OPT Software Systems Engineer Jobs
Software Systems Engineer jobs are among the most OPT-friendly roles in tech, with strong demand from employers already familiar with F-1 work authorization. STEM OPT extensions apply, giving you up to three years of work authorization. Most roles require a background in computer science, electrical engineering, or a related technical field.
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Get Access To All JobsINTRODUCTION
Wayne State University is searching for an experienced Systems Software Engineer I at its Detroit campus location.
Wayne State is a premier, public, urban research university located in the heart of Detroit, Michigan where students from all backgrounds are offered a rich, high-quality education. Our deep-rooted commitment to excellence, collaboration, integrity, diversity and inclusion creates exceptional educational opportunities which prepare students for success in a global society.
ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Basic Purpose:
Positions in the Systems Software Engineer job family are responsible for evaluating, selecting, installing, and maintaining enterprise operating systems and technical applications for assigned platforms including enterprise servers and networks and for serving as a technical resource on enterprise hardware issues. Incumbents interact with technical and business customers to provide training and expertise in the design of specific applications to ensure the optimization of the platforms or technologies involved. The focus of work is on the efficient operation of enterprise operating platforms to support customer applications and the effective use of hardware and operating software in new or enhanced applications.
Essential Functions:
The functions within the job family will vary by level and specific assignment but will include the following:
- Evaluate, install, customize, configure, and maintain enterprise operating systems including installing and testing new releases;
- Evaluate operating efficiency, analyze performance and tuning, and assist in capacity planning and DASD management;
- Analyze and troubleshoot operating problems to find problem areas and make fixes or work with the vendor for correction;
- Advise technical staff in complex applications development to assist in avoiding problems of incompatibility with software capabilities;
- Document changes to system functions and/or configurations for technical and customer reference; and
- Review and evaluate new or upgraded systems software packages and related hardware and make recommendations based on established standards.
Comments (Level Descriptions):
The Systems Software Engineer family has four levels:
Systems Software Engineer I
This is the proficiency level where incumbents apply their basic skills and expertise, typically with a specific operating system and platform. They perform routine assignments to complete system change and modification requests and assist higher level staff in all aspects of maintaining, updating, documenting, and monitoring the operating systems. Incumbents also provide continuing support for their assigned operating system, troubleshooting and resolving common immediate problems. Work is assigned to provide a broader knowledge of the technology supported and to develop a high level of creative problem-solving in preparation for qualification at the next level of the family.
Systems Software Engineer II
This is the career level where incumbents are fully knowledgeable in the operating system and platform supported and work as a part of a team to develop or install new systems software or supporting applications. The emphasis at this level is the incumbent’s ability to identify and resolve all but the most unusual operating systems problems quickly and with dispatch. While at this level, incumbents are increasing their knowledge and expertise in a complex operating system and platform or are expanding their capabilities in a second technology. They may also have specific assignments in areas such as performance tuning, security, disaster recovery, and the like to broaden their overall knowledge of their assigned technology.
Senior Systems Software Engineer
This is the specialist level where incumbents have full and specialized knowledge in their assigned operating system(s). This may be a single, highly complex system or multiple, less complex systems. Incumbents have primary accountability for the installation, maintenance, and operating efficiency of their assigned systems. They work with a high degree of independence, providing technical leadership and work review for less experienced staff. Individuals at this level are able to identify and resolve the most complex system-related problems and deal directly with key vendor service representatives. Their work is characterized by the rapid application of technical knowledge to increase the efficiency and operation of the platform(s) supported. Incumbents may also be a Subject Matter Expert for their assigned system serving as third-tier support for operating problems and technical consultant on complex applications development projects. They are key members of project teams for enterprise applications involving their assigned system.
Lead Systems Software Engineer
This is the leadership level where incumbents are recognized experts in a complex operating system and related areas such as network or database applications. Incumbents lead projects for major upgrades or installations, providing technical guidance and work direction to technical staff and ensuring that projects are completed smoothly and on time. Incumbents may also be a Subject Matter Expert for an enterprise-wide system, assisting in technology planning and serving as a technical consultant on enterprise applications development project teams. They may also have formal leadership responsibilities for enterprise-wide functions such as security, disaster recovery, and the like.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
- Knowledge of the specific operating systems, networks, and/or platforms supported;
- Understanding of the hardware supported including mainframe, servers, workstations, peripheral devices, and the like;
- Skill in the use of operating system software, companion software, utilities, and the like;
- High level skill in identifying and resolving technical problems and/or effectively communicating the problems to vendor representatives; and
- Ability to analyze complex operating problems, working independently until the problem is resolved.
