Government OPT Jobs in Florida
Florida's government sector offers F-1 OPT sponsorship opportunities across federal agencies, state departments, and public research institutions. Key employers include federal offices in Jacksonville and Miami, state agencies in Tallahassee, and defense-related contractors near Orlando and Tampa. Roles in policy analysis, public administration, IT systems, and research are among the most active areas for OPT candidates.
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Get Access To All JobsINTRODUCTION
If you are an Internal City Employee, Retiree or Dependent/Survivor of a City Employee please apply internally via Career Icon in your Workday account.
Make a difference in the community you live in! As a Community Builder—an employee with the City of Gainesville—you will have a direct hand in building and improving your community and making a visible impact on the lives of your neighbors. Working for local government is more than a job, it’s a chance to contribute to community success and to help enhance the Gainesville way of life.
Department:
GG_Parks, Recreation and Cultural Affairs: Parks, Recreation and Cultural Affairs Administration
Salary Range Minimum:
$25.00
Salary Range Maximum:
$40.41
Closing Date:
09/23/2026
Job Details:
This is a permanent full-time position working 40 hours per week with the Department of Parks, Recreation and Cultural Affairs (PRCA). It will support the Assistant Director within the Administration Division of the department. The Administrative Division handles department-wide tasks including budget, contracts, accreditation, master planning, customer service, as well as special projects. Duties assigned to this position include management of public records requests through JustFOIA and managing agenda items in eScribe.
PRCA provides a fast moving and exciting environment that provides integral services to our neighbors. Successful applicants for this position will be highly organized, be able to anticipate opportunities and issues, be detail oriented, be an effective communicator and be able to work on multiple projects/tasks simultaneously. They will also be technologically savvy and adaptive to changing priorities.
To be considered for this position you must take and pass the City of Gainesville:
- Excel
IF YOU HAPPEN TO FAIL YOUR TESTING, YOU MAY RETAKE THE TEST AS LONG AS IT IS BEFORE THE DEADLINE
To schedule testing please contact CareerSource North Central Florida by emailing Assessment@careersourcencfl.com your request. They are the test administrators and will be able to assist you with your assessments.
PLEASE LISTEN TO THE ENTIRE MESSAGE FOR INSTRUCTIONS
This testing is done online.
Testing is due by EOD 9/23/26
These are mandatory assessments and must be completed for further considered for this position.
Test scores are good for 1 year If you have completed testing in the past year, please ensure your scores are attached to your application before submission!!
THIS POSITION REQUIRES A DRIVER'S LICENSE
JOB DESCRIPTION
SUMMARY
This is advanced, diversified, often confidential and moderately complex administrative and staff work supporting a senior level manager who oversees diverse activities within their department. Duties require some independent judgment through the application of problem solving, decision making, dependability and initiative and the ability to process and resolve various departmental issues. Positions allocated to this Classification may assign and review the work of Staff Assistants and Staff Specialists. Duties must be performed at a high level of competence and require discretion and judgment with respect to matters of significance.
Positions allocated to this classification report to a senior level manager of a department with multiple divisions (who is a member of the Executive Team). Work is performed under general supervision and is normally reviewed upon completion. Work in this class is distinguished from higher classes by its lack of managerial responsibility and from lower classes by its coordination of administrative activities, latitude for discretion and decision making, supervisory responsibility and work of a confidential and sensitive nature.
EXAMPLES OF WORK
This section of the job description is not intended to be a comprehensive list of duties and responsibilities of the position. The omission of a specific job function does not absolve an employee from being required to perform additional tasks incidental to or inherent in the job. Performance of lower level duties may be required.
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS
Depending on area of assignment:
- Develops, plans, and oversees administrative details and coordinated workflow of assigned area.
- Serves as staff liaison to special committees and boards and represents the department by attending meetings or serving on assigned committees. Prepares meeting agendas, photocopies and/or assembles back-up documentation, mails packets to board and staff members. May take and transcribe minutes.
- Assists with the administration of department Progression-through-Training (PTTP) programs; prepares a manual of checklists, procedures and materials and reviews proposed actions to evaluate appropriateness and timeliness before forwarding to the department head for review.
- Assists with drafting, modifying, and interpreting operational and personnel policies, guidelines and administrative procedures applicable to department staff. Drafts and prepares agenda items for City Commission meetings.
- Handles inquiries, complaints, and requests; tracks issues and resolutions and provides assistance regarding specific matters within area of expertise in resolving complex inquiries and complaints.
