OPT C Software Engineer Jobs
C Software Engineer roles are a strong fit for OPT authorization, with most positions requiring a degree in computer science, electrical engineering, or a related field. Employers in systems programming, embedded development, and infrastructure routinely sponsor OPT students, and STEM OPT extension eligibility is nearly universal for this role.
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Get Access To All JobsJob Posting End Date
11-16-2026
Please note the job posting will close on the day before the posting end date.
Job Summary
Perform work associated with the installation, operation, testing and maintenance of all protection and control devices and related equipment under direct, immediate or general supervision. Such devices and equipment includes but is not limited to digital relays, electromechanical relays, intelligent electronic devices, Station Disturbance Recorders (SDR), digital fault recorders (DFR), oscillographs and event recorders, RTU's and station SCADA systems, statistical load metering, telemetering and transducers. Additionally, install, maintain and operate all power line carriers (PLC), tone, pilot wire, fiber and associated P&C communications equipment. Respond to emergency call-outs and coordinate prompt restoration of service to customers as required. This list is not intended to limit assignment of work or the degree of supervision under all operating conditions. Employee may perform miscellaneous, related, and incidental work in addition to that specifically outlined below. The following reference is provided as a guideline for persons responsible for directing the duties and responsibilities of assigned personnel, to assist in the safety and development of employees, and is not intended to limit assignment of work or the degree of supervision under all operating conditions:
- DIRECT SUPERVISION - When a qualified person is working with/hands-on with the person performing the designated task.
- IMMEDIATE SUPERVISION - When a qualified person is near the structure/equipment and is in constant visual and/or verbal contact to the person performing the designated task.
- GENERAL SUPERVISION - An employee of equal or higher classification, knowledgeable of the task at hand and not necessarily at the job site.
- QUALIFIED PERSON - P&C Electrician or Supervisor who is knowledgeable of the task or work to be performed, and is capable of performing the appropriate emergency rescue.
Job Description
AEP is seeking a P&C Electrician C to P&C Electrician A for the Texarkana Area.
Residency Requirements: Successful Candidate must live within a 30 mile radius of the Texarkana Service Center.
- Assist in the performance of acceptance and installation tests on protection, control, and measurement devices and associated equipment in stations.
- Test protection & control devices and equipment periodically and as required.
- Calibrate protection & control devices and equipment on a pre-established schedule and as required.
- Assist with diagnosis of trouble, mis-operation, or damage of equipment and assist with corrective action to affect repair and prevent recurrence.
- Operate a computer device to test, calibrate, and retrieve data from protection & control and devices.
- Assist in the installation, maintenance, and operation of all power line carriers, station SCADA, and associated communications equipment or cables as assigned.
- Perform switching under direct supervision of qualified personnel following direction of the proper operating authority.
- Assist in the installation, maintenance, and operation of any new and added equipment or systems as assigned.
- Maintain test equipment and automotive equipment in good working order so that work can be performed safely and efficiently anywhere throughout the System.
- Prepare and maintain accurate records, reports and drawings as required.
- Assist employees of equal or higher classification.
- Perform all duties in accordance with the Company's safety rules and operating regulations, NERC and environmental compliance, and practices.
- Perform similar or less skilled work as assigned.
Note: This position is posted at multiple grade levels and offers a range of opportunities for advancement. The minimum qualifications outlined below apply to the P&C Electrician C level, with increased educational, skill or experience requirements for higher level P&C Electricians.
What We're Looking For:
Education: Associate’s degree in electrical engineering technology, electronic technology, or related technology field.
Experience: No previous work experience required. Must have the ability and desire to acquire the necessary knowledge and skills to perform the duties and/or responsibilities of the key job (P & C Electrician A) in this family and be qualified through demonstration, examination and/or performance appraisal as determined by the Company. Considerable travel and overtime may be required to complete work assignments. Must successfully complete Physical Abilities Test (PAT).
License/Certification: Must possess and maintain a valid state driver’s license and must meet all vehicle operation requirements as designated by federal and/or state law.
Other:
- Minimum Requirements: Amount of weight lifted from floor/ground to waist level: 60 pounds. Amount of weight to be carried for 20 feet: 50 pounds.
- Amount of weight lifted to chest level: 30 pounds. Amount of weight lifted to eye level: 30 pounds.
- Distance to walk accumulated over the course of an 8 hour shift: 1 mile.
- Distance in feet to climb and work on a ladder/structure: 20 feet and higher.
- Distance in feet to ascend to and work in a bucket/lift: 100 feet and higher (tested at 60 feet).
