OPT Training Specialist Jobs
Training Specialist roles are a strong fit for F-1 OPT students with backgrounds in instructional design, human resources, education, or organizational development. Most positions qualify as specialty occupations for OPT purposes. STEM OPT extensions are available when the role falls under CIP codes tied to education technology or data-driven learning design.
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Get Access To All JobsINTRODUCTION
Under the general direction of EPI-CAL leadership, the Program Specialist will lead the Case Manager and Supported Education and Employment Services (SEES) pathway team as part of the EPI-CAL Coordinated Specialty Care (CSC) evidence-based practice for early psychosis intervention Center of Excellence for First Episode Psychosis program. Responsibilities include developing new and/or revising existing curriculum, toolkits, resources, and web materials, either independently or in collaboration with other subject matter experts (SMEs) via an integrated training development approach. The position will also provide individual and group consultation services and technical assistance. Beyond curriculum development, consultation services and technical assistance, this position will establish and maintain professional relationships with state and county contacts, external project collaborators, and advisory committee members. As lead or co-lead of the team, the position will work with leadership and project management to track the project work of Case manager and SEES team members and/or consultants, develop and manage work plans, and monitor the Case manager and SEES portion of the project budget. Importantly, this position will uphold our commitment to inclusivity by bringing cultural humility and a person-centered approach to all work activities and deliverables.
Apply By Date: August 17, 2026 at 11:59pm. Selection activities may start at any time.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
- Bachelor's degree in related area and/or equivalent experience/training.
- Previous full-time work experience is required.
- In-depth experience and knowledge of Case manager and SEES best practices and principles, including in systems serving youth and families receiving mental health services.
- Project management experience including project oversight, establishment and adjustment of priorities to meet deadlines, workplan development and monitoring, adherence to project scope and budget, and evaluation of completed work products according to defined objectives.
- Experience identifying and evaluating program needs to develop and implement new programs/services making necessary adjustments to ensure successful outcomes.
- Experience in facilitating meetings, workshops or trainings.
- Experience working effectively both independently and collaboratively with team members.
- Experience using MS Office Suite for Windows (Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook).
- Excellent oral and written communication and interpersonal skills to work effectively with a diverse constituency of professionals and clients.
- Ability to design engaging and innovative learning experiences that capture the interest of participants and facilitate effective learning (formal curriculum writing experience not required).
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Previous experience working with adolescents and young adults with physical or mental health difficulties and their families is preferred (e.g. volunteer in hospital or clinic, experience in community program providing such supports or services).
- Experience with public speaking is preferred.
- Skill to assess client training and professional development needs.
- Ability to analyze policy and legislation proposed and implemented at federal, state and county levels of government; assess implications for the Case manager and SEES component of EPI-CAL CSC.
- Knowledge of transfer of learning theories and practices.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
- 40% - Training, Consultation Services, and Technical Assistance Facilitation
- 25% - Project Management
- 25% - Program Development, Analysis, and Evaluation
- 10% - Outreach
DEPARTMENT OVERVIEW
Welcome to the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Services at UC Davis! We are committed to promoting world-class mental health services that help patients and families live their lives more fully. Our four key mission areas — patient care, training and education, research, and community engagement — actively support this commitment.
DEPARTMENT SPECIFIC JOB SCOPE
This 100% position is for the Project Policy Analyst 3 of the Early Psychosis Integration California (EPI-CAL) Center of Excellence (COE). The incumbent will act as the lead for the Case manager and Supported Education and Employment Services (SEES) training team. The incumbent and the Case manager and SEES training team will assist with operations and collaboration with program leadership and other training teams.
