OPT Social Media Strategist Jobs
Social Media Strategist roles are a strong fit for F-1 OPT students with degrees in marketing, communications, or digital media. Most positions qualify as specialty occupations, supporting H-1B visa sponsorship down the line. Your 12-month OPT window, or 24-month STEM extension if eligible, gives employers real runway to evaluate you.
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Get Access To All JobsJob # 042931
Department Code 24002-1040
Department Marketing
Job Title Social Media Strategist
Location Syracuse, NY
Campus Syracuse, NY
Commitment to On-Campus Experience
Syracuse University is committed to delivering an exceptional student experience through vibrant, engaged campus communities. This position is based at the above campus location and requires regular in-person presence to support our students, collaborate with colleagues, and contribute to our thriving academic environment. Syracuse University values the collaboration, mentorship, and spontaneous connections that happen when our community works together on campus. Remote work arrangements are limited in accordance with University policy.
Pay Range $62,400 - $72,000
Pay Determination
Pay rates at Syracuse University are based on a combination of factors including, but not limited to, the job responsibilities; the candidate’s education, training, work experience and key competencies; the university’s strategic priorities; internal peer equity; applicable federal, state, local laws, grant funding and contractual requisites; and external market analyses.
Staff Level S4
FLSA Status Exempt
Hours
Standard University business hours
8:30am – 5:00pm (academic year)
8:00am – 4:30pm (summer)
Hours may vary based on operational needs.
Job Type Full-time
Unionized Position Code Not Applicable
Job Description
The Social Media Strategist is responsible for collaboratively crafting, executing and managing enterprise social media strategies and content for flagship social channels. They will work with team members within the digital strategy team, to ensure social media content is created in alignment with established strategies and goals. They collaborate on the development and maintenance of a channel-specific content calendar and assist in the creation of content, the sourcing of user generated content, publishing and reporting. The Strategist manages social listening reports, identifying trends and patterns to encourage greater engagement across channels. They also lead analytics reporting efforts, analyzing overall organic and campaign efforts and translate quantitative, anecdotal and qualitative data into recommendations and insights. The Strategist uses their advanced knowledge of social media strategy to advance marketing and organizational goals, drive community growth and encourage greater engagement and reach across all platforms. Is a key partner to communicators across schools, colleges and units, sharing their expertise, best practice and strategic guidance as needed. Responsible for writing and optimizing content for platforms. They are a creative, strategic thinker who is highly organized.
Education and Experience
Bachelor’s degree in communications, marketing, or equivalent degree or professional experience required.
Minimum of 2-4 years’ experience in digital and social media communications and digital marketing.
Skills and Knowledge
Expertise in creating, executing and managing social media strategies for an established brand.
Advanced ability to communicate in writing, including strong editing skills and knowledge of the fundamentals of writing and grammar.
Thorough knowledge of social media platforms, best practices, proficiency working across platforms.
Expertise in strategic thinking with an in-depth understanding of analytics and social reporting.
Understanding of how to leverage social media for brand development and to achieve organizational objectives.
General knowledge of principles and practices related to storytelling, communications, public relations, marketing, user-generated content management, and reputation management.
Strong organizational and time management skills, high level of attention to detail, ability to take initiative and problem solve, and ability to adapt to new and changing technologies.
Strong critical thinking skills, excellent judgment, and ability to respond quickly and strategically in a variety of situations and environments.
* Existing knowledge of Adobe Creative Suite software, third-party social media tools, content management systems and similar technologies is preferred.
Responsibilities
Collaboratively co-creates, executes and manages social media strategies and content plans to support events, campaigns and other marketing strategies or initiatives. Supports all projects and initiatives that may be assigned to support the University’s marketing goals and business initiatives.
Manages the University’s social media publishing calendar. Collaborates with team members to plan and curate engaging content for multiple audiences in a variety of ways and formats. Coordinates regular posting and daily monitoring of all flagship accounts. Co-manages student assistant and intern team supporting regular posting and content creation efforts.
Tracks and reports on key performance indicators and benchmarks to measure the effectiveness of social media strategies and efforts. Makes recommendations and adjusts strategies based on analytics and insights.
Frequently monitors University channels, external channels and social conversations, and directs issues and opportunities to the proper departments for prompt and appropriate responses, seven days a week. Manages social listening as relevant.
* Stays up-to-date on industry trends.
