Science & Research OPT Jobs in West Virginia
Science and research F-1 OPT sponsorship jobs in West Virginia are concentrated around federal research institutions, energy sector labs, and universities including West Virginia University in Morgantown and Marshall University in Huntington. Employers like the National Energy Technology Laboratory, Leidos, and state health agencies have histories of hiring OPT candidates in research-intensive roles.
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Get Access To All JobsINTRODUCTION
The department of Information Technology Services at West Virginia University is currently accepting applications for an On-Site Network Engineer.
About the Opportunity
A Network Analyst is responsible for providing technical support and assistance in the installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of an organization's network infrastructure. This role involves hands-on tasks related to network devices, connectivity, and ensuring the overall functionality of the network.
We strongly believe in work-life balance and keeping time for things we love outside our work. WVU offers generous benefits, including:
- 37.5-hour work week
- 13 paid holidays (staff holiday calendar)
- 24 annual leave (vacation) days per year (employee leave)
- 18 sick days per year (for when you’re ill, for when you need time to care for sick family, for your own, or your family’s, regularly scheduled medical appointments. Who is family for the purpose of this leave? A lot of people in your life including immediate relatives and in-laws as well as others considered to be members of your household living under the same roof)
- WVU offers a range of health insurance and other benefits
- 401(a) retirement savings with 6% employee contribution match, eligibility to continue health insurance, and other retiree perks. Looking for more retirement benefits information? Check out retirement health insurance benefits, retirement income, and FAQ’s.
- Wellness programs
- Network Installation and Setup: Assist in the installation and configuration of networking hardware, including routers, switches, and access points. Collaborate with network engineers to deploy and connect network devices in accordance with established guidelines.
- Network Troubleshooting and Maintenance: Diagnose and resolve basic network issues, such as connectivity problems, network outages, and slow performance. Perform routine maintenance tasks, including software updates, firmware upgrades, and hardware replacements.
- Network Monitoring and Support: Monitor network performance using tools and alert systems, escalating issues to network engineers as needed. Provide first-level support to end users regarding network-related inquiries and problems.
- Hardware and Cable Management: Maintain accurate records of network device inventory, serial numbers, and configurations. Assist in managing network cabling infrastructure, ensuring proper organization and labeling.
- Network Documentation: Update and maintain network documentation, diagrams, and records of changes and configurations. Contribute to creating and maintaining standard operating procedures for common network tasks.
- Basic Security Measures: Assist in implementing and maintaining basic network security measures, such as access controls and password policies. Follow security protocols to protect the integrity and confidentiality of the network.
- Remote Support and Collaboration: Provide remote technical support to end users and remote offices, troubleshooting network issues and assisting with configurations.
- Learning and Development: Engage in training opportunities to enhance technical skills and keep up to date with networking technologies. Seek guidance from network engineers to improve proficiency.
QUALIFICATIONS
- Undergraduate degree or equivalent combination of training, education, and experience in a relevant field
- A minimum of two (2) years of experience in the following:
- Configuration and installation of Routers, Switches, and Wireless Access Points.
- Experience in Internet TCP/IP protocols such as DHCP, DNS, SNMP, TELNET, FTP, WWW, SSH
- Overall IT Experience
- Any equivalent combination of related education and/or experience will be considered
- All qualifications must be met by the time of employment
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
- Basic understanding of networking concepts and protocols, including TCP/IP, DHCP, DNS, VPN, etc.
- Familiarity with networking hardware, including routers, switches, and wireless access points.
- Proficiency in troubleshooting basic network issues and performing hardware/software installations.
- Strong problem-solving and attention to detail.
- Good communication and interpersonal skills for interacting with diverse team members and end users.
- Ability to follow technical instructions and work collaboratively within a team.
- Physical ability to lift and move network equipment as required.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Installation and implementation of complex and secure LANs/WANs is preferred.
- Cisco and/or networking equipment is preferred.
