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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SUMMARY
Join our Connectivity, Cellular, and Satellite team to pioneer the next generation of Multi-Radio Coexistence (Coex). In this role, you will architect and optimize the intelligent real-time scheduling algorithms that allow concurrent wireless technologies—Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Satellite, Thread, Cellular and next-gen protocols—to operate seamlessly in tight shared spectrum without missing a beat. If you thrive at the intersection of complex radio architectures, concurrent resource arbitration, and world-class user experience, come build connectivity that enriches lives.
DESCRIPTION
As a Multi-Radio Coex Software QA Engineer, you will take an active, influential role in shaping wireless software and systems from concept to release. You will partner closely with development and systems teams across Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, Cellular, Thread, and Satellite to tackle critical coexistence challenges, prioritize concurrent traffic, and eliminate mutual RF interference. Beyond traditional testing, you will drive architectural enhancements, identify test coverage gaps, and design next-generation validation workflows—including developing and maintaining AI-based automation frameworks to scale testing across complex, real-world multi-radio scenarios.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
- Master’s or Ph.D. degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or equivalent practical experience.
- 2 to 5 years of experience in a Wireless Systems Engineering role or Software QA.
- In-depth understanding of Multi-Radio Coexistence (Coex) scheduling, real-time priority arbitration, and concurrent wireless behavior across technologies such as Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, Cellular, Thread, and Satellite.
- Hands-on experience testing and qualifying mobile devices and cellular/connectivity technologies under concurrent traffic and high-interference conditions.
- Deep understanding of Software QA methodologies, test plan creation, bug triage, and root-cause analysis.
- Proficiency in functional testing, with a strong willingness to engage in both manual exploration and automation.
- Proven track record designing, building, and maintaining robust test automation frameworks.
- Strong proficiency in modern scripting or compiled languages such as Python or Swift.
- Demonstrated ability to investigate complex multi-radio failures, prioritize by customer impact, and propose clear technical resolutions.
- Excellent communication skills with the ability to articulate technical concepts to diverse audiences across hardware, software, firmware, and performance teams.
- Proven ability to work under tight schedules and deliver reliable, high-quality results on time.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Demonstrated experience leading technical initiatives and mentoring team members in a fast-paced environment.
- Deep debugging and root-cause analysis skills in complex wireless communications environments (e.g., protocol analyzers, over-the-air sniffer captures, and system trace logs).
- Hands-on experience developing, integrating, or deploying Generative AI and machine learning tools to enhance test automation and data analysis.
- Proven ability to design, build, and maintain internal testing tools and diagnostic utilities that improve team-wide testing efficiency.
- Comfortable juggling concurrent projects across diverse engineering domains—such as Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, Cellular, and Satellite—while maintaining meticulous attention to detail.
- Exceptional interpersonal, communication, and technical documentation skills, with the ability to influence cross-functional roadmaps effectively.
- Highly inquisitive and self-driven problem solver who excels both independently and in close-knit, multidisciplinary teams.
COMPENSATION
- Base pay range for this role is between $184,700 and $277,600, and your base pay will depend on your skills, qualifications, experience, and location.
Apple employees also have the opportunity to become an Apple shareholder through participation in Apple’s discretionary employee stock programs. Apple employees are eligible for discretionary restricted stock unit awards, and can purchase Apple stock at a discount if voluntarily participating in Apple’s Employee Stock Purchase Plan. You’ll also receive benefits including: Comprehensive medical and dental coverage, retirement benefits, a range of discounted products and free services, and for formal education related to advancing your career at Apple, reimbursement for certain educational expenses — including tuition. Additionally, this role might be eligible for discretionary bonuses or commission payments as well as relocation.
Note: Apple benefit, compensation and employee stock programs are subject to eligibility requirements and other terms of the applicable plan or program.
Apple is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to inclusion and diversity. We seek to promote equal opportunity for all applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, Veteran status, or other legally protected characteristics.
At Apple, we believe accessibility is a fundamental human right. You’ll find that idea reflected in everything here — in our culture, our benefits and our digital tools. By welcoming as many perspectives as possible, we help you build a career where you feel like you belong.
Apple accepts applications to this posting on an ongoing basis.
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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.