STEM OPT Software Quality Assurance Jobs
Software Quality Assurance roles qualify for the STEM OPT extension, giving you 24 additional months of work authorization beyond your initial OPT period. Your employer must be enrolled in E-Verify, and your degree must align with an eligible CIP code. Qualifying STEM fields include computer science, information systems, and engineering.
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Get Access To All JobsINTRODUCTION
The FortiGate New Product Introduction (NPI) QA team operates at the forefront of hardware and platform innovation. As the specialized verification team for new product launches, we are the first to get hands-on access to next-generation FortiGate hardware models, platform architectural updates, and hardware/software integration modules before they enter the market.
We collaborate closely with hardware design and software development teams from early prototype bring-up to production release. We are looking for an ambitious, curious, and motivated Early Career Software Dev QA Engineer (0–2 years of experience) to join our team, validate next-gen security appliances, and ensure our platforms meet enterprise-grade performance, stability, and security standards.
What Makes This Role Exciting?
- First-to-Touch Next-Gen Tech: Power on, validate, and test brand-new network security appliances and platform features long before general market release.
- Full-Stack Network & Systems Scope: Gain hands-on exposure across the stack—from board bring-up, firmware/BIOS validation, and low-level subsystem verification to advanced firewall and routing features.
- Direct Impact on Quality: Work alongside senior platform developers and hardware architects to diagnose edge cases and help ensure product reliability across Fortinet’s flagship product line.
- Rapid Learning & Growth: Deepen your knowledge in networking protocols, firewall architectures, test automation, and Linux environments under the mentorship of seasoned QA engineers.
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS
- Experience Level: 0–2 years of experience (recent graduates with relevant coursework/internships, or early-career engineers with a background in network support or system admin).
- Core Networking Knowledge: Solid foundational understanding of TCP/IP networking concepts, standard network protocols, and packet flows.
- Firewall (FW) Fundamentals: Foundational understanding of firewall concepts, packet inspection, NAT, access control policies, and VPN basics.
- Programming & Scripting Skills: Programming knowledge (e.g., Python, C/C++, or Bash) with the ability to write scripts for automated testing, test setup, or data/log parsing.
- Hands-on Network Equipment Experience: Practical experience configuring or working with physical or virtual network devices (routers, switches, firewalls, or home/lab networking equipment).
- Linux Fundamentals: Experience with Linux administration, system-level troubleshooting, CLI navigation, network interface configuration, and basic system diagnostics.
- Problem-Solving Mindset: Eagerness to reproduce issues, isolate system-level defects, and capture network traffic for analysis using diagnostic tools (e.g., Wireshark).
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS / GREAT ADD-ONS
- Relevant industry certifications demonstrating continuous learning and hands-on skill (e.g., Fortinet FCF/FCA/FCP, Cisco CCNA/CCNP, CompTIA Network+/Security+, or Linux/Red Hat certifications).
- Exposure to virtualization platforms (VMware ESXi, KVM) or cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP).
EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENT
Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Network Engineering, or an equivalent technical field.
Fortinet offers employees a variety of benefits, including medical, dental, vision, life and disability insurance, 401(k), 11 paid holidays, vacation time, and sick time as well as a comprehensive leave program.
Wage ranges are based on various factors including the labor market, job type, and job level. Earnings for this position are expected to be $75,000 - $120,000. Exact salary offers will be determined by factors such as the candidate's subject knowledge, skill level, qualifications, experience, and geographic location.
All roles are eligible to participate in the Fortinet equity program. Bonus eligibility is reviewed at time of hire and annually at the Company’s discretion.
INTRODUCTION
The FortiGate New Product Introduction (NPI) QA team operates at the forefront of hardware and platform innovation. As the specialized verification team for new product launches, we are the first to get hands-on access to next-generation FortiGate hardware models, platform architectural updates, and hardware/software integration modules before they enter the market.
We collaborate closely with hardware design and software development teams from early prototype bring-up to production release. We are looking for an ambitious, curious, and motivated Early Career Software Dev QA Engineer (0–2 years of experience) to join our team, validate next-gen security appliances, and ensure our platforms meet enterprise-grade performance, stability, and security standards.
What Makes This Role Exciting?
- First-to-Touch Next-Gen Tech: Power on, validate, and test brand-new network security appliances and platform features long before general market release.
- Full-Stack Network & Systems Scope: Gain hands-on exposure across the stack—from board bring-up, firmware/BIOS validation, and low-level subsystem verification to advanced firewall and routing features.
- Direct Impact on Quality: Work alongside senior platform developers and hardware architects to diagnose edge cases and help ensure product reliability across Fortinet’s flagship product line.
- Rapid Learning & Growth: Deepen your knowledge in networking protocols, firewall architectures, test automation, and Linux environments under the mentorship of seasoned QA engineers.
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS
- Experience Level: 0–2 years of experience (recent graduates with relevant coursework/internships, or early-career engineers with a background in network support or system admin).
- Core Networking Knowledge: Solid foundational understanding of TCP/IP networking concepts, standard network protocols, and packet flows.
- Firewall (FW) Fundamentals: Foundational understanding of firewall concepts, packet inspection, NAT, access control policies, and VPN basics.
- Programming & Scripting Skills: Programming knowledge (e.g., Python, C/C++, or Bash) with the ability to write scripts for automated testing, test setup, or data/log parsing.
