OPT Visual Designer Jobs
Visual Designer roles qualify for F-1 OPT when your degree is in graphic design, visual communication, interaction design, or a closely related field. Most employers expect a strong portfolio site alongside your resume. OPT authorization covers full-time in-house, agency, and contract positions, and STEM OPT extension may apply if your program qualifies.
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Get Access To All JobsOffice of Communications
The Office of Communications (OCOMMS) shapes and delivers external messaging for the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS). The team ensures Ohioans understand and access the programs and services available to them by managing media relations, maintaining the ODJFS website, supporting program areas with public‑facing communications, overseeing agency social media channels, and producing printed and digital informational materials. Learn more about the Office by visiting the ODJFS OCOMMS webpage.
What You Will Do
The Visual Communications Manager is responsible for developing, maintaining, and advancing the visual brand identity for the department. This role ensures all print, digital, and online assets reflect the brand standards of the State of Ohio and ODJFS while supporting clear, consistent, and engaging communication. The manager oversees visual strategy, creative production, content development, and website design to deliver high‑quality materials that enhance organizational communication and public engagement. Job Duties include:
Brand & Visual Strategy
- Lead the development, maintenance, and evolution of the organization’s visual brand identity across all offices and platforms.
- Produce high‑quality visual assets that support strategic communication goals.
- Ensure all materials meet brand standards, accessibility requirements, and quality expectations.
- Provide creative direction for major campaigns, initiatives, and high‑visibility projects.
Content Creation & Design
- Design and produce multimedia content including graphics, video, motion graphics, and photography.
- Partner with internal teams to create visual storytelling materials that enhance engagement and understanding.
- Manage creative workflows from concept through production and final delivery.
- Maintain a library of brand assets, templates, photos, and design tools for efficient, high‑quality output.
Website Management & Digital Experience
- Oversee daily updates, maintenance, and visual design of the organization’s website.
- Develop and publish web content, including graphics, photos, videos, and written materials.
- Monitor site performance, accessibility compliance, and user experience to ensure clarity and responsiveness.
- Collaborate with OIS and vendors to resolve technical issues and implement improvements.
Staff Supervision
- Assign work, provide direction, and review staff performance.
- Conduct performance evaluations and establish employee goals.
- Recommend hiring, disciplinary actions, and approve leave requests.
- Encourage staff development and facilitate team communication.
Preferred Skills
- Candidates should excel in building and managing websites through Contentful web platform.
Schedule: Full time.
Hours: Standard workdays are Monday through Friday. Hours are between 7:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m.
Location: This position will be headquartered at the James A. Rhodes State Officer Tower - 30 E. Broad Street, 32nd Floor, Columbus, OH 43215.
Travel: Occasional travel within the state of Ohio.
Position Number: 20071970.
Why Work for the State of Ohio
At the State of Ohio, we take care of the team that cares for Ohioans. We provide a variety of quality, competitive benefits to eligible full-time and part-time employees*. For a list of all the State of Ohio Benefits, visit our Total Rewards website! Our benefits package includes:
- Medical Coverage
- Free Dental, Vision and Basic Life Insurance premiums after completion of eligibility period
- Paid time off, including vacation, personal, sick leave and 11 paid holidays per year
- Childbirth, Adoption, and Foster Care leave
- Education and Development Opportunities (Employee Development Funds, Public Service Loan Forgiveness, and more)
- Public Retirement Systems (such as OPERS, STRS, SERS, and HPRS) & Optional Deferred Compensation (Ohio Deferred Compensation)
*Benefits eligibility is dependent on a number of factors. The Agency Contact listed above will be able to provide specific benefits information for this position.
Qualifications
The candidate, at minimum, must have the following:
Option 1:
- Completion of undergraduate core program in visual communications with emphasis on graphic design/industrial design;
- AND 48 mos. trg. or 48 mos. exp. in web site creation, design &/or development.
Option 2:
- Completion of associate core program in visual communication technology or multimedia production technology;
- AND 48 mos. trg. or 48 mos. exp. in web site creation, design &/or development.