Requirements Licenses / Certifications:
- Cisco (CCNA or higher), Juniper (JNCIA or higher), Palo Alto (PCNSA or higher) certifications preferred.
About WVU
West Virginia University is a place of purpose and community. We take pride in our profound impact on the state of West Virginia and are committed to the personal and professional growth of our employees.
From the groundbreaking R1 research at our flagship campus in Morgantown to the career-oriented programs at WVU Potomac State in Keyser, and the technology-intensive programs at WVU Tech in Beckley, the contributions of WVU employees resonate across the state, touching lives and shaping futures.
At WVU, you will discover a supportive community that champions work-life balance and fosters a collaborative atmosphere. Our core values — service, curiosity, respect, accountability and appreciation — unite us as Mountaineers.
Join us at West Virginia University, where your work will make a lasting impact.
West Virginia University is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We invite all qualified applicants regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, or Veteran status.
Job Posting
: Sep 15, 2026
Posting Classification: Non-Classified
Exemption Status: Exempt
Benefits Eligible: Yes
Schedule
: Full-time
INTRODUCTION
The department of Information Technology Services at West Virginia University is currently accepting applications for an On-Site Network Engineer.
About the Opportunity
A Network Analyst is responsible for providing technical support and assistance in the installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of an organization's network infrastructure. This role involves hands-on tasks related to network devices, connectivity, and ensuring the overall functionality of the network.
We strongly believe in work-life balance and keeping time for things we love outside our work. WVU offers generous benefits, including:
- 37.5-hour work week
- 13 paid holidays (staff holiday calendar)
- 24 annual leave (vacation) days per year (employee leave)
- 18 sick days per year (for when you’re ill, for when you need time to care for sick family, for your own, or your family’s, regularly scheduled medical appointments. Who is family for the purpose of this leave? A lot of people in your life including immediate relatives and in-laws as well as others considered to be members of your household living under the same roof)
- WVU offers a range of health insurance and other benefits
- 401(a) retirement savings with 6% employee contribution match, eligibility to continue health insurance, and other retiree perks. Looking for more retirement benefits information? Check out retirement health insurance benefits, retirement income, and FAQ’s.
- Wellness programs
- Network Installation and Setup: Assist in the installation and configuration of networking hardware, including routers, switches, and access points. Collaborate with network engineers to deploy and connect network devices in accordance with established guidelines.
- Network Troubleshooting and Maintenance: Diagnose and resolve basic network issues, such as connectivity problems, network outages, and slow performance. Perform routine maintenance tasks, including software updates, firmware upgrades, and hardware replacements.
- Network Monitoring and Support: Monitor network performance using tools and alert systems, escalating issues to network engineers as needed. Provide first-level support to end users regarding network-related inquiries and problems.
- Hardware and Cable Management: Maintain accurate records of network device inventory, serial numbers, and configurations. Assist in managing network cabling infrastructure, ensuring proper organization and labeling.
- Network Documentation: Update and maintain network documentation, diagrams, and records of changes and configurations. Contribute to creating and maintaining standard operating procedures for common network tasks.
- Basic Security Measures: Assist in implementing and maintaining basic network security measures, such as access controls and password policies. Follow security protocols to protect the integrity and confidentiality of the network.
- Remote Support and Collaboration: Provide remote technical support to end users and remote offices, troubleshooting network issues and assisting with configurations.
- Learning and Development: Engage in training opportunities to enhance technical skills and keep up to date with networking technologies. Seek guidance from network engineers to improve proficiency.
QUALIFICATIONS
- Undergraduate degree or equivalent combination of training, education, and experience in a relevant field
- A minimum of two (2) years of experience in the following:
- Configuration and installation of Routers, Switches, and Wireless Access Points.
- Experience in Internet TCP/IP protocols such as DHCP, DNS, SNMP, TELNET, FTP, WWW, SSH
- Overall IT Experience
- Any equivalent combination of related education and/or experience will be considered
- All qualifications must be met by the time of employment
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
- Basic understanding of networking concepts and protocols, including TCP/IP, DHCP, DNS, VPN, etc.
