and effectiveness.
- Analyzes and manages budget proposals, expenditure plans, eTravel submissions, and funding requests to ensure fiscal responsibility and sustainability. Tracks payments from initiation to completion for efficient financial management.
- Manages the development, review, and tracking of subawards, contracts, and procurement activities related to program operations, ensuring compliance and efficiency in all transactions.
- Participates in meetings/workshops at on or off campus locations and/or outside of normal business hours including evenings and weekends as directed.
- Facilitates the recruitment process for personnel, ensuring a diverse and qualified talent pool to support the objectives of the ECE3 Project.
- Serves as a key liaison between various stakeholders, including academic departments, administrative units, funding agencies, and external partners, to address project needs and foster collaborative relationships.
- Coordinates the design and maintenance of program websites, social media accounts, and outreach materials, enhancing visibility and engagement within the research community and beyond.
- Develops compelling presentation materials tailored to diverse audiences, effectively communicating key insights and developments relevant to the ECE3 Project's objectives.
- Other duties as assigned.
- Denotes essential functions
Minimum Qualifications:
- Possession of a baccalaureate degree in business administration, education, social sciences or related field and 3 year(s) of progressively responsible professional experience with responsibilities for program management; or any equivalent combination of education and/or professional work experience which provides the required education, knowledge, skills and abilities as indicated.
- Considerable working knowledge of principles, practices and techniques in the area of program management as demonstrated by the broad knowledge of the full range of pertinent standard and evolving concepts, principles and methodologies.
- Considerable working knowledge and understanding of applicable federal and state laws, rules, regulations and theories and systems associated with higher education.
- Demonstrated ability to resolve wide ranging complex problems through the use of creative reasoning and logic to accurately determine the cause of the problems and the resolution of the problems in an effective, innovative and timely manner.
- Demonstrated ability to interpret and present information and ideas clearly and accurately in writing, verbally and by preparation of reports and other materials.
- Demonstrated ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with internal and external organizations, groups, team leaders and members, and individuals.
- Demonstrated ability to operate a personal computer, apply word processing software, and familiarity with Microsoft Office, Adobe and Google applications.
- If applicable, for supervisory work, demonstrated ability to lead subordinates, manage work priorities and projects, and manage employee relations.
- Ability to travel independently and in a timely manner to various geographical locations for meetings/workshops. Requirement may be fulfilled by a valid Hawai'i Driver's license (Class 3), comparable driver's license, or other means of transportation which meets position needs.
Desirable Qualifications:
- Master's degree in Business, Education, Social Sciences or related field.
- Experience in academic policies and procedures at the university level.
- Functional knowledge of university policies and procedures.
- Familiarity with the University of Hawaii fiscal systems, including KFS and eTravel applications.
To Apply: to the online application. The applicants should submit the following documents:
1. cover letter indicating how you satisfy the minimum and desirable qualifications,
2. names and contact information (including e-mail address) of at least 3 professional references,
3. resume, and
4. official transcripts (copies are acceptable with application; official transcripts are required upon hire). Late, incomplete, or unreadable application materials will not be considered. Please REDACT references to social security numbers and birth date on submitted documents. All items become the property of the University of Hawaii and will not be returned.
NOTE: If you have not applied for a position before using NEOGOV, you will need to create an account. The maximum file size If the attachment is larger than 10 MB, please split the file and upload it as a supplemental attachment.
Inquiries: Terry Lock, locktf@hawaii.edu
EEO, Clery Act, ADA
The University of Hawai'i is an Equal Opportunity Institution and is committed to a policy of nondiscrimination in employment, including on the basis of veteran and disability status. For more information, visit: https://www.hawaii.edu/offices/eeo/policies/
Employment is contingent on satisfying employment eligibility verification requirements of the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986; reference checks of previous employers; and for certain positions, criminal history record checks.
In accordance with the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act, annual campus crime statistics for the University of Hawai'i may be viewed at: https://www.hawaii.edu/titleix/help/campus-security/, or a paper copy may be obtained upon request from the respective UH Campus Security or Administrative Services Office.
In accordance with Article 10 of the unit 08 collective bargaining agreement, bargaining unit members receive priority consideration for APT job vacancies. As a result, external or non BU 08 applicants may not be considered for some APT vacancies. BU 08 members with re-employment rights or priority status are responsible for informing the hiring unit of their status.