Option 3:
- 48 mos. trg. or 48 mos. exp. in electronic graphic;
- AND 24 mos. trg. or 24 mos. exp. in web site creation, design &/or development.
Option 4:
- The equivalent of Minimum Class Qualifications For Employment noted above.
Tips For Your Application
When completing the different sections of this application, be sure to clearly describe how you meet the minimum qualifications outlined in this job posting. We cannot give you credit for your Work Experience and Education & Certifications if you do not provide that information in your online application. Information in attached resumes or cover letters must be entered into your application in the appropriate Work Experience or Education & Certification sections to be considered.
Pay Information
This position is in the State of Ohio’s E1 Pay Schedule, Pay Range 13. Unless required by legislation or union contract, starting salary will be the minimum salary of that pay range (step 1, currently $36.75 per hour). These ranges provide a standardized pathway for pay increases. With continued employment, new hires move to the next step in the range after 6 months and annually thereafter. Cost of Living Adjustments increase wages in these ranges each fiscal year. The current step progression wages are in the table below.
Pay Range 13
Step 1: $36.75
Step 2: $38.75
Step 3: $40.87
Step 4: $43.07
Step 5: $45.50
Step 6: $47.95
Step 7: $49.92
Step 8: $52.27
Annual
$76,440
$80,600
$85,010
$89,586
$94,640
$99,736
$103,834
$108,722
Months of EmploymentAt Hire
6 Months
18 Months
30 Months
42 Months
54 Months
66 Months
78 Months
Supplemental Information
ADA Notice
If you require an accommodation based on a disability for any step of the selection process, please contact ada_public@jfs.ohio.gov.
Background check information
The final candidate selected for this position will be required to undergo a criminal background check. Some positions may require drug testing and/or fingerprinting. Criminal convictions do not necessarily disqualify candidates from consideration.
ADA Statement
Ohio is a Disability Inclusion State and strives to be a model employer of individuals with disabilities. The State of Ohio is committed to providing access and inclusion and reasonable accommodation in its services, activities, programs and employment opportunities in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and other applicable laws.
Drug-Free Workplace
The State of Ohio is a drug-free workplace which prohibits the use of marijuana (recreational marijuana/non-medical cannabis). Please note, this position may be subject to additional restrictions pursuant to the State of Ohio Drug-Free Workplace Policy (HR-39), and as outlined in the posting.
Office of Communications
The Office of Communications (OCOMMS) shapes and delivers external messaging for the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS). The team ensures Ohioans understand and access the programs and services available to them by managing media relations, maintaining the ODJFS website, supporting program areas with public‑facing communications, overseeing agency social media channels, and producing printed and digital informational materials. Learn more about the Office by visiting the ODJFS OCOMMS webpage.
What You Will Do
The Visual Communications Manager is responsible for developing, maintaining, and advancing the visual brand identity for the department. This role ensures all print, digital, and online assets reflect the brand standards of the State of Ohio and ODJFS while supporting clear, consistent, and engaging communication. The manager oversees visual strategy, creative production, content development, and website design to deliver high‑quality materials that enhance organizational communication and public engagement. Job Duties include:
Brand & Visual Strategy
- Lead the development, maintenance, and evolution of the organization’s visual brand identity across all offices and platforms.
- Produce high‑quality visual assets that support strategic communication goals.
- Ensure all materials meet brand standards, accessibility requirements, and quality expectations.
- Provide creative direction for major campaigns, initiatives, and high‑visibility projects.
Content Creation & Design
- Design and produce multimedia content including graphics, video, motion graphics, and photography.
- Partner with internal teams to create visual storytelling materials that enhance engagement and understanding.
- Manage creative workflows from concept through production and final delivery.
- Maintain a library of brand assets, templates, photos, and design tools for efficient, high‑quality output.
Website Management & Digital Experience
- Oversee daily updates, maintenance, and visual design of the organization’s website.