POSITION INFORMATION
- Salary or Pay Range: $2,800.00 - $4,996.55
- Salary Frequency: Biweekly
- Salary Grade: 128
- UC Job Title: PROJECT POLICY ANL 3 RP
- UC Job Code: 005257
- Appointment Type: Staff: Career
- Percentage of Time: 100
- Shift (Work Schedule): 8 AM - 5 PM
- Location: Behavioral Health Center (HSP048)
- Union Representation: RP - Research and Public Service Professionals
- Benefits Eligible: Yes
- This position is hybrid (mix of on-site and remote work)
BENEFITS
Outstanding benefits and perks are among the many rewards of working for the University of California. UC Davis offers a full range of benefits, resources and programs to help you bring your best self to work, as well as to help you and your family achieve your health, wellness, financial and career goals. Learn more about the benefits below and eligibility by visiting UCnet Benefits Page or Benefits Summary for UC Davis Health Employees or Benefits Summary for UC Davis Employees.
- High quality and low-cost medical plans to choose from to fit your family's needs
- UC pays for dental and vision coverage for you and your family
- Retirement plans for eligible employees including Pension and other Retirement Saving Plans
- Supplemental insurance offered including additional life, short/long term disability, pet insurance, legal coverage, accident, critical illness and hospital indemnity
- Pregnancy and Parental Leave, Family & Medical Leave, Adoption Assistance and Pay for Family Care and Bonding for eligible employees
- Lactation Support Program and Family Care discounts and resources
- Employee Well-being resources and programming to support thriving in all aspects of employee’s lives
- On-site Employee Assistance Program including access to free mental health services
- Generous amount of paid Holidays annually as outlined in the UC Policies or Collective Bargaining Agreements
- Paid Time Off/Vacation/Sick Time as outlined in the UC Policies or Collective Bargaining Agreements
- Continuing Education (CE) allowance and Staff Education Reimbursement Program for eligible employees
- Access to free professional development courses and learning opportunities for personal and professional growth
- Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Qualified Employer and Student Loan Debt Counseling Program for eligible employees
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
- Standing - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Walking - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Sitting - Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
- Lifting/Carrying 0-25 Lbs - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Pushing/Pulling 0-25 Lbs - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Bending/Stooping - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Squatting/Kneeling - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Twisting - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Climbing (e.g., stairs or ladders) - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Reaching overhead - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Keyboard use/repetitive motion - Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
MENTAL DEMANDS
- Sustained attention and concentration - Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
- Complex problem solving/reasoning - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
- Ability to organize & prioritize - Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
- Communication skills - Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
- Numerical skills - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
- Constant Interaction - Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
- Customer/Patient Contact - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Multiple Concurrent Tasks - Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
WORK ENVIRONMENT
UC Davis is a smoke and tobacco free campus effective January 1, 2014. Smoking, the use of smokeless tobacco products, and the use of unregulated nicotine products (e-cigarettes) will be strictly prohibited on any UC Davis owned or leased property, indoors and outdoors, including parking lots and residential space.
SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS
- This is a critical position, as defined by UC Policy and local procedures, and as such, employment is contingent upon clearing a criminal background check(s) and may include drug screening, medical evaluation clearance and functional capacity assessment.
- This position is designated as a mandated reporter under CANRA and UC policy, and employment is contingent on compliance with applicable policies, procedures and training requirements.
Misconduct Disclosure Requirement: As a condition of employment, the final candidate who accepts a conditional offer of employment will be required to disclose if they have been subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct; received notice of any allegations or are currently the subject of any administrative or disciplinary proceedings involving misconduct; have left a position after receiving notice of allegations or while under investigation in an administrative or disciplinary proceeding involving misconduct; or have filed an appeal of a finding of misconduct with a previous employer.
A CULTURE OF OPPORTUNITY AND BELONGING
At UC Davis, we’re committed to solving life’s most urgent challenges and building a healthier, more resilient world. We believe in growing through every challenge, continually striving to improve, and welcoming new perspectives that strengthen our community. We recognize that a vibrant and innovative organization values both individual strengths and shared purpose. The best ideas often emerge when people with different experiences come together.
As you consider joining UC Davis, we invite you to explore our Principles of Community, our Clinical Strategic Plan and strategic vision for research and education. We believe you belong here. The University of California, Davis is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age or protected veteran status.