Physical Requirements
Not Applicable
Tools/Equipment
Not Applicable
Application Instructions
In addition to completing an online application, please attach a resume and cover letter.
About Syracuse University
Syracuse University is a private, international research university with distinctive academics, diversely unique offerings, and an undeniable spirit. Located in the geographic heart of New York State, with a global footprint, and over 150 years of history, Syracuse University offers a quintessential college experience.
The scope of Syracuse University is a testament to its strengths: a pioneering history dating back to 1870; a choice of more than 200 majors, 100 minors, and 200 advanced degree programs offered across the University’s 13 schools and colleges; over 15,000 undergraduates and over 6,000 graduate students; more than a quarter of a million alumni in 160 countries; and a student population from all 50 U.S. states and 123 countries. For more information, please visit http://www.syracuse.edu.
About the Syracuse area
Syracuse is a medium-sized city situated in the geographic center of New York State approximately 250 miles northwest of New York City. The metro-area population totals approximately 500,000. The area offers a low cost of living and provides many social, cultural, and recreational options, including parks, museums, festivals, professional regional theater, and premier shopping venues. Syracuse and Central New York present a wide range of seasonal recreation and attractions ranging from water skiing and snow skiing, hiking in the Adirondacks, touring the historic sites, visiting wineries along the Finger Lakes, and biking on trails along the Erie Canal.
EEO Statement
Syracuse University is an equal-opportunity institution. The University prohibits discrimination and harassment based on race, color, creed, religion, sex, gender, national origin, citizenship, ethnicity, marital status, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity and gender expression, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable law to the extent prohibited by law. This nondiscrimination policy covers admissions, employment, and access to and treatment in University programs, services, and activities.
Commitment to Supporting and Hiring Veterans
Syracuse University has a long history of engaging veterans and the military-connected community through its educational programs, community outreach, and employment programs. After World War II, Syracuse University welcomed more than 10,000 returning veterans to our campus, and those veterans literally transformed Syracuse University into the national research institution it is today. The University’s contemporary commitment to veterans builds on this historical legacy, and extends to both class-leading initiatives focused on making an SU degree accessible and affordable to the post-9/11 generation of veterans, and also programs designed to position Syracuse University as the employer of choice for military veterans, members of the Guard and Reserve, and military family members.
Commitment to a Respectful and Welcoming Community
Syracuse University fosters a welcoming learning environment where students, faculty, administrators, staff, curriculum, social activities, governance, and all aspects of campus life reflect a broad range of perspectives and experiences. The University community values the many similarities and differences among individuals and groups. At Syracuse, we are committed to preparing students to engage with and appreciate the richness of backgrounds, beliefs, and experiences that shape our society. To achieve this, we strive to cultivate a community that respects and encourages open dialogue, understanding, and mutual respect.
Job # 042931
Department Code 24002-1040
Department Marketing
Job Title Social Media Strategist
Location Syracuse, NY
Campus Syracuse, NY
Commitment to On-Campus Experience
Syracuse University is committed to delivering an exceptional student experience through vibrant, engaged campus communities. This position is based at the above campus location and requires regular in-person presence to support our students, collaborate with colleagues, and contribute to our thriving academic environment. Syracuse University values the collaboration, mentorship, and spontaneous connections that happen when our community works together on campus. Remote work arrangements are limited in accordance with University policy.
Pay Range $62,400 - $72,000
Pay Determination
Pay rates at Syracuse University are based on a combination of factors including, but not limited to, the job responsibilities; the candidate’s education, training, work experience and key competencies; the university’s strategic priorities; internal peer equity; applicable federal, state, local laws, grant funding and contractual requisites; and external market analyses.
Staff Level S4
FLSA Status Exempt
Hours
Standard University business hours
8:30am – 5:00pm (academic year)
8:00am – 4:30pm (summer)
Hours may vary based on operational needs.
Job Type Full-time
Unionized Position Code Not Applicable
Job Description
The Social Media Strategist is responsible for collaboratively crafting, executing and managing enterprise social media strategies and content for flagship social channels. They will work with team members within the digital strategy team, to ensure social media content is created in alignment with established strategies and goals. They collaborate on the development and maintenance of a channel-specific content calendar and assist in the creation of content, the sourcing of user generated content, publishing and reporting. The Strategist manages social listening reports, identifying trends and patterns to encourage greater engagement across channels. They also lead analytics reporting efforts, analyzing overall organic and campaign efforts and translate quantitative, anecdotal and qualitative data into recommendations and insights. The Strategist uses their advanced knowledge of social media strategy to advance marketing and organizational goals, drive community growth and encourage greater engagement and reach across all platforms. Is a key partner to communicators across schools, colleges and units, sharing their expertise, best practice and strategic guidance as needed. Responsible for writing and optimizing content for platforms. They are a creative, strategic thinker who is highly organized.