- Develop and publish web content, including graphics, photos, videos, and written materials.
- Monitor site performance, accessibility compliance, and user experience to ensure clarity and responsiveness.
- Collaborate with OIS and vendors to resolve technical issues and implement improvements.
Staff Supervision
- Assign work, provide direction, and review staff performance.
- Conduct performance evaluations and establish employee goals.
- Recommend hiring, disciplinary actions, and approve leave requests.
- Encourage staff development and facilitate team communication.
Preferred Skills
- Candidates should excel in building and managing websites through Contentful web platform.
Schedule: Full time.
Hours: Standard workdays are Monday through Friday. Hours are between 7:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m.
Location: This position will be headquartered at the James A. Rhodes State Officer Tower - 30 E. Broad Street, 32nd Floor, Columbus, OH 43215.
Travel: Occasional travel within the state of Ohio.
Position Number: 20071970.
Why Work for the State of Ohio
At the State of Ohio, we take care of the team that cares for Ohioans. We provide a variety of quality, competitive benefits to eligible full-time and part-time employees*. For a list of all the State of Ohio Benefits, visit our Total Rewards website! Our benefits package includes:
- Medical Coverage
- Free Dental, Vision and Basic Life Insurance premiums after completion of eligibility period
- Paid time off, including vacation, personal, sick leave and 11 paid holidays per year
- Childbirth, Adoption, and Foster Care leave
- Education and Development Opportunities (Employee Development Funds, Public Service Loan Forgiveness, and more)
- Public Retirement Systems (such as OPERS, STRS, SERS, and HPRS) & Optional Deferred Compensation (Ohio Deferred Compensation)
*Benefits eligibility is dependent on a number of factors. The Agency Contact listed above will be able to provide specific benefits information for this position.
Qualifications
The candidate, at minimum, must have the following:
Option 1:
- Completion of undergraduate core program in visual communications with emphasis on graphic design/industrial design;
- AND 48 mos. trg. or 48 mos. exp. in web site creation, design &/or development.
Option 2:
- Completion of associate core program in visual communication technology or multimedia production technology;
- AND 48 mos. trg. or 48 mos. exp. in web site creation, design &/or development.
Option 3:
- 48 mos. trg. or 48 mos. exp. in electronic graphic;
- AND 24 mos. trg. or 24 mos. exp. in web site creation, design &/or development.
Option 4:
- The equivalent of Minimum Class Qualifications For Employment noted above.
Tips For Your Application
When completing the different sections of this application, be sure to clearly describe how you meet the minimum qualifications outlined in this job posting. We cannot give you credit for your Work Experience and Education & Certifications if you do not provide that information in your online application. Information in attached resumes or cover letters must be entered into your application in the appropriate Work Experience or Education & Certification sections to be considered.
Pay Information
This position is in the State of Ohio’s E1 Pay Schedule, Pay Range 13. Unless required by legislation or union contract, starting salary will be the minimum salary of that pay range (step 1, currently $36.75 per hour). These ranges provide a standardized pathway for pay increases. With continued employment, new hires move to the next step in the range after 6 months and annually thereafter. Cost of Living Adjustments increase wages in these ranges each fiscal year. The current step progression wages are in the table below.
Pay Range 13
Step 1: $36.75
Step 2: $38.75
Step 3: $40.87
Step 4: $43.07
Step 5: $45.50
Step 6: $47.95
Step 7: $49.92
Step 8: $52.27
Annual
$76,440
$80,600
$85,010
$89,586
$94,640
$99,736
$103,834
$108,722
Months of EmploymentAt Hire
6 Months
18 Months
30 Months
42 Months
54 Months
66 Months
78 Months
Supplemental Information
ADA Notice
If you require an accommodation based on a disability for any step of the selection process, please contact ada_public@jfs.ohio.gov.
Background check information
The final candidate selected for this position will be required to undergo a criminal background check. Some positions may require drug testing and/or fingerprinting. Criminal convictions do not necessarily disqualify candidates from consideration.
