STEM OPT Data Engineer Jobs
Data Engineer roles sit squarely within STEM OPT eligibility, letting you work for up to 36 months total on F-1 authorization as long as your employer is enrolled in E-Verify. Your 24-month extension kicks in after the initial 12-month OPT period, giving you a long runway to build production-grade pipelines and transition to long-term sponsorship.
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Get Access To All JobsINTRODUCTION
We're Looking for an experienced Data Governance Analyst!
About the Company:
Security Benefit is a leader in the U.S. retirement market with more than $75 billion in assets under management. We offer opportunities to thrive, innovate, and make an impact. As part of our team, you’ll play a key role in driving the future of the U.S. retirement industry. Security Benefit is a PLACE where we promise to help our customers To and Through Retirement®.
We’re proud to have been recognized as one of the best in the business:
- Named to Ward’s 50 list of top-performing life-health insurance companies
- Recognized on list of Ingram’s Top 100 Private Companies in the Kansas City area in 2025
ABOUT THE ROLE
The Data Governance Analyst executes and operates governance programs, contributes to the design of governance frameworks, and builds growing subject matter depth in data governance practice within the Digital & Technology Solutions organization. The Data Governance Analyst thinks critically, contributes ideas, works independently on defined governance workstreams, and applies established approaches to new situations. This role is well suited to a critical thinker who is analytical and inquisitive, and who is curious about how data is created, used, and understood across the business. This role plays an important part in maturing Security Benefit’s enterprise data governance capability across its data platform and legacy system environments.
The Data Governance Analyst position reports to the AVP, Data Strategy & Enablement and can be based out of our home office in Topeka, Kansas, or remotely for the right candidate. We work a hybrid schedule, offering flexibility to work both remotely and on-site.
Governance Program Design & Operations
- Contribute to the design and own the operation of data governance programs across the enterprise; recommend improvements
- Operate the data stewardship model — maintain stewardship charters, onboard business domains, support the Data Stewardship community, and run governance rhythms across business areas; recommend improvements
- Contribute to the Data Governance roadmap in collaboration with governance leadership — draft and maintain governance policies, standards, and procedures; identify capability gaps and track progress against maturity goals
Data Catalog & Metadata Management
- Own day-to-day metadata management — including data classification, business glossary development, and critical data element documentation; contribute to semantic modeling and to ownership and usage standards across business domains
- Maintain the organization and presentation of governed metadata to drive discoverability and adoption across business and technical teams; recommend improvements
- Apply and monitor metadata quality and completeness standards to ensure governance requirements are met; flag and resolve gaps
- Support Data Platform and Data Intelligence teams on data lineage, pipeline governance, and ELT-layer metadata standards
Data Quality & Compliance
- Execute cross-functional data quality initiatives — apply quality dimensions, operate monitoring frameworks, manage issue tracking and escalation, coordinate remediation across Data Engineering and Data Intelligence teams, and report outcomes to governance leadership
- Support regulatory compliance activities for applicable regulatory and data privacy requirements — collect and maintain audit evidence and compliance documentation, and support data governance controls
Training & Adoption
- Help develop and deliver governance training and communications; support governance adoption efforts with business stakeholders
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS
Required
- Bachelor’s degree in Information Management, Data Analytics, Business Administration, Computer Science, or related field
- 4–6 years of experience in data governance, data management, or data quality — including experience participating in cross-functional governance programs
- Hands-on experience with data governance and metadata management practices — including governance tooling and workflow design; working knowledge of governance frameworks (e.g., DAMA-DMBOK, DCAM) with ability to apply framework concepts in operational practice
- Demonstrated ability to work independently, think critically, and bring ideas and solutions rather than only raising issues; willingness to share knowledge with team members
- Experience in financial services or a regulated data environment required
- Excellent communication skills; ability to communicate effectively via multiple channels (verbal, written, etc.) with technical and non-technical audiences
- Experience in data quality analysis, profiling, root cause analysis, monitoring, and remediation processes
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Master’s degree in Information Management, Data Analytics, or related field
- Certifications in data governance (e.g., CDMP, DGSP) or metadata management platforms (e.g., platform-specific credentials)
- Business analyst experience or skills — gathering and documenting business requirements, mapping processes and data flows, and translating business needs into data and governance requirements
- Experience leading stakeholder interviews and working sessions to uncover business context, ask probing questions, and synthesize findings into clear recommendations
- Experience in the following types of tools is desired:
- Data catalog and governance platforms
- Data quality tools and profiling solutions
- SQL and data analysis tools
- Reporting and dashboard platforms
- Insurance or retirement industry experience
WHY CHOOSE SECURITY BENEFIT?
When you join our team, you’re not just getting a paycheck — you’re getting a career path full of growth opportunities, plus a robust benefits package that puts your well-being first. Here’s what you can expect as a full-time Security Benefit associate:
- Competitive salary and annual incentive bonuses to reward your contributions.
