Operations Engineer Jobs for OPT Students
Operations Engineer jobs are a strong fit for F-1 OPT students with degrees in industrial engineering, systems engineering, or operations management. Most roles qualify as STEM OPT extensions, giving you up to 36 months of work authorization. Employers in manufacturing, logistics, and tech actively hire OPT candidates for process improvement and systems optimization work.
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The AWS Hardware Supply Chain Security (HSCS) organization is looking for a Hardware Security Operations Engineer who has a passion for security and the curiosity to analyze and report conclusions on the integrity of AWS hardware at any stage in its life cycle. You will work with a team of professionals around the world to help assess and mitigate risks in partner manufacturing and logistics, contribute to new mechanisms for defense and response, and analyze the ever-shifting threat landscape to help us prioritize continuous improvement. You will have the opportunity to work in a supportive, collaboration-filled environment to build and secure the future of the cloud.
The HSCS organization exists to set the bar for AWS hardware life cycle security from design through end of life and drives durable mechanisms to meet requirements. If you have experience in areas such as modern semiconductor manufacturing and test, hardware/firmware analysis, or supply chain security your expertise is needed more than ever and we are interested in talking to you!
The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience diagnosing and troubleshooting electronics PCB assemblies, including proficiency with test equipment such as multimeters, oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, X-ray systems, shredders, and decap tools. They will demonstrate strong analytical judgment in interpreting test results and applying findings, supported by a solid understanding of hardware security fundamentals.
Key job responsibilities
- Ability to work independently on projects and understand the fundamentals of hardware
- Perform testing, automation, root cause analysis and generating engineering artifacts
- Develop and review SOPs for operation, equipment, testing and analysis
- Develop and review engineering reports with internal team and internal customer prior to publishing
- Complete engineering tasks using SOPs
- Collaborate with other engineers on daily work, asset management, and test procedures
- Drive a security mindset and provide guidance across all functions and operations
- Capability to audit and review operational activities (ie. - cycle count, physical security, inventory management, etc.)
- Focused on continuous improvement to improve automation and efficiency of operations
A day in the life
In this role you will help assess risks to AWS infrastructure by validating hardware security controls through inspection and testing of various devices across the whole lifecycle beginning with suppliers and ending in decommissioning. You will help implement, refine, and execute testing plans for projects exercising both simple and advanced testing techniques, oversee their execution, provide revision and follow-on testing, and perform analysis and reporting of the data. You will assist in refining and growing our capabilities to provide pinnacle protection to all of Amazon and its customers while working with fellow security professionals from across Amazon as well as supplier and data center operations teams to partner in keeping AWS infrastructure secure.
About the team
Diverse Experiences
Amazon Security values diverse experiences. Even if you do not meet all of the preferred qualifications and skills listed in the job description, we encourage candidates to apply. If your career is just starting, hasn’t followed a traditional path, or includes alternative experiences, don’t let it stop you from applying.
Why Amazon Security
At Amazon, security is central to maintaining customer trust and delivering delightful customer experiences. Our organization is responsible for creating and maintaining a high bar for security across all of Amazon’s products and services. We offer talented security professionals the chance to accelerate their careers with opportunities to build experience in a wide variety of areas including cloud, devices, retail, entertainment, healthcare, operations, and physical stores.
Work/Life Balance
We value work-life harmony. Achieving success at work should never come at the expense of sacrifices at home, which is why flexible work hours and arrangements are part of our culture. When we feel supported in the workplace and at home, there’s nothing we can’t achieve.
Inclusive Team Culture
In Amazon Security, it’s in our nature to learn and be curious. Ongoing DEI events and learning experiences inspire us to continue learning and to embrace our uniqueness. Addressing the toughest security challenges requires that we seek out and celebrate a diversity of ideas, perspectives, and voices.
Training and Career growth
We’re continuously raising our performance bar as we strive to become Earth’s Best Employer. That’s why you’ll find endless knowledge-sharing, training, and other career-advancing resources here to help you develop into a better-rounded professional.
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS
- Experience in a Linux or Unix environment
- Experience with lab safety, security and quality practices
- 1+ years of programming with at least one software programming language experience
- 2+ years of computer hardware experience, including troubleshooting and repairing experience
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Experience with general troubleshooting/debugging of hardware
- A+ or CND (Certified Network Defender) or Network+ or Security+, or COMPTIA A+, N+ or Sec+ certification
- 2+ years of data center, critical environment, computer hardware repair, infrastructure cabling, network deployment, or data center operations experience
- 2+ years of technical work with computer systems and technology components, or 2+ years of customer support experience
- AA or higher degree in Electrical/Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Information Technology, Electrical/Mechanical Engineering or equivalent professional experience
- 1-2 years experience with using equipment such as power meters, power supplies, oscilloscopes, soldering stations, fume extractors, bread boards, microscopes, x-ray machines, and pcb shredders
Amazon is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of protected veteran status, disability, or other legally protected status.