- Assists in the proofing, drafting, and distribution of moderately complex documents. Prepares and makes presentations.
- Researches, reviews, gathers, compiles and maintains detailed and specialized information for reports and department work processes.
- Prepares reports for grant funded projects and monitors grant compliance.
- Maintains records, libraries, databases, tracking systems and files required in connection with department work processes.
- Assigns and reviews the work of Staff Assistants and Staff Specialists.
- Schedules, coordinates and maintains assigned calendars. Makes travel arrangements and prepares itineraries.
- Assists with planning and execution of meetings and department sponsored events.
- Provides oversight, maintenance and updating of the department’s intranet and/or internet sites.
- Sets work goals, objectives, and priorities.
- Works directly with department and division managers to facilitate completion of respective assignments and objectives.
- Monitors operation of and recommends repairs or upgrades to office equipment, coordinates repair or upgrade of new equipment.
- Acts as department Timekeeper; inputs department payroll into Remote Time Entry (RTE). Assists with the preparation, coordination and administration of department budget.
- Administers department purchase orders and VISA purchases, and prepares department bills for processing; requests information or supporting documentation from appropriate staff.
- Receives and screens visitors and/or telephone calls that require the use of judgment, tact, and diplomacy.
- Assists managers with confidential/sensitive materials related to labor agreements, political issues, personnel matters, and/or criminal records.
- Attends work on a continuous and regular basis.
NON-ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS
Depending on area of assignment:
- May perform tasks normally assigned to Staff Assistants and Staff Specialists as workflow and demands require.
- Performs other related duties as assigned.
QUALIFICATIONS
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential job function satisfactorily. Below are the required education, experience, knowledge, skills and abilities to perform the essential functions.
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
An Associate degree from an accredited college or equivalent vocational/technical training, and three (3) years responsible administrative and staff support experience, or an equivalent combination of training and experience which provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.
A Certified Administrative Professional (CAP) certificate or Certified Professional Secretary (CPS) certificate may substitute for an Associate degree.
An additional two (2) years of responsible administrative and staff support experience may substitute for an Associate degree.
Must type at a minimum speed of 35 correct words per minute or at a higher speed, as set by the department.
CERTIFICATIONS OR LICENSES
Licenses
If courier duties are required, a valid Florida Driver license with a safe driving record is required.
Certifications
A Certified Administrative Professional (CAP) certificate or Certified Professional Secretary (CPS) certificate is preferred.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES
Depending on area of assignment:
- Ability and willingness to use sound judgment, exercise discretion, and after evaluating alternatives, make decisions on matters of significance.
- Ability and willingness to carry out major assignments.
- Comprehensive knowledge of administration, organization, policies, practices, and programs.
- Demonstrated proficiency in relevant software and advanced computer skills.
- Thorough knowledge of liaison duties and responsibilities.
- Ability to function in a politically sensitive and volatile environment.
- Ability to organize and coordinate multiple assignments.
- Ability to work with general supervision.
- Ability to maintain confidentiality and respond appropriately to sensitive/confidential issues.
- Ability to resolve conflicts.
- Ability to understand and follow moderately complex oral and written instructions.
- Ability to resolve customer complaints and answer inquiries tactfully, courteously, and effectively.
- Ability to work effectively with co-workers and internal and external customers.
- Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
- Ability to operate basic office equipment.
- Ability to perform administrative functions, including the ability to assign and review the work of other staff members.
PHYSICAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL REQUIREMENTS
To perform this job successfully, an individual must possess certain physical abilities and be able to withstand work related environmental conditions.
Physical Requirements
While performing the duties of this Job, the employee is often required to sit for prolonged periods of time.
WORK ENVIRONMENT
May be required to work and attend meetings outside regular business hours.
To be considered for this position you must take and pass the City of Gainesville:
- Excel
IF YOU HAPPEN TO FAIL YOUR TESTING, YOU MAY RETAKE THE TEST AS LONG AS IT IS BEFORE THE DEADLINE
To schedule testing please contact CareerSource North Central Florida by emailing Assessment@careersourcencfl.com your request. They are the test administrators and will be able to assist you with your assessments.
PLEASE LISTEN TO THE ENTIRE MESSAGE FOR INSTRUCTIONS
This testing is done online.
Testing is due by EOD 9/23/26
These are mandatory assessments and must be completed for further considered for this position.
Test scores are good for 1 year If you have completed testing in the past year, please ensure your scores are attached to your application before submission!!
Note:
- May Require Assessment(s).