Education and Experience
Bachelor’s degree in communications, marketing, or equivalent degree or professional experience required.
Minimum of 2-4 years’ experience in digital and social media communications and digital marketing.
Skills and Knowledge
Expertise in creating, executing and managing social media strategies for an established brand.
Advanced ability to communicate in writing, including strong editing skills and knowledge of the fundamentals of writing and grammar.
Thorough knowledge of social media platforms, best practices, proficiency working across platforms.
Expertise in strategic thinking with an in-depth understanding of analytics and social reporting.
Understanding of how to leverage social media for brand development and to achieve organizational objectives.
General knowledge of principles and practices related to storytelling, communications, public relations, marketing, user-generated content management, and reputation management.
Strong organizational and time management skills, high level of attention to detail, ability to take initiative and problem solve, and ability to adapt to new and changing technologies.
Strong critical thinking skills, excellent judgment, and ability to respond quickly and strategically in a variety of situations and environments.
* Existing knowledge of Adobe Creative Suite software, third-party social media tools, content management systems and similar technologies is preferred.
Responsibilities
Collaboratively co-creates, executes and manages social media strategies and content plans to support events, campaigns and other marketing strategies or initiatives. Supports all projects and initiatives that may be assigned to support the University’s marketing goals and business initiatives.
Manages the University’s social media publishing calendar. Collaborates with team members to plan and curate engaging content for multiple audiences in a variety of ways and formats. Coordinates regular posting and daily monitoring of all flagship accounts. Co-manages student assistant and intern team supporting regular posting and content creation efforts.
Tracks and reports on key performance indicators and benchmarks to measure the effectiveness of social media strategies and efforts. Makes recommendations and adjusts strategies based on analytics and insights.
Frequently monitors University channels, external channels and social conversations, and directs issues and opportunities to the proper departments for prompt and appropriate responses, seven days a week. Manages social listening as relevant.
* Stays up-to-date on industry trends.
Physical Requirements
Not Applicable
Tools/Equipment
Not Applicable
Application Instructions
In addition to completing an online application, please attach a resume and cover letter.
About Syracuse University
Syracuse University is a private, international research university with distinctive academics, diversely unique offerings, and an undeniable spirit. Located in the geographic heart of New York State, with a global footprint, and over 150 years of history, Syracuse University offers a quintessential college experience.
The scope of Syracuse University is a testament to its strengths: a pioneering history dating back to 1870; a choice of more than 200 majors, 100 minors, and 200 advanced degree programs offered across the University’s 13 schools and colleges; over 15,000 undergraduates and over 6,000 graduate students; more than a quarter of a million alumni in 160 countries; and a student population from all 50 U.S. states and 123 countries. For more information, please visit http://www.syracuse.edu.
About the Syracuse area
Syracuse is a medium-sized city situated in the geographic center of New York State approximately 250 miles northwest of New York City. The metro-area population totals approximately 500,000. The area offers a low cost of living and provides many social, cultural, and recreational options, including parks, museums, festivals, professional regional theater, and premier shopping venues. Syracuse and Central New York present a wide range of seasonal recreation and attractions ranging from water skiing and snow skiing, hiking in the Adirondacks, touring the historic sites, visiting wineries along the Finger Lakes, and biking on trails along the Erie Canal.
EEO Statement
Syracuse University is an equal-opportunity institution. The University prohibits discrimination and harassment based on race, color, creed, religion, sex, gender, national origin, citizenship, ethnicity, marital status, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity and gender expression, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable law to the extent prohibited by law. This nondiscrimination policy covers admissions, employment, and access to and treatment in University programs, services, and activities.