Our inclusive culture empowers Amazonians to deliver the best results for our customers. If you have a disability and need a workplace accommodation or adjustment during the application and hiring process, including support for the interview or onboarding process, please visit https://amazon.jobs/content/en/how-we-hire/accommodations for more information. If the country/region you’re applying in isn’t listed, please contact your Recruiting Partner.
The base salary range for this position is listed below. Your Amazon package will include sign-on payments and restricted stock units (RSUs). Final compensation will be determined based on factors including experience, qualifications, and location. Amazon also offers comprehensive benefits including health insurance (medical, dental, vision, prescription, Basic Life & AD&D insurance and option for Supplemental life plans, EAP, Mental Health Support, Medical Advice Line, Flexible Spending Accounts, Adoption and Surrogacy Reimbursement coverage), 401(k) matching, paid time off, and parental leave. Learn more about our benefits at https://amazon.jobs/en/benefits.
LOCATION
USA, KY, Hebron - 39.00 - 69.00 USD hourly
DESCRIPTION
The AWS Hardware Supply Chain Security (HSCS) organization is looking for a Hardware Security Operations Engineer who has a passion for security and the curiosity to analyze and report conclusions on the integrity of AWS hardware at any stage in its life cycle. You will work with a team of professionals around the world to help assess and mitigate risks in partner manufacturing and logistics, contribute to new mechanisms for defense and response, and analyze the ever-shifting threat landscape to help us prioritize continuous improvement. You will have the opportunity to work in a supportive, collaboration-filled environment to build and secure the future of the cloud.
The HSCS organization exists to set the bar for AWS hardware life cycle security from design through end of life and drives durable mechanisms to meet requirements. If you have experience in areas such as modern semiconductor manufacturing and test, hardware/firmware analysis, or supply chain security your expertise is needed more than ever and we are interested in talking to you!
The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience diagnosing and troubleshooting electronics PCB assemblies, including proficiency with test equipment such as multimeters, oscilloscopes, logic analyzers, X-ray systems, shredders, and decap tools. They will demonstrate strong analytical judgment in interpreting test results and applying findings, supported by a solid understanding of hardware security fundamentals.
Key job responsibilities
- Ability to work independently on projects and understand the fundamentals of hardware
- Perform testing, automation, root cause analysis and generating engineering artifacts
- Develop and review SOPs for operation, equipment, testing and analysis
- Develop and review engineering reports with internal team and internal customer prior to publishing
- Complete engineering tasks using SOPs
- Collaborate with other engineers on daily work, asset management, and test procedures
- Drive a security mindset and provide guidance across all functions and operations
- Capability to audit and review operational activities (ie. - cycle count, physical security, inventory management, etc.)
- Focused on continuous improvement to improve automation and efficiency of operations
A day in the life
In this role you will help assess risks to AWS infrastructure by validating hardware security controls through inspection and testing of various devices across the whole lifecycle beginning with suppliers and ending in decommissioning. You will help implement, refine, and execute testing plans for projects exercising both simple and advanced testing techniques, oversee their execution, provide revision and follow-on testing, and perform analysis and reporting of the data. You will assist in refining and growing our capabilities to provide pinnacle protection to all of Amazon and its customers while working with fellow security professionals from across Amazon as well as supplier and data center operations teams to partner in keeping AWS infrastructure secure.
About the team
Diverse Experiences
Amazon Security values diverse experiences. Even if you do not meet all of the preferred qualifications and skills listed in the job description, we encourage candidates to apply. If your career is just starting, hasn’t followed a traditional path, or includes alternative experiences, don’t let it stop you from applying.
Why Amazon Security
At Amazon, security is central to maintaining customer trust and delivering delightful customer experiences. Our organization is responsible for creating and maintaining a high bar for security across all of Amazon’s products and services. We offer talented security professionals the chance to accelerate their careers with opportunities to build experience in a wide variety of areas including cloud, devices, retail, entertainment, healthcare, operations, and physical stores.
Work/Life Balance
We value work-life harmony. Achieving success at work should never come at the expense of sacrifices at home, which is why flexible work hours and arrangements are part of our culture. When we feel supported in the workplace and at home, there’s nothing we can’t achieve.
Inclusive Team Culture
In Amazon Security, it’s in our nature to learn and be curious. Ongoing DEI events and learning experiences inspire us to continue learning and to embrace our uniqueness. Addressing the toughest security challenges requires that we seek out and celebrate a diversity of ideas, perspectives, and voices.
Training and Career growth
We’re continuously raising our performance bar as we strive to become Earth’s Best Employer. That’s why you’ll find endless knowledge-sharing, training, and other career-advancing resources here to help you develop into a better-rounded professional.
