OPT Building Engineer Jobs
Building Engineer jobs are a strong fit for F-1 OPT students with degrees in mechanical, electrical, civil, or facilities engineering. Most roles qualify as STEM OPT extensions, giving you up to 36 months of work authorization. Employers in commercial real estate, healthcare, and property management regularly hire and sponsor international candidates.
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Get Access To All JobsThe Opportunity
PAE is looking for an aspiring engineer passionate about the intersection of sustainable design and mechanical systems to join our team as an Entry Level Building Performance Specialist. In this role, you won’t just be drafting; you’ll be a key contributor to greenhouse gas analysis, renewable energy systems, and high-performance HVAC design.
As a vital member of our project teams, you will bridge the gap between complex engineering simulations and real-world construction. From performing mechanical calculations in TRACE and IES to designing system layouts in Revit, you will gain hands-on experience across the entire project lifecycle, from initial district planning to construction administration.
Who We Are
PAE is an engineering and design firm that turns complex challenges into reality. By leveraging the latest technologies, we solve problems in unique ways, and our designs enable buildings and communities to be more resilient and efficient. PAE is trusted by our clients in every aspect of a project's lifespan, from idea to occupancy. We set ambitious goals backed by analysis to significantly conserve water and energy while balancing costs and long-term operational needs. As a B Corp, we measure success by the benefits our projects provide to our clients, our communities, and our planet. We embrace innovation, transparency, sustainability, and lifelong curiosity.
- Develop an understanding of mechanical system design, modeling and documentation
- Develop proficiency using Revit and AutoCAD as design/drafting tools
- Provide task-based support building performance analysis, greenhouse gas analysis, renewable energy systems, district planning, engineering distribution, HVAC and plumbing
- Develop an understanding of drawings, specifications, building codes, and mechanical industry standards
- Complete assigned work with instruction from project team members
- Assist with construction administration
- Perform mechanical calculations and performance simulations
- Design layout of mechanical systems
- Perform other duties as assigned
What You Bring
- Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering for discipline work
- Engineer in Training (E.I.T.) or ability to obtain
- Internship experience preferred
- Revit/AutoCAD, TRACE, IES
- Strong analytical skills, strategic thinking
- Passionate about results
- Organization
- Clear communication
- Attention to detail
- Time management
- Microsoft Office Suite
What We Offer
- Hiring Base Salary Range: $75,900 - $91,600 annual
+ This position is eligible for time and a half overtime pay
The base salary is one component of PAE’s competitive compensation package for employees. We take into consideration a variety of factors including but not limited to skills, abilities, experience, education, credentials, internal equity and geographic location in determining exact salary offered. At PAE, employees are eligible for annual compensation reviews based on performance and business needs. The above range represents PAE's good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting.
In addition, PAE offers a comprehensive benefits package which includes the following:
- Employer paid health insurance (medical, dental, vision)
- Annual 401k profit sharing based on company profit for the year and account contribution
- Professional development reimbursements including state registration and professional association dues
- Employer paid commuter/parking stipend
- Cell phone stipend
- Life insurance and disability benefits
- Hybrid work schedule
- Employee Assistance Program
- 9 paid holidays including an additional employee-selected day
- Paid time off for sick leave, family leave, community service, holidays and vacation
- Time-and-a-half pay for eligible overtime
To learn more about our comprehensive benefits package, visit https://www.pae-engineers.com/careers/benefits. This information is provided per the Equal Pay Act.
Our commitment to pay equity
PAE is a JUST label certified company; we demonstrate JUST label requirements within pay equity. Pay scales should meet or exceed applicable legislated wage requirements and industry standards and compensate, on the same basis, all individuals performing the same or similar work and work of equal value. We are committed to the principle of pay equity – paying employees equitably for substantially similar work. To learn more about pay equity and our commitments to equitable business practices, you may view our JUST label certification here: Living Future: Just Label Certification.
