OPT System Administrator Jobs
System Administrator jobs are a strong fit for F-1 OPT students with degrees in computer science, information technology, or information systems. Most roles qualify as STEM, giving you up to 36 months of work authorization. Employers across healthcare, finance, and tech actively hire OPT candidates for sysadmin work.
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INTRODUCTION
Perdue Foods has a goal of becoming the most trusted name in premium proteins by creating products for consumers and for retail and foodservice customers around the globe while changing the way animals are raised for food. It is part of Perdue Farms, a fourth-generation, family-owned food and agricultural business deeply rooted in tradition yet with a forward-thinking mindset. We believe that success starts with our people, and our culture is built on a foundation of teamwork, integrity, and respect, where every voice matters and everyone is encouraged to contribute to our shared goals. We are dedicated to creating a supportive, inclusive environment where associates feel valued and inspired to make an impact, both within the company and in the communities we serve. From promoting growth and development to prioritizing work-life balance, we’re committed to helping our team members thrive. That's Perdue.
SUMMARY
Support efficient, reliable plant and distribution operations by ensuring critical manufacturing systems perform at their best. As a Manufacturing Systems Administrator, you will provide hands-on support across inventory control, warehouse management, labeling, and plant systems to keep daily operations running smoothly. You will troubleshoot issues, resolve system challenges, and partner with cross functional teams to support testing, system changes, and continuous improvement efforts. This role is ideal for a detail oriented, technically skilled professional who thrives in a fast-paced environment and is passionate about using technology to drive operational efficiency and performance.
This position has a target wage of $20.00- $30.00 per hour, based on shift, experience and qualifications with annual bonus available (variable depending on performance). Overtime may be available.
In addition to hourly wages, Perdue offers a competitive benefits package, including medical/Rx, 401(k) with employer match after 1 year, critical illness, accident insurance, dental, vision, life insurance, optional group life insurance, short-term and long-term disability protection, flexible spending accounts and paid time off.
PRINCIPAL ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES
- Provide support for all information and manufacturing system operations activities (multi-shift), including computer and network operations, troubleshooting, data control/security, documentation, software version control, change control, security, backup/recovery and system performance.
- Demonstrate skills necessary to support all supply chain applications, process control, scaling/labeling, desk top computing and network.
- Understand the hardware, software and applications from a users’ standpoint to ensure proper problem resolution.
- Monitor system performance, perform system checks, and enforce procedures established for system use.
- Enforce Corporate Mfg system administrator, LAN administrator, change management, asset management, technical standards, policy, procedures and best practices.
- Audit and report facility non-compliance and remediation plans.
- Responsible for activities associated with the problem identification, prioritization, and resolution of reported computer system problems.
- Monitor and respond to technical hardware and software problems.
- Assist with implementing hardware/software/application changes and additions.
- Ensure users are using system properly to maintain data integrity, security and recoverability.
- Assist Corporate Mfg Systems in Project Management, network and application support.
- Participate in Manufacturing Systems problem reporting, project planning and corporate communication sessions.
MINIMUM EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
- Associate’s Degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Electronic Technology or Business Management.
- 2 years related work experience or in the absence of an associate’s degree, total experience must equal 6 years.
- Experience or education in microprocessor-based equipment, Microsoft product knowledge on Server and Desktop Operating Systems, Voice/Data, Network Administration (Microsoft), Database Administration and Unix or Linus operating systems.
- Work hours may be adjusted to accommodate support requirements.
- Requires on call time for non-scheduled work hours.
PREFERRED EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
- Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Electronic Technology, Engineering or Business Management or related discipline.
- Additional experience in manufacturing systems such as Computer Way Food Systems, OSSID, Marel or Kronos Time and Attendance.
- Project management experience and/or education.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS AND ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS
- Positions at ASC and Corporate are mostly sedentary but may require occasional moving to other offices or buildings, or support in facilities when they are deployed to a site.