Accommodation Request: The University of Hawai'i complies with the provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application and hiring process should contact the EEO coordinator directly. Determination on requests for reasonable accommodation will be made on a case-by-case basis. For further information, please refer to the following link: https://www.hawaii.edu/offices/eeo/accommodation-request/
Description
Title: Program Specialist
Position Number: 0097397T
Hiring Unit: College of Education / School of Teacher Education
Location: Manoa
Date Posted: August 7, 2026
Closing date: August 24, 2026
Band: B
Salary: salary schedules and placement information
Full Time/Part Time: Full-time
Temporary/Permanent: Temporary
Other Conditions: Extramural funds. Appointment to begin September 2026 or soon thereafter. Renewal contingent upon satisfactory performance, department needs, and availability of funds.
Duties and Responsibilities:
- Works under the direction of the Hawai'i Early Childhood Educator Excellence and Equity (ECE3) Project Director (PD) to develop and execute a variety of tasks that the day-to-day operations of the ECE3 Project in a wide range of matters, ensuring alignment with organizational goals and program objectives.
- Acts as the primary liaison for all inquiries, scheduling, resources, and information related to the ECE3 Project, maintaining clear channels of communication to facilitate effective collaboration and information dissemination.
- Oversees the documentation and reporting processes for program results and procedures, ensuring accuracy and compliance with data system and agency requirements. Streamlines internal communication through optimized file structures and web platforms.
- Responsible for project logistics to ensure adherence to scope, schedule, and budgetary constraints, optimizing resources for maximum efficiency and effectiveness.
- Analyzes and manages budget proposals, expenditure plans, eTravel submissions, and funding requests to ensure fiscal responsibility and sustainability. Tracks payments from initiation to completion for efficient financial management.
- Manages the development, review, and tracking of subawards, contracts, and procurement activities related to program operations, ensuring compliance and efficiency in all transactions.
- Participates in meetings/workshops at on or off campus locations and/or outside of normal business hours including evenings and weekends as directed.
- Facilitates the recruitment process for personnel, ensuring a diverse and qualified talent pool to support the objectives of the ECE3 Project.
- Serves as a key liaison between various stakeholders, including academic departments, administrative units, funding agencies, and external partners, to address project needs and foster collaborative relationships.
- Coordinates the design and maintenance of program websites, social media accounts, and outreach materials, enhancing visibility and engagement within the research community and beyond.
- Develops compelling presentation materials tailored to diverse audiences, effectively communicating key insights and developments relevant to the ECE3 Project's objectives.
- Other duties as assigned.
- Denotes essential functions
Minimum Qualifications:
- Possession of a baccalaureate degree in business administration, education, social sciences or related field and 3 year(s) of progressively responsible professional experience with responsibilities for program management; or any equivalent combination of education and/or professional work experience which provides the required education, knowledge, skills and abilities as indicated.
- Considerable working knowledge of principles, practices and techniques in the area of program management as demonstrated by the broad knowledge of the full range of pertinent standard and evolving concepts, principles and methodologies.
- Considerable working knowledge and understanding of applicable federal and state laws, rules, regulations and theories and systems associated with higher education.
- Demonstrated ability to resolve wide ranging complex problems through the use of creative reasoning and logic to accurately determine the cause of the problems and the resolution of the problems in an effective, innovative and timely manner.
- Demonstrated ability to interpret and present information and ideas clearly and accurately in writing, verbally and by preparation of reports and other materials.
- Demonstrated ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with internal and external organizations, groups, team leaders and members, and individuals.
- Demonstrated ability to operate a personal computer, apply word processing software, and familiarity with Microsoft Office, Adobe and Google applications.
- If applicable, for supervisory work, demonstrated ability to lead subordinates, manage work priorities and projects, and manage employee relations.
- Ability to travel independently and in a timely manner to various geographical locations for meetings/workshops. Requirement may be fulfilled by a valid Hawai'i Driver's license (Class 3), comparable driver's license, or other means of transportation which meets position needs.
Desirable Qualifications:
- Master's degree in Business, Education, Social Sciences or related field.
- Experience in academic policies and procedures at the university level.
- Functional knowledge of university policies and procedures.
- Familiarity with the University of Hawaii fiscal systems, including KFS and eTravel applications.
To Apply: to the online application. The applicants should submit the following documents:
1. cover letter indicating how you satisfy the minimum and desirable qualifications,
2. names and contact information (including e-mail address) of at least 3 professional references,
3. resume, and
4. official transcripts (copies are acceptable with application; official transcripts are required upon hire). Late, incomplete, or unreadable application materials will not be considered. Please REDACT references to social security numbers and birth date on submitted documents. All items become the property of the University of Hawaii and will not be returned.
NOTE: If you have not applied for a position before using NEOGOV, you will need to create an account. The maximum file size If the attachment is larger than 10 MB, please split the file and upload it as a supplemental attachment.
