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Stem Opt Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

Highways Intern

Tampa, FL

$15.75 - $20.50/hr

H1B, F-1 CPT/OPT/STEM OPT) is not available for this position, except for qualified candidates eligible for the TN visa classification. An intern supports the assigned design department by assisting ...

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Stem Opt information

See Florida salary details

$12

$49

$76

How much do stem opt jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for stem opt in Florida is $49.82, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $34.47 and $64.13 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Stem Opt position, and why are they important?

To thrive in a STEM OPT role, you generally need a bachelor's or master's degree in a STEM field such as engineering, computer science, or mathematics, along with solid analytical and problem-solving skills. Proficiency with industry-specific software, programming languages, and technical tools relevant to your discipline is typically essential. Strong communication, adaptability, and teamwork abilities make candidates stand out, as they often work in diverse and dynamic environments. These skills and qualifications are vital for navigating complex projects, integrating with multidisciplinary teams, and successfully meeting employer expectations during the STEM OPT period.

Did the US lose 33,000 jobs in June?

The job market for STEM OPT participants is influenced by overall employment trends, but there is no specific evidence that the US lost exactly 33,000 jobs in June. Employment data varies monthly and depends on industry and economic conditions, which can impact STEM-related job opportunities. It is advisable to consult official labor reports for precise figures.

What are the top 10 STEM careers?

Top STEM careers include software developers, data scientists, electrical engineers, mechanical engineers, civil engineers, computer hardware engineers, biomedical engineers, environmental scientists, mathematicians, and information security analysts. These roles often require strong technical skills, relevant degrees, and proficiency with specialized tools or programming languages. They are in high demand across various industries due to technological advancements and innovation.

What is a STEM OPT job?

A STEM OPT job is a position held by an F-1 visa student who has graduated with a degree in a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics) field and is authorized for a 24-month OPT extension. The job must be related to the student's degree and with an employer enrolled in the E-Verify program. Employers and students must also comply with DHS reporting requirements during the STEM OPT period.

What types of roles and responsibilities can I expect as a STEM OPT employee?

As a STEM OPT employee, you will typically work in positions that align with your field of study, such as software development, data analysis, engineering support, or scientific research. Daily responsibilities may include collaborating with senior team members, contributing to project-based work, troubleshooting technical issues, and engaging in ongoing training to advance your skills. You'll often be part of a cross-functional team, which gives you valuable exposure to different business areas and professional practices. This experience not only strengthens your technical skills but also provides a clear path for career development and long-term employment opportunities within your chosen STEM field.

What jobs qualify for STEM OPT?

STEM OPT applies to jobs in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics fields that are directly related to a student's degree. Eligible positions typically include roles such as software developer, engineer, data analyst, and research scientist, among others, and require employment with an E-Verify employer. The job must align with the student's field of study and meet specific program requirements set by USCIS.

How can I make 2000 a week working from home?

A STEM OPT holder can potentially earn $2000 a week working from home by securing high-paying freelance or contract roles in fields like software development, data analysis, or engineering, often requiring specialized skills and certifications. Building a strong portfolio, leveraging remote job platforms, and demonstrating expertise can help achieve this income level, but it typically involves consistent work and advanced skills.
What are the most commonly searched types of Stem Opt jobs in Florida? The most popular types of Stem Opt jobs in Florida are:
What cities in Florida are hiring for Stem Opt jobs? Cities in Florida with the most Stem Opt job openings:
Infographic showing various Stem Opt job openings in Florida as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 81% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 90% In-person, 8% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $103,621 per year, or $49.8 per hour.
Part-time College STEM Liaison (Grant-funded)

Part-time College STEM Liaison (Grant-funded)

Polk State College

Winter Haven, FL • On-site

$15 - $17/hr

Part-time

Retirement

Posted 15 days ago


Polk State College rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

383rd of 611 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Salary: $15.00 - $17.00 Hourly
Location : Lakeland
Job Type: Part-Time/Temporary
Job Number: 202600006
Org: Academic Affairs Dean - Lakeland
Opening Date: 01/13/2026
Please label all uploaded documents with your full name (for example: Jane_Doe_Resume). This helps ensure your materials are properly matched to your application.
If you are a currently active Polk State College employee, please create an account using your polk.edu staff email address. Our HR system will not recognize you as an active employee.
Description
This is a part-time career position that reports directly to the Principal Investigator. It involves coordinating STEM club activities, assisting in STEM student recruitment, providing logistical support to faculty mentors, and collecting data for the project.
Essential Functions/Duties
  • Assists with the establishment of the STEM Club.
  • Schedules club meetings.
  • Schedules guest speakers.
  • Recruits STEM students for the ASSET project.
  • Maintains records of all STEM Club activities.
  • Collects data of participants.
  • Provides logistical support to collaborating faculty.
  • Collects activity data.
  • Builds community and maintains program sustainability.
  • Prepares reports, as needed.

