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Contractual Computer Science Opt Jobs in Arlington, VA

Data Scientist

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$150 - $181/hr

Bachelor's degree in Data Science, Computer Science, Statistics, Mathematics, Engineering ... contractual designation. * Additional compensation may be in the form of a sign-on bonus ...

Data Scientist

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$150K - $181K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Data Science, Computer Science, Statistics, Mathematics, Engineering ... or contractual designation. Additional compensation may be in the form of a sign-on bonus ...

Bachelor's degree in Data Science, Computer Science, Statistics, Mathematics, Engineering ... or contractual designation. Additional compensation may be in the form of a sign-on bonus ...

Network Engineer II

Washington, DC · On-site

$98K - $118K/yr

... include contractual requirements which may cause an offer to fall outside of this range. Qualifications: * Bachelors Degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or Information Technology

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Statistics, Machine Learning, Cognitive Science, Human ... limited to geographic location, contractual requirements, education, knowledge, skills ...

Faculty-Advisor

Bowie, MD · On-site

$2.0K/day

Regular (PIN) or Long Term Contractual Faculty Regular Former Incumbent Desired Start Date Reports ... Computer Science Faculty member; Other Budget/Grants Allocation Details Hiring Freeze Exception ...

... include contractual requirements which may cause an offer to fall outside of this range. Qualifications: Required: • Bachelor's degree or higher in Computer Science, Information Technology ...

Senior Systems Engineer

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$165K - $215K/yr

... include contractual requirements which may cause an offer to fall outside of this range. Qualifications: * Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or a related technical field (equivalent military ...

Systems Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

$155K - $215K/yr

... include contractual requirements which may cause an offer to fall outside of this range. Qualifications: * Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or a related technical field (equivalent military ...

Systems Integrator

Springfield, VA · Hybrid

$110K - $175K/yr

... include contractual requirements which may cause an offer to fall outside of this range. Qualifications: Required: * Bachelor's degree or higher in Computer Science, Information Technology ...

Computer Vision Researcher

Arlington, VA · On-site

$155K - $215K/yr

PhD in Computer Science or related field * Strong publication record in top-tier research ... Due to contractual restrictions, only US Citizens will be considered for this position * If not ...

Showing results 21-40

Contractual Computer Science Opt information

What is a contractual computer science opt?

Contractual Computer Science Opts are professionals hired on a contract basis to provide expertise in computer science, often for specific projects or periods of time. The 'Opt' typically refers to Optional Practical Training, which is a temporary employment period for international students in the United States who have completed or are pursuing their studies in computer science. These roles can involve software development, systems analysis, programming, or IT support, and allow organizations to access specialized skills for short-term needs. Contractual arrangements offer flexibility for both the employer and the employee, and are common in the tech industry.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a contractual computer science opt?

To thrive as a Contractual Computer Science Opt., you generally need a solid background in computer science fundamentals, programming languages (such as Python, Java, or C++), and a relevant degree or certification. Familiarity with version control systems like Git, cloud platforms, and project management tools is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, adaptability, and effective communication set top performers apart in this role. These competencies are crucial for delivering high-quality, efficient solutions within project timelines and collaborating effectively with diverse teams.

What are some common challenges faced by contractual computer science opt, and how can they be addressed?

Contractual Computer Science professionals often navigate challenges such as rapidly changing project requirements, adapting to new team environments, and managing time across multiple assignments. Success in this role typically requires strong communication skills for clarifying project goals, flexibility to quickly assimilate into new technical stacks or workflows, and effective self-management to meet deadlines. Proactively seeking feedback and leveraging collaborative tools can help contractual professionals integrate smoothly with full-time teams and deliver high-quality results.

What is the difference between Contractual Computer Science Opt and Contractual Software Developer?

AspectContractual Computer Science OptContractual Software Developer
CredentialsTypically requires a Computer Science degree, Optional Practical Training (OPT) authorizationRequires a relevant degree, often with coding certifications or experience
Work EnvironmentAcademic institutions, research labs, or tech companies on a temporary basisTech firms, startups, or client-based projects, often project-specific
Employer & Industry UsageCommon for international students in the US during OPT periodWidely used across tech industry for project-based or temporary roles

The Contractual Computer Science Opt is primarily a temporary work authorization for international students in the US, focusing on gaining practical experience during OPT. In contrast, a Contractual Software Developer is a role filled by professionals working on specific projects, often with a focus on coding and software development. While both roles involve computer science skills, the OPT is a visa/work authorization status, whereas the Software Developer is a job position.

