OPT Python Developer Jobs
Python Developer roles are among the most OPT-friendly positions in tech. Most qualify as specialty occupations under F-1 OPT, and many employers actively hire for STEM OPT extensions, giving you up to three years of work authorization while you build your U.S. career in software development.
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ICF is seeking a software developer to be part of a talented, technical, and dynamic team. Our team excels in the delivery of technical competency and capabilities in dynamic resource constrained environments. The ideal candidate will support development and evaluation of machine learning cyber defense algorithms and resilience methods for resource constrained devices such as Unmanned Air/Ground Vehicles (UAV/UGV) in tactical environments. This work will include developing cyber defenses, supporting physical and network simulation of UAV/UGV platforms, and evaluating the resilience platforms in simulated tactical scenarios and field tests.
Key Responsibilities:
- Development of software using DevOps best practices within a team of scientists, software developers, and hardware engineers.
- Develop scenarios using 3D simulation/visualization engines such as Unreal Engine or similar to support dynamic evaluation of platform resilience.
- Documenting and publishing the results of tests in technical reports.
- Delivering progress updates, insights, and deliverables in technical briefings and demonstrations.
- Working in a multi-team development project.
Basic Qualifications:
- U.S. Citizenship and ability to maintain active DoD clearance.
- Must be DoD 8570 compliant and maintain required certifications for an IAT I appointment.
- Education: BS degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Physical Science, Information Science, Cyber Security, or Mathematics.
- Six (6) years of research or technical experience in a scientific or technical field relevant to requirements.
Additional Qualifications:
- At least 2 years of experience (3+ years preferred) using Python and Git.
- At least 1 year of experience with Unreal Engine.
- At least 1 year of experience writing code to interact with databases.
- At least 1 year of experience working inside Linux Environments.
- Experience or working knowledge with network simulation tools (e.g., ns-3).
- Strong knowledge of software development best practice.
- Ability to analyze, document, and publish technical reports based on testing.
Preferred Skills/Experience:
- Familiarity with cyber security principles and terminology.
- Familiarity with UAV/UGV operation.
- Familiarity with radio frequency science and electronic warfare techniques/terminology.
- Familiarity with research environments, e.g., scientific writing, technical writing, experiment design.
- Familiarity with DoD computing environment.
Bot and Third-Party Applications
Please note that this application must be submitted directly by the applicant for consideration. Failure to do so may result in the application being excluded for consideration. Applicants needing an accommodation for disability or religious purposes in connection with the application process should contact Candidateaccommodation@icf.com for assistance.
Working at ICF
ICF is a global advisory and technology services provider, but we’re not your typical consultants. We combine unmatched expertise with cutting-edge technology to help clients solve their most complex challenges, navigate change, and shape the future. We can only solve the world's toughest challenges by building a workplace that allows everyone to thrive. We are an equal opportunity employer. Together, our employees are empowered to share their expertise and collaborate with others to achieve personal and professional goals. For more information, please read our EEO policy.
We will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.
Reasonable Accommodations are available, including, but not limited to, for disabled veterans, individuals with disabilities, and individuals with sincerely held religious beliefs, in all phases of the application and employment process. To request an accommodation, please email Candidateaccommodation@icf.com and we will be happy to assist. All information you provide will be kept confidential and will be used only to the extent required to provide needed reasonable accommodations.
Read more about workplace discrimination rights or our benefit offerings which are included in the Transparency in (Benefits) Coverage Act.
Candidate AI Usage Policy
At ICF, we are committed to ensuring a fair interview process for all candidates based on their own skills and knowledge. As part of this commitment, the use of artificial intelligence (AI) tools to generate or assist with responses during interviews (whether in-person or virtual) is not permitted. This policy is in place to maintain the integrity and authenticity of the interview process.
However, we understand that some candidates may require accommodation that involves the use of AI. If such an accommodation is needed, candidates are instructed to contact us in advance at candidateaccommodation@icf.com. We are dedicated to providing the necessary support to ensure that all candidates have an equal opportunity to succeed.