Knowledge of operating systems software, platforms, and computer operations typically acquired through an undergraduate program in Computer Science with an emphasis on systems software or the equivalent and one to two years of related experience; and specific knowledge and experience in at least one related platform and operating system.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Familiarity with WheatStone WheatNet, WheatStream/StreamBlade and WheatStone Navigator
- Comrex and ZIPone remote audio equipment
- Enco Programs such as Digital Audio Driver, Cutserver, and NewDB
- AOIP equipment and software management
- Basic audio editing software (Adobe Audition and Audacity)
EMPLOYMENT TYPE
- Regular Employee
- Job type: Full Time
- Job category: Staff/Administrative
FUNDING/SALARY INFORMATION
- Compensation type: Annual Salary
- Salary hire maximum: $78,841
WORKING CONDITIONS
Job openings:
- Number of openings: 1
- Reposted position: No
- Reposted reason: None (New Requisition)
BACKGROUND CHECK REQUIREMENTS
University policy requires certain persons who are offered employment to undergo a background check, including a criminal history check, before starting work. If you are offered employment, the university will inform you if a background check is required.
INTRODUCTION
Wayne State University is searching for an experienced Systems Software Engineer I at its Detroit campus location.
Wayne State is a premier, public, urban research university located in the heart of Detroit, Michigan where students from all backgrounds are offered a rich, high-quality education. Our deep-rooted commitment to excellence, collaboration, integrity, diversity and inclusion creates exceptional educational opportunities which prepare students for success in a global society.
ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Basic Purpose:
Positions in the Systems Software Engineer job family are responsible for evaluating, selecting, installing, and maintaining enterprise operating systems and technical applications for assigned platforms including enterprise servers and networks and for serving as a technical resource on enterprise hardware issues. Incumbents interact with technical and business customers to provide training and expertise in the design of specific applications to ensure the optimization of the platforms or technologies involved. The focus of work is on the efficient operation of enterprise operating platforms to support customer applications and the effective use of hardware and operating software in new or enhanced applications.
Essential Functions:
The functions within the job family will vary by level and specific assignment but will include the following:
- Evaluate, install, customize, configure, and maintain enterprise operating systems including installing and testing new releases;
- Evaluate operating efficiency, analyze performance and tuning, and assist in capacity planning and DASD management;
- Analyze and troubleshoot operating problems to find problem areas and make fixes or work with the vendor for correction;
- Advise technical staff in complex applications development to assist in avoiding problems of incompatibility with software capabilities;
- Document changes to system functions and/or configurations for technical and customer reference; and
- Review and evaluate new or upgraded systems software packages and related hardware and make recommendations based on established standards.
Comments (Level Descriptions):
The Systems Software Engineer family has four levels:
Systems Software Engineer I
This is the proficiency level where incumbents apply their basic skills and expertise, typically with a specific operating system and platform. They perform routine assignments to complete system change and modification requests and assist higher level staff in all aspects of maintaining, updating, documenting, and monitoring the operating systems. Incumbents also provide continuing support for their assigned operating system, troubleshooting and resolving common immediate problems. Work is assigned to provide a broader knowledge of the technology supported and to develop a high level of creative problem-solving in preparation for qualification at the next level of the family.
Systems Software Engineer II
This is the career level where incumbents are fully knowledgeable in the operating system and platform supported and work as a part of a team to develop or install new systems software or supporting applications. The emphasis at this level is the incumbent’s ability to identify and resolve all but the most unusual operating systems problems quickly and with dispatch. While at this level, incumbents are increasing their knowledge and expertise in a complex operating system and platform or are expanding their capabilities in a second technology. They may also have specific assignments in areas such as performance tuning, security, disaster recovery, and the like to broaden their overall knowledge of their assigned technology.
Senior Systems Software Engineer
This is the specialist level where incumbents have full and specialized knowledge in their assigned operating system(s). This may be a single, highly complex system or multiple, less complex systems. Incumbents have primary accountability for the installation, maintenance, and operating efficiency of their assigned systems. They work with a high degree of independence, providing technical leadership and work review for less experienced staff. Individuals at this level are able to identify and resolve the most complex system-related problems and deal directly with key vendor service representatives. Their work is characterized by the rapid application of technical knowledge to increase the efficiency and operation of the platform(s) supported. Incumbents may also be a Subject Matter Expert for their assigned system serving as third-tier support for operating problems and technical consultant on complex applications development projects. They are key members of project teams for enterprise applications involving their assigned system.
Lead Systems Software Engineer
This is the leadership level where incumbents are recognized experts in a complex operating system and related areas such as network or database applications. Incumbents lead projects for major upgrades or installations, providing technical guidance and work direction to technical staff and ensuring that projects are completed smoothly and on time. Incumbents may also be a Subject Matter Expert for an enterprise-wide system, assisting in technology planning and serving as a technical consultant on enterprise applications development project teams. They may also have formal leadership responsibilities for enterprise-wide functions such as security, disaster recovery, and the like.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
- Knowledge of the specific operating systems, networks, and/or platforms supported;
- Understanding of the hardware supported including mainframe, servers, workstations, peripheral devices, and the like;
- Skill in the use of operating system software, companion software, utilities, and the like;
- High level skill in identifying and resolving technical problems and/or effectively communicating the problems to vendor representatives; and
- Ability to analyze complex operating problems, working independently until the problem is resolved.