- May fill multiple positions.
- May establish an eligibility list.
Come join our team! The City of Gainesville offers a competitive benefits package and opportunities to grow both professionally and personally.
All ‘regular’ employees are eligible for traditional benefits such as health insurance, life insurance, paid leave, 11 paid holidays a year, a pension plan and a deferred compensation plan, but we also offer great things like on-site fitness centers, tuition reimbursement, on-site medical staff and a wellness program to keep you healthy and happy. Please note; benefits are not available for temporary employees.
Equal Opportunity
The City of Gainesville is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer and does not discriminate in hiring. Minorities, women and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply. Individuals with a disability, who require special accommodations during the selection process, should notify the Human Resources Department at 352-334-5077 or TDD/TTY at 352-334-2292.
Veterans' Preference
Veterans are encouraged to apply. Veterans’ Preference ensures that veterans and eligible persons are given consideration at each step of the selection process. However, preference does not guarantee that a veteran or other eligible person will be the candidate selected to fill the position. Section 295.07, Florida Statutes (F.S.) specifies who is eligible for Veterans’ Preference. State of Florida residency is not required for Veterans’ Preference.
If you are unable to apply online due to a disability, contact recruiting at HR@cityofgainesville.org or by calling 352-334-5077.
INTRODUCTION
If you are an Internal City Employee, Retiree or Dependent/Survivor of a City Employee please apply internally via Career Icon in your Workday account.
Make a difference in the community you live in! As a Community Builder—an employee with the City of Gainesville—you will have a direct hand in building and improving your community and making a visible impact on the lives of your neighbors. Working for local government is more than a job, it’s a chance to contribute to community success and to help enhance the Gainesville way of life.
Department:
GG_Parks, Recreation and Cultural Affairs: Parks, Recreation and Cultural Affairs Administration
Salary Range Minimum:
$25.00
Salary Range Maximum:
$40.41
Closing Date:
09/23/2026
Job Details:
This is a permanent full-time position working 40 hours per week with the Department of Parks, Recreation and Cultural Affairs (PRCA). It will support the Assistant Director within the Administration Division of the department. The Administrative Division handles department-wide tasks including budget, contracts, accreditation, master planning, customer service, as well as special projects. Duties assigned to this position include management of public records requests through JustFOIA and managing agenda items in eScribe.
PRCA provides a fast moving and exciting environment that provides integral services to our neighbors. Successful applicants for this position will be highly organized, be able to anticipate opportunities and issues, be detail oriented, be an effective communicator and be able to work on multiple projects/tasks simultaneously. They will also be technologically savvy and adaptive to changing priorities.
To be considered for this position you must take and pass the City of Gainesville:
- Excel
IF YOU HAPPEN TO FAIL YOUR TESTING, YOU MAY RETAKE THE TEST AS LONG AS IT IS BEFORE THE DEADLINE
To schedule testing please contact CareerSource North Central Florida by emailing Assessment@careersourcencfl.com your request. They are the test administrators and will be able to assist you with your assessments.
PLEASE LISTEN TO THE ENTIRE MESSAGE FOR INSTRUCTIONS
This testing is done online.
Testing is due by EOD 9/23/26
These are mandatory assessments and must be completed for further considered for this position.
Test scores are good for 1 year If you have completed testing in the past year, please ensure your scores are attached to your application before submission!!
THIS POSITION REQUIRES A DRIVER'S LICENSE
JOB DESCRIPTION
SUMMARY
This is advanced, diversified, often confidential and moderately complex administrative and staff work supporting a senior level manager who oversees diverse activities within their department. Duties require some independent judgment through the application of problem solving, decision making, dependability and initiative and the ability to process and resolve various departmental issues. Positions allocated to this Classification may assign and review the work of Staff Assistants and Staff Specialists. Duties must be performed at a high level of competence and require discretion and judgment with respect to matters of significance.
Positions allocated to this classification report to a senior level manager of a department with multiple divisions (who is a member of the Executive Team). Work is performed under general supervision and is normally reviewed upon completion. Work in this class is distinguished from higher classes by its lack of managerial responsibility and from lower classes by its coordination of administrative activities, latitude for discretion and decision making, supervisory responsibility and work of a confidential and sensitive nature.
EXAMPLES OF WORK
This section of the job description is not intended to be a comprehensive list of duties and responsibilities of the position. The omission of a specific job function does not absolve an employee from being required to perform additional tasks incidental to or inherent in the job. Performance of lower level duties may be required.
