J-1 Visa Senior Software Engineer In Test Jobs
Senior Software Engineer In Test roles in the United States are accessible to international professionals through J-1 visa sponsorship under the Trainee or Research Scholar program category. A State Department-designated sponsor organization issues your DS-2019, while the tech employer serves as your host organization. No lottery, no annual cap.
Find J-1 Visa Senior Software Engineer In Test JobsOverview
Showing 5 of 26+ Senior Software Engineer In Test jobs
See all Senior Software Engineer In Test Jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new Senior Software Engineer In Test roles.
Get Access To All JobsINTRODUCTION
Job Title: Research Associate
Working Title: Senior Research Associate - Qualitative
Open Date: 05/27/2026
Requisition Number: PRN45110B
Career Progression Track: A00
FLSA Code: Professional
Patient Sensitive Job Code? No
Standard Hours per Week: 40
Full Time or Part Time? Full Time
Shift: Day
Work Schedule Summary: Work schedule: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM. Travel, evenings, and weekends may occasionally be required.
VP Area: Academic Affairs
Department: 00162 - Educational Leadership&Policy
Location: Campus
City: Salt Lake City, UT
Type of Recruitment: External Posting
Pay Rate Range: $90,000-$120,000
Close Date: 07/23/2026
Priority Review Date (Note - Posting may close at any time): 07/01/2026
JOB SUMMARY
Lab Overview
The Prison Education Action Research Lab (PEARL) at the University of Utah advances educational justice for people and communities impacted by incarceration. Funded by an award from Ascendium Education Group, PEARL leverages evidence-based research to change systems and reduce barriers to postsecondary education for people directly impacted by the criminal legal system. PEARL’s anchor project, the Prison Education Research Initiative (PERI), is a first-of-its-kind multi-institutional longitudinal study spanning 21+ partner colleges and universities nationwide.
Position Summary
PEARL is seeking a Senior Research Associate (SRA) with deep expertise in and professional experience with multi-site, multi-methods qualitative research. The SRA will lead data integration, synthesizing qualitative findings with quantitative data in collaboration with the broader research team across PEARL’s research portfolio. This position will work in close partnership with PEARL’s Senior Quantitative Research Associate to design and produce research that is both interpretively rich and analytically robust. Alongside Center leadership, the SRA will mentor emerging researchers and help the Lab translate findings into scholarship, research briefs, technical reports, and presentations. The SRA will work under the supervision of the Lab Director.
We strongly encourage applications from individuals directly impacted by incarceration and punishment systems.
COMPENSATION AND TERMS
This is a grant-funded position within PEARL. The position is full-time and benefitted. Work schedule: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM. Travel, evenings, and weekends may occasionally be required. The Senior Research Associate may work remotely or on-site at the University of Utah with some travel required.
Responsibilities
- Provide intellectual and applied expertise across multi-PI research projects;
- Design and lead qualitative data collection, including interviews, case studies, site visits, and document analysis across multiple institutional sites;
- Develop and refine data collection instruments, protocols, and field guides appropriate to diverse institutional contexts;
- Maintain and manage qualitative data systems, including codebooks, analytical memos, and documentation of analytical decisions;
- Coordinate secure data transfers and compliance across states and data providers;
- Serve as senior liaison with stakeholders, including colleges, universities, state agencies, and community partners;
- Lead regular cross-site meetings to align stakeholders;
- Oversee IRB protocols, data transfer agreements, and compliance monitoring across multiple institutions and jurisdictions;
- Develop and present research results in the form of peer-reviewed manuscripts, technical reports, briefs, and presentations for both academic and practitioner audiences;
- Mentor, train, and supervise research staff and graduate assistants in qualitative methods and writing;
- Other research-related activities as assigned by the Lab Director.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
- PhD in education or a related social science field, or comparable professional experience demonstrating equivalent expertise;
- 5+ years of post-graduate experience leading qualitative research, including research design, data collection, data analysis, and reporting;
- Advanced proficiency with qualitative data analysis software (e.g., NVivo, Dedoose, Atlas.ti, MAXQDA, or equivalent); and working knowledge of Excel;
- A strong collaborative publication record, including peer-reviewed first-author work;
- Demonstrated experience leading multi-site and multi-stakeholder research projects, including those with multiple types of data;
- Advanced experience with design and integration of qualitative and quantitative research;
- Commitment to educational equity and justice, particularly for communities impacted by the criminal legal system;
- Excellent project management skills, including coordinating logistics, maintaining timelines, and communicating across diverse teams;
- Proven ability to work collaboratively;
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to write for both academic and public audiences.
