J-1 Visa Systems Engineer Jobs
Systems Engineer roles in the United States are available to international professionals through the J-1 visa under the Trainee or Research Scholar program category, depending on your career stage. Qualifying positions require a designated sponsor organization to issue your DS-2019 and provide sponsorship. No lottery or annual cap applies.
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Get Access To All JobsINTRODUCTION
Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory is hiring a Postdoctoral Scholar, Energy Systems within the Building and Industrial Energy Systems division. In this role, you will develop, implement, and evaluate software tools for the design and control of thermal energy systems, particularly HVAC equipment, central heating and cooling plants, and/or data center cooling systems. These tools will be developed using Modelica, Python, and AI-based tools. You will also participate in laboratory and/or field demonstrations to validate and evaluate the developed technologies. Successful candidates will have a strong background in thermo-fluid systems and software development, deployment, and distribution. You will work under the guidance of scientists and collaborate with multidisciplinary research teams, including researchers and industry partners within and outside LBNL.
We’re here for the same mission, to bring science solutions to the world. Join our team and YOU will play a supporting role in our goal to address global challenges! Have a high level of impact and work for an organization associated with 17 Nobel Prizes!
Why join Berkeley Lab?
We invest in our postdoctoral scholars by offering benefits and resources designed to support your well-being, professional growth, and life outside of work:
- Comprehensive health benefits, including medical, dental, and vision coverage
- Retirement savings through the UC Defined Contribution Safe Harbor Plan, with additional voluntary UC retirement savings options available
- 24 days of Personal Time Off (PTO) per fiscal year, plus sick leave and paid holidays
- Eight weeks of Postdoctoral Paid Family Leave for qualifying family and parental needs
- Opportunities to connect, network, and grow through the Berkeley Lab Postdoc Association, including social events, professional development, and scientific exchange
- A collaborative and inclusive culture where you can grow your research career and belong
YOUR ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES
- Develop Python- and/or Modelica-based software for design and control of HVAC equipment, central heating and cooling plants and/or data centers.
- Investigate cutting edge algorithms and tools in the fields of AI, machine learning and optimization.
- Deploy, implement and evaluate software tools at laboratory environments and field sites.
- Publish research results in journals, present findings at national and international conferences, and work with industry on testing and deploying the research.
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS
- Ph.D. degree in mechanical engineering, architectural engineering, electrical engineering, and computer science or related fields.
- Strong knowledge of HVAC equipment, central heating and cooling plants and/or data center cooling systems.
- Demonstrated experience in applying modern AI technologies, computational methods, and data analysis tools
- Strong knowledge of modeling and simulation of thermo-fluid systems
- Hands-on experience with thermo-fluid systems, including experimental testing, system design, and operation.
- Strong analytical and communications skills, both oral and written, and able to communicate clearly the goals, parameters, objectives and outcomes of their research.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Knowledge in testing standards of thermal systems
- Capable of working on multiple tasks and projects
APPLICATION MATERIALS
For consideration, please apply with the following application materials:
- Cover Letter - Describe your interest in this position and the relevance of your background.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) or Resume.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
- Application date: Priority consideration will be given to candidates who apply by December 30, 2026. Applications will be accepted until the job posting is removed.
- Appointment type: This is a full-time, 2 years, postdoctoral appointment with the possibility of renewal based upon satisfactory job performance, continuing availability of funds and ongoing operational needs. You must have less than 3 years of paid postdoctoral experience. Salary for Postdoctoral positions depends on years of experience post-degree.
- Salary range: The monthly salary range for this position is $8,266 / mo - $8,921.00 / mo and is expected to start at $8,266 / mo or above. Postdoctoral positions are paid on a step schedule per union contract and salaries will be predetermined based on postdoctoral step rates.
- Background check: This position is subject to a background check. Any convictions will be evaluated to determine if they directly relate to the responsibilities and requirements of the position. Having a conviction history will not automatically disqualify an applicant from being considered for employment.
- Work modality: This position is eligible for a flexible work mode, with onsite or hybrid work being the preferred modes. Hybrid work is a combination of teleworking and performing work on-site at Lawrence Berkeley National Lab, 1 Cyclotron Road, Berkeley, CA. Individuals working a hybrid schedule must reside within 150 miles of Berkeley Lab. Work schedules are dependent on business needs. A REAL ID or other acceptable form of identification is required to access Berkeley Lab sites.
- Union Represented: This position is represented by a union for collective bargaining purposes.