Pay Range - There are multiple factors that are considered in determining final pay for a position, including, but not limited to, relevant work experience, skills, certifications and competencies that align to the specified role, geographic location, education and certifications as well as contract provisions regarding labor categories that are specific to the position.
The pay range for this position based on full-time employment is:
$81,499.00 - $138,549.00
LOCATION
Maryland Client Office (MD88)
Description
ICF is seeking a software developer to be part of a talented, technical, and dynamic team. Our team excels in the delivery of technical competency and capabilities in dynamic resource constrained environments. The ideal candidate will support development and evaluation of machine learning cyber defense algorithms and resilience methods for resource constrained devices such as Unmanned Air/Ground Vehicles (UAV/UGV) in tactical environments. This work will include developing cyber defenses, supporting physical and network simulation of UAV/UGV platforms, and evaluating the resilience platforms in simulated tactical scenarios and field tests.
Key Responsibilities:
- Development of software using DevOps best practices within a team of scientists, software developers, and hardware engineers.
- Develop scenarios using 3D simulation/visualization engines such as Unreal Engine or similar to support dynamic evaluation of platform resilience.
- Documenting and publishing the results of tests in technical reports.
- Delivering progress updates, insights, and deliverables in technical briefings and demonstrations.
- Working in a multi-team development project.
Basic Qualifications:
- U.S. Citizenship and ability to maintain active DoD clearance.
- Must be DoD 8570 compliant and maintain required certifications for an IAT I appointment.
- Education: BS degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Physical Science, Information Science, Cyber Security, or Mathematics.
- Six (6) years of research or technical experience in a scientific or technical field relevant to requirements.
Additional Qualifications:
- At least 2 years of experience (3+ years preferred) using Python and Git.
- At least 1 year of experience with Unreal Engine.
- At least 1 year of experience writing code to interact with databases.
- At least 1 year of experience working inside Linux Environments.
- Experience or working knowledge with network simulation tools (e.g., ns-3).
- Strong knowledge of software development best practice.
- Ability to analyze, document, and publish technical reports based on testing.
Preferred Skills/Experience:
- Familiarity with cyber security principles and terminology.
- Familiarity with UAV/UGV operation.
- Familiarity with radio frequency science and electronic warfare techniques/terminology.
- Familiarity with research environments, e.g., scientific writing, technical writing, experiment design.
- Familiarity with DoD computing environment.
Bot and Third-Party Applications
Please note that this application must be submitted directly by the applicant for consideration. Failure to do so may result in the application being excluded for consideration. Applicants needing an accommodation for disability or religious purposes in connection with the application process should contact Candidateaccommodation@icf.com for assistance.
Working at ICF
ICF is a global advisory and technology services provider, but we’re not your typical consultants. We combine unmatched expertise with cutting-edge technology to help clients solve their most complex challenges, navigate change, and shape the future. We can only solve the world's toughest challenges by building a workplace that allows everyone to thrive. We are an equal opportunity employer. Together, our employees are empowered to share their expertise and collaborate with others to achieve personal and professional goals. For more information, please read our EEO policy.
We will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.
Reasonable Accommodations are available, including, but not limited to, for disabled veterans, individuals with disabilities, and individuals with sincerely held religious beliefs, in all phases of the application and employment process. To request an accommodation, please email Candidateaccommodation@icf.com and we will be happy to assist. All information you provide will be kept confidential and will be used only to the extent required to provide needed reasonable accommodations.
Read more about workplace discrimination rights or our benefit offerings which are included in the Transparency in (Benefits) Coverage Act.
Candidate AI Usage Policy
At ICF, we are committed to ensuring a fair interview process for all candidates based on their own skills and knowledge. As part of this commitment, the use of artificial intelligence (AI) tools to generate or assist with responses during interviews (whether in-person or virtual) is not permitted. This policy is in place to maintain the integrity and authenticity of the interview process.