Knowledge of operating systems software, platforms, and computer operations typically acquired through an undergraduate program in Computer Science with an emphasis on systems software or the equivalent and one to two years of related experience; and specific knowledge and experience in at least one related platform and operating system.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Familiarity with WheatStone WheatNet, WheatStream/StreamBlade and WheatStone Navigator
- Comrex and ZIPone remote audio equipment
- Enco Programs such as Digital Audio Driver, Cutserver, and NewDB
- AOIP equipment and software management
- Basic audio editing software (Adobe Audition and Audacity)
EMPLOYMENT TYPE
- Regular Employee
- Job type: Full Time
- Job category: Staff/Administrative
FUNDING/SALARY INFORMATION
- Compensation type: Annual Salary
- Salary hire maximum: $78,841
WORKING CONDITIONS
Job openings:
- Number of openings: 1
- Reposted position: No
- Reposted reason: None (New Requisition)
BACKGROUND CHECK REQUIREMENTS
University policy requires certain persons who are offered employment to undergo a background check, including a criminal history check, before starting work. If you are offered employment, the university will inform you if a background check is required.
See all 38+ OPT Software Systems Engineer Jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new OPT Software Systems Engineer Jobs.
Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding OPT Sponsorship as a Software Systems Engineer
Lead with systems-level experience
Hiring managers for this role want evidence you can design and integrate complex systems, not just write application code. Highlight projects where you worked across hardware, software, or networked components. Specificity about scale and architecture matters.
Confirm your STEM OPT eligibility early
Software Systems Engineering degrees in CS, ECE, or computer engineering typically qualify for the 24-month STEM OPT extension. Verify your degree CIP code with your DSO before applying, so you can accurately represent your authorization timeline to employers.
Target employers with active H-1B histories
Companies that have sponsored H-1B visas for systems engineers are far more likely to understand OPT and the transition path. Search by job title in Department of Labor disclosure data to identify which employers consistently sponsor this role.
Address authorization directly in your cover letter
Don't leave employers guessing about your status. State clearly that you have OPT work authorization and, if eligible, that you qualify for a STEM extension. Framing it as a three-year runway removes the main objection before the interview.
Emphasize cross-functional technical fluency
Software Systems Engineers routinely work with firmware, embedded systems, networking, or hardware integration teams. Candidates who can communicate across those boundaries are harder to find. Showcase any experience bridging software and physical or networked infrastructure.
Time your OPT application carefully
USCIS recommends applying for OPT at least 90 days before your program end date. A delayed EAD can push back your start date and complicate offers. Work with your DSO to submit early and keep documentation ready for employer onboarding.
Software Systems Engineer OPT: Frequently Asked Questions
Can I work as a Software Systems Engineer on OPT?
Yes, Software Systems Engineer is a qualifying role for F-1 OPT as long as the work is directly related to your degree field. Degrees in computer science, computer engineering, electrical engineering, and systems engineering all typically support this job title. Your DSO can confirm the connection between your specific degree and the role before you accept an offer.
Does a Software Systems Engineer role qualify for the STEM OPT extension?
In most cases, yes. If your degree is in a STEM-designated field such as computer science, computer engineering, or electrical engineering, you're eligible to apply for the 24-month STEM OPT extension. Your employer must also be enrolled in E-Verify. Combined with your initial 12-month OPT, this gives you up to 36 months of work authorization before needing H-1B or another status.
How do I find Software Systems Engineer jobs where employers are open to OPT?
Migrate Mate is built specifically for F-1 OPT students and filters for employers willing to work with candidates on OPT and STEM OPT. Searching there is more efficient than sifting through general listings where sponsorship willingness is rarely disclosed upfront. You can browse Software Systems Engineer roles and see which employers are already familiar with F-1 work authorization.
What happens to my OPT if my Software Systems Engineer job ends before my EAD expires?
F-1 OPT allows a cumulative unemployment limit of 90 days during the initial 12-month period, and an additional 60 days during the STEM extension. If your role ends, that unemployment clock starts immediately. You can continue job searching within those limits, but exceeding them means you fall out of valid F-1 status. Notify your DSO as soon as your employment situation changes.
Do Software Systems Engineer roles at defense contractors or government agencies create OPT complications?
They can. Some positions at defense contractors or government agencies require security clearances, and non-U.S. citizens are generally ineligible for most clearance levels. This effectively disqualifies OPT students from a subset of systems engineering roles. When reviewing job listings, watch for language like 'clearance required,' 'U.S. persons only,' or 'must be a U.S. citizen.' Commercial and private-sector employers typically have no such restrictions.