OPT Architectural Engineer Jobs
Architectural Engineer jobs on OPT sit at the intersection of structural systems, building technology, and design. Most roles require a degree in architectural engineering or a closely related field, and STEM OPT designation gives you up to three years of work authorization, making you an attractive candidate for firms with multi-year project timelines.
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Get Access To All JobsCompany Description
At CRB, we design and build some of the most powerful facilities in the world — those that change people's lives. We are the leading provider of sustainable Engineering, Architecture, Construction and Consulting solutions to the global life sciences and food and beverage industries. Our employees provide best-in-class solutions that drive success and positive change for our clients, our people and our communities. CRB is a privately held company with a rich history of serving clients throughout the world, consistently striving for the highest standard of technical knowledge, creativity and execution.
Job Description
The Architectural Designer performs their job functions under the supervision of a project’s Architect of Record. Responsibilities include assisting with 3D modeling and design, conducting field investigations, and producing discipline specific deliverables. The Designer will work on a variety of architectural assignments, including initial programming, planning, scope and concept development and construction documentation. Close coordination with architectural, engineering and construction staff will be needed to ensure assignments are completed accurately and efficiently.
- Generate design and construction models and associated documentation, including floor and ceiling plans, elevations, sections and details utilizing Revit or other BIM software.
- Generate drawings based on markups provided by Architectural staff.
- Perform drawing reviews to confirm compliance with CRB Documentation Standards.
- Work closely with Engineering and Construction personnel to develop and ensure coordinated designs.
- Assist with field investigations and information gathering.
- Participate and contribute during drawing reviews, coordination meetings and quality checks.
- Assist in development and generation of studies, presentations and reports.
Qualifications
- Accredited Professional Degree in Architecture (B.Arch, M.Arch, and/or D.Arch) or Canadian / International equivalent) preferred
- Applicable Associate Degree or Technical Trade School Certification accepted
- Minimum three years professional experience.
Preferred Qualifications
- Proficiency in Revit and Microsoft Office suite
- Experience with Enscape, Navisworks and AutoCAD
- Flexibility for moderate travel in support of project-based or training activities
- LEED Accreditation, WELL Certification or similar sustainability credentials
- Experience developing, coordinating and executing architectural design and documentation
- Knowledge of, and/or experience with advanced technology industry projects including R&D labs, biotechnology, pharmaceutical, food & nutrition and/or consumer products
All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.
CRB is committed to hiring and retaining a diverse workforce. We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer and it is our policy to provide equal opportunity to all people without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, marital status, veteran status, age, disability, pregnancy, genetic information, citizenship status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or any other legally protected category. Employment is contingent on background screening.
CRB does not accept unsolicited resumes from search firms or agencies. Any resume submitted to any employee of CRB without a prior written search agreement will be considered unsolicited and the property of CRB. Please, no phone calls or emails.
CRB offers a complete and competitive benefit package designed to meet individual and family needs.
If you are unable to complete this application due to a disability, contact this employer to ask for an accommodation or an alternative application process.
Company Description
At CRB, we design and build some of the most powerful facilities in the world — those that change people's lives. We are the leading provider of sustainable Engineering, Architecture, Construction and Consulting solutions to the global life sciences and food and beverage industries. Our employees provide best-in-class solutions that drive success and positive change for our clients, our people and our communities. CRB is a privately held company with a rich history of serving clients throughout the world, consistently striving for the highest standard of technical knowledge, creativity and execution.
Job Description
The Architectural Designer performs their job functions under the supervision of a project’s Architect of Record. Responsibilities include assisting with 3D modeling and design, conducting field investigations, and producing discipline specific deliverables. The Designer will work on a variety of architectural assignments, including initial programming, planning, scope and concept development and construction documentation. Close coordination with architectural, engineering and construction staff will be needed to ensure assignments are completed accurately and efficiently.
- Generate design and construction models and associated documentation, including floor and ceiling plans, elevations, sections and details utilizing Revit or other BIM software.
- Generate drawings based on markups provided by Architectural staff.
- Perform drawing reviews to confirm compliance with CRB Documentation Standards.
- Work closely with Engineering and Construction personnel to develop and ensure coordinated designs.
- Assist with field investigations and information gathering.
- Participate and contribute during drawing reviews, coordination meetings and quality checks.
- Assist in development and generation of studies, presentations and reports.
Qualifications
- Accredited Professional Degree in Architecture (B.Arch, M.Arch, and/or D.Arch) or Canadian / International equivalent) preferred
- Applicable Associate Degree or Technical Trade School Certification accepted
- Minimum three years professional experience.