- Ability to discriminate between colors: Yes (tested).
Competencies
- Technical Proficiency: Possesses technical knowledge acquired from an Associate Degree in Electrical/Electronic Engineering Technology. Gains knowledge of standards, codes, and regulations relevant to area of assignment. Gains knowledge with pertinent equipment, material, systems, and business processes. Assists employees in handling defined portions of routine problems when beneficial to AEP. Possesses basic computer literacy, knowledge, and skills.
- Leadership and Guidance: Performs work activities as assigned and coached by higher level employees. Demonstrates ability to work with others in supplying information and seeking assistance as necessary.
- Planning and Organization Ability: Plans work in accordance with AEP standard planning practices. Prioritizes routine work to meet the demands of the company. Maintains accurate records.
- Problem-Solving and Initiative: Applies technical knowledge and experience in resolving problems encountered in assigned work. Uses initiative in looking for opportunities to improve the process and increase job knowledge/technical skills. Seeks out, compiles, analyzes, and interprets information necessary to perform work activities and solve problems.
- Communications and Interpersonal Skills: Communicates effectively, both orally and in writing with internal and external customers. Assists in the preparation of technical reports and papers. Demonstrates the ability to be a team player. Relates to people in an open, friendly, and sincere manner.
- Decision Making and Business Awareness Characteristics: Develops decision-making skills based on sound judgment and job knowledge. Develops an understanding of the roles and responsibilities of the local organizational unit.
What You'll Get
In addition to a competitive compensation, AEP offers a unique comprehensive benefits package that aims to support and enhance the overall well-being of our employees.
Where Putting the Customer First Powers Everything We Do
At AEP, we’re more than just an energy company — we’re a team of dedicated professionals committed to delivering safe, reliable, and innovative energy solutions. Guided by our mission to put the customer first, we strive to exceed expectations by listening, responding, and continuously improving the way we serve our communities. If you're passionate about making a meaningful impact and being part of a forward-thinking organization, this is the company for you!
Compensation Data
Compensation Grade: U073-R29
Compensation Range: $37.50 - $62.38
The Physical Demand Level for this job is: H – Heavy Work: Exerting 50 to 100 pounds of force occasionally, and/or 25 to 50 pounds of force frequently, and/or greater than negligible up to 10-20 pounds of force constantly to move objects. Physical demand requirements are in excess of those for Medium Work.
It is hereby reaffirmed that it is the policy of American Electric Power (AEP) to provide Equal Employment Opportunity in all respects of the employer-employee relationship including recruiting, hiring, upgrading and promotion, conditions and privileges of employment, company sponsored training programs, educational assistance, social and recreational programs, compensation, benefits, transfers, discipline, layoffs and termination of employment to all employees and applicants without discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), national origin, age, veteran or military status, disability, genetic information, or any other basis prohibited by applicable law. When required by law, we might record certain information or applicants for employment may be invited to voluntarily disclose protected characteristics.
Job Posting End Date
11-16-2026
Please note the job posting will close on the day before the posting end date.
Job Summary
Perform work associated with the installation, operation, testing and maintenance of all protection and control devices and related equipment under direct, immediate or general supervision. Such devices and equipment includes but is not limited to digital relays, electromechanical relays, intelligent electronic devices, Station Disturbance Recorders (SDR), digital fault recorders (DFR), oscillographs and event recorders, RTU's and station SCADA systems, statistical load metering, telemetering and transducers. Additionally, install, maintain and operate all power line carriers (PLC), tone, pilot wire, fiber and associated P&C communications equipment. Respond to emergency call-outs and coordinate prompt restoration of service to customers as required. This list is not intended to limit assignment of work or the degree of supervision under all operating conditions. Employee may perform miscellaneous, related, and incidental work in addition to that specifically outlined below. The following reference is provided as a guideline for persons responsible for directing the duties and responsibilities of assigned personnel, to assist in the safety and development of employees, and is not intended to limit assignment of work or the degree of supervision under all operating conditions:
- DIRECT SUPERVISION - When a qualified person is working with/hands-on with the person performing the designated task.
- IMMEDIATE SUPERVISION - When a qualified person is near the structure/equipment and is in constant visual and/or verbal contact to the person performing the designated task.
- GENERAL SUPERVISION - An employee of equal or higher classification, knowledgeable of the task at hand and not necessarily at the job site.
- QUALIFIED PERSON - P&C Electrician or Supervisor who is knowledgeable of the task or work to be performed, and is capable of performing the appropriate emergency rescue.
