Software Applications Engineer Jobs for OPT Students

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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Overview

Open Jobs620+
Top Visa TypeF-1 OPT
Work Type82% On-site
Salary Range$84K – $118K
Top LocationSan Jose, CA
Most JobsSchneider Electric

Showing 5 of 620+ Software Applications Engineer jobs

Qualcomm
CAD Software Applications Engineer
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Qualcomm
Added 3w ago
CAD Software Applications Engineer
Qualcomm
San Diego, California
Specialized Engineering
Electrical Engineering
Software Engineering
Engineering (Non-Software)
$140,000/yr - $210,000/yr
On-Site
4+ yrs exp.
Bachelor's

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Credo
Senior Software Application Engineer
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Credo
Added 2mo ago
Senior Software Application Engineer
Credo
San Jose, California
Software Engineering
Electrical Engineering
Technical Product & Program Management
$130,000/yr - $160,000/yr
On-Site
3+ yrs exp.
Master's

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Intel
Software Application Development Engineer
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Intel
Added 1w ago
Software Application Development Engineer
Intel
Hillsboro, Oregon
Software Engineering
Cloud & DevOps
Data Science & Analytics
Cloud Engineering
$100,550 - $194,270/yr
Hybrid
3+ yrs exp.
Master's

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Apple
Software Engineer Applications
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Apple
Added 5d ago
Software Engineer Applications
Apple
San Diego, California
Software Engineering
Backend Engineering
$171,600/yr - $258,100/yr
On-Site
None
10,000+

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Berkshire Grey
Software Engineer, Applications
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Berkshire Grey
Added 1w ago
Software Engineer, Applications
Berkshire Grey
Bedford, Massachusetts
Software Engineering
Specialized Engineering
Robotics Engineering
Backend Engineering
Base salary range $102k-$150k
On-Site
2+ yrs exp.
Bachelor's

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How to Get Visa Sponsorship as a Software Applications Engineer

Target employers with established visa sponsorship history

Companies that have filed H-1B 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.

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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.

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