Automotive OPT Jobs in California
California is one of the top states for automotive F-1 OPT sponsorship jobs, anchored by Tesla's Fremont manufacturing hub, Rivian's engineering presence, and dozens of Tier 1 suppliers and mobility startups across the Bay Area, Los Angeles, and Silicon Valley. Engineering, software, and data roles in the automotive sector align well with OPT-eligible STEM degrees.
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About us
Advanced Structural Technologies (AST) is a leading manufacturer specializing in forged, flow-formed, and machined products for the aerospace, defense, and automotive industries. With over 25 years of experience, AST has built a strong reputation for precision engineering, innovation, and high-quality manufacturing.
Located in Oxnard, California, AST operates out of cutting-edge facilities spanning over 250,000 sq. ft., including our newest expansion completed in 2024. AST employs approximately 195 skilled professionals across multi-shift operations, ensuring efficiency, precision, and timely delivery for mission-critical industries.
Position Overview
We are seeking an experienced Accounts Payable Accountant to support our accounting and financial operations. This position is responsible for high-volume accounts payable processing, three-way matching, credit card reconciliations, use tax compliance, and assisting with month-end and year-end closing activities. The ideal candidate will have strong attention to detail, knowledge of GAAP, and the ability to collaborate effectively with vendors, management, and other departments.
Key Responsibilities
- Process high-volume accounts payable transactions, including three-way matching, invoice coding, vendor payments, and discrepancy resolution.
- Reconcile corporate credit card transactions and resolve outstanding issues.
- Manage California use tax compliance and support fixed asset accounting in accordance with GAAP.
- Compile and analyze financial information for month-end and year-end closing.
- Prepare expenditure reports and provide financial recommendations to management and other departments.
- Maintain accurate accounting records and collaborate with vendors, buyers, and internal teams.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Business, Finance, or a related field.
- Minimum of two years of accounts payable and general ledger experience.
- Knowledge of three-way matching, California use tax, fixed assets, and GAAP.
- Intermediate Microsoft Excel skills and experience with an integrated accounting or ERP system.
- Strong attention to detail, analytical ability, communication skills, and teamwork.
Why Join AST?
At AST, we believe in fostering a work environment where employees can thrive both personally and professionally. We offer a competitive benefits package, including:
- Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
- 401(k) Savings Plan
- Company-Sponsored Life Insurance
- Short-term and Long-term Disability Coverage
- Paid Holidays
- Paid Vacation and Sick Leave
Job Type & Pay
- Job Type: Full-Time, In-Person
- Pay Range: $30.00–$35.00 per hour (commensurate with experience)
Hours & Schedule
- Schedule: Monday–Friday (8-hour shift)
- Expected Hours: 40 hours per week, plus overtime as needed
If you are a detail-oriented accounting professional with experience in accounts payable and general ledger functions, we encourage you to apply. AST is committed to maintaining a fair and respectful workplace for all employees.
Pay: $30.00 - $35.00 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid sick time
- Paid time off
- Referral program
- Vision insurance
Application Question(s):
- Do you have a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Business, Finance, or a related field?
- Do you have a minimum of two years of accounts payable and general ledger experience?
- Do you have knowledge of three-way matching, California use tax, fixed assets, and GAAP?
- Do you have intermediate Microsoft Excel skills and experience with an integrated accounting or ERP system?
Education:
- Bachelor's (Preferred)
Ability to Commute:
- Oxnard, CA 93030 (Required)
Work Location: In person
OPT Automotive Job Roles in California
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Search Automotive Jobs in CaliforniaAutomotive OPT Sponsorship Jobs in California: Frequently Asked Questions
Which automotive companies sponsor F-1 OPT visas in California?
Tesla, Rivian, Lucid Motors, and Waymo are among the California-based automotive employers that have hired F-1 OPT workers. Tier 1 suppliers like Aptiv and Continental also maintain California engineering offices. Sponsorship patterns vary by role and business need, and not every open position at these companies includes OPT sponsorship, so confirming sponsorship eligibility per listing is important.
Which cities in California have the most automotive F-1 OPT sponsorship jobs?
The San Francisco Bay Area, including Fremont, Palo Alto, and San Jose, leads due to Tesla's Fremont factory and the concentration of autonomous vehicle and EV startups. Los Angeles and the Irvine corridor are also active, with Rivian's software operations and a strong cluster of mobility tech firms. Sacramento sees some manufacturing-adjacent roles as well.
What types of automotive roles typically qualify for F-1 OPT sponsorship?
Roles requiring a bachelor's degree or higher in engineering, computer science, data science, or a related STEM field are most commonly OPT-eligible in the automotive sector. Common titles include software engineer, electrical engineer, systems engineer, data analyst, and autonomous systems researcher. These positions fall under STEM OPT, which allows eligible graduates to extend their work authorization to 24 months beyond the standard 12-month OPT period.
How do I find automotive F-1 OPT sponsorship jobs in California?
Migrate Mate is built specifically for international students and visa holders, with filters for visa type, state, and industry. Searching for automotive F-1 OPT jobs in California on Migrate Mate surfaces listings from employers that have indicated sponsorship willingness, saving significant time compared to manually screening general job boards. Checking listings regularly matters, as new automotive roles in California's EV and mobility sector are posted frequently.
Are there state-specific considerations for F-1 OPT sponsorship in California's automotive industry?
California's strong STEM university pipeline, including UC Berkeley, UCLA, and UC San Diego, means employers in the state are generally familiar with hiring F-1 OPT candidates. California also has no state-level barrier to OPT employment, but federal OPT rules still govern work authorization timing, employer registration with E-Verify for STEM OPT extensions, and the requirement that the role directly relate to your degree field.