PREFERENCES
- Familiarity with institutional, state, and federal postsecondary education data systems;
- Ability to relocate to Salt Lake City, UT.
SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS SUMMARY
Required Application Materials
- Cover letter (no more than two pages) that specifically addresses: interest in the position, disciplinary and methodological training, years of professional experience (post-terminal degree), at least one example of multi-site research leadership, at least one example of applied qualitative methods, and names of qualitative software with which you have proficiency;
- Curriculum vitae;
- Writing samples: One scholarly paper and one technical report (or equivalent) where you are the lead author or a major contributor;
- Names and contact information for three professional references who can speak to your research leadership, qualitative expertise, and collaboration skills.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
The University is a participating employer with Utah Retirement Systems (“URS”). Eligible new hires with prior URS service may elect to enroll in URS if they make the election before they become eligible for retirement (usually the first day of work). Contact Human Resources at (801) 581-7447 for information. Individuals who previously retired and are receiving monthly retirement benefits from URS are subject to URS’ post-retirement rules and restrictions. Please contact Utah Retirement Systems at (801) 366-7770 or (800) 695-4877 or University Human Resource Management at (801) 581-7447 if you have questions regarding the post-retirement rules.
This position may require the successful completion of a criminal background check and/or drug screen.
The University of Utah values candidates who have experience working in settings with students and possess a strong commitment to improving access to higher education.
Veterans’ preference is extended to qualified applicants, upon request and consistent with University policy and Utah state law. Upon request, reasonable accommodations in the application process will be provided to individuals with disabilities.
Consistent with state and federal law, the University of Utah does not discriminate based upon race, ethnicity, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, pregnancy-related conditions, genetic information, or protected veteran’s status. The University does not discriminate on the basis of sex in the education program or activity that it operates, as required by Title IX and 34 CFR part 106. The requirement not to discriminate in education programs or activities extends to admission and employment. Inquiries about the application of Title IX and its regulations may be referred to the Title IX Coordinator, to the Department of Education, Office for Civil Rights, or both.
To request a reasonable accommodation for a disability or if you or someone you know has experienced discrimination or sexual misconduct including sexual harassment, you may contact the Director/Title IX Coordinator in the Office of Equal Opportunity and Title IX (OEO). More information, including the Director/Title IX Coordinator’s office address, electronic mail address, and telephone number can be located at the: University of Utah Non-Discrimination page.
Online reports may be submitted at https://oeo.utah.edu
This report includes statistics about criminal offenses, hate crimes, arrests and referrals for disciplinary action, and Violence Against Women Act offenses. They also provide information about safety and security-related services offered by the University of Utah. A paper copy can be obtained by request at the Department of Public Safety located at 1658 East 500 South.
As per University of Utah policy 5-108: Transfer of Benefits Eligible Staff Members, a new hire to the University of Utah who is still serving a 12 month probationary period will not be hired into another University of Utah job (a transfer) until the successful completion of the probationary period.
INTRODUCTION
Job Title: Research Associate
Working Title: Senior Research Associate - Qualitative
Open Date: 05/27/2026
Requisition Number: PRN45110B
Career Progression Track: A00
FLSA Code: Professional
Patient Sensitive Job Code? No
Standard Hours per Week: 40
Full Time or Part Time? Full Time
Shift: Day
Work Schedule Summary: Work schedule: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM. Travel, evenings, and weekends may occasionally be required.
VP Area: Academic Affairs
Department: 00162 - Educational Leadership&Policy
Location: Campus
City: Salt Lake City, UT
Type of Recruitment: External Posting
Pay Rate Range: $90,000-$120,000
Close Date: 07/23/2026
Priority Review Date (Note - Posting may close at any time): 07/01/2026
JOB SUMMARY
Lab Overview
The Prison Education Action Research Lab (PEARL) at the University of Utah advances educational justice for people and communities impacted by incarceration. Funded by an award from Ascendium Education Group, PEARL leverages evidence-based research to change systems and reduce barriers to postsecondary education for people directly impacted by the criminal legal system. PEARL’s anchor project, the Prison Education Research Initiative (PERI), is a first-of-its-kind multi-institutional longitudinal study spanning 21+ partner colleges and universities nationwide.