To view the University of California’s Anti-Discrimination Policy, please visit: https://policy.ucop.edu/doc/1001004/Anti-Discrimination
Because we want you to feel seen and valued, our recruitment process at UC Davis supports openness and authenticity. Research shows that some individuals hesitate to apply unless they meet every qualification. You may be an excellent fit for this role - or the next one. We encourage you to apply even if your experience doesn't match every listed requirement. #YouBelongHere
To learn more about our background check program, please visit: https://hr.ucdavis.edu/departments/recruitment/ucd/selection/background-checks
INTRODUCTION
Under the general direction of EPI-CAL leadership, the Program Specialist will lead the Case Manager and Supported Education and Employment Services (SEES) pathway team as part of the EPI-CAL Coordinated Specialty Care (CSC) evidence-based practice for early psychosis intervention Center of Excellence for First Episode Psychosis program. Responsibilities include developing new and/or revising existing curriculum, toolkits, resources, and web materials, either independently or in collaboration with other subject matter experts (SMEs) via an integrated training development approach. The position will also provide individual and group consultation services and technical assistance. Beyond curriculum development, consultation services and technical assistance, this position will establish and maintain professional relationships with state and county contacts, external project collaborators, and advisory committee members. As lead or co-lead of the team, the position will work with leadership and project management to track the project work of Case manager and SEES team members and/or consultants, develop and manage work plans, and monitor the Case manager and SEES portion of the project budget. Importantly, this position will uphold our commitment to inclusivity by bringing cultural humility and a person-centered approach to all work activities and deliverables.
Apply By Date: August 17, 2026 at 11:59pm. Selection activities may start at any time.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
- Bachelor's degree in related area and/or equivalent experience/training.
- Previous full-time work experience is required.
- In-depth experience and knowledge of Case manager and SEES best practices and principles, including in systems serving youth and families receiving mental health services.
- Project management experience including project oversight, establishment and adjustment of priorities to meet deadlines, workplan development and monitoring, adherence to project scope and budget, and evaluation of completed work products according to defined objectives.
- Experience identifying and evaluating program needs to develop and implement new programs/services making necessary adjustments to ensure successful outcomes.
- Experience in facilitating meetings, workshops or trainings.
- Experience working effectively both independently and collaboratively with team members.
- Experience using MS Office Suite for Windows (Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook).
- Excellent oral and written communication and interpersonal skills to work effectively with a diverse constituency of professionals and clients.
- Ability to design engaging and innovative learning experiences that capture the interest of participants and facilitate effective learning (formal curriculum writing experience not required).
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Previous experience working with adolescents and young adults with physical or mental health difficulties and their families is preferred (e.g. volunteer in hospital or clinic, experience in community program providing such supports or services).
- Experience with public speaking is preferred.
- Skill to assess client training and professional development needs.
- Ability to analyze policy and legislation proposed and implemented at federal, state and county levels of government; assess implications for the Case manager and SEES component of EPI-CAL CSC.
- Knowledge of transfer of learning theories and practices.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
- 40% - Training, Consultation Services, and Technical Assistance Facilitation
- 25% - Project Management
- 25% - Program Development, Analysis, and Evaluation
- 10% - Outreach
DEPARTMENT OVERVIEW
Welcome to the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Services at UC Davis! We are committed to promoting world-class mental health services that help patients and families live their lives more fully. Our four key mission areas — patient care, training and education, research, and community engagement — actively support this commitment.
DEPARTMENT SPECIFIC JOB SCOPE
This 100% position is for the Project Policy Analyst 3 of the Early Psychosis Integration California (EPI-CAL) Center of Excellence (COE). The incumbent will act as the lead for the Case manager and Supported Education and Employment Services (SEES) training team. The incumbent and the Case manager and SEES training team will assist with operations and collaboration with program leadership and other training teams.