- 33 days of paid time off (including PTO, holidays, Volunteer Day, and days of significance).
- Paid parental leave after 90 days of service.
- Comprehensive medical, dental & vision insurance.
- 401(k) with company match, plus Profit Sharing & Savings Plan.
- Short- and Long-Term Disability Insurance to give you peace of mind.
- Flexible Spending Accounts for medical and dependent care.
- Life Insurance to protect your loved ones.
- Educational assistance to support your career development.
- Associate assistance programs for your personal and professional well-being.
READY TO MAKE AN IMPACT?
Apply today by visiting our career page to submit your resume. We’re excited to meet you!
Security Benefit is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
INTRODUCTION
We're Looking for an experienced Data Governance Analyst!
About the Company:
Security Benefit is a leader in the U.S. retirement market with more than $75 billion in assets under management. We offer opportunities to thrive, innovate, and make an impact. As part of our team, you’ll play a key role in driving the future of the U.S. retirement industry. Security Benefit is a PLACE where we promise to help our customers To and Through Retirement®.
We’re proud to have been recognized as one of the best in the business:
- Named to Ward’s 50 list of top-performing life-health insurance companies
- Recognized on list of Ingram’s Top 100 Private Companies in the Kansas City area in 2025
ABOUT THE ROLE
The Data Governance Analyst executes and operates governance programs, contributes to the design of governance frameworks, and builds growing subject matter depth in data governance practice within the Digital & Technology Solutions organization. The Data Governance Analyst thinks critically, contributes ideas, works independently on defined governance workstreams, and applies established approaches to new situations. This role is well suited to a critical thinker who is analytical and inquisitive, and who is curious about how data is created, used, and understood across the business. This role plays an important part in maturing Security Benefit’s enterprise data governance capability across its data platform and legacy system environments.
The Data Governance Analyst position reports to the AVP, Data Strategy & Enablement and can be based out of our home office in Topeka, Kansas, or remotely for the right candidate. We work a hybrid schedule, offering flexibility to work both remotely and on-site.
Governance Program Design & Operations
- Contribute to the design and own the operation of data governance programs across the enterprise; recommend improvements
- Operate the data stewardship model — maintain stewardship charters, onboard business domains, support the Data Stewardship community, and run governance rhythms across business areas; recommend improvements
- Contribute to the Data Governance roadmap in collaboration with governance leadership — draft and maintain governance policies, standards, and procedures; identify capability gaps and track progress against maturity goals
Data Catalog & Metadata Management
- Own day-to-day metadata management — including data classification, business glossary development, and critical data element documentation; contribute to semantic modeling and to ownership and usage standards across business domains
- Maintain the organization and presentation of governed metadata to drive discoverability and adoption across business and technical teams; recommend improvements
- Apply and monitor metadata quality and completeness standards to ensure governance requirements are met; flag and resolve gaps
- Support Data Platform and Data Intelligence teams on data lineage, pipeline governance, and ELT-layer metadata standards
Data Quality & Compliance
- Execute cross-functional data quality initiatives — apply quality dimensions, operate monitoring frameworks, manage issue tracking and escalation, coordinate remediation across Data Engineering and Data Intelligence teams, and report outcomes to governance leadership
- Support regulatory compliance activities for applicable regulatory and data privacy requirements — collect and maintain audit evidence and compliance documentation, and support data governance controls
Training & Adoption
- Help develop and deliver governance training and communications; support governance adoption efforts with business stakeholders
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS
Required
- Bachelor’s degree in Information Management, Data Analytics, Business Administration, Computer Science, or related field
- 4–6 years of experience in data governance, data management, or data quality — including experience participating in cross-functional governance programs
- Hands-on experience with data governance and metadata management practices — including governance tooling and workflow design; working knowledge of governance frameworks (e.g., DAMA-DMBOK, DCAM) with ability to apply framework concepts in operational practice
- Demonstrated ability to work independently, think critically, and bring ideas and solutions rather than only raising issues; willingness to share knowledge with team members
- Experience in financial services or a regulated data environment required
- Excellent communication skills; ability to communicate effectively via multiple channels (verbal, written, etc.) with technical and non-technical audiences
- Experience in data quality analysis, profiling, root cause analysis, monitoring, and remediation processes
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Master’s degree in Information Management, Data Analytics, or related field
- Certifications in data governance (e.g., CDMP, DGSP) or metadata management platforms (e.g., platform-specific credentials)
- Business analyst experience or skills — gathering and documenting business requirements, mapping processes and data flows, and translating business needs into data and governance requirements
- Experience leading stakeholder interviews and working sessions to uncover business context, ask probing questions, and synthesize findings into clear recommendations
- Experience in the following types of tools is desired:
- Data catalog and governance platforms
- Data quality tools and profiling solutions
- SQL and data analysis tools
- Reporting and dashboard platforms
- Insurance or retirement industry experience
WHY CHOOSE SECURITY BENEFIT?
