OPT System Support Specialist Jobs
System Support Specialist roles are a strong fit for F-1 OPT students in computer science, information technology, or related fields. Most positions qualify as STEM-designated roles, making you eligible for the 24-month STEM OPT extension after your initial 12-month authorization period ends.
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Get Access To All JobsPURPOSE:
As a System Support Specialist at Central Valley Ag, you will be the primary on-site point of contact for end users and will coordinate with the Central Valley Ag Helpdesk and other IT staff to perform on-site configuration, installation, support and maintenance of computers, software, printers, peripherals, office equipment, communication systems and associated plant cabling. This includes installing, diagnosing, repairing, maintaining, and upgrading all corporate owned PC related hardware, software and associated equipment to ensure optimal performance. This position will troubleshoot problem areas (in person, remotely, by telephone or via e-mail) in a timely and accurate fashion and provide end-user assistance and training where required. Secondary roles will include assisting with network installation and support, including involvement in all aspects of the organization’s information technology projects and systems and provide fill-in support for Central Valley Ag Helpdesk personnel.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
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Responsible for workstation setups, upgrades, hardware and software deployment and maintenance, and mobile device management.
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Responsible for answering, evaluating and prioritizing incoming telephone calls, email, and in-person requests for assistance from users experiencing problems with hardware, software, networking and other computer related technologies.
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Collaborate with other IT staff to ensure efficient operation of the company’s overall computing environment, including assistance with troubleshooting, installation and upgrades of LAN, WAN, VPN, phone and other computer systems.
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Maintains inventory records of all IT related resources.
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Ensure that proper software license requirements are being met, documented, and are up to date.
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Perform secure data destruction prior to hardware disposal.
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Assist in developing long-term strategies and capacity planning for meeting future desktop and network hardware needs within individual Central Valley Ag locations and facilities.
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Other duties as assigned.
SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES
No supervisory responsibilities.
REQUIRED SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE
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Strong analytical, problem solving and organizational skills with keen attention to detail required.
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Must possess effective interpersonal and relationship building skills.
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Must be proficient in Windows workstation configuration, installation, troubleshooting and support in a Microsoft Active Directory environment. Familiarity with Apple iOS based products and systems required.
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Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, including use, installation, configuration, and troubleshooting required.
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Base technical knowledge of current versions of Windows, Active Directory, and Office 365 technologies required.
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Must have hands-on hardware experience including pc systems and components, switches, routers, printers, Wi-Fi networks, and cabling installation.
-
Must possess the ability to read and understand technical manuals, procedural documentation, and OEM guides.
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Strong written and oral communication skills required including the ability to communicate technical concepts to non-technical people.
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Must be self-motivated and directed, with the ability to effectively prioritize and execute tasks in a high-pressure environment.
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Must be able to operate tools, vehicles, components, and peripheral accessories.
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Must be able to climb ladders, regularly move equipment up to 50 pounds, work indoors and outdoors, wear personal protective gear correctly most of the day, and to see and respond to dangerous situations.
Training provided.
Central Valley Ag is a farmer-owned cooperative headquartered in York, Neb. CVA has locations in Iowa, Kansas, and Nebraska. CVA is an innovative leader providing products and services in grain, agronomy, feed, and energy.
EOE race/color/sex/sexual orientation/gender identity/disability/veteran
Updated: July 2023
PURPOSE:
As a System Support Specialist at Central Valley Ag, you will be the primary on-site point of contact for end users and will coordinate with the Central Valley Ag Helpdesk and other IT staff to perform on-site configuration, installation, support and maintenance of computers, software, printers, peripherals, office equipment, communication systems and associated plant cabling. This includes installing, diagnosing, repairing, maintaining, and upgrading all corporate owned PC related hardware, software and associated equipment to ensure optimal performance. This position will troubleshoot problem areas (in person, remotely, by telephone or via e-mail) in a timely and accurate fashion and provide end-user assistance and training where required. Secondary roles will include assisting with network installation and support, including involvement in all aspects of the organization’s information technology projects and systems and provide fill-in support for Central Valley Ag Helpdesk personnel.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
-
Responsible for workstation setups, upgrades, hardware and software deployment and maintenance, and mobile device management.
-
Responsible for answering, evaluating and prioritizing incoming telephone calls, email, and in-person requests for assistance from users experiencing problems with hardware, software, networking and other computer related technologies.
-
Collaborate with other IT staff to ensure efficient operation of the company’s overall computing environment, including assistance with troubleshooting, installation and upgrades of LAN, WAN, VPN, phone and other computer systems.
-
Maintains inventory records of all IT related resources.
-
Ensure that proper software license requirements are being met, documented, and are up to date.
-
Perform secure data destruction prior to hardware disposal.
-
Assist in developing long-term strategies and capacity planning for meeting future desktop and network hardware needs within individual Central Valley Ag locations and facilities.