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS
- Experience in a Linux or Unix environment
- Experience with lab safety, security and quality practices
- 1+ years of programming with at least one software programming language experience
- 2+ years of computer hardware experience, including troubleshooting and repairing experience
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Experience with general troubleshooting/debugging of hardware
- A+ or CND (Certified Network Defender) or Network+ or Security+, or COMPTIA A+, N+ or Sec+ certification
- 2+ years of data center, critical environment, computer hardware repair, infrastructure cabling, network deployment, or data center operations experience
- 2+ years of technical work with computer systems and technology components, or 2+ years of customer support experience
- AA or higher degree in Electrical/Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Information Technology, Electrical/Mechanical Engineering or equivalent professional experience
- 1-2 years experience with using equipment such as power meters, power supplies, oscilloscopes, soldering stations, fume extractors, bread boards, microscopes, x-ray machines, and pcb shredders
Amazon is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of protected veteran status, disability, or other legally protected status.
Our inclusive culture empowers Amazonians to deliver the best results for our customers. If you have a disability and need a workplace accommodation or adjustment during the application and hiring process, including support for the interview or onboarding process, please visit https://amazon.jobs/content/en/how-we-hire/accommodations for more information. If the country/region you’re applying in isn’t listed, please contact your Recruiting Partner.
The base salary range for this position is listed below. Your Amazon package will include sign-on payments and restricted stock units (RSUs). Final compensation will be determined based on factors including experience, qualifications, and location. Amazon also offers comprehensive benefits including health insurance (medical, dental, vision, prescription, Basic Life & AD&D insurance and option for Supplemental life plans, EAP, Mental Health Support, Medical Advice Line, Flexible Spending Accounts, Adoption and Surrogacy Reimbursement coverage), 401(k) matching, paid time off, and parental leave. Learn more about our benefits at https://amazon.jobs/en/benefits.
LOCATION
USA, KY, Hebron - 39.00 - 69.00 USD hourly
How to Get Visa Sponsorship as an Operations Engineer
Confirm your role qualifies for STEM OPT
Operations Engineer positions typically fall under CIP codes for industrial or systems engineering, qualifying for the 24-month STEM OPT extension. Verify your degree field matches before applying so you can confidently discuss your full authorization timeline with employers.
Lead with your authorization window upfront
Tell recruiters you have 12 months of OPT with a 24-month STEM extension available. Framing your total authorized period as up to 36 months reduces concern about short-term availability and positions you as a longer-term hiring option worth sponsoring.
Target employers with existing E-Verify enrollment
STEM OPT extensions require your employer to be enrolled in E-Verify. Prioritize companies that already use it, particularly large manufacturers, logistics firms, and tech companies, so your extension isn't delayed by administrative enrollment requirements on the employer side.
Quantify process improvements in your resume
Operations Engineer roles are output-driven. Hiring managers respond to measurable results like reduced cycle times, cost savings, or throughput gains. Specific numbers from internships or academic projects demonstrate the analytical mindset employers expect and make sponsorship conversations easier to justify internally.
Pursue lean and Six Sigma certifications early
Lean Six Sigma Green Belt or similar credentials signal operational competency beyond your degree. These certifications are recognized across manufacturing, supply chain, and tech operations teams, making you a stronger candidate in competitive applicant pools where OPT status may otherwise raise hesitation.
Prepare a clear answer about your long-term visa path
Employers sponsoring OPT workers often think ahead to H-1B. Know whether your role qualifies as a specialty occupation and be ready to explain the H-1B timeline. Showing you understand the process reduces perceived risk and signals you are serious about building a career in the U.S.
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Get Access To All JobsFrequently Asked Questions
Does an Operations Engineer role qualify for the STEM OPT extension?
Most Operations Engineer positions qualify for the 24-month STEM OPT extension if your degree is in industrial engineering, systems engineering, mechanical engineering, or a related STEM field. The key is that your CIP code must appear on the official STEM Designated Degree Program List published by ICE. Confirm with your DSO before applying.
How do I find Operations Engineer jobs that sponsor OPT students?
Migrate Mate is built specifically for F-1 OPT students and filters jobs by sponsorship willingness, so you are not sorting through listings from employers who won't work with OPT candidates. Operations Engineer roles in manufacturing, logistics, and tech operations tend to appear frequently because those industries rely heavily on engineering talent and often have structured immigration support.
Can I work as an Operations Engineer while on OPT if my degree is in a related but not identical field?
OPT requires your job to be directly related to your major area of study, but it does not require an exact match in job title. A degree in mechanical engineering, supply chain management, or industrial engineering can support an Operations Engineer role if the core responsibilities align with your field. Your DSO makes the final determination, so discuss the role description with them before accepting an offer.
What happens to my OPT status if my Operations Engineer employer goes through layoffs?
If you are laid off while on post-completion OPT, you have a 90-day unemployment allowance across your entire OPT period. STEM OPT adds up to 60 additional days of unemployment. You need to report the job loss to your DSO immediately and begin your search. Exceeding the unemployment limit without a new job offer ends your authorized stay.
Do Operations Engineer roles at large companies offer H-1B sponsorship after OPT?
Many large employers in manufacturing, tech, and logistics do sponsor H-1B visas for Operations Engineers because the role generally qualifies as a specialty occupation requiring at least a bachelor's degree in a specific field. However, H-1B approval depends on the lottery, so timing your OPT period around the April filing window matters. Ask about sponsorship policy during the offer stage, not after you start.
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