OPT Software Applications Engineer Jobs
Software Applications Engineer jobs are strong OPT matches because most require a degree in computer science, software engineering, or a related field, satisfying DSO specialty occupation documentation. STEM OPT extension eligibility is nearly universal for this role, giving you up to three years of authorized work experience.
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Get Access To All JobsDate: Aug 7, 2026
Req ID: 59028
Location:
Little Rock, AR, US, 72201
Category: DEPT OF FINANCE AND ADMIN
Anticipated Starting Salary: 66,458
Position Number: 22115036
County: Pulaski
Posting End Date: 8/21/2026
Anticipated Starting Salary: 66,458
Preferred Qualifications:
- At least Two (2) years' experience in developing training material on an application dealing with Finance, Budget, and/or Procurement (Preferably SAP or ERP related).
- Business process knowledge in general financial management including but not limited to: Accounts Payable, Accounts Receivable, General Ledger, Cash Management, Materials Management is highly preferred.
- Ability to absorb new technology & propose the creation of relevant training materials where feasible to improve state education and job readiness.
- Well versed in current versions of Microsoft products including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Visio, Outlook, as well as any experience in WalkMe, Joule, or any other type of LMS software.
- Ability to work multiple work items to targeted completion dates.
- Ability to monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of Learning management software systems and a commitment to ongoing professional development and staying current with industry best practices and advancements.
The mission of the Department of Finance and Administration is to provide Arkansas citizens convenient, effective, and courteous service which will encourage voluntary compliance with tax, license, and child support laws.
Job Series: Information Technology – Application Support
Classification: Applications Developer I
Class Code: IAS04P
Pay Grade: IST06
Salary Range: $66,458 – $108,431
Job Summary
The Applications Developer I is responsible for designing, coding, testing, and maintaining software applications tailored to meet the needs of agencies or end-users. Working as part of a development team or individually, the Applications Developer I collaborates with clients, analysts, and project managers in an attempt to translate business requirements into functional applications. The role requires proficiency in programming languages, knowledge of software development methodologies, and the ability to troubleshoot and optimize performance in a fast-paced environment.
Primary Responsibilities
- Analyze user needs and business requirements to design software solutions.
- Write clean, efficient, and well-documented code using programming languages such as Java, Python, C#, or JavaScript.
- Develop, test, and deploy new applications or features.
- Maintain and update existing applications to ensure functionality and improve user experience.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including designers, project managers, and quality assurance, to deliver high-quality software products.
- Debug and resolve issues in software applications to ensure optimal performance and reliability.
- Stay up-to-date with emerging technologies and best practices in software development.
- Provide support and training to end-users when needed.
Knowledge and Skills
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Excellent communication and teamwork abilities.
- Attention to detail and ability to work independently or collaboratively.
- Adaptability in learning and applying new technologies quickly.
Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Computer Systems Engineering, Information Technology, or a related field.
Proven expertise in at least one programming language and familiarity with databases such as MySQL or MongoDB may be required.
Experience in using frameworks such as .NET, Django, or React may be required.
Satisfaction of the minimum qualifications, including years of experience and service, does not entitle employees to automatic progression within the job series. Promotion to the next classification level is at the discretion of the department and the Office of Personnel Management, taking into consideration the employee’s demonstrated skills, competencies, performance, workload responsibilities, and organizational needs.
Licensure/Certifications
N/A OTHER JOB RELATED EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE MAY BE SUBSTITUTED FOR ALL OR PART OF THESE BASIC REQUIREMENTS, EXCEPT FOR CERTIFICATION OR LICENSURE REQUIREMENTS, UPON APPROVAL OF THE QUALIFICATIONS REVIEW COMMITTEE.
The State of Arkansas is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, age, disability, citizenship, national origin, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other status or characteristic protected by law.
ONLY COMPLETED APPLICATIONS WITH WORK HISTORY WILL BE ACCEPTED.
Applications must include complete work history and references. A resume may accompany the state application but will not be substituted for any part of the application. False, misleading, or incomplete statements may result in disciplinary action and possible termination.