ADA Statement
Ohio is a Disability Inclusion State and strives to be a model employer of individuals with disabilities. The State of Ohio is committed to providing access and inclusion and reasonable accommodation in its services, activities, programs and employment opportunities in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and other applicable laws.
Drug-Free Workplace
The State of Ohio is a drug-free workplace which prohibits the use of marijuana (recreational marijuana/non-medical cannabis). Please note, this position may be subject to additional restrictions pursuant to the State of Ohio Drug-Free Workplace Policy (HR-39), and as outlined in the posting.
See all 157+ OPT Visual Designer Jobs
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Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding OPT Sponsorship as a Visual Designer
Lead with your portfolio, not your resume
Visual Designer hiring decisions hinge on your work. Publish a clean, curated portfolio site before applying. Employers review it before your resume, so weak or missing portfolio work will disqualify you faster than visa status ever will.
Target companies with established design systems
Mid-size and enterprise companies with product teams, brand guidelines, and dedicated design operations are far more likely to sponsor OPT. Startups without a design function often lack the HR infrastructure to process work authorization paperwork efficiently.
Address OPT proactively but briefly
When asked about work authorization, say you're authorized to work on OPT and eligible for H-1B visa sponsorship. Avoid lengthy explanations. Framing it as a routine administrative step rather than a burden keeps the conversation focused on your qualifications.
Align your portfolio to the employer's visual language
Before interviews, study the company's design output and reference it specifically. Showing awareness of their brand voice, color systems, or UI patterns signals cultural fit and reduces perceived risk for employers unfamiliar with sponsoring international candidates.
Highlight tools that match the job description
Figma, Adobe Creative Suite, and Sketch proficiency are frequently required. Ensure your resume and portfolio explicitly name the tools you've used on real projects. Generic mentions of design software carry less weight than demonstrated, project-specific usage.
Network inside design communities, not just job boards
Design team leads and creative directors often hire through referrals. Participating in critique sessions, design meetups, or online communities puts you in front of hiring managers before a role is posted, reducing competition and increasing your OPT sponsorship odds.
Visual Designer OPT: Frequently Asked Questions
Can I work as a Visual Designer on F-1 OPT?
Yes, if your degree is in graphic design, visual communication, interaction design, or a related field, Visual Designer roles qualify for F-1 OPT. Your position must be directly related to your major. Full-time, part-time, contract, and freelance work all count toward your OPT period, provided each engagement is documented and reported through your DSO.
Does a Visual Designer role qualify for STEM OPT extension?
It depends on your specific program. Students who graduated from a CIP-coded STEM program, such as Human-Computer Interaction or certain Computer Science concentrations with a design track, may qualify for the 24-month STEM OPT extension. Pure graphic design or fine arts programs typically do not carry a qualifying STEM CIP code, so confirm your program's classification with your international student office before assuming eligibility.
How do I find Visual Designer jobs that sponsor OPT?
Migrate Mate is built specifically for F-1 OPT students and surfaces Visual Designer roles from employers experienced with work authorization. Browsing Migrate Mate lets you filter for positions where sponsorship is realistic, saving you time you'd otherwise spend applying to companies that routinely decline OPT candidates. Starting your search there is the most efficient path for international students in design.
What should I say about my OPT status during a Visual Designer interview?
State clearly that you're authorized to work in the U.S. on OPT and that you'll be eligible for H-1B sponsorship in the future. Keep the explanation brief and factual. Most design hiring managers are not immigration experts, so framing OPT as a standard temporary authorization, rather than a complex legal matter, tends to land better and avoids unnecessary anxiety on the employer's side.
Can I do freelance or contract Visual Design work on OPT?
Yes, freelance and contract work is allowed on OPT, but each client engagement counts as a separate employer and must be reported to your DSO. You cannot work more than 20 hours per week in pre-completion OPT. During post-completion OPT, full-time freelancing is permitted. All work must remain within your field of study to satisfy USCIS requirements for authorized OPT employment.