- Hands-on Network Equipment Experience: Practical experience configuring or working with physical or virtual network devices (routers, switches, firewalls, or home/lab networking equipment).
- Linux Fundamentals: Experience with Linux administration, system-level troubleshooting, CLI navigation, network interface configuration, and basic system diagnostics.
- Problem-Solving Mindset: Eagerness to reproduce issues, isolate system-level defects, and capture network traffic for analysis using diagnostic tools (e.g., Wireshark).
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS / GREAT ADD-ONS
- Relevant industry certifications demonstrating continuous learning and hands-on skill (e.g., Fortinet FCF/FCA/FCP, Cisco CCNA/CCNP, CompTIA Network+/Security+, or Linux/Red Hat certifications).
- Exposure to virtualization platforms (VMware ESXi, KVM) or cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP).
EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENT
Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Network Engineering, or an equivalent technical field.
Fortinet offers employees a variety of benefits, including medical, dental, vision, life and disability insurance, 401(k), 11 paid holidays, vacation time, and sick time as well as a comprehensive leave program.
Wage ranges are based on various factors including the labor market, job type, and job level. Earnings for this position are expected to be $75,000 - $120,000. Exact salary offers will be determined by factors such as the candidate's subject knowledge, skill level, qualifications, experience, and geographic location.
All roles are eligible to participate in the Fortinet equity program. Bonus eligibility is reviewed at time of hire and annually at the Company’s discretion.
See all 179+ STEM OPT Software Quality Assurance Jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new STEM OPT Software Quality Assurance Jobs.
Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding STEM OPT Authorization in Software Quality Assurance
Verify your CIP code before applying
Check your degree's Classification of Instructional Programs code against the DHS STEM Designated Degree Program List before you accept any offer. Computer science, software engineering, and information systems degrees typically qualify, but the exact CIP code on your transcript determines eligibility.
Filter roles by E-Verify enrollment status
Before spending time on any application, confirm the employer is actively enrolled in E-Verify, not just registered. Use Migrate Mate to search Software Quality Assurance roles filtered to E-Verify-enrolled employers so you're not discovering deal-breakers after an offer.
Target employers with active QA LCA filings
Search OFLC disclosure data for employers who have filed Labor Condition Applications under QA-related SOC codes. Employers with recent LCA filings for quality assurance or software testing roles have already cleared the DOL prevailing-wage process and understand STEM OPT onboarding requirements.
Draft your I-983 training plan before your start date
Your employer and DSO must sign the I-983 before your STEM OPT extension begins. Map your QA responsibilities, including test planning, defect tracking, and automation tasks, to specific learning objectives in the form. Vague descriptions of duties are a common reason DSOs push back on approval.
Ask hiring managers about E-Verify timing upfront
Some employers are E-Verify-enrolled at the corporate level but haven't activated it at the specific site or subsidiary where you'd work. Confirm the enrolling entity matches the location on your offer letter before your DSO updates your I-20 for the extension.
Use O*NET to align your job description with your degree
The O*NET occupation profile for Software Quality Assurance Engineers lists the knowledge domains and skills USCIS expects to see reflected in your role. If your offer letter uses vague language like 'testing support,' reframe your duties using O*NET terminology to strengthen your I-983 training plan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a Software Quality Assurance role qualify for the STEM OPT extension?
Yes, if your degree is in a STEM-designated field such as computer science, software engineering, electrical engineering, or information systems, and your employer is enrolled in E-Verify. The role itself must also provide practical training related to your degree. USCIS reviews both the degree CIP code and the I-983 training plan to confirm that your QA responsibilities connect directly to your field of study.
What STEM degrees make you eligible for the STEM OPT extension in a QA role?
Eligibility depends on your degree's Classification of Instructional Programs code appearing on the DHS STEM Designated Degree Program List. Computer science, software engineering, information technology, electrical engineering, and applied mathematics degrees commonly qualify. A general business or communications degree typically does not, even if your job involves software testing. Your DSO can confirm whether your specific CIP code is on the list.
What does the I-983 training plan need to include for a Software Quality Assurance position?
Your I-983 must describe how your QA duties, such as writing test cases, performing regression testing, using defect-tracking tools, or developing automation scripts, directly relate to your STEM degree. Goals must be specific and measurable, not generic. USCIS or your DSO may reject vague plans that list duties without explaining the educational connection. Both you and a company supervisor with hiring authority must sign the form.
How do I confirm my employer is enrolled in E-Verify before accepting a QA offer?
Ask the recruiter or HR contact directly whether the company is enrolled in E-Verify and whether enrollment covers the specific office location or subsidiary where you would work. You can also search the E-Verify employer search tool by company name to verify active participation. Enrollment at the parent company level does not automatically extend to subsidiaries or acquired entities, so location-level confirmation matters.
Where can I find Software Quality Assurance jobs that are open to STEM OPT candidates?
Migrate Mate lists Software Quality Assurance roles filtered to employers enrolled in E-Verify, which is the baseline requirement for any STEM OPT extension. Searching on Migrate Mate lets you focus on companies already equipped to support your authorization rather than filtering that out manually after applications are underway. Your 24-month STEM OPT extension gives you a meaningful runway, and targeting the right employers from the start protects it.