-
Other duties as assigned.
SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES
No supervisory responsibilities.
REQUIRED SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE
-
Strong analytical, problem solving and organizational skills with keen attention to detail required.
-
Must possess effective interpersonal and relationship building skills.
-
Must be proficient in Windows workstation configuration, installation, troubleshooting and support in a Microsoft Active Directory environment. Familiarity with Apple iOS based products and systems required.
-
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, including use, installation, configuration, and troubleshooting required.
-
Base technical knowledge of current versions of Windows, Active Directory, and Office 365 technologies required.
-
Must have hands-on hardware experience including pc systems and components, switches, routers, printers, Wi-Fi networks, and cabling installation.
-
Must possess the ability to read and understand technical manuals, procedural documentation, and OEM guides.
-
Strong written and oral communication skills required including the ability to communicate technical concepts to non-technical people.
-
Must be self-motivated and directed, with the ability to effectively prioritize and execute tasks in a high-pressure environment.
-
Must be able to operate tools, vehicles, components, and peripheral accessories.
-
Must be able to climb ladders, regularly move equipment up to 50 pounds, work indoors and outdoors, wear personal protective gear correctly most of the day, and to see and respond to dangerous situations.
Training provided.
Central Valley Ag is a farmer-owned cooperative headquartered in York, Neb. CVA has locations in Iowa, Kansas, and Nebraska. CVA is an innovative leader providing products and services in grain, agronomy, feed, and energy.
EOE race/color/sex/sexual orientation/gender identity/disability/veteran
Updated: July 2023
See all 341+ OPT System Support Specialist Jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new OPT System Support Specialist Jobs.
Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding OPT Sponsorship as a System Support Specialist
Target STEM-designated employers first
System Support Specialist roles often fall under STEM OPT-eligible SOC codes. Prioritize companies registered with E-Verify, since STEM OPT extension requires an E-Verify employer and a formal training plan on Form I-983.
Confirm your role qualifies as STEM OPT
Not every support title automatically qualifies. Verify your job's SOC code maps to an approved STEM OPT field. Roles focused on network administration, systems analysis, or IT infrastructure typically qualify, but confirm with your DSO before accepting.
Apply at least 90 days before OPT start
USCIS processing takes time and your EAD must arrive before you begin working. Submit your OPT application early so authorization gaps don't delay your start date with an employer who needs immediate coverage.
Highlight helpdesk and ticketing system experience
Employers hiring on OPT want minimal ramp-up time. Specific experience with platforms like ServiceNow or Jira, plus any certifications like CompTIA A+ or Network+, signals you can contribute from day one without extensive training.
Frame your visa status proactively in interviews
Explain your OPT timeline clearly: initial 12 months, potential 24-month STEM extension, and H-1B visa eligibility afterward. Employers unfamiliar with OPT often assume short-term commitment, so walk them through the full multi-year window upfront.
Focus on mid-size technology and healthcare companies
Large enterprises and well-funded mid-size firms in healthcare IT, managed services, and SaaS regularly hire System Support Specialists and have HR infrastructure to handle OPT paperwork without treating it as an unusual burden.
System Support Specialist OPT: Frequently Asked Questions
Can I work as a System Support Specialist on F-1 OPT?
Yes, provided your degree is in a qualifying field such as computer science, information technology, or a related discipline, and your System Support Specialist role uses that field of study. Your DSO must authorize OPT and USCIS must approve your EAD before you start. Working without an approved EAD is an immigration violation.
Does a System Support Specialist role qualify for the STEM OPT extension?
Most System Support Specialist positions qualify if the role falls under an approved STEM SOC code, your degree is STEM-designated, and your employer is enrolled in E-Verify. You must also have a formal training plan on Form I-983 signed by your employer. Confirm the specific SOC code with your DSO before relying on the extension.
Where can I find System Support Specialist jobs that are open to OPT students?
Migrate Mate is built specifically for F-1 OPT and international students, so every role listed is filtered for sponsorship and OPT friendliness. Searching there saves you from applying to positions that quietly screen out candidates requiring work authorization, which is a common problem on general job boards.
How many hours can I work as a System Support Specialist during OPT?
During post-completion OPT you must work at least 20 hours per week to maintain valid status. Full-time positions of 40 hours per week are the norm for System Support Specialist roles and are well within the allowed range. Working fewer than 20 hours, or going unemployed for more than 90 cumulative days, puts your status at risk.
Do System Support Specialist employers typically sponsor H-1B visas after OPT?
Sponsorship varies by employer size and budget. Mid-size and enterprise technology companies, managed service providers, and healthcare IT firms that hire for support roles often have established immigration processes and will sponsor H-1B petitions for strong performers. Asking about long-term sponsorship intentions during the offer stage is reasonable and expected.