Veteran Preference: A copy of a DD-214 must be submitted to the Hiring Official at the time of interview to be considered for Veteran Preference.
This employer participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S. If E-Verify cannot confirm that you are authorized to work, this employer is required to give you written instructions and an opportunity to contact Department of Homeland Security (DHS) or Social Security Administration (SSA) so you can begin to resolve the issue before the employer can take any action against you, including terminating your employment. Employers can only use E-Verify once you have accepted a job offer and completed the Form I-9. For more information on E-Verify, or if you believe that your employer has violated its E-Verify responsibilities, please contact DHS at (888) 897-7781 or dhs.gov/e-verify.
Date: Aug 7, 2026
Req ID: 59028
Location:
Little Rock, AR, US, 72201
Category: DEPT OF FINANCE AND ADMIN
Anticipated Starting Salary: 66,458
Position Number: 22115036
County: Pulaski
Posting End Date: 8/21/2026
Anticipated Starting Salary: 66,458
Preferred Qualifications:
- At least Two (2) years' experience in developing training material on an application dealing with Finance, Budget, and/or Procurement (Preferably SAP or ERP related).
- Business process knowledge in general financial management including but not limited to: Accounts Payable, Accounts Receivable, General Ledger, Cash Management, Materials Management is highly preferred.
- Ability to absorb new technology & propose the creation of relevant training materials where feasible to improve state education and job readiness.
- Well versed in current versions of Microsoft products including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Visio, Outlook, as well as any experience in WalkMe, Joule, or any other type of LMS software.
- Ability to work multiple work items to targeted completion dates.
- Ability to monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of Learning management software systems and a commitment to ongoing professional development and staying current with industry best practices and advancements.
The mission of the Department of Finance and Administration is to provide Arkansas citizens convenient, effective, and courteous service which will encourage voluntary compliance with tax, license, and child support laws.
Job Series: Information Technology – Application Support
Classification: Applications Developer I
Class Code: IAS04P
Pay Grade: IST06
Salary Range: $66,458 – $108,431
Job Summary
The Applications Developer I is responsible for designing, coding, testing, and maintaining software applications tailored to meet the needs of agencies or end-users. Working as part of a development team or individually, the Applications Developer I collaborates with clients, analysts, and project managers in an attempt to translate business requirements into functional applications. The role requires proficiency in programming languages, knowledge of software development methodologies, and the ability to troubleshoot and optimize performance in a fast-paced environment.
Primary Responsibilities
- Analyze user needs and business requirements to design software solutions.
- Write clean, efficient, and well-documented code using programming languages such as Java, Python, C#, or JavaScript.
- Develop, test, and deploy new applications or features.
- Maintain and update existing applications to ensure functionality and improve user experience.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including designers, project managers, and quality assurance, to deliver high-quality software products.
- Debug and resolve issues in software applications to ensure optimal performance and reliability.
- Stay up-to-date with emerging technologies and best practices in software development.
- Provide support and training to end-users when needed.
Knowledge and Skills
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Excellent communication and teamwork abilities.
- Attention to detail and ability to work independently or collaboratively.
- Adaptability in learning and applying new technologies quickly.
Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Computer Systems Engineering, Information Technology, or a related field.
Proven expertise in at least one programming language and familiarity with databases such as MySQL or MongoDB may be required.
Experience in using frameworks such as .NET, Django, or React may be required.
Satisfaction of the minimum qualifications, including years of experience and service, does not entitle employees to automatic progression within the job series. Promotion to the next classification level is at the discretion of the department and the Office of Personnel Management, taking into consideration the employee’s demonstrated skills, competencies, performance, workload responsibilities, and organizational needs.
Licensure/Certifications
N/A OTHER JOB RELATED EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE MAY BE SUBSTITUTED FOR ALL OR PART OF THESE BASIC REQUIREMENTS, EXCEPT FOR CERTIFICATION OR LICENSURE REQUIREMENTS, UPON APPROVAL OF THE QUALIFICATIONS REVIEW COMMITTEE.
The State of Arkansas is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, age, disability, citizenship, national origin, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other status or characteristic protected by law.