Job Description
AEP is seeking a P&C Electrician C to P&C Electrician A for the Texarkana Area.
Residency Requirements: Successful Candidate must live within a 30 mile radius of the Texarkana Service Center.
- Assist in the performance of acceptance and installation tests on protection, control, and measurement devices and associated equipment in stations.
- Test protection & control devices and equipment periodically and as required.
- Calibrate protection & control devices and equipment on a pre-established schedule and as required.
- Assist with diagnosis of trouble, mis-operation, or damage of equipment and assist with corrective action to affect repair and prevent recurrence.
- Operate a computer device to test, calibrate, and retrieve data from protection & control and devices.
- Assist in the installation, maintenance, and operation of all power line carriers, station SCADA, and associated communications equipment or cables as assigned.
- Perform switching under direct supervision of qualified personnel following direction of the proper operating authority.
- Assist in the installation, maintenance, and operation of any new and added equipment or systems as assigned.
- Maintain test equipment and automotive equipment in good working order so that work can be performed safely and efficiently anywhere throughout the System.
- Prepare and maintain accurate records, reports and drawings as required.
- Assist employees of equal or higher classification.
- Perform all duties in accordance with the Company's safety rules and operating regulations, NERC and environmental compliance, and practices.
- Perform similar or less skilled work as assigned.
Note: This position is posted at multiple grade levels and offers a range of opportunities for advancement. The minimum qualifications outlined below apply to the P&C Electrician C level, with increased educational, skill or experience requirements for higher level P&C Electricians.
What We're Looking For:
Education: Associate’s degree in electrical engineering technology, electronic technology, or related technology field.
Experience: No previous work experience required. Must have the ability and desire to acquire the necessary knowledge and skills to perform the duties and/or responsibilities of the key job (P & C Electrician A) in this family and be qualified through demonstration, examination and/or performance appraisal as determined by the Company. Considerable travel and overtime may be required to complete work assignments. Must successfully complete Physical Abilities Test (PAT).
License/Certification: Must possess and maintain a valid state driver’s license and must meet all vehicle operation requirements as designated by federal and/or state law.
Other:
- Minimum Requirements: Amount of weight lifted from floor/ground to waist level: 60 pounds. Amount of weight to be carried for 20 feet: 50 pounds.
- Amount of weight lifted to chest level: 30 pounds. Amount of weight lifted to eye level: 30 pounds.
- Distance to walk accumulated over the course of an 8 hour shift: 1 mile.
- Distance in feet to climb and work on a ladder/structure: 20 feet and higher.
- Distance in feet to ascend to and work in a bucket/lift: 100 feet and higher (tested at 60 feet).
- Ability to discriminate between colors: Yes (tested).
Competencies
- Technical Proficiency: Possesses technical knowledge acquired from an Associate Degree in Electrical/Electronic Engineering Technology. Gains knowledge of standards, codes, and regulations relevant to area of assignment. Gains knowledge with pertinent equipment, material, systems, and business processes. Assists employees in handling defined portions of routine problems when beneficial to AEP. Possesses basic computer literacy, knowledge, and skills.
- Leadership and Guidance: Performs work activities as assigned and coached by higher level employees. Demonstrates ability to work with others in supplying information and seeking assistance as necessary.
- Planning and Organization Ability: Plans work in accordance with AEP standard planning practices. Prioritizes routine work to meet the demands of the company. Maintains accurate records.
- Problem-Solving and Initiative: Applies technical knowledge and experience in resolving problems encountered in assigned work. Uses initiative in looking for opportunities to improve the process and increase job knowledge/technical skills. Seeks out, compiles, analyzes, and interprets information necessary to perform work activities and solve problems.
- Communications and Interpersonal Skills: Communicates effectively, both orally and in writing with internal and external customers. Assists in the preparation of technical reports and papers. Demonstrates the ability to be a team player. Relates to people in an open, friendly, and sincere manner.
- Decision Making and Business Awareness Characteristics: Develops decision-making skills based on sound judgment and job knowledge. Develops an understanding of the roles and responsibilities of the local organizational unit.
What You'll Get
In addition to a competitive compensation, AEP offers a unique comprehensive benefits package that aims to support and enhance the overall well-being of our employees.
Where Putting the Customer First Powers Everything We Do
At AEP, we’re more than just an energy company — we’re a team of dedicated professionals committed to delivering safe, reliable, and innovative energy solutions. Guided by our mission to put the customer first, we strive to exceed expectations by listening, responding, and continuously improving the way we serve our communities. If you're passionate about making a meaningful impact and being part of a forward-thinking organization, this is the company for you!