Position Summary
PEARL is seeking a Senior Research Associate (SRA) with deep expertise in and professional experience with multi-site, multi-methods qualitative research. The SRA will lead data integration, synthesizing qualitative findings with quantitative data in collaboration with the broader research team across PEARL’s research portfolio. This position will work in close partnership with PEARL’s Senior Quantitative Research Associate to design and produce research that is both interpretively rich and analytically robust. Alongside Center leadership, the SRA will mentor emerging researchers and help the Lab translate findings into scholarship, research briefs, technical reports, and presentations. The SRA will work under the supervision of the Lab Director.
We strongly encourage applications from individuals directly impacted by incarceration and punishment systems.
COMPENSATION AND TERMS
This is a grant-funded position within PEARL. The position is full-time and benefitted. Work schedule: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM. Travel, evenings, and weekends may occasionally be required. The Senior Research Associate may work remotely or on-site at the University of Utah with some travel required.
Responsibilities
- Provide intellectual and applied expertise across multi-PI research projects;
- Design and lead qualitative data collection, including interviews, case studies, site visits, and document analysis across multiple institutional sites;
- Develop and refine data collection instruments, protocols, and field guides appropriate to diverse institutional contexts;
- Maintain and manage qualitative data systems, including codebooks, analytical memos, and documentation of analytical decisions;
- Coordinate secure data transfers and compliance across states and data providers;
- Serve as senior liaison with stakeholders, including colleges, universities, state agencies, and community partners;
- Lead regular cross-site meetings to align stakeholders;
- Oversee IRB protocols, data transfer agreements, and compliance monitoring across multiple institutions and jurisdictions;
- Develop and present research results in the form of peer-reviewed manuscripts, technical reports, briefs, and presentations for both academic and practitioner audiences;
- Mentor, train, and supervise research staff and graduate assistants in qualitative methods and writing;
- Other research-related activities as assigned by the Lab Director.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
- PhD in education or a related social science field, or comparable professional experience demonstrating equivalent expertise;
- 5+ years of post-graduate experience leading qualitative research, including research design, data collection, data analysis, and reporting;
- Advanced proficiency with qualitative data analysis software (e.g., NVivo, Dedoose, Atlas.ti, MAXQDA, or equivalent); and working knowledge of Excel;
- A strong collaborative publication record, including peer-reviewed first-author work;
- Demonstrated experience leading multi-site and multi-stakeholder research projects, including those with multiple types of data;
- Advanced experience with design and integration of qualitative and quantitative research;
- Commitment to educational equity and justice, particularly for communities impacted by the criminal legal system;
- Excellent project management skills, including coordinating logistics, maintaining timelines, and communicating across diverse teams;
- Proven ability to work collaboratively;
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to write for both academic and public audiences.
PREFERENCES
- Familiarity with institutional, state, and federal postsecondary education data systems;
- Ability to relocate to Salt Lake City, UT.
SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS SUMMARY
Required Application Materials
- Cover letter (no more than two pages) that specifically addresses: interest in the position, disciplinary and methodological training, years of professional experience (post-terminal degree), at least one example of multi-site research leadership, at least one example of applied qualitative methods, and names of qualitative software with which you have proficiency;
- Curriculum vitae;
- Writing samples: One scholarly paper and one technical report (or equivalent) where you are the lead author or a major contributor;
- Names and contact information for three professional references who can speak to your research leadership, qualitative expertise, and collaboration skills.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
The University is a participating employer with Utah Retirement Systems (“URS”). Eligible new hires with prior URS service may elect to enroll in URS if they make the election before they become eligible for retirement (usually the first day of work). Contact Human Resources at (801) 581-7447 for information. Individuals who previously retired and are receiving monthly retirement benefits from URS are subject to URS’ post-retirement rules and restrictions. Please contact Utah Retirement Systems at (801) 366-7770 or (800) 695-4877 or University Human Resource Management at (801) 581-7447 if you have questions regarding the post-retirement rules.
This position may require the successful completion of a criminal background check and/or drug screen.
The University of Utah values candidates who have experience working in settings with students and possess a strong commitment to improving access to higher education.
Veterans’ preference is extended to qualified applicants, upon request and consistent with University policy and Utah state law. Upon request, reasonable accommodations in the application process will be provided to individuals with disabilities.
Consistent with state and federal law, the University of Utah does not discriminate based upon race, ethnicity, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, pregnancy-related conditions, genetic information, or protected veteran’s status. The University does not discriminate on the basis of sex in the education program or activity that it operates, as required by Title IX and 34 CFR part 106. The requirement not to discriminate in education programs or activities extends to admission and employment. Inquiries about the application of Title IX and its regulations may be referred to the Title IX Coordinator, to the Department of Education, Office for Civil Rights, or both.