Equal Employment Opportunity Employer: The foundation of Berkeley Lab is our Stewardship Values: Team Science, Service, Trust, Innovation, and Respect; and we strive to build community with these shared values and commitments. Berkeley Lab is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We heartily welcome applications from all who could contribute to the Lab's mission of leading scientific discovery, excellence, and professionalism. In support of our rich global community, all qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected categories under State and Federal law.
Misconduct Disclosure Requirement: As a condition of employment, the final candidate who accepts an offer of employment will be required to disclose if they have been subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct; or have filed an appeal of a finding of substantiated misconduct with a previous employer. For additional information.
INTRODUCTION
Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory is hiring a Postdoctoral Scholar, Energy Systems within the Building and Industrial Energy Systems division. In this role, you will develop, implement, and evaluate software tools for the design and control of thermal energy systems, particularly HVAC equipment, central heating and cooling plants, and/or data center cooling systems. These tools will be developed using Modelica, Python, and AI-based tools. You will also participate in laboratory and/or field demonstrations to validate and evaluate the developed technologies. Successful candidates will have a strong background in thermo-fluid systems and software development, deployment, and distribution. You will work under the guidance of scientists and collaborate with multidisciplinary research teams, including researchers and industry partners within and outside LBNL.
We’re here for the same mission, to bring science solutions to the world. Join our team and YOU will play a supporting role in our goal to address global challenges! Have a high level of impact and work for an organization associated with 17 Nobel Prizes!
Why join Berkeley Lab?
We invest in our postdoctoral scholars by offering benefits and resources designed to support your well-being, professional growth, and life outside of work:
- Comprehensive health benefits, including medical, dental, and vision coverage
- Retirement savings through the UC Defined Contribution Safe Harbor Plan, with additional voluntary UC retirement savings options available
- 24 days of Personal Time Off (PTO) per fiscal year, plus sick leave and paid holidays
- Eight weeks of Postdoctoral Paid Family Leave for qualifying family and parental needs
- Opportunities to connect, network, and grow through the Berkeley Lab Postdoc Association, including social events, professional development, and scientific exchange
- A collaborative and inclusive culture where you can grow your research career and belong
YOUR ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES
- Develop Python- and/or Modelica-based software for design and control of HVAC equipment, central heating and cooling plants and/or data centers.
- Investigate cutting edge algorithms and tools in the fields of AI, machine learning and optimization.
- Deploy, implement and evaluate software tools at laboratory environments and field sites.
- Publish research results in journals, present findings at national and international conferences, and work with industry on testing and deploying the research.
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS
- Ph.D. degree in mechanical engineering, architectural engineering, electrical engineering, and computer science or related fields.
- Strong knowledge of HVAC equipment, central heating and cooling plants and/or data center cooling systems.
- Demonstrated experience in applying modern AI technologies, computational methods, and data analysis tools
- Strong knowledge of modeling and simulation of thermo-fluid systems
- Hands-on experience with thermo-fluid systems, including experimental testing, system design, and operation.
- Strong analytical and communications skills, both oral and written, and able to communicate clearly the goals, parameters, objectives and outcomes of their research.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Knowledge in testing standards of thermal systems
- Capable of working on multiple tasks and projects
APPLICATION MATERIALS
For consideration, please apply with the following application materials:
- Cover Letter - Describe your interest in this position and the relevance of your background.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) or Resume.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
- Application date: Priority consideration will be given to candidates who apply by December 30, 2026. Applications will be accepted until the job posting is removed.
- Appointment type: This is a full-time, 2 years, postdoctoral appointment with the possibility of renewal based upon satisfactory job performance, continuing availability of funds and ongoing operational needs. You must have less than 3 years of paid postdoctoral experience. Salary for Postdoctoral positions depends on years of experience post-degree.
- Salary range: The monthly salary range for this position is $8,266 / mo - $8,921.00 / mo and is expected to start at $8,266 / mo or above. Postdoctoral positions are paid on a step schedule per union contract and salaries will be predetermined based on postdoctoral step rates.
- Background check: This position is subject to a background check. Any convictions will be evaluated to determine if they directly relate to the responsibilities and requirements of the position. Having a conviction history will not automatically disqualify an applicant from being considered for employment.
- Work modality: This position is eligible for a flexible work mode, with onsite or hybrid work being the preferred modes. Hybrid work is a combination of teleworking and performing work on-site at Lawrence Berkeley National Lab, 1 Cyclotron Road, Berkeley, CA. Individuals working a hybrid schedule must reside within 150 miles of Berkeley Lab. Work schedules are dependent on business needs. A REAL ID or other acceptable form of identification is required to access Berkeley Lab sites.