Compensation Data
Compensation Grade: U073-R29
Compensation Range: $37.50 - $62.38
The Physical Demand Level for this job is: H – Heavy Work: Exerting 50 to 100 pounds of force occasionally, and/or 25 to 50 pounds of force frequently, and/or greater than negligible up to 10-20 pounds of force constantly to move objects. Physical demand requirements are in excess of those for Medium Work.
It is hereby reaffirmed that it is the policy of American Electric Power (AEP) to provide Equal Employment Opportunity in all respects of the employer-employee relationship including recruiting, hiring, upgrading and promotion, conditions and privileges of employment, company sponsored training programs, educational assistance, social and recreational programs, compensation, benefits, transfers, discipline, layoffs and termination of employment to all employees and applicants without discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), national origin, age, veteran or military status, disability, genetic information, or any other basis prohibited by applicable law. When required by law, we might record certain information or applicants for employment may be invited to voluntarily disclose protected characteristics.
See all 159+ OPT C Software Engineer Jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new OPT C Software Engineer Jobs.
Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding OPT Sponsorship as a C Software Engineer
Lead with systems-level experience
Hiring managers for C roles prioritize demonstrated experience with memory management, pointers, and low-level system calls. Highlight projects involving operating systems, device drivers, or embedded firmware to stand out from candidates with only higher-level language backgrounds.
Confirm your STEM OPT extension eligibility early
C Software Engineer roles almost always fall under qualifying STEM fields, giving you up to 36 months of work authorization. Verify your degree CIP code with your DSO before interviews so you can confidently discuss your full authorization timeline with employers.
Target industries with high C usage
Embedded systems, aerospace, defense, telecommunications, and operating system development are the heaviest users of C. Companies like chip manufacturers, automotive software vendors, and network hardware firms are far more accustomed to OPT sponsorship than general software shops.
Prepare to discuss OPT mechanics clearly
Employers unfamiliar with OPT often conflate it with H-1B visa sponsorship. Be ready to explain that OPT requires no employer petition, no filing fees, and no lottery, which removes the primary barriers that make smaller companies hesitant to hire international candidates.
Showcase open-source or portfolio projects in C
Public GitHub repositories with C projects, such as a custom memory allocator, shell implementation, or network socket library, serve as concrete proof of skill. Reviewers screening for systems engineers weigh working code heavily, especially when you have limited U.S. work history.
Address the 90-day unemployment limit proactively
OPT allows a maximum of 90 days of unemployment, and job searching takes time. Start your search several months before graduation, and document any volunteer or part-time C development work to demonstrate continuous engagement in your field during your authorized period.
C Software Engineer OPT: Frequently Asked Questions
Do C Software Engineer employers commonly hire OPT students?
Yes, particularly in embedded systems, telecommunications, and infrastructure software. These industries rely heavily on C and have consistent hiring pipelines for international candidates. Many employers in these sectors are familiar with OPT mechanics and treat it as standard work authorization. You can browse OPT-friendly C Software Engineer openings directly on Migrate Mate.
Does a C Software Engineer role qualify for the STEM OPT extension?
In most cases, yes. If your degree is in computer science, computer engineering, electrical engineering, or a closely related STEM field, your role will almost certainly qualify. The 24-month STEM extension brings your total OPT authorization to 36 months. Confirm your degree's CIP code with your DSO to make sure your specific program is on the STEM designated degree program list.
Can I work on C projects as a contractor or through a staffing agency on OPT?
Yes, with conditions. OPT permits contract and staffing agency work as long as the work is directly related to your degree field and you are actively supervised and engaged in qualifying employment. Unpaid arrangements do not count toward your authorized period. Make sure any contract role involves actual C development work, not peripheral or administrative duties.
What should I do if my OPT expires before I receive an H-1B approval?
If your employer files an H-1B petition before your OPT expires and you receive a receipt notice, you may be eligible for a cap-gap extension that bridges your status through September 30 of that fiscal year. This allows you to keep working legally in your C Software Engineer role without interruption. Your DSO can update your SEVIS record once the petition is received.
How do I document my C Software Engineer employment correctly for OPT compliance?
You must report your employer, job title, and start date to your DSO within 10 days of starting work, and your DSO updates your SEVIS record accordingly. Keep copies of your offer letter, pay stubs, and employment verification documents. For contract roles, a statement from the agency or client confirming your C development duties is useful documentation in case of a USCIS review.