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS
Depending on area of assignment:
- Develops, plans, and oversees administrative details and coordinated workflow of assigned area.
- Serves as staff liaison to special committees and boards and represents the department by attending meetings or serving on assigned committees. Prepares meeting agendas, photocopies and/or assembles back-up documentation, mails packets to board and staff members. May take and transcribe minutes.
- Assists with the administration of department Progression-through-Training (PTTP) programs; prepares a manual of checklists, procedures and materials and reviews proposed actions to evaluate appropriateness and timeliness before forwarding to the department head for review.
- Assists with drafting, modifying, and interpreting operational and personnel policies, guidelines and administrative procedures applicable to department staff. Drafts and prepares agenda items for City Commission meetings.
- Handles inquiries, complaints, and requests; tracks issues and resolutions and provides assistance regarding specific matters within area of expertise in resolving complex inquiries and complaints.
- Assists in the proofing, drafting, and distribution of moderately complex documents. Prepares and makes presentations.
- Researches, reviews, gathers, compiles and maintains detailed and specialized information for reports and department work processes.
- Prepares reports for grant funded projects and monitors grant compliance.
- Maintains records, libraries, databases, tracking systems and files required in connection with department work processes.
- Assigns and reviews the work of Staff Assistants and Staff Specialists.
- Schedules, coordinates and maintains assigned calendars. Makes travel arrangements and prepares itineraries.
- Assists with planning and execution of meetings and department sponsored events.
- Provides oversight, maintenance and updating of the department’s intranet and/or internet sites.
- Sets work goals, objectives, and priorities.
- Works directly with department and division managers to facilitate completion of respective assignments and objectives.
- Monitors operation of and recommends repairs or upgrades to office equipment, coordinates repair or upgrade of new equipment.
- Acts as department Timekeeper; inputs department payroll into Remote Time Entry (RTE). Assists with the preparation, coordination and administration of department budget.
- Administers department purchase orders and VISA purchases, and prepares department bills for processing; requests information or supporting documentation from appropriate staff.
- Receives and screens visitors and/or telephone calls that require the use of judgment, tact, and diplomacy.
- Assists managers with confidential/sensitive materials related to labor agreements, political issues, personnel matters, and/or criminal records.
- Attends work on a continuous and regular basis.
NON-ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS
Depending on area of assignment:
- May perform tasks normally assigned to Staff Assistants and Staff Specialists as workflow and demands require.
- Performs other related duties as assigned.
QUALIFICATIONS
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential job function satisfactorily. Below are the required education, experience, knowledge, skills and abilities to perform the essential functions.
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
An Associate degree from an accredited college or equivalent vocational/technical training, and three (3) years responsible administrative and staff support experience, or an equivalent combination of training and experience which provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.
A Certified Administrative Professional (CAP) certificate or Certified Professional Secretary (CPS) certificate may substitute for an Associate degree.
An additional two (2) years of responsible administrative and staff support experience may substitute for an Associate degree.
Must type at a minimum speed of 35 correct words per minute or at a higher speed, as set by the department.
CERTIFICATIONS OR LICENSES
Licenses
If courier duties are required, a valid Florida Driver license with a safe driving record is required.
Certifications
A Certified Administrative Professional (CAP) certificate or Certified Professional Secretary (CPS) certificate is preferred.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES
Depending on area of assignment:
- Ability and willingness to use sound judgment, exercise discretion, and after evaluating alternatives, make decisions on matters of significance.
- Ability and willingness to carry out major assignments.
- Comprehensive knowledge of administration, organization, policies, practices, and programs.
- Demonstrated proficiency in relevant software and advanced computer skills.
- Thorough knowledge of liaison duties and responsibilities.
- Ability to function in a politically sensitive and volatile environment.
- Ability to organize and coordinate multiple assignments.
- Ability to work with general supervision.
- Ability to maintain confidentiality and respond appropriately to sensitive/confidential issues.
- Ability to resolve conflicts.
- Ability to understand and follow moderately complex oral and written instructions.
- Ability to resolve customer complaints and answer inquiries tactfully, courteously, and effectively.
- Ability to work effectively with co-workers and internal and external customers.
- Ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
- Ability to operate basic office equipment.
- Ability to perform administrative functions, including the ability to assign and review the work of other staff members.
PHYSICAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL REQUIREMENTS
To perform this job successfully, an individual must possess certain physical abilities and be able to withstand work related environmental conditions.
Physical Requirements
While performing the duties of this Job, the employee is often required to sit for prolonged periods of time.