ONLY COMPLETED APPLICATIONS WITH WORK HISTORY WILL BE ACCEPTED.
Applications must include complete work history and references. A resume may accompany the state application but will not be substituted for any part of the application. False, misleading, or incomplete statements may result in disciplinary action and possible termination.
Veteran Preference: A copy of a DD-214 must be submitted to the Hiring Official at the time of interview to be considered for Veteran Preference.
This employer participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S. If E-Verify cannot confirm that you are authorized to work, this employer is required to give you written instructions and an opportunity to contact Department of Homeland Security (DHS) or Social Security Administration (SSA) so you can begin to resolve the issue before the employer can take any action against you, including terminating your employment. Employers can only use E-Verify once you have accepted a job offer and completed the Form I-9. For more information on E-Verify, or if you believe that your employer has violated its E-Verify responsibilities, please contact DHS at (888) 897-7781 or dhs.gov/e-verify.
See all 314+ OPT Software Applications Engineer Jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new OPT Software Applications Engineer Jobs.
Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding OPT Sponsorship as a Software Applications Engineer
Target employers with established visa sponsorship history
Companies that have filed H-1B visa petitions for software engineers before are far more likely to sponsor your OPT and future visa. Check employer sponsorship patterns before applying to avoid wasting time on companies that won't convert.
Apply before your OPT start date is imminent
Most hiring managers need eight to twelve weeks to complete interviews and extend an offer. Starting your search three to four months before your program end date gives employers enough runway to comfortably hire you.
Make your OPT authorization explicit in your resume header
Add a concise work authorization line near your name stating your OPT status and STEM extension eligibility. Software hiring managers scan dozens of applications and may skip yours if authorization status isn't immediately clear.
Emphasize your STEM OPT extension window in conversations
Three years of authorized work significantly reduces employer risk. Framing your STEM extension as a long runway before any H-1B decision reframes the sponsorship conversation from a burden into a reasonable planning horizon.
Align your portfolio with the employer's technology stack
Software Applications Engineers are hired for specific environments. Tailoring your GitHub projects and case studies to match the company's primary stack, whether cloud-native, embedded, or enterprise software, improves your interview conversion rate noticeably.
Prepare documentation your DSO will need for STEM extension
Your employer must submit a formal training plan using Form I-983. Knowing this in advance and discussing it with HR early prevents last-minute delays that could interrupt your employment authorization before the extension is approved.
Software Applications Engineer OPT: Frequently Asked Questions
Does a Software Applications Engineer role qualify for the STEM OPT extension?
Yes. Software Applications Engineer roles almost always qualify because they require a degree in computer science, software engineering, electrical engineering, or a closely related STEM field. Your DSO will confirm eligibility based on your degree and the employer's formal training plan. Most graduates in this field qualify without issue.
Can I work as a contractor or on a project basis while on OPT?
Yes, but with important conditions. Your employment must be directly related to your degree field and meet the minimum hours threshold, generally at least 20 hours per week. Short-term project contracts are permitted as long as each engagement is documented. Self-employment through your own LLC is also allowed if your work is degree-related and properly structured.
What should I do if my OPT application is still pending when I get a job offer?
You can accept the offer and set a start date after your OPT card arrives. USCIS processing times range from three to five months, so apply as early as your DSO allows, typically 90 days before your program end date. Do not begin work until your EAD card is physically in hand and the start date printed on it has passed.
How do I find Software Applications Engineer jobs where employers are open to OPT candidates?
Migrate Mate filters job listings specifically for OPT and visa-sponsored roles, so you're not manually screening hundreds of postings for sponsorship willingness. Searching on Migrate Mate surfaces Software Applications Engineer positions from employers who have already indicated openness to international candidates, which saves significant time during a period when your timeline is tight.
What documents should I have ready when a Software Applications Engineer employer asks about my work authorization?
Prepare your EAD card, your I-20 with OPT authorization notation, and your SEVIS ID number. If you are applying for a STEM extension, also have your degree transcripts and the completed Form I-983 training plan ready to share with HR. Having these organized before the question arises signals professionalism and prevents delays in the onboarding process.