- Union Represented: This position is represented by a union for collective bargaining purposes.
Equal Employment Opportunity Employer: The foundation of Berkeley Lab is our Stewardship Values: Team Science, Service, Trust, Innovation, and Respect; and we strive to build community with these shared values and commitments. Berkeley Lab is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We heartily welcome applications from all who could contribute to the Lab's mission of leading scientific discovery, excellence, and professionalism. In support of our rich global community, all qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected categories under State and Federal law.
Misconduct Disclosure Requirement: As a condition of employment, the final candidate who accepts an offer of employment will be required to disclose if they have been subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct; or have filed an appeal of a finding of substantiated misconduct with a previous employer. For additional information.
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Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding J-1 Visa Sponsorship as a Systems Engineer
Align your degree with SOC codes
Systems Engineer roles map to SOC 17-2199 in O*NET. Confirm your degree field matches the technical discipline of the posted role before applying, since designated sponsors verify this alignment when approving your DS-2019.
Identify your correct J-1 category early
If you're currently enrolled in a degree program, you qualify under the Intern category. If you've graduated within the past year, Trainee applies. Applying under the wrong category causes DS-2019 rejections that delay your start date by weeks.
Draft a training plan before outreach
Host employers must submit a structured training plan to the designated sponsor. Arrive at interviews with a draft outlining your learning objectives, technical milestones, and supervision structure, since many engineering hiring managers don't know what sponsors require.
Search Migrate Mate for J-1-aligned openings
Filter systems engineering roles on Migrate Mate by J-1 visa compatibility to surface host employers already familiar with the designated sponsor workflow, saving you the step of educating a recruiter from scratch.
Check the 2-year home residency requirement upfront
Government-funded J-1 exchange visitors and those from countries on the State Department skills list face a two-year home residency requirement before changing to H-1B visa or green card status. Confirm your situation with your sponsor before signing an offer.
Verify host employer acceptance before sponsor enrollment
Designated sponsors such as Cultural Vistas or AIPT require written confirmation of your host employer placement before they issue a DS-2019. Secure a signed offer letter or formal placement agreement first, or your sponsor application stalls at intake.
Systems Engineer J-1 Visa: Frequently Asked Questions
Which J-1 program category fits a Systems Engineer role?
It depends on your career stage. Current students completing a degree in engineering or a related technical field typically fall under the Intern category. Professionals who have graduated and are pursuing supervised on-the-job training qualify under the Trainee category. Researchers working in advanced systems or defense engineering at universities or national labs may qualify under Research Scholar or Specialist, depending on the host institution.
Who actually sponsors a J-1 visa for a Systems Engineer, the employer or a third party?
The visa sponsor is a U.S. Department of State-designated organization, not the hiring employer. Organizations such as Cultural Vistas, AIPT, or IIE issue your DS-2019, approve your training plan, and monitor compliance throughout your exchange. Your employer is the host organization. The two roles are legally separate, and confusing them often causes delays when candidates approach employers expecting direct visa sponsorship.
Can I use Migrate Mate to find Systems Engineer roles that accept J-1 exchange visitors?
Yes. Migrate Mate lets you filter Systems Engineer openings by J-1 visa compatibility, which surfaces host employers already working within the designated sponsor framework. That matters because systems engineering roles at companies unfamiliar with the DS-2019 process often stall during onboarding, and targeting experienced host employers reduces that risk significantly.
Does the two-year home residency requirement apply to Systems Engineers on a J-1 visa?
It applies in specific circumstances, not universally. If your J-1 program was funded by your home country's government, the U.S. government, or if your occupation appears on your country's State Department skills list, you're subject to the two-year requirement before switching to H-1B or pursuing a green card. Many private-sector systems engineering Trainee placements are not government-funded, so the requirement may not apply, but you must confirm this with your designated sponsor before accepting an offer.
What documentation does a host employer need to complete before my J-1 can be issued?
The host employer must sign a formal training plan, typically Form DS-7002 for Intern and Trainee categories, outlining your technical learning objectives, supervision structure, and evaluation schedule. The designated sponsor reviews and approves this plan before issuing your DS-2019. Systems engineering roles often require the host to document hands-on experience with specific platforms or infrastructure, so the more detailed your plan, the faster sponsor approval moves.