Deke,
Congratulations for having master degree. First suggestion would be why do not you look job on your own field? We all know how hard it is to get a job and employer sponsor us. I guess you already tried that and now you are looking a job in other areas too. IT with out any doubt is good, pay wise and it is easy to find employer who are willing to sponsor.
I have seen many people with biology degree working on IT during OPT and doing very good. I have seen biology degree holder worked in IT and extended their OPT for 17 months.
I am not saying that it won't be a violation but sharing my experience. Wish you all the best on your job hunt.