WORK ENVIRONMENT
May be required to work and attend meetings outside regular business hours.
To be considered for this position you must take and pass the City of Gainesville:
- Excel
IF YOU HAPPEN TO FAIL YOUR TESTING, YOU MAY RETAKE THE TEST AS LONG AS IT IS BEFORE THE DEADLINE
To schedule testing please contact CareerSource North Central Florida by emailing Assessment@careersourcencfl.com your request. They are the test administrators and will be able to assist you with your assessments.
PLEASE LISTEN TO THE ENTIRE MESSAGE FOR INSTRUCTIONS
This testing is done online.
Testing is due by EOD 9/23/26
These are mandatory assessments and must be completed for further considered for this position.
Test scores are good for 1 year If you have completed testing in the past year, please ensure your scores are attached to your application before submission!!
Note:
- May Require Assessment(s).
- May fill multiple positions.
- May establish an eligibility list.
Come join our team! The City of Gainesville offers a competitive benefits package and opportunities to grow both professionally and personally.
All ‘regular’ employees are eligible for traditional benefits such as health insurance, life insurance, paid leave, 11 paid holidays a year, a pension plan and a deferred compensation plan, but we also offer great things like on-site fitness centers, tuition reimbursement, on-site medical staff and a wellness program to keep you healthy and happy. Please note; benefits are not available for temporary employees.
Equal Opportunity
The City of Gainesville is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer and does not discriminate in hiring. Minorities, women and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply. Individuals with a disability, who require special accommodations during the selection process, should notify the Human Resources Department at 352-334-5077 or TDD/TTY at 352-334-2292.
Veterans' Preference
Veterans are encouraged to apply. Veterans’ Preference ensures that veterans and eligible persons are given consideration at each step of the selection process. However, preference does not guarantee that a veteran or other eligible person will be the candidate selected to fill the position. Section 295.07, Florida Statutes (F.S.) specifies who is eligible for Veterans’ Preference. State of Florida residency is not required for Veterans’ Preference.
If you are unable to apply online due to a disability, contact recruiting at HR@cityofgainesville.org or by calling 352-334-5077.
OPT Government Job Roles in Florida
See all Government OPT Jobs in Florida
Sign up for free to filter by visa type, set job alerts, and find employers with verified sponsorship history.
Search Government Jobs in FloridaGovernment OPT Sponsorship Jobs in Florida: Frequently Asked Questions
Which government employers in Florida sponsor F-1 OPT visas?
Federal agencies with significant Florida footprints, including the Department of Defense installations near Orlando and Tampa, federal courts, and agencies like the U.S. Census Bureau and Social Security Administration, have historically employed OPT candidates. State agencies under Florida's Executive Office of the Governor and public universities like the University of Florida and Florida State University also participate in OPT hiring for research and administrative roles.
Which cities in Florida have the most government F-1 OPT sponsorship jobs?
Tallahassee concentrates the highest volume of state government roles as Florida's capital. Miami and Jacksonville host large federal agency offices and district courts. Orlando and Tampa have substantial defense and homeland security contractor presence linked to military installations like MacDill Air Force Base. Gainesville and Tallahassee also generate OPT opportunities through their major public research universities.
What types of government roles typically qualify for F-1 OPT sponsorship in Florida?
Roles that directly apply a candidate's degree field are the strongest fit for OPT authorization. In Florida's government sector, this includes IT and cybersecurity positions, policy research analyst roles, public health and epidemiology posts, environmental science positions with agencies like the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, and data analysis roles within federal agencies. Administrative generalist positions are less commonly approved unless tied to a specific technical degree.
How do I find government F-1 OPT sponsorship jobs in Florida?
Migrate Mate is a job board built specifically for international students and visa holders, and you can filter directly for government and public sector roles with F-1 OPT sponsorship in Florida. This saves significant time compared to manually reviewing employer websites. Because government agencies vary widely in their OPT hiring practices, using a focused platform that surfaces verified sponsoring employers is especially useful in this sector.
Are there any Florida-specific considerations for F-1 OPT candidates pursuing government jobs?
Many Florida government positions, particularly at the federal level and in defense-adjacent agencies, require background investigations or security clearances. F-1 OPT candidates who are not U.S. citizens or permanent residents are generally ineligible for positions requiring a clearance, which limits access to certain roles. Candidates should review position eligibility requirements carefully and prioritize state agency and public university roles, which tend to have fewer citizenship restrictions.