OPT Linux Administrator Jobs
Linux Administrator jobs are open to F-1 OPT students with authorization to work in the U.S. for up to 12 months, or 36 months on STEM OPT. Most roles qualify under CIP code 11.0701 (Computer Science), making STEM OPT extension straightforward for graduates in CS, IT, or related engineering programs.
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Get Access To All JobsCompany Description
Artech is the 10th Largest IT Staffing Company in the US, according to Staffing Industry Analysts' 2012 annual report. Artech provides technical expertise to fill gaps in clients' immediate skill-sets availability, deliver emerging technology skill-sets, refresh existing skill base, allow for flexibility in project planning and execution phases, and provide budgeting/financial flexibility by offering contingent labor as a variable cost.
Job Description
- Deploys the release of new technologies as well as designs, installs, configures, maintains and performs system integration testing of PC/server operating systems, related utilities and hardware.
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Responsible for troubleshooting server problems as reported by users.
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Researches, evaluates and recommends software and hardware products.
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Supports Web access and electronic messaging services and maintains a secure systems environment.
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Provides new hardware specifications to users based on application needs and anticipated growth, installs new servers and maintains the server infrastructure.
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS
Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, or other related field. Or equivalent work experience. Typically has 3 - 5 years of IT work experience. Requires a high level of expertise in multiple system environments.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
Skills Required:
- Linux (preferably CentOS/RHEL)
- VMware
- Cobbler
- Hardware + break/fix
- Experience with data center moves/migrations a plus.
Candidates should have solid communication skills and be able to work in a team environment and independently when needed.
If you are interested, please contact:
Sophia
973-507-7563
Company Description
Artech is the 10th Largest IT Staffing Company in the US, according to Staffing Industry Analysts' 2012 annual report. Artech provides technical expertise to fill gaps in clients' immediate skill-sets availability, deliver emerging technology skill-sets, refresh existing skill base, allow for flexibility in project planning and execution phases, and provide budgeting/financial flexibility by offering contingent labor as a variable cost.
Job Description
- Deploys the release of new technologies as well as designs, installs, configures, maintains and performs system integration testing of PC/server operating systems, related utilities and hardware.
-
Responsible for troubleshooting server problems as reported by users.
-
Researches, evaluates and recommends software and hardware products.
-
Supports Web access and electronic messaging services and maintains a secure systems environment.
-
Provides new hardware specifications to users based on application needs and anticipated growth, installs new servers and maintains the server infrastructure.
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS
Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, or other related field. Or equivalent work experience. Typically has 3 - 5 years of IT work experience. Requires a high level of expertise in multiple system environments.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
Skills Required:
- Linux (preferably CentOS/RHEL)
- VMware
- Cobbler
- Hardware + break/fix
- Experience with data center moves/migrations a plus.
Candidates should have solid communication skills and be able to work in a team environment and independently when needed.
If you are interested, please contact:
Sophia
973-507-7563
See all OPT Linux Administrator Jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new OPT Linux Administrator Jobs.
Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding OPT Sponsorship as a Linux Administrator
Confirm your CIP code before applying
Linux Administrator roles typically qualify for STEM OPT under CIP codes 11.0701 or 15.1201. Verify your degree's CIP code with your DSO before applying, so you can confidently tell employers you're eligible for the 24-month STEM extension.
Lead with certifications, not just your degree
Employers hiring Linux Administrators want to see RHCSA, CompTIA Linux+, or LPIC credentials alongside your degree. Listing certifications prominently signals hands-on competency and reduces employer hesitation about sponsoring someone still in OPT status.
Target employers with existing H-1B filing history
Companies that have previously sponsored H-1B visas for IT infrastructure roles are more likely to sponsor you after OPT. Look for mid-to-large enterprises in finance, healthcare, and tech, where Linux administration is a core operational need.
Address OPT timing proactively in interviews
Many hiring managers misunderstand OPT. Come prepared to explain you can start immediately, work legally for up to three years on STEM OPT, and that the employer's only obligation during that period is completing an I-983 training plan.
Emphasize infrastructure experience that's hard to offshore
Roles managing on-premises Linux servers, network security, and hybrid cloud environments require physical presence and institutional knowledge. Highlighting this in your resume signals long-term value, making sponsorship investment easier for employers to justify.
Apply early relative to your OPT end date
Employers factor in onboarding time and H-1B lottery timelines. Applying at least six months before your OPT expires gives employers confidence they can hire you, transition you to STEM OPT if needed, and plan for long-term sponsorship without urgency pressure.
Linux Administrator OPT: Frequently Asked Questions
Do Linux Administrator jobs qualify for STEM OPT extension?
Yes, in most cases. Linux Administrator roles generally fall under CIP code 11.0701 (Computer Science) or 15.1201 (Computer Engineering), both of which qualify for the 24-month STEM OPT extension. Your degree field determines eligibility, not the job title itself, so confirm your CIP code with your DSO before applying.
How do I find Linux Administrator jobs that sponsor OPT students?
Migrate Mate is built specifically for F-1 OPT students and filters job listings by sponsorship willingness, so you're not wasting time on roles that won't work with your status. Linux Administrator listings on Migrate Mate are sourced from employers familiar with OPT and STEM OPT authorization requirements.
What does an employer need to do to hire me on OPT as a Linux Administrator?
For standard OPT, the employer simply verifies your EAD and completes the I-9. For STEM OPT, they also need to sign an I-983 training plan, be E-Verify enrolled, and provide mentorship aligned with your degree. Most mid-to-large IT employers already meet these requirements or can do so quickly.
Is Linux Administration considered a specialty occupation for H-1B purposes?
It depends on how the role is defined. Senior Linux Administrator positions requiring a bachelor's degree in computer science, information systems, or a related field typically qualify as specialty occupations. Roles where any general degree is accepted may face scrutiny. A well-scoped job description tied to your specific degree field strengthens the petition significantly.
Can I work as a Linux Administrator as an independent contractor on OPT?
OPT does allow self-employment, but you must be actively engaged in work related to your degree and be able to document it. Contract or freelance Linux administration work qualifies if it's consistent and degree-relevant. However, most employers requiring system access and security clearance prefer full-time W-2 employment, which is the more common and straightforward path.