- Familiarity with networking hardware, including routers, switches, and wireless access points.
- Proficiency in troubleshooting basic network issues and performing hardware/software installations.
- Strong problem-solving and attention to detail.
- Good communication and interpersonal skills for interacting with diverse team members and end users.
- Ability to follow technical instructions and work collaboratively within a team.
- Physical ability to lift and move network equipment as required.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Installation and implementation of complex and secure LANs/WANs is preferred.
- Cisco and/or networking equipment is preferred.
Requirements Licenses / Certifications:
- Cisco (CCNA or higher), Juniper (JNCIA or higher), Palo Alto (PCNSA or higher) certifications preferred.
About WVU
West Virginia University is a place of purpose and community. We take pride in our profound impact on the state of West Virginia and are committed to the personal and professional growth of our employees.
From the groundbreaking R1 research at our flagship campus in Morgantown to the career-oriented programs at WVU Potomac State in Keyser, and the technology-intensive programs at WVU Tech in Beckley, the contributions of WVU employees resonate across the state, touching lives and shaping futures.
At WVU, you will discover a supportive community that champions work-life balance and fosters a collaborative atmosphere. Our core values — service, curiosity, respect, accountability and appreciation — unite us as Mountaineers.
Join us at West Virginia University, where your work will make a lasting impact.
West Virginia University is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We invite all qualified applicants regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, or Veteran status.
Job Posting
: Sep 15, 2026
Posting Classification: Non-Classified
Exemption Status: Exempt
Benefits Eligible: Yes
Schedule
: Full-time
OPT Science & Research Job Roles in West Virginia
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Search Science & Research Jobs in West VirginiaScience & Research OPT Sponsorship Jobs in West Virginia: Frequently Asked Questions
Which science and research companies sponsor F-1 OPT visas in West Virginia?
West Virginia's F-1 OPT sponsors in science and research include federal contractors and national labs such as the National Energy Technology Laboratory, Leidos, and AECOM, along with university-affiliated research centers at West Virginia University and Marshall University. State agencies involved in public health and environmental monitoring also hire OPT candidates for research support roles, particularly in Morgantown and Charleston.
Which cities in West Virginia have the most science and research F-1 OPT sponsorship jobs?
Morgantown leads in science and research OPT hiring, driven by West Virginia University's research enterprise and proximity to federal energy labs. Charleston, as the state capital, hosts government-linked research and public health positions. Huntington sees activity through Marshall University's health and applied sciences programs. These three cities account for the substantial share of OPT-eligible research postings in the state.
What types of science and research roles typically qualify for F-1 OPT sponsorship in West Virginia?
Roles that commonly qualify include research associate, laboratory technician, data analyst, environmental scientist, geologist, biomedical researcher, and public health analyst positions. F-1 OPT authorization requires that the work be directly related to your major field of study. STEM-designated programs such as biology, chemistry, environmental science, and engineering may qualify for the 24-month STEM OPT extension, which expands eligibility windows considerably for qualifying employers.
How do I find science and research F-1 OPT sponsorship jobs in West Virginia?
Migrate Mate lists science and research positions in West Virginia filtered specifically for F-1 OPT candidates, drawing on DOL Labor Condition Application filing data to surface employers with verified sponsorship history. Search by role type and location to identify labs, federal contractors, and university research centers actively hiring OPT workers. You can also cross-reference employer LCA filings to assess sponsorship activity before applying.
Are there any state-specific or industry-specific considerations for F-1 OPT sponsorship in science and research in West Virginia?
West Virginia's science and research sector is heavily shaped by energy, environmental science, and federally funded research, meaning many positions are tied to government contracts where security clearance eligibility may be a factor. Some federal contractor roles require U.S. citizenship or permanent residency, which OPT holders do not hold. Confirming sponsorship eligibility and contract type directly with the employer before applying is advisable for positions at national labs or federal agencies.