What We’re Made Of
Founded in 1967, PAE is a leading sustainable engineering and consulting firm on a mission to deliver clean air, energy, and water for all. We specialize in mechanical, electrical, and plumbing engineering, building performance analysis, technology design, and lighting design (LUMA). PAE designs some of the nation's highest-performing and most regenerative built environments across the U.S., from Living Buildings to all-electric buildings and beyond. Our portfolio includes over 100 LEED Platinum projects as well as dozens of projects that have either achieved or are pursuing the Living Building Challenge, Passive House, Architecture 2030, Carbon Neutral, Net Zero Energy, and Net Zero Water.
Fine Print
Please note that resumes received from third party recruiters or agencies will not be accepted unless requested directly by PAE Talent Acquisition and with a prior signed fee agreement. If candidates without a previously signed recruiter fee agreement are submitted, PAE reserves the right to engage with and hire those candidate(s) without any obligation financial or otherwise to the recruiter or agency.
In order to provide equal employment and advancement opportunities to all individuals, employment decisions at PAE will be based on merit, qualifications and abilities. PAE does not discriminate in employment opportunities or practices on the basis of race, color, religion, gender (sex), national origin, age, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, physical characteristics historically associated with race, disability, genetic information or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.
PAE will make reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with known disabilities unless doing so would result in an undue hardship. This policy governs all aspects of employment including: selection, job assignment, compensation, discipline, termination and access to benefits and training.
LI-hybrid
The Opportunity
PAE is looking for an aspiring engineer passionate about the intersection of sustainable design and mechanical systems to join our team as an Entry Level Building Performance Specialist. In this role, you won’t just be drafting; you’ll be a key contributor to greenhouse gas analysis, renewable energy systems, and high-performance HVAC design.
As a vital member of our project teams, you will bridge the gap between complex engineering simulations and real-world construction. From performing mechanical calculations in TRACE and IES to designing system layouts in Revit, you will gain hands-on experience across the entire project lifecycle, from initial district planning to construction administration.
Who We Are
PAE is an engineering and design firm that turns complex challenges into reality. By leveraging the latest technologies, we solve problems in unique ways, and our designs enable buildings and communities to be more resilient and efficient. PAE is trusted by our clients in every aspect of a project's lifespan, from idea to occupancy. We set ambitious goals backed by analysis to significantly conserve water and energy while balancing costs and long-term operational needs. As a B Corp, we measure success by the benefits our projects provide to our clients, our communities, and our planet. We embrace innovation, transparency, sustainability, and lifelong curiosity.
- Develop an understanding of mechanical system design, modeling and documentation
- Develop proficiency using Revit and AutoCAD as design/drafting tools
- Provide task-based support building performance analysis, greenhouse gas analysis, renewable energy systems, district planning, engineering distribution, HVAC and plumbing
- Develop an understanding of drawings, specifications, building codes, and mechanical industry standards
- Complete assigned work with instruction from project team members
- Assist with construction administration
- Perform mechanical calculations and performance simulations
- Design layout of mechanical systems
- Perform other duties as assigned
What You Bring
- Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering for discipline work
- Engineer in Training (E.I.T.) or ability to obtain
- Internship experience preferred
- Revit/AutoCAD, TRACE, IES
- Strong analytical skills, strategic thinking
- Passionate about results
- Organization
- Clear communication
- Attention to detail
- Time management
- Microsoft Office Suite
What We Offer
- Hiring Base Salary Range: $75,900 - $91,600 annual
+ This position is eligible for time and a half overtime pay
The base salary is one component of PAE’s competitive compensation package for employees. We take into consideration a variety of factors including but not limited to skills, abilities, experience, education, credentials, internal equity and geographic location in determining exact salary offered. At PAE, employees are eligible for annual compensation reviews based on performance and business needs. The above range represents PAE's good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting.
In addition, PAE offers a comprehensive benefits package which includes the following:
- Employer paid health insurