1

Volunteer Computer Science Opt Jobs in Washington, DC

Computer Scientist

Suitland, MD ยท On-site

$121K/yr

Bachelor's degree in computer science or bachelor's degree with 30 semester hours in a combination ... Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable ...

Computer Scientist

Suitland, MD ยท On-site

$121K/yr

Bachelor's degree in computer science or bachelor's degree with 30 semester hours in a combination ... Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Volunteer Computer Science Opt information

See Washington, DC salary details

$9

$21

$38

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

As of Jul 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for volunteer computer science opt in Washington, DC is $21.67, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $22.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by Volunteer Computer Science professionals, 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Volunteer in Computer Science, and why are they important?

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 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 Volunteer Computer Science Opts?

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 popular job titles related to Volunteer Computer Science Opt jobs in Washington, DC? For Volunteer Computer Science Opt jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Volunteer Computer Science Opt job openings in Washington, DC as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $45,082 per year, or $21.7 per hour.

Computer Scientist

Jobs in Your Community

Suitland, MD โ€ข On-site

$121K/yr

Other

This job post hasย expired 2 days ago.ย Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

This vacancy is for a Computer Scientist position in the Associate Director for Decennial Census Programs located at the U.S. Census Bureau Headquarters in Suitland, Maryland. The Census Bureau is accessible from the Metro Rail Green Line - Suitland Station.
This Job Opportunity Announcement may be used to fill other Computer Scientist, 1550-13 positions within the Census Bureau in the same geographical location with the same qualifications and specialized experience.Qualifications:

To qualify for the position of Computer Scientist, at GG-1550-13, you must meet the minimum and/or basic qualification requirements listed below.
Minimum Education Requirement: Bachelor's degree in computer science or bachelor's degree with 30 semester hours in a combination of mathematics, statistics, and computer science. At least 15 of the 30 semester hours must have included any combination of statistics and mathematics that included differential and integral calculus. All academic degrees and course work must be from accredited or pre-accredited institutions.
AND
Specialized Experience: For the GS-13, you must have one year of experience at a level of difficulty and responsibility equivalent to the GS-12 in the Federal service. Experience for this position includes: overseeing complex software and system developments through various techniques such as data structures, software engineering, and computer communication; Participating in the planning, development, and implementation of large more complex programs within time and budget constraints; Developing and implementing major testing strategies to ensure quality and efficiency; Providing assistance and guidance to customers on software related issues; Developing software codes using cloud native technologies.
Education: Education cannot be substituted for experience at this grade level.
Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer.
After you submit this application, you will receive an e-mail informing you that a USA Hire assessment is required. You will have 48 hours from the closing date of this announcement, 07/23/2026, to complete the assessment as this assessment is part of your application.

Education:Employment Type: OTHER