POSITION INFORMATION
- Salary or Pay Range: $2,800.00 - $4,996.55
- Salary Frequency: Biweekly
- Salary Grade: 128
- UC Job Title: PROJECT POLICY ANL 3 RP
- UC Job Code: 005257
- Appointment Type: Staff: Career
- Percentage of Time: 100
- Shift (Work Schedule): 8 AM - 5 PM
- Location: Behavioral Health Center (HSP048)
- Union Representation: RP - Research and Public Service Professionals
- Benefits Eligible: Yes
- This position is hybrid (mix of on-site and remote work)
BENEFITS
Outstanding benefits and perks are among the many rewards of working for the University of California. UC Davis offers a full range of benefits, resources and programs to help you bring your best self to work, as well as to help you and your family achieve your health, wellness, financial and career goals. Learn more about the benefits below and eligibility by visiting UCnet Benefits Page or Benefits Summary for UC Davis Health Employees or Benefits Summary for UC Davis Employees.
- High quality and low-cost medical plans to choose from to fit your family's needs
- UC pays for dental and vision coverage for you and your family
- Retirement plans for eligible employees including Pension and other Retirement Saving Plans
- Supplemental insurance offered including additional life, short/long term disability, pet insurance, legal coverage, accident, critical illness and hospital indemnity
- Pregnancy and Parental Leave, Family & Medical Leave, Adoption Assistance and Pay for Family Care and Bonding for eligible employees
- Lactation Support Program and Family Care discounts and resources
- Employee Well-being resources and programming to support thriving in all aspects of employee’s lives
- On-site Employee Assistance Program including access to free mental health services
- Generous amount of paid Holidays annually as outlined in the UC Policies or Collective Bargaining Agreements
- Paid Time Off/Vacation/Sick Time as outlined in the UC Policies or Collective Bargaining Agreements
- Continuing Education (CE) allowance and Staff Education Reimbursement Program for eligible employees
- Access to free professional development courses and learning opportunities for personal and professional growth
- Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Qualified Employer and Student Loan Debt Counseling Program for eligible employees
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
- Standing - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Walking - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Sitting - Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
- Lifting/Carrying 0-25 Lbs - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Pushing/Pulling 0-25 Lbs - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Bending/Stooping - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Squatting/Kneeling - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Twisting - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Climbing (e.g., stairs or ladders) - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Reaching overhead - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Keyboard use/repetitive motion - Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
MENTAL DEMANDS
- Sustained attention and concentration - Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
- Complex problem solving/reasoning - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
- Ability to organize & prioritize - Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
- Communication skills - Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
- Numerical skills - Frequent 3 to 6 Hours
- Constant Interaction - Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
- Customer/Patient Contact - Occasional Up to 3 Hours
- Multiple Concurrent Tasks - Continuous 6 to 8+ Hours
WORK ENVIRONMENT
UC Davis is a smoke and tobacco free campus effective January 1, 2014. Smoking, the use of smokeless tobacco products, and the use of unregulated nicotine products (e-cigarettes) will be strictly prohibited on any UC Davis owned or leased property, indoors and outdoors, including parking lots and residential space.
SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS
- This is a critical position, as defined by UC Policy and local procedures, and as such, employment is contingent upon clearing a criminal background check(s) and may include drug screening, medical evaluation clearance and functional capacity assessment.
- This position is designated as a mandated reporter under CANRA and UC policy, and employment is contingent on compliance with applicable policies, procedures and training requirements.
Misconduct Disclosure Requirement: As a condition of employment, the final candidate who accepts a conditional offer of employment will be required to disclose if they have been subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct; received notice of any allegations or are currently the subject of any administrative or disciplinary proceedings involving misconduct; have left a position after receiving notice of allegations or while under investigation in an administrative or disciplinary proceeding involving misconduct; or have filed an appeal of a finding of misconduct with a previous employer.
A CULTURE OF OPPORTUNITY AND BELONGING
At UC Davis, we’re committed to solving life’s most urgent challenges and building a healthier, more resilient world. We believe in growing through every challenge, continually striving to improve, and welcoming new perspectives that strengthen our community. We recognize that a vibrant and innovative organization values both individual strengths and shared purpose. The best ideas often emerge when people with different experiences come together.
As you consider joining UC Davis, we invite you to explore our Principles of Community, our Clinical Strategic Plan and strategic vision for research and education. We believe you belong here. The University of California, Davis is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age or protected veteran status.