Infographic showing various Contractual Computer Science Opt job openings in Arlington, VA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 80% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 19% Remote job distribution.

2027 Internship - Data Science - System Performance Evaluation

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory

Laurel, MD • On-site

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago


Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory rating

9.6

Company rating: 9.6 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

2nd of 74 rated research


Job description

Description
Do you enjoy manipulating and analyzing data to find data-driven solution to complex problems?
Do you want to contribute to work that is crucial to maintaining our national security and strength?
Are you continuously searching for new ways to improve and build upon your projects?
If you are majoring in Data Science, Statistics, Mathematics, or Computer Science, we would love to have you join our team! We are seeking a data scientist intern to leverage their computational and analytical skills supporting multi-disciplinary teams on a variety of technological and methodological innovations to create analysis and assessment approaches for many defense and national security applications. You will be joining our team of hardworking engineers, software developers, data scientists, and analysts committed to advancing the state of the art in performance evaluation of the nation's strategic weapons systems throughout their lifecycle. We believe in continually growing our capabilities, and cultivating a work environment that embraces innovation, integrity, trust, and teamwork.
As a member of our team you will...
  • Work with multi-disciplinary teams to develop data collection, processing, and analysis efforts to assess the performance of a number of systems supporting the Navy and Air Force.
  • Develop Build models and simulations to describe data, predict events, and prescribe a course of action that directly reflect stakeholder's needs across a variety of domains

Qualifications
You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you...
  • Are pursuing a degree in Data Science, Statistics, Mathematics, Computer Science or related field
  • Have experience with or knowledge of Python and/or R
  • Have experience with developing extract, transfer, load processes for data quality pipelines, data science applications and dashboard tools, or statistical and machine learning methodologies for analysis
  • Are able to obtain Interim Secret level security clearance by your start date and can ultimately obtain a final Secret level security clearance. If selected, you will be subject to a government security clearance investigation and must meet the requirements for access to classified information. Eligibility requirements include U.S. citizenship.
  • Have a minimum 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale.

You'll go above and beyond our minimum requirements if you...
  • Have a Bachelor's in Data Science, Statistics, Mathematics, Computer Science or related field
  • Have experience with statistical analysis methodologies and design of experiments
  • Have experience with or knowledge of SQL and Data Science frameworks (such as Tensorflow, Sci-kit learn, Numpy, PyTorch, Matplotlib, or more)

About Us
Why Work at APL?
The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world-class expertise to our nation's most critical defense, security, space and science challenges. While we are dedicated to solving complex challenges and pioneering new technologies, what makes us truly outstanding is our culture. We offer a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere where you can bring your authentic self to work, continue to grow, and build strong connections with inspiring teammates.
At APL, we celebrate our differences of perspectives and encourage creativity and bold, new ideas. Our employees enjoy generous benefits, including a robust education assistance program, unparalleled retirement contributions, and a healthy work/life balance. APL's campus is located in the Baltimore-Washington metro area. Learn more about our career opportunities at https://www.jhuapl.edu/careers.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran status, occupation, marital or familial status, political opinion, personal appearance, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. APL is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals of all abilities, including those with disabilities. If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in any part of the hiring process, please contact Accessibility@jhuapl.edu.
The referenced pay range is based on JHU APL's good faith belief at the time of posting. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as geographic location, work experience, market conditions, education/training and skill level with consideration for internal parity. For salaried employees scheduled to work less than 40 hours per week, annual salary will be prorated based on the number of hours worked. APL may offer bonuses or other forms of compensation per internal policy and/or contractual designation. Additional compensation may be provided in the form of a sign-on bonus, relocation benefits, locality allowance or discretionary payments for exceptional performance. APL provides eligible staff with a comprehensive benefits package including retirement plans, paid time off, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, flexible spending accounts, education assistance, and training and development. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
Minimum Rate
$22.60 Hourly
Maximum Rate
$47.95 Hourly

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