Preferred Qualifications
- Proficiency in Revit and Microsoft Office suite
- Experience with Enscape, Navisworks and AutoCAD
- Flexibility for moderate travel in support of project-based or training activities
- LEED Accreditation, WELL Certification or similar sustainability credentials
- Experience developing, coordinating and executing architectural design and documentation
- Knowledge of, and/or experience with advanced technology industry projects including R&D labs, biotechnology, pharmaceutical, food & nutrition and/or consumer products
All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.
CRB is committed to hiring and retaining a diverse workforce. We are proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer and it is our policy to provide equal opportunity to all people without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, marital status, veteran status, age, disability, pregnancy, genetic information, citizenship status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or any other legally protected category. Employment is contingent on background screening.
CRB does not accept unsolicited resumes from search firms or agencies. Any resume submitted to any employee of CRB without a prior written search agreement will be considered unsolicited and the property of CRB. Please, no phone calls or emails.
CRB offers a complete and competitive benefit package designed to meet individual and family needs.
If you are unable to complete this application due to a disability, contact this employer to ask for an accommodation or an alternative application process.
See all 118+ OPT Architectural Engineer Jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new OPT Architectural Engineer Jobs.
Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding OPT Sponsorship as an Architectural Engineer
Lead with your STEM OPT timeline
Architectural engineering is a designated STEM field, so your OPT can extend to 36 months. Tell hiring managers upfront. A three-year authorization window reduces their sponsorship urgency and makes you easier to hire without immediate visa planning.
Target firms with active H-1B histories
Engineering and architecture firms that have sponsored H-1B visa workers before are far more likely to sponsor again. Focus your search on mid-size to large AEC firms with established HR processes, as they understand visa timelines and have legal infrastructure already in place.
Align your degree to the job description
Architectural engineering roles qualify as specialty occupations, but your degree must match the role. A structural focus supports structural engineering positions. A building systems focus supports MEP roles. Mismatches create H-1B complications, so apply to roles that map directly to your coursework.
Build a portfolio that shows systems-level thinking
Employers sponsoring OPT candidates want to see long-term value. A portfolio showcasing integrated building systems, load analysis, or energy modeling signals you can contribute to complex projects, making the investment in sponsorship feel clearly justified to hiring managers reviewing your application.
Apply early relative to your OPT end date
Firms often need three to six months to initiate H-1B sponsorship. If your OPT expires in a year or less, start applying now. Waiting until the final months compresses the timeline for both you and the employer, reducing your chances significantly.
Prepare to explain the E-3 and TN pathways if applicable
If you hold Australian or Canadian citizenship, the E-3 visa and TN visas are faster and cheaper alternatives to H-1B. Many architectural engineering employers are unfamiliar with these options. Coming prepared with a brief explanation can remove the sponsorship hesitation that ends otherwise strong conversations.
Architectural Engineer OPT: Frequently Asked Questions
Is architectural engineering a STEM-designated field for OPT purposes?
Yes. Architectural engineering programs carry a STEM designation under the Department of Homeland Security's STEM OPT list, which means eligible F-1 graduates can apply for a 24-month STEM OPT extension beyond the initial 12-month OPT period, giving you up to 36 months of total work authorization. Your degree must be from a STEM-designated program at your institution, and your employer must be enrolled in E-Verify to qualify.
What types of employers hire architectural engineers on OPT?
Large integrated AEC firms, structural engineering consultancies, building systems consultancies specializing in MEP, and government agencies working on infrastructure and public buildings are the most common employers. Firms with multi-year project pipelines tend to be more open to sponsorship because your STEM OPT window aligns with their staffing needs. You can browse architectural engineer roles from sponsoring employers directly on Migrate Mate.
Can I work on-site at a client's project location while on OPT?
Yes, but your employment must remain with your sponsoring employer, not the client. Working at a client's construction site or project office is standard in the AEC industry and is permitted on OPT as long as the direction and payment flow through your employer of record. If your role involves multiple job sites, confirm with your DSO that your I-983 training plan reflects the scope of where you will physically work.
Does holding a PE license or EIT certification improve my OPT sponsorship prospects?
Holding an Engineer in Training (EIT) certification demonstrates you have passed the Fundamentals of Engineering exam and are on the professional licensure track. Many employers prefer EIT-certified candidates because it signals long-term commitment to the profession. While it does not directly affect OPT eligibility, it strengthens the case for H-1B sponsorship by showing you are building a credential set that justifies a long-term employment relationship.
What happens if my OPT expires before my H-1B petition is approved?
If your employer files a cap-subject H-1B petition before your OPT expires and you maintain valid status, you may be eligible for a cap-gap extension, which automatically bridges your authorized stay and work authorization through September 30 of the fiscal year the H-1B would take effect. You must remain employed with the same sponsoring employer throughout the gap period. Consult your DSO as soon as your employer begins the H-1B process to track your status carefully.