To view the University of California’s Anti-Discrimination Policy, please visit: https://policy.ucop.edu/doc/1001004/Anti-Discrimination
Because we want you to feel seen and valued, our recruitment process at UC Davis supports openness and authenticity. Research shows that some individuals hesitate to apply unless they meet every qualification. You may be an excellent fit for this role - or the next one. We encourage you to apply even if your experience doesn't match every listed requirement. #YouBelongHere
To learn more about our background check program, please visit: https://hr.ucdavis.edu/departments/recruitment/ucd/selection/background-checks
See all 527+ OPT Training Specialist Jobs
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Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding OPT Sponsorship as a Training Specialist
Target employers with established L&D departments
Large organizations with dedicated Learning and Development teams are more likely to have sponsored international employees before. Corporate training departments at healthcare systems, financial institutions, and tech firms are worth prioritizing over small businesses with no HR infrastructure.
Clarify your OPT authorization upfront
Training Specialist roles sometimes attract confusion about work authorization. Be direct on applications: state your OPT end date, whether you qualify for STEM extension, and that no immediate H-1B visa sponsorship is needed. Removing ambiguity early keeps you in the running.
Align your degree field to the job description
OPT requires your job to relate to your degree field. If you studied instructional design, organizational psychology, or HR management, make that connection explicit in your resume and cover letter. Vague alignment raises red flags for employers unfamiliar with OPT requirements.
Build a portfolio of training materials
Hiring managers for Training Specialist roles respond to concrete evidence of instructional ability. Develop sample e-learning modules, facilitator guides, or needs analysis frameworks you can share. A portfolio demonstrates specialty occupation-level expertise and strengthens your case for sponsorship.
Pursue SHRM or ATD certification before your search
The SHRM-CP and ATD Certified Professional in Talent Development credentials signal professional-level competency to employers. Holding a recognized certification also reinforces that your Training Specialist role qualifies as a specialty occupation, which matters when employers evaluate sponsorship decisions.
Negotiate H-1B sponsorship before your OPT expires
Start the H-1B conversation with your employer at least six months before your OPT end date. H-1B registration opens each March for an October start, and employers who have never sponsored before need lead time to engage immigration counsel and prepare the petition.
Training Specialist OPT: Frequently Asked Questions
Does a Training Specialist role qualify as a specialty occupation for OPT?
Yes, in most cases. A Training Specialist position qualifies as a specialty occupation when it requires a bachelor's degree or higher in a specific field such as instructional design, human resources, organizational development, or education. If your employer's job description lists a generic degree requirement without specifying a field, that can weaken the case. Make sure the role description matches your actual degree discipline before accepting.
Can F-1 students on STEM OPT work as Training Specialists?
Yes, if your degree falls under an eligible STEM CIP code. Instructional design, educational technology, and certain HR analytics degrees qualify. Your role must also involve applying STEM knowledge in a practical setting, which data-driven learning design or performance analytics work typically satisfies. Confirm your degree's CIP code with your DSO before assuming STEM OPT extension eligibility.
How do I find Training Specialist jobs that are open to OPT candidates?
Browse Training Specialist listings on Migrate Mate, which is built specifically for F-1 OPT and international students. Filtering by OPT-friendly employers saves significant time compared to applying broadly and discovering sponsorship limitations during interviews. Migrate Mate surfaces roles from employers who have a documented history of hiring international candidates.
What happens to my OPT if my Training Specialist contract ends early?
You enter the 60-day grace period immediately when authorized employment ends before your OPT expiration date. During those 60 days, you can search for a new qualifying position, but you cannot work. If you secure a new Training Specialist role within that window, report the new employer to your DSO promptly and update your SEVIS record to maintain lawful status.
Do Training Specialist roles typically lead to H-1B sponsorship?
Many do, particularly at mid-size and large organizations with formal HR or Learning and Development functions. Employers who invest in building internal training programs tend to view Training Specialists as long-term hires rather than contractors, which makes them more willing to sponsor. Roles at consulting firms or staffing agencies are less predictable and worth evaluating individually.