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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INTRODUCTION
This role has been designed as 'Hybrid' with a requirement that you will work on average 2 days per week from an HPE office.
Who We Are:
Hewlett Packard Enterprise is the global edge-to-cloud company advancing the way people live and work. We help companies connect, protect, analyze, and act on their data and applications wherever they live, from edge to cloud, so they can turn insights into outcomes at the speed required to thrive in today’s complex world. Our culture thrives on finding new and better ways to accelerate what’s next. We know varied backgrounds are valued and succeed here. We have the flexibility to manage our work and personal needs. We make bold moves, together, and are a force for good. If you are looking to stretch and grow your career our culture will embrace you. Open up opportunities with HPE.
Job Description:
Job Family Definition:
Designs, analyzes, develops, modifies and evaluates VLSI components and hardware systems. Determines architecture and logic design, design verification through software developed for component and system simulation, and builds physical implementations through development of multidimensional designs involving the layout of complex integrated circuits. Analyzes designs to establish operating data, conducts experimental tests and evaluates results to enable prototype and production VLSI solutions. May direct support personnel in the preparation of detailed design, design testing and prototype fabrication.
Management Level Definition:
Contributes to assignments of limited scope by applying technical concepts and theoretical knowledge acquired through specialized training, education, or previous experience. Acts as team member by providing information, analysis and recommendations in support of team efforts. Exercises independent judgment within defined parameters.
Responsibilities:
- Designs portions of computer/server architecture and algorithms based on established VLSI engineering principles and in accordance with provided specifications and requirements.
- Collaborates and communicates with management regarding design status, project progress, and issue resolution.
- Designs, simulates, and tests VLSI circuits. Ensures the VLSI designs meet quality, schedule, and cost goals for prototype or production solutions.
- Participates as a member of project team of other VLSI engineers and internal and outsourced development partners to develop reliable, cost effective and high quality solutions for VLSI prototypes and products.
Education and Experience Required:
- Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer engineering or equivalent.
- 0-2 years of experience in VLSI design, verification or implementation.
Knowledge and Skills:
- Experience or understanding of electrical engineering fundamentals, VLSI principles, digital logic, and computer architecture.
- Good analytical and problem solving skills.
- Understanding of design for VLSI components, integrated circuitry, architectures and algorithms.
- Knowledge of a programming and scripting, hardware description language, electronic design automation (EDA), and/or FPGA tools. Coursework in VLSI design or VLSI concepts.
- Good written and verbal communication skills; mastery in English and local language.
Accessibility
HPE is committed to creating an inclusive and accessible workplace and encourages applications from all qualified individuals, including those with disabilities. If you believe you require accommodation during any stage of the application or interview process, please submit your request by completing our secure form linked here.
Note: This option is reserved for applicants needing assistance/reasonable accommodation related to a disability.
What We Can Offer You:
Health & Wellbeing
We strive to provide our team members and their loved ones with a comprehensive suite of benefits that supports their physical, financial and emotional wellbeing.
Personal & Professional Development
We also invest in your career because the better you are, the better we all are. We have specific programs catered to helping you reach any career goals you have — whether you want to become a knowledge expert in your field or apply your skills to another division.
Unconditional Inclusion
We are unconditionally inclusive in the way we work and celebrate individual uniqueness. We know varied backgrounds are valued and succeed here. We have the flexibility to manage our work and personal needs. We make bold moves, together, and are a force for good.
Let's Stay Connected:
Follow @HPECareers on Instagram to see the latest on people, culture and tech at HPE.
Job:
Engineering
Job Level:
TCP_01
"The expected salary/wage range for this position is provided below. Actual offer may vary from this range based upon geographic location, work experience, education/training, and/or skill level.
– United States of America: Annual Salary USD 81,400 - 164,400 in California
The listed salary range reflects base salary. Variable incentives may also be offered."
Information about employee benefits offered in the US can be found at https://myhperewards.com/main/new-hire-enrollment.html
HPE is an Equal Employment Opportunity/ Veterans/Disabled/LGBT employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, gender, or any other protected category, and all decisions we make are made on the basis of qualifications, merit, and business need. Our goal is to be one global team that is representative of our customers, in an inclusive environment where we can continue to innovate and grow together. Please click here: Equal Employment Opportunity.
Hewlett Packard Enterprise is EEO Protected Veteran/ Individual with Disabilities.
HPE will comply with all applicable laws related to employer use of arrest and conviction records, including laws requiring employers to consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories.
Recruitment Fraud Alert
We have become aware of an increase in fraudulent recruitment activities in which individuals impersonate our company or authorized recruitment agencies to offer fake employment opportunities. These scams may occur through false websites, emails, social media, or chat-based applications and often aim to obtain personal information or money. Please note that Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE), its direct and indirect subsidiaries and affiliated companies, and its authorized recruitment agencies/vendors will never charge a candidate a registration fee, hiring fee, or any other fee in connection with its recruitment and hiring process. We also never request personal information such as back account details, Social Security numbers, or national IDs via social media or chat applications.
All legitimate job opportunities will come through official company channels, and candidates are responsible for verifying the credentials of any third party claiming to represent the company. Any reliance on fraudulent communication is at the individual’s own risk, and HPE disclaims legal liability for any resulting damages. If you suspect recruitment fraud, do not share personal information or make any payments and report the incident to your local authorities immediately.
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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.