When you join our team, you’re not just getting a paycheck — you’re getting a career path full of growth opportunities, plus a robust benefits package that puts your well-being first. Here’s what you can expect as a full-time Security Benefit associate:
- Competitive salary and annual incentive bonuses to reward your contributions.
- 33 days of paid time off (including PTO, holidays, Volunteer Day, and days of significance).
- Paid parental leave after 90 days of service.
- Comprehensive medical, dental & vision insurance.
- 401(k) with company match, plus Profit Sharing & Savings Plan.
- Short- and Long-Term Disability Insurance to give you peace of mind.
- Flexible Spending Accounts for medical and dependent care.
- Life Insurance to protect your loved ones.
- Educational assistance to support your career development.
- Associate assistance programs for your personal and professional well-being.
READY TO MAKE AN IMPACT?
Apply today by visiting our career page to submit your resume. We’re excited to meet you!
Security Benefit is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
See all 816+ STEM OPT Data Engineer Jobs
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Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding STEM OPT Authorization as a Data Engineer
Verify your CIP code before applying
STEM OPT eligibility depends on your degree's CIP code, not just the field name on your diploma. Cross-check your school's recorded CIP code against USCIS's official STEM Designated Degree Program List before you accept any offer.
Filter employers by E-Verify enrollment status
Your STEM OPT extension is void if your employer isn't enrolled in E-Verify. Confirm enrollment through the official E-Verify employer search before signing an offer, not after. Many startups and smaller data teams aren't enrolled yet.
Target companies with active LCA filings for data roles
Employers who have filed Labor Condition Applications for Data Engineer or Data Analyst roles have already navigated DOL wage and compliance requirements. That track record signals they understand the full STEM OPT-to-H-1B visa pipeline and won't treat your authorization as a blocker.
Build your I-983 training plan around real deliverables
Your I-983 must map STEM learning objectives to specific job duties, not generic descriptions. Draft it around concrete deliverables like pipeline architecture, data modeling work, or ML infrastructure so your DSO can certify it without revision cycles.
Use Migrate Mate to identify E-Verify employers hiring data engineers
Search Migrate Mate to find Data Engineer roles at employers with verified sponsorship history. The platform surfaces DOL Labor Condition Application data by role and employer so you can target companies already familiar with STEM OPT workflows before you apply.
Time your H-1B registration to cover your OPT end date
If USCIS selects your H-1B registration before your STEM OPT expires, cap-gap protection extends your work authorization through September 30. Missing the registration window means a gap in authorization even if you have a valid offer and an enrolled employer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a Data Engineer role qualify for the STEM OPT extension?
Yes, if your degree's CIP code appears on USCIS's STEM Designated Degree Program List. Degrees in computer science, information systems, electrical engineering, applied mathematics, and statistics are common qualifying fields for Data Engineer roles. The job title alone doesn't determine eligibility; your recorded degree CIP code does. Confirm the code with your DSO before submitting your extension application.
What E-Verify requirement applies to my STEM OPT employer?
Every employer that hires you under a STEM OPT extension must be actively enrolled in E-Verify, not just registered. Enrollment must be in place before your extension start date. You can confirm enrollment through the official E-Verify employer search tool. If your employer loses enrollment or is debarred during your extension period, you must stop working and report the change to your DSO within five business days.
What should my I-983 training plan include for a Data Engineer position?
Your I-983 must connect specific STEM learning objectives to actual job duties. For a Data Engineer role, that means documenting work on tasks like building ETL pipelines, designing data warehouses, implementing data quality frameworks, or developing ML infrastructure. Generic descriptions like 'working with data' won't satisfy USCIS review standards. Your employer's supervisor must sign the plan, and your DSO certifies it before your extension is approved.
How does cap-gap protection work if I'm a Data Engineer on STEM OPT?
If your employer files an H-1B petition on your behalf and USCIS selects it in the lottery before your STEM OPT authorization expires, cap-gap automatically extends your work authorization through September 30 of that year. You can keep working as a Data Engineer during that window without any interruption. If your petition isn't selected or your employer misses the filing deadline, cap-gap doesn't apply and your work authorization ends with your STEM OPT.
How do I find Data Engineer jobs at employers who support STEM OPT?
Search Migrate Mate to browse Data Engineer roles at employers with documented Labor Condition Application filing history. LCA data from DOL shows which companies have already gone through the wage attestation and compliance process for similar roles, which is a reliable signal that they're set up to support STEM OPT extensions and eventual H-1B sponsorship. Filter results to E-Verify-enrolled employers before you apply.