I was wondering what is the situation about working for a company before you get your EAD, if you may work with them eventually?
Can you work in a voluntary/training situation, or are USCIS strict on working in any capacity before you get an EAD?
Also how long is the wait for the EAD? I sent mine in mid March.
Thanks.

There is a more detailed explanation, but the simple answer is that you are not allowed to work until you have your EAD.

I talked to my International Student Advisor about this (I arrived here on a student's visa). He told me that I may volunteer, but in order to avoid possible complications, I should make sure that

1) they do not pay me anything
2) they are not going to employ me later
3) I am not the only volunteer in the organization, while others who have similar tasks get paid
4) they have volunteers on a regular basis

I was unable to guarantee all these and decided not to risk.