OPT Social Media Jobs
Social media roles qualify for F-1 OPT when the work is directly related to your degree in marketing, communications, journalism, or a related field. Most positions are full-time and employer-based, which satisfies DSO reporting requirements. Creative and strategy-focused roles at agencies and brands are common entry points for OPT students.
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Get Access To All JobsDepartment University Comms and Marketing-258000
Career Area Public Relations/Communications/Marketing
Posting Open Date 08/05/2026
Application Deadline 08/11/2026
Open Until Filled No
Position Type Permanent Staff (EHRA NF)
Working Title Social Media Manager
Appointment Type EHRA Non-Faculty
Position Number 20077757
Vacancy ID NF0009943
Full Time/Part Time Full-Time Permanent
FTE 1
Hours per week 40
Position Location North Carolina, US
Hiring Range $65,000-$75,000
Proposed Start Date 09/28/2026
Be a Tar Heel!
A global higher education leader in innovative teaching, research and public service, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill consistently ranks as one of the nation’s top public universities. Known for its beautiful campus, world-class medical care, commitment to the arts and top athletic programs, Carolina is an ideal place to teach, work and learn.
One of the best college towns and best places to live in the United States, Chapel Hill has diverse social, cultural, recreation and professional opportunities that span the campus and community. University employees can choose from a wide range of professional training opportunities for career growth, skill development and lifelong learning and enjoy exclusive perks for numerous retail, restaurant and performing arts discounts, savings on local child care centers and special rates on select campus events. UNC-Chapel Hill offers full-time employees a comprehensive benefits package, paid leave, and a variety of health, life and retirement plans and additional programs that support a healthy work/life balance.
Primary Purpose of Organizational Unit
University Communications and Marketing protects and advances Carolina’s reputation as the nation’s first and best public research university. In partnership with leaders and colleagues across campus, the team is responsible for developing and implementing an integrated strategy to share the impact of our university’s teaching, research and service that improves our state, nation and world. Areas within University Communications and Marketing include Web Planning and Production, Internal Communications, Development Marketing, Executive Communications, Strategic Communications, Marketing, Social Media, Creative Services, and the UNC Visitors Center.
Position Summary
The Social Media Manager will lead the strategic development, creation, management, and execution of social media content for the Chancellor and Provost. At the direction of and partnership between University Communications and Marketing and the Offices of the Chancellor and Provost, this role is responsible for utilizing social media strategy to elevate the visibility, voice, and thought leadership of the University’s senior academic and administrative leaders through compelling storytelling, timely engagement, and platform-specific content strategies that advance institutional priorities and strengthen Carolina’s reputation.
Minimum Education and Experience Requirements
Bachelor’s degree in a discipline related to the area of assignment; or equivalent combination of training and experience. All degrees must be received from appropriately accredited institutions.
Required Qualifications, Competencies, and Experience
The social media manager should have a bachelor’s degree in marketing, advertising, public relations, communications, journalism, or a related field, plus at least two years of relevant professional experience. The manager should have demonstrated knowledge of social media channels such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn and TikTok. In addition, the social media manager should have copywriting and editing experience for a brand, an interest in staying current on social media trends, and an ability and eagerness to work with others in University Communications and Marketing and across campus.
Preferred Qualifications, Competencies, and Experience
- Experience managing social media accounts for senior executives, elected officials, corporate leaders, university presidents/chancellors, or other high-profile public figures using LinkedIn, X, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and emerging channels.
- Experience in relationship building and directing subjects to help achieve success in developing engaging content that also reflects well on individual brand reputation. This content requires strong writing, photography, videography, and mobile content creation capabilities.
- Experience with social media analytics, audience development, and performance measurement.
- Ability to work independently, exercise sound judgment, and manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
- Understanding higher education, public affairs, media relations, and reputation management.
Special Physical/Mental Requirements
Campus Security Authority Responsibilities
Not Applicable.
Department University Comms and Marketing-258000
Career Area Public Relations/Communications/Marketing
Posting Open Date 08/05/2026
Application Deadline 08/11/2026
Open Until Filled No
Position Type Permanent Staff (EHRA NF)
Working Title Social Media Manager
Appointment Type EHRA Non-Faculty
Position Number 20077757
Vacancy ID NF0009943
Full Time/Part Time Full-Time Permanent
FTE 1
Hours per week 40
Position Location North Carolina, US
Hiring Range $65,000-$75,000
Proposed Start Date 09/28/2026
Be a Tar Heel!
A global higher education leader in innovative teaching, research and public service, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill consistently ranks as one of the nation’s top public universities. Known for its beautiful campus, world-class medical care, commitment to the arts and top athletic programs, Carolina is an ideal place to teach, work and learn.
One of the best college towns and best places to live in the United States, Chapel Hill has diverse social, cultural, recreation and professional opportunities that span the campus and community. University employees can choose from a wide range of professional training opportunities for career growth, skill development and lifelong learning and enjoy exclusive perks for numerous retail, restaurant and performing arts discounts, savings on local child care centers and special rates on select campus events. UNC-Chapel Hill offers full-time employees a comprehensive benefits package, paid leave, and a variety of health, life and retirement plans and additional programs that support a healthy work/life balance.