- Positions in plants involve moving throughout the plants, feed mills, hatcheries and other facilities as needed to deploy, monitor, and support manufacturing systems equipment.
- May need to move light equipment or supplies from one place to another.
- May need to access files, supplies and equipment.
- Work activity is in an office, open-partitioned, cubicle environment.
- Exposure primarily consists of wet and moist floors which include metal and plastic grating surfaces.
- May be exposed to temperatures of 28 degrees to 100 degrees Fahrenheit with both ambient and 100% humidity.
- May handle products from 25 degrees to 50 degrees Fahrenheit.
- May be exposed to noise ranges of 50 db to 110 db.
- May be exposed to all chemicals found in poultry, food and processing plant.
- Must wear and use protective and safety equipment required for the job as directed by the Company.
Perdue Farms Inc. is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.
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Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding OPT Sponsorship as a System Administrator
Confirm your degree qualifies for STEM OPT
System Administrator roles typically qualify for the 24-month STEM OPT extension when your degree is in computer science, IT, or information systems. Confirm your CIP code with your DSO before applying to maximize your authorization window.
Target employers with existing OPT infrastructure
Mid-size and enterprise companies in healthcare, finance, and government contracting regularly hire OPT students for sysadmin roles. They already understand the authorization process, which removes friction from the offer stage.
Lead with your certifications, not your visa status
CompTIA Security+, Microsoft Azure, and AWS credentials signal job-ready competence to hiring managers. Sysadmin teams care about what you can configure and secure on day one. Certifications reduce the perceived risk of sponsoring an OPT student.
Apply before your OPT start date whenever possible
Many employers are willing to wait a few weeks for the right hire. Starting the application process two to three months before your OPT begins gives you time to interview, negotiate, and onboard without rushing the I-983 reporting requirements.
Be specific about your authorization timeline upfront
Tell recruiters you have 12 months of initial OPT and are eligible for a 24-month STEM extension. Framing it as a 36-month window, not just a temporary permit, reduces concerns about short-term hires and incomplete projects.
Document your training plan requirements early
STEM OPT requires a signed Form I-983 training plan between you and your employer. Raise this requirement before your start date so HR is not caught off guard. Most employers with existing OPT hires already have a template ready.
System Administrator OPT: Frequently Asked Questions
Do System Administrator jobs qualify for the STEM OPT extension?
Most System Administrator roles qualify for the 24-month STEM OPT extension if your degree is in computer science, information technology, information systems, or a related STEM field. The role itself must be directly related to your degree. Confirm your CIP code with your Designated School Official before accepting an offer, since the degree, not just the job title, determines eligibility.
How do I find System Administrator jobs that are open to OPT candidates?
Migrate Mate filters job listings specifically for F-1 OPT students, so you can browse System Administrator openings without guessing which employers are OPT-friendly. Many sysadmin postings do not explicitly mention visa sponsorship willingness, which makes a targeted OPT job board significantly more efficient than searching general listings.
What does the I-983 training plan require for a System Administrator role?
The I-983 is a formal training plan your employer signs to document how your sysadmin work is related to your STEM degree. It must describe specific learning objectives, supervision arrangements, and how the role develops your skills. Your employer does not need prior experience with OPT, but HR needs to complete this before your STEM extension is approved by USCIS.
Can I work as a System Administrator for a staffing agency or on a contract basis on OPT?
Yes, but with important conditions. STEM OPT regulations require that your employer of record is the entity that signs your I-983 and provides day-to-day supervision. If you work through a staffing agency, the end client typically cannot serve as your employer for OPT purposes. Confirm with your DSO before accepting a contract or third-party placement arrangement.
What happens if my System Administrator job ends before my OPT expires?
F-1 OPT allows up to 90 days of cumulative unemployment during the initial 12-month period, reduced to 60 days during the STEM extension. If your sysadmin role ends, report the change to your DSO immediately and begin searching for a new qualifying position as soon as possible to avoid falling out of status.