To request a reasonable accommodation for a disability or if you or someone you know has experienced discrimination or sexual misconduct including sexual harassment, you may contact the Director/Title IX Coordinator in the Office of Equal Opportunity and Title IX (OEO). More information, including the Director/Title IX Coordinator’s office address, electronic mail address, and telephone number can be located at the: University of Utah Non-Discrimination page.
Online reports may be submitted at https://oeo.utah.edu
This report includes statistics about criminal offenses, hate crimes, arrests and referrals for disciplinary action, and Violence Against Women Act offenses. They also provide information about safety and security-related services offered by the University of Utah. A paper copy can be obtained by request at the Department of Public Safety located at 1658 East 500 South.
As per University of Utah policy 5-108: Transfer of Benefits Eligible Staff Members, a new hire to the University of Utah who is still serving a 12 month probationary period will not be hired into another University of Utah job (a transfer) until the successful completion of the probationary period.
See all J-1 Visa Senior Software Engineer In Test Jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new J-1 Visa Senior Software Engineer In Test Jobs.
Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding J-1 Visa Sponsorship in Senior Software Engineer In Test
Align your training plan with SDET competencies
Your DS-2019 requires a structured training plan detailing the skills you'll develop. Map it to specific SDET competencies like test automation frameworks, CI/CD integration, and shift-left quality practices so the designated sponsor can approve it cleanly.
Distinguish Trainee from Research Scholar eligibility
Trainee status fits you if you graduated within the past 12 months or have relevant work experience under five years. Research Scholar applies if your SDET role is embedded in a university lab or R&D institute rather than a commercial product team.
Filter host employers by existing J-1 hosting history
Search for Senior Software Engineer In Test openings on Migrate Mate to identify U.S. employers who have hosted J-1 visa exchange visitors before. Prior hosting experience signals familiarity with DS-2019 obligations and reduces onboarding friction during the offer stage.
Verify the 2-year home residency requirement early
Some J-1 participants funded by their home government or working in fields on the Exchange Visitor Skills List must return home for two years after their program ends. Confirm your status with your designated sponsor before negotiating any post-program employment expectations with the host employer.
Request a formal host employer agreement before accepting
Your designated sponsor must execute a written agreement with the host employer before issuing your DS-2019. Ask the recruiting team to confirm this agreement is in place. Missing this step is a common delay in SDET J-1 placements at companies new to exchange visitor hosting.
Document automation tool proficiency for your visa interview
Consular officers assess whether your SDET experience genuinely requires U.S.-based training unavailable at home. Prepare documentation of your existing proficiency in tools like Selenium, Playwright, or Appium alongside a clear rationale for why the host employer's environment advances your skillset.
Senior Software Engineer In Test J-1 Visa: Frequently Asked Questions
Which J-1 program category covers Senior Software Engineer In Test roles?
Most SDET professionals enter on the Trainee category, which covers technical fields including software engineering and quality assurance. If your role is embedded in a university or federally funded research environment, the Research Scholar category may apply instead. The key distinction is whether your host organization is a commercial employer or an academic or research institution.
Who actually sponsors the J-1 visa for an SDET position?
The visa sponsor is a U.S. Department of State-designated organization, not your employer. Organizations like Cultural Vistas, AIPT, and InterExchange are designated sponsors that issue the DS-2019 form, approve your training plan, and monitor your program compliance. The tech company hiring you is the host organization, not the sponsoring entity. These are two separate roles filled by two separate organizations.
How do I find U.S. employers open to hosting a J-1 SDET?
Many tech employers are unaware of the J-1 host framework or have never structured an SDET role around a formal training plan. Use Migrate Mate to search for Senior Software Engineer In Test roles posted by employers with J-1 hosting experience. Targeting companies that have previously hosted exchange visitors significantly shortens the negotiation and paperwork timeline.
Can I transition from a J-1 SDET training program to an H-1B?
A transition is possible but depends on whether you're subject to the two-year home residency requirement. If the requirement applies, you must either complete the two years abroad, obtain a waiver, or remain ineligible for H-1B visa or permanent residence adjustment until it's resolved. Confirm your residency requirement status with your designated sponsor before any post-program employment discussions.
What does the training plan need to include for an SDET J-1 application?
Your designated sponsor requires a detailed Training Plan (Form DS-7002) outlining the specific skills, phases of training, and supervision structure for your SDET role. For software quality engineering positions, this typically includes sections on test architecture, toolchain exposure, code review participation, and performance benchmarks. Vague or generic plans are a common reason designated sponsors request revisions before issuing the DS-2019.