Primary Purpose of Organizational Unit
University Communications and Marketing protects and advances Carolina’s reputation as the nation’s first and best public research university. In partnership with leaders and colleagues across campus, the team is responsible for developing and implementing an integrated strategy to share the impact of our university’s teaching, research and service that improves our state, nation and world. Areas within University Communications and Marketing include Web Planning and Production, Internal Communications, Development Marketing, Executive Communications, Strategic Communications, Marketing, Social Media, Creative Services, and the UNC Visitors Center.
Position Summary
The Social Media Manager will lead the strategic development, creation, management, and execution of social media content for the Chancellor and Provost. At the direction of and partnership between University Communications and Marketing and the Offices of the Chancellor and Provost, this role is responsible for utilizing social media strategy to elevate the visibility, voice, and thought leadership of the University’s senior academic and administrative leaders through compelling storytelling, timely engagement, and platform-specific content strategies that advance institutional priorities and strengthen Carolina’s reputation.
Minimum Education and Experience Requirements
Bachelor’s degree in a discipline related to the area of assignment; or equivalent combination of training and experience. All degrees must be received from appropriately accredited institutions.
Required Qualifications, Competencies, and Experience
The social media manager should have a bachelor’s degree in marketing, advertising, public relations, communications, journalism, or a related field, plus at least two years of relevant professional experience. The manager should have demonstrated knowledge of social media channels such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn and TikTok. In addition, the social media manager should have copywriting and editing experience for a brand, an interest in staying current on social media trends, and an ability and eagerness to work with others in University Communications and Marketing and across campus.
Preferred Qualifications, Competencies, and Experience
- Experience managing social media accounts for senior executives, elected officials, corporate leaders, university presidents/chancellors, or other high-profile public figures using LinkedIn, X, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and emerging channels.
- Experience in relationship building and directing subjects to help achieve success in developing engaging content that also reflects well on individual brand reputation. This content requires strong writing, photography, videography, and mobile content creation capabilities.
- Experience with social media analytics, audience development, and performance measurement.
- Ability to work independently, exercise sound judgment, and manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
- Understanding higher education, public affairs, media relations, and reputation management.
Special Physical/Mental Requirements
Campus Security Authority Responsibilities
Not Applicable.
See all 1,037+ OPT Social Media Jobs
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Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding OPT Sponsorship in Social Media
Align your degree to the role explicitly
Social media roles qualify for OPT only when tied to your field of study. In applications and interviews, explain how your marketing, communications, or digital media degree directly informs your content strategy, analytics work, or campaign management responsibilities.
Target employers already familiar with OPT
Agencies and mid-sized brands that have hired international students before understand OPT timelines and reporting obligations. Search Migrate Mate to find social media roles at employers with a track record of sponsoring or supporting OPT work authorization successfully.
Lead with measurable results in your portfolio
Social media hiring managers respond to numbers. Follower growth percentages, engagement rate improvements, and campaign reach metrics show concrete impact. Quantified results reduce hesitation around OPT timelines by demonstrating that you deliver value quickly and independently.
Clarify your OPT timeline proactively
Bring up your OPT dates before an offer is extended, not after. Employers appreciate transparency about your work authorization window, end date, and STEM extension eligibility. It signals professionalism and gives them time to assess sponsorship readiness without feeling blindsided.
Pursue STEM-adjacent social media roles
Social media analytics, paid media management, and growth marketing positions often sit within data or marketing technology teams. If your degree qualifies for STEM OPT extension, targeting these roles gives employers a longer runway and reduces their hesitation about short authorization windows.
Build platform-specific certifications before applying
Certifications in paid social, content strategy, or social analytics strengthen your candidacy and demonstrate self-directed expertise. Employers hiring on OPT timelines want candidates who can contribute immediately, and certifications signal readiness without requiring extensive onboarding or training investment.
Social Media OPT: Frequently Asked Questions
Do social media jobs qualify for F-1 OPT work authorization?
Yes, social media roles qualify for OPT when the position is directly related to your degree field. A social media coordinator role supported by a communications or marketing degree is a straightforward match. Roles heavily focused on creative production may require a clearer connection to your specific academic program, so confirm the alignment with your DSO before accepting an offer.
Can I work as a freelance social media manager on OPT?
Yes, self-employment is permitted on OPT, but it comes with strict conditions. You must be actively engaged in work related to your degree, and self-employment cannot be used as a workaround for unemployment. You'll need to document your freelance activity carefully for your DSO, including contracts and the nature of services rendered. Consult your DSO before pursuing this path.
How do I find social media employers willing to support OPT students?
Migrate Mate is the most efficient way to find social media roles at employers that are open to OPT candidates. Many employers on the platform have prior experience with international students, which reduces friction during the hiring process. Filter by role type and work authorization to surface the most relevant opportunities for your OPT situation.
Does a social media role at a startup count toward my OPT employment requirement?
Yes, startup employment counts as long as the company is a legitimate U.S.-based employer and the role is directly related to your degree. Part-time roles also qualify if they meet the minimum hours threshold set by your school. Keep documentation such as an offer letter and employer contact information on file, as your DSO may request verification.
Can I apply for H-1B sponsorship from a social media role?
Yes, social media roles at qualifying employers can lead to H-1B visa sponsorship, particularly for positions classified as specialty occupations requiring a bachelor's degree in a specific field. Strategy, analytics, and paid media roles tend to have a stronger specialty occupation argument than generalist content creation. Discuss sponsorship intentions early in the interview process so both sides can assess fit.