Inquiries: Terry Lock, locktf@hawaii.edu
EEO, Clery Act, ADA
The University of Hawai'i is an Equal Opportunity Institution and is committed to a policy of nondiscrimination in employment, including on the basis of veteran and disability status. For more information, visit: https://www.hawaii.edu/offices/eeo/policies/
Employment is contingent on satisfying employment eligibility verification requirements of the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986; reference checks of previous employers; and for certain positions, criminal history record checks.
In accordance with the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act, annual campus crime statistics for the University of Hawai'i may be viewed at: https://www.hawaii.edu/titleix/help/campus-security/, or a paper copy may be obtained upon request from the respective UH Campus Security or Administrative Services Office.
In accordance with Article 10 of the unit 08 collective bargaining agreement, bargaining unit members receive priority consideration for APT job vacancies. As a result, external or non BU 08 applicants may not be considered for some APT vacancies. BU 08 members with re-employment rights or priority status are responsible for informing the hiring unit of their status.
Accommodation Request: The University of Hawai'i complies with the provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Applicants requiring a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application and hiring process should contact the EEO coordinator directly. Determination on requests for reasonable accommodation will be made on a case-by-case basis. For further information, please refer to the following link: https://www.hawaii.edu/offices/eeo/accommodation-request/
See all 263+ OPT Program Specialist Jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new OPT Program Specialist Jobs.
Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding OPT Sponsorship as a Program Specialist
Target organizations with active H-1B filing histories
Government agencies, nonprofits, and large consulting firms file H-1B visa petitions regularly for Program Specialist roles. Prioritizing employers with a track record of sponsorship puts you ahead before you even apply.
Align your degree field with the role's requirements
Program Specialist positions are specialty occupations only when the employer requires a specific degree field. Confirm that your degree in public policy, communications, or business directly matches the job description before applying.
Raise OPT authorization early in the process
Bring up your OPT status after receiving genuine interest, not before. Frame it clearly: you're authorized to work now, and your employer's only future obligation is H-1B filing if they choose to retain you long-term.
Track your OPT end date and plan around H-1B deadlines
H-1B registration opens each March for an October start. If your OPT expires before October, confirm your employer will file cap-gap paperwork to bridge the gap and keep you authorized to work continuously.
Demonstrate program impact with measurable outcomes
Program Specialist roles reward candidates who can show results. Quantify what you managed, coordinated, or improved. Concrete metrics make your case stronger and reassure sponsoring employers that the H-1B investment is worthwhile.
Pursue STEM OPT extension if your degree qualifies
If your degree is in a qualifying STEM field and the role involves data analysis, systems coordination, or technical program management, applying for the 24-month extension gives you two additional H-1B lottery opportunities.
Program Specialist OPT: Frequently Asked Questions
Do Program Specialist jobs qualify as specialty occupations for OPT and H-1B purposes?
Program Specialist roles qualify as specialty occupations when the employer requires a bachelor's degree or higher in a specific field such as public administration, business, or communications. Generic postings that accept any degree may not meet the specialty occupation standard, which matters both for OPT legitimacy and future H-1B eligibility. Review each job description carefully before applying.
How do I find Program Specialist jobs that sponsor OPT and H-1B visas?
Migrate Mate filters job listings specifically for OPT-friendly and visa-sponsoring employers, so you're not sorting through hundreds of postings from companies that won't work with international students. Program Specialist roles at government contractors, nonprofits, and consulting firms appear regularly. Searching on Migrate Mate saves significant time compared to manually vetting each employer's sponsorship history.
Can I work as a Program Specialist on STEM OPT if my degree isn't a traditional STEM field?
STEM OPT requires your degree to appear on the official DHS STEM designated degree program list. Fields like information systems, statistics, and data science qualify. Public administration and general communications typically do not. If your degree doesn't qualify, your standard 12-month OPT period applies, making it especially important to target employers willing to sponsor H-1B.
What should I do if my OPT expires before my H-1B start date of October 1?
If your employer files your H-1B petition before your OPT expires and your I-20 remains valid, cap-gap protection automatically extends your work authorization through September 30. This bridge period keeps you legally employed without any action on your part beyond ensuring your employer files on time during the March registration window.
Is a Program Specialist role at a nonprofit or government agency better for OPT sponsorship than a private employer?
Nonprofits and government agencies are often cap-exempt for H-1B purposes, meaning they can file petitions year-round without waiting for the annual lottery. For OPT students in Program Specialist roles, this is a meaningful advantage. You avoid lottery uncertainty entirely if your employer qualifies as a nonprofit research organization, higher education institution, or government entity.