Typical Qualifications
Required Skills:
  • Strong organizational and time management skills with attention to detail.
  • Effective verbal and written communication abilities.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint) and basic data entry systems.
  • Ability to manage multiple tasks, meet deadlines, and adapt to changing priorities.
  • Strong interpersonal skills to interact effectively with students, faculty, and external partners.
  • Ability to collect, organize, and maintain accurate records and reports.
  • Problem-solving skills and sound judgment in handling routine and confidential matters.
Working conditions:
  • Travel will be required -day travel between Polk State College campuses but may require out-of-county travel as well.
  • Normal office working conditions.
  • 25 hours/week.

Salary and Benefits Information
  • This position is a level C15.

Required Education:
  • An associate's degree from a regionally accredited college or university is required.

Required Experience:
  • Demonstrated organizational experience required.

Preferred Experience:
  • Experience working in STEM fields.

Supplemental Information
Submissions that do not include all parts of the following required information will not be considered:
  • a resume.
  • an electronic job application (all sections MUST be completed).

Important Information
  • If you are a retiree of the Florida Retirement System (FRS), please check with the FRS on how your current benefits will be affected if you are re-employed with the State of Florida. Your current retirement benefits may be canceled, suspended, or deemed ineligible depending upon the date of your retirement.
  • Polk State College participates in E-Verify. Candidates must provide documentation of eligibility to work in the United States. Polk State College does not provide visa sponsorship.
  • To request Veteran's Preference, please be sure to upload all necessary documents (DD-214, etc.) to your application.
  • Polk State College is a drug-free workplace.
  • Polk State College is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodation to applicants and employees with disabilities. Reasonable accommodation is considered on a case-by-case basis.
  • Reference checks, successful completion of a background check, and third-party Education Verification for all stated degrees will be required prior to employment.
  • Polk State College does NOT provide relocation assistance for this position.

Equal Opportunity Statement
Polk State College does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, or age in its programs, activities, or employment. For information about the College's equal access and equal opportunity policies and procedures, or to file a complaint, please contact:
Title IX Coordinator
3425 Winter Lake Road
Lakeland, FL 33803
863.669.2903
For additional information, visit
We encourage applicants to provide feedback of their experience or request help at Careers@polk.edu
We provide retirement benefits and 50% college fee waivers for part-time regular employees.
To learn more details, visit our benefits page.
01
Are you over the age of 18?
  • Yes
  • No

02
Are you currently legally authorized to work in the U.S. on a full-time basis for any U.S. employer?
  • Yes
  • No

03
Will you now or in the future require any type of employer sponsorship or immigration-related support to legally work for Polk State College? (This includes but is not limited to the following: H-1B, H-1B1, J-1, TN, E-3, O-1, F-1 CPT, F-1 OPT, F-1 STEM OPT.)
  • Yes
  • No

04
Are you currently in a period of F-1 CPT or OPT or seeking employment under one of these programs?
  • Yes
  • No

05
Are you a current employee at Polk State College?
  • Yes
  • No

06
Are you a United States Veteran or a qualifying family member seeking to use Veterans' Preference? (Please upload your DD-214 documents to your profile/application.)
  • Yes
  • No

07
Are you bilingual?
  • Yes
  • No

08
I am able to work 100% on campus and I do not require a remote or hybrid schedule.
  • Yes
  • No

09
Which statement below best describes the highest level of education you have completed?
  • High School Diploma/GED
  • Associate's Degree
  • Bachelor's Degree
  • Master's Degree
  • Master's Degree + 18 graduate hours
  • Professional Degree
  • Doctorate Degree

10
Do you have experience working in the STEM field?
  • Yes
  • No

11
Which of the following describes your highest level of Microsoft office (Microsoft word, Excel, Powerpoint) proficiency?
  • I do not have enough skills to meet the definition of Basic level below.
  • Basic
  • Intermediate
  • Advanced

12
The information provided in your application must support your selected answers in the supplemental questions. The information you provide will be verified and documentation may be required. Please be honest and accurate as possible. You may be asked to demonstrate your knowledge and skills in a work sample or during the interview. By completing this supplemental questionnaire, you are attesting that the information you have provided is accurate. Any misstatements, omissions, or falsification of information may eliminate you from consideration or result in dismissal.
  • Yes, I understand and agree
  • No, I do not agree

Required Question

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