However, we understand that some candidates may require accommodation that involves the use of AI. If such an accommodation is needed, candidates are instructed to contact us in advance at candidateaccommodation@icf.com. We are dedicated to providing the necessary support to ensure that all candidates have an equal opportunity to succeed.
Pay Range - There are multiple factors that are considered in determining final pay for a position, including, but not limited to, relevant work experience, skills, certifications and competencies that align to the specified role, geographic location, education and certifications as well as contract provisions regarding labor categories that are specific to the position.
The pay range for this position based on full-time employment is:
$81,499.00 - $138,549.00
LOCATION
Maryland Client Office (MD88)
See all 56+ OPT Python Developer Jobs
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Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding OPT Sponsorship as a Python Developer
Lead with your STEM OPT eligibility
Python development falls under CIP codes that qualify for the 24-month STEM OPT extension. Tell employers upfront you're eligible for three years total. Many sponsors hesitate over short timelines, so removing that objection early changes the conversation.
Target companies with active H-1B filing histories
Companies that have previously sponsored H-1B visas for software engineers are far more likely to extend OPT and sponsor you long-term. Check USCIS H-1B visa disclosure data to identify employers with consistent sponsorship patterns before you apply.
Specialize in a high-demand Python stack
Employers sponsor candidates they can't easily replace. Depth in machine learning frameworks, cloud infrastructure, or backend APIs signals scarcity. Generalist Python skills are common. Specialization in Django, FastAPI, or PyTorch makes the sponsorship conversation much easier.
Apply to mid-size tech companies, not just big names
Large enterprises have slow hiring cycles. Mid-size startups and growth-stage companies often move faster, have more flexibility on sponsorship decisions, and actively seek Python developers. They're frequently overlooked by OPT candidates chasing household brand names.
Track your OPT end date and plan the H-1B timeline
H-1B registration opens in March each year, with an October 1 start date. Know exactly when your OPT expires relative to that cycle. If timing is tight, ask employers about cap-exempt institutions or alternative visa paths before accepting an offer.
Frame your work authorization clearly on your resume
Include a concise line stating your visa status, STEM OPT eligibility, and authorization end date. Ambiguity slows hiring decisions. Recruiters reviewing dozens of applications will screen out unclear candidates. Clarity signals professionalism and saves everyone time during early screening.
Python Developer OPT: Frequently Asked Questions
Does a Python Developer role qualify for the STEM OPT extension?
Yes, in most cases. Python Developer positions at software companies typically fall under CIP codes in computer science or information technology, which qualify for the 24-month STEM OPT extension. Combined with your initial 12-month OPT, that gives you up to three years of work authorization. Your employer must be enrolled in E-Verify to participate.
What types of employers hire Python Developers on OPT?
Software companies, fintech startups, healthcare tech firms, and data-heavy enterprises are among the most active hirers. Companies building machine learning pipelines, cloud infrastructure, or API-driven products rely heavily on Python and frequently sponsor OPT candidates. Migrate Mate filters job listings by OPT sponsorship status, so you can focus on employers already open to hiring you.
How do I know if a Python Developer job will lead to H-1B sponsorship?
The most reliable signal is an employer's past H-1B filing history for software engineering roles. Companies that have sponsored software engineers before are far more likely to sponsor you. Ask recruiters directly about their sponsorship track record during initial calls. Avoid employers who are vague or say they'll 'consider it later' without a clear process.
Can I work as a freelance or contract Python Developer on OPT?
Yes, self-employment is permitted on OPT, but it comes with strict requirements. You must be actively working in a role directly related to your degree field, maintain a legitimate business structure, and be able to document your work if audited by USCIS. Contract work through a staffing agency is generally lower risk than pure self-employment during OPT.
What Python skills are most valued by employers who sponsor OPT candidates?
Backend frameworks like Django and FastAPI, data engineering tools like Pandas and PySpark, and machine learning libraries like PyTorch and scikit-learn consistently appear in OPT-friendly job postings. Cloud platform experience with AWS, GCP, or Azure adds significant weight. Employers sponsoring visa candidates expect specialization, not just general Python familiarity.