You’ve worked hard, earned your degree, and finally got your OPT approved.
But now comes the tough part: landing that first software engineering job. Chances are you’ve already sent out dozens of applications, maybe even over a hundred. And the responses? Either silence or the classic rejection email: “We’ve decided to move forward with other candidates.”
If that sounds familiar, you’re definitely not alone. Many international students face this exact struggle. The US tech market is competitive, but the real challenge is finding companies that not only value your skills but also understand and accept your OPT status.
Here’s the upside. Texas is actually one of the hottest places right now for OPT candidates in tech if you know how to approach it strategically.
Target the right Texas cities
Instead of chasing jobs all over the US, focus on the cities that matter most. In Texas, your top picks should be Austin, Dallas, Plano, and Houston.
Austin, often called “Silicon Hills”, is buzzing with tech giants like Apple and Dell along with a fast-growing startup scene.
Dallas and Plano are strong in corporate tech, with companies like Toyota Connected and Liberty Mutual consistently hiring.
Houston is becoming a hub for tech jobs in energy, biotech, and innovation.
To give you an idea of growth: Plano’s tech job market jumped by 20 percent this year. There are more than 21,000 open software roles right now with salaries ranging from $95,000 to $137,000. Dallas is not far behind, with mid-level engineers earning up to $141,000.
Salary and career growth in Texas
When it comes to pay, Texas does not disappoint. Entry-level software engineers can expect anywhere from $93,000 to $137,000.
But here is the real win. The cost of living in Texas is much lower than places like New York or California. So not only do you earn well, but your money also goes further on rent, food, and savings.
And the demand is still climbing. With fields like AI, cloud computing, and cybersecurity booming, tech hiring in Texas is not slowing down anytime soon.
How CareerXcelerator makes the difference
At CareerXcelerator, we support OPT and STEM graduates with everything that actually matters in the job hunt. From sharing real and verified job opportunities to offering interview tips, resume guidance, and practical insights, we make sure you are not navigating the process alone.
Whether you are aiming for your first software role in Texas or preparing for interviews, our resources are built to match the challenges international candidates face in the US tech job market.
Want job updates, hiring alerts, and insider tips sent directly to your phone? Join our exclusive WhatsApp group where we post handpicked opportunities, answer common OPT-related questions, and help you stay ahead in your job search. Your next offer could be just one message away.