Commitment to Supporting and Hiring Veterans
Syracuse University has a long history of engaging veterans and the military-connected community through its educational programs, community outreach, and employment programs. After World War II, Syracuse University welcomed more than 10,000 returning veterans to our campus, and those veterans literally transformed Syracuse University into the national research institution it is today. The University’s contemporary commitment to veterans builds on this historical legacy, and extends to both class-leading initiatives focused on making an SU degree accessible and affordable to the post-9/11 generation of veterans, and also programs designed to position Syracuse University as the employer of choice for military veterans, members of the Guard and Reserve, and military family members.
Commitment to a Respectful and Welcoming Community
Syracuse University fosters a welcoming learning environment where students, faculty, administrators, staff, curriculum, social activities, governance, and all aspects of campus life reflect a broad range of perspectives and experiences. The University community values the many similarities and differences among individuals and groups. At Syracuse, we are committed to preparing students to engage with and appreciate the richness of backgrounds, beliefs, and experiences that shape our society. To achieve this, we strive to cultivate a community that respects and encourages open dialogue, understanding, and mutual respect.
See all OPT Social Media Strategist Jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new OPT Social Media Strategist Jobs.
Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding OPT Sponsorship in Social Media Strategist
Target companies with a history of H-1B sponsorship
Check OFLC disclosure data to find employers who have filed H-1B visa petitions for marketing and communications roles. Agencies and mid-size tech companies sponsor more often than small boutique firms with no prior immigration history.
Frame your degree as the specialty occupation anchor
H-1B eligibility for this role depends on proving a bachelor's degree in a specific field is required. A marketing or communications degree makes that case cleanly. A general business degree works but requires a stronger job description to support it.
Document your platform expertise and measurable results
Sponsoring employers want proof your skills justify the cost and process. Quantify campaign performance, audience growth, and engagement rates. Concrete numbers reduce hiring hesitation and strengthen the specialty occupation argument in your H-1B petition later.
Apply before your OPT clock runs out, not after
Begin your job search at least three months before OPT authorization starts. Most employers won't sponsor a candidate mid-gap. Starting early gives you time to find a sponsoring employer, negotiate terms, and begin onboarding without any authorization lapse.
Prioritize in-house roles over agency contracts
In-house social media positions at established companies are far more likely to lead to H-1B sponsorship than contract or agency roles. Agencies often place workers at third-party sites, which complicates the sponsorship filing and reduces employer incentive to pursue it.
Use Migrate Mate to find OPT-friendly employers
Browse Social Media Strategist listings on Migrate Mate to identify employers already open to OPT candidates. Filtering by sponsorship history saves significant time and surfaces companies actively hiring international talent rather than those who might consider it.
Social Media Strategist OPT: Frequently Asked Questions
Does a Social Media Strategist role qualify as a specialty occupation for H-1B purposes?
It can, but the job description matters. USCIS requires the role to normally demand a bachelor's degree in a specific field. Social Media Strategist positions tied to marketing strategy, content planning, or brand communications generally qualify. Roles framed around general posting or community management face more scrutiny and may need a stronger degree nexus to hold up.
Can I work as a Social Media Strategist on OPT if my degree is in a different field?
OPT requires that your job be directly related to your degree field. A Communications or Marketing degree connects clearly to this role. A Computer Science or Business degree can work if you can articulate the connection. An unrelated degree, such as Biology or Engineering with no digital marketing component, may not satisfy SEVP's relatedness requirement and could put your status at risk.
Am I eligible for the 24-month STEM OPT extension as a Social Media Strategist?
Only if your degree is on the DHS STEM Designated Degree Program List. Most Marketing and Communications degrees are not STEM-designated. However, degrees in Information Systems, Data Analytics, or Computer Science applied to digital marketing could qualify. Check your degree's CIP code against the official STEM list and confirm with your DSO before assuming extension eligibility.
How do I find Social Media Strategist roles where employers are open to sponsoring OPT candidates?
Migrate Mate is the most efficient way to find these listings. It surfaces Social Media Strategist positions from employers already familiar with OPT and visa sponsorship, so you're not spending time on applications that will stall the moment you mention your status. Filtering by sponsorship openness early in your search makes a material difference in offer rates.
What should I say when an employer asks about my work authorization as an OPT student?
Be direct and specific. Say you're authorized to work in the U.S. on F-1 OPT for 12 months, state your OPT start date, and note whether you're eligible for a STEM extension. Employers respond better to confident, factual answers than vague ones. If sponsorship comes up, acknowledge that you'd eventually need H-1B support and focus the conversation on the value you bring in the near term.