1

Volunteer Computer Science Opt Jobs in Des Moines, IA

... computer science. Calculus coursework appropriate for a physical science major is required as a ... Qualifying experience may include paid or unpaid work, including volunteer service. GS-05:

Showing results 21-40

Volunteer Computer Science Opt information

See Des Moines, IA salary details

$8

$18

$32

How much do volunteer computer science opt jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for volunteer computer science opt in Des Moines, IA is $18.68, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.09 and $19.71 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a volunteer computer science opt?

Volunteer Computer Science Opts are individuals who contribute their computer science skills on a voluntary basis, often to non-profit organizations, community projects, or open-source initiatives. These volunteers may assist with software development, troubleshooting, web design, or technical support to help organizations achieve their missions without incurring additional costs. The 'Opt' often refers to Optional Practical Training (OPT), a program that allows international students in the U.S. to gain practical experience related to their field of study. Volunteer positions can provide valuable experience, networking opportunities, and a chance to make a meaningful impact while building technical skills.

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

To thrive as a Volunteer in Computer Science, you typically need a foundational understanding of programming languages, problem-solving skills, and knowledge of algorithms or software development. Familiarity with tools such as Git, collaborative platforms like GitHub, and sometimes specific frameworks or coding certifications is often required. Strong communication, teamwork, and adaptability help volunteers effectively support projects and collaborate with diverse teams. These skills are crucial for making meaningful contributions, learning quickly, and ensuring the success of community-driven technology initiatives.

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

Volunteer Computer Science professionals often encounter challenges such as adapting to limited resources, collaborating with team members who have varying technical backgrounds, and balancing project timelines with other commitments. To address these, it's important to communicate clearly, set realistic expectations, and leverage open-source tools or platforms. Building strong relationships with other volunteers and seeking mentorship from experienced professionals can also help in navigating these challenges and ensuring project success.

What is the difference between Volunteer Computer Science Opt vs Volunteer Software Developer?

AspectVolunteer Computer Science OptVolunteer Software Developer
Required CredentialsTypically no formal credentials required; some knowledge of computer science beneficialOften requires programming skills; some roles may prefer certifications or coursework
Work EnvironmentNon-profit, educational, or community settings; flexible hoursVaries from non-profit to startup environments; project-based work
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in academic, non-profit, or volunteer projects to gain experienceCommon in tech, non-profit, and startup sectors for software development tasks

Volunteer Computer Science Opt roles focus on gaining experience in computer science concepts without requiring formal credentials, often in educational or community settings. Volunteer Software Developer positions typically involve hands-on programming and may require some coding skills. Both roles serve different purposes but share a common goal of contributing to projects while building skills.

What are popular job titles related to Volunteer Computer Science Opt jobs in Des Moines, IA?

For Volunteer Computer Science Opt jobs in Des Moines, IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Des Moines, IA are hiring for Volunteer Computer Science Opt jobs?

Cities near Des Moines, IA with the most Volunteer Computer Science Opt job openings:

Infographic showing various Volunteer Computer Science Opt job openings in Des Moines, IA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 55% Full Time, 39% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,846 per year, or $18.7 per hour.

Full-time

Re-posted 24 days ago


Berkshire Hathaway Energy rating

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 18 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

The software engineer I participates in the design, programming, testing, documentation and implementation of computer applications and systems. Evaluates software packages, provides recommendations to management and business clients, and identifies best technology solutions. Identifies future needs for key technologies and techniques and develops plans for adoption.

These roles can be located in the following locations: Richmond, VA; Reno, NV; Des Moines, IA; Davenport, IA; and Sioux City, IA.

MidAmerican Energy Company, a Midwest utility, provides regulated electric and natural gas service to more than 1.6 million customers in Illinois, Iowa, Nebraska and South Dakota. The company owns and operates a portfolio of power-generating assets, approximately 61% of which is wind generation.MidAmerican Energy Company is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion or religious creed, age, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status (except as required by law), gender (including gender identity and expression), sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, genetic information, physical or mental disability, veteran or military status, familial or parental status, marital status or any other category protected by applicable local, state or U.S. federal law. Employees must be able to perform the essential functions of the position, with or without an accommodation.

Bachelor's degree in management information systems (MIS), computer science, or related technical field; or equivalent work experience. 

Prior related internship experience required

Basic knowledge of programming in client/server and/or web development environment 

Basic knowledge of integration and application security models; and proficiency with a variety of software development tools. 

Experience in the industry, or in an environment whose scope, size and complexity are comparable. 

Basic knowledge of open systems object design methodologies, architecture methodologies, security practices and integration techniques. 

Basic knowledge of relational database technology, structured analysis concepts, and software design patterns. 

Basic project management skills and ability to prioritize and handle multiple tasks and projects concurrently. 

Business analysis aptitude including communications and interpersonal skills enabling an understanding of client's needs. 

Able to work in a zero-code-ownership environment where the team members can modify any source file at any time. 

A basic understanding of deployment topologies (i.e. ensuring secure, highly available systems). 

Effective oral and written communication skills. Effective analytical and problem-solving skills. 

Ability to prioritize and handle multiple tasks and projects concurrently. Availability for periodic on-call responsibilities. 

Experience integrating Commercial off the Shelf (COTS) solutions within an environment with strong change and release management processes and procedures. 

Technical knowledge with hands-on experience in Oracle and Microsoft SQL database development. 

Technical knowledge with hands-on experience in .NET and other current computing programming languages. 

Technical knowledge with hands-on experience in Microsoft BizTalk Server, Microsoft SharePoint, Microsoft SQL Reporting Services and Oracle business intelligence / reporting. Understanding of company's existing IT environment and of applicable company policies, practices, and procedures.

Work Authorization/Sponsorship

At this time, we're not considering applicants that need any type of immigration sponsorship (additional work authorization or permanent work authorization) now or in the future to work in the United States. This includes, but IS NOT LIMITED TO: F1-OPT, F1-CPT, H-1B, TN, L-1, J-1, etc. For additional information around work authorization needs please use the following links.

Nonimmigrant Workers and Green Card for Employment-Based Immigrants

Design, code, test, document, implement and maintain application programs. (50%)

Enhances existing systems; participates in client walkthroughs and technical design reviews. Aids in systems development planning and monitoring. Participates in design reviews and peer code walkthroughs. Provides client and application support. (10%)

Provide customer support for package software and associated interfaces. (10%)

Perform software development and ensure conformance to performance optimization and interoperability standards and requirements. Work in adherence to secure development lifecycle practices and policies. (5%)

Performs or assists in the research and fact-finding to develop or modify application programs. Includes working with vendors to review quality, adaptability and compatibility of their products. (5-10%)

Collaborate with IT teams from applications and infrastructure to identify technology deficiencies and improvement opportunities in practices and procedures. (0-5%)

Stay current with industry standards techniques for software development, and apply them to development, testing, integration and reporting processes where appropriate. (0-5%)

Assist in the research and fact-finding to develop or modify application programs. (0-5%)

Perform basic system analysis and design functions. (0-5%)

Provide technical input to assist in development of project planning. (0-5%)

Perform any additional responsibilities as requested or assigned. (0-5%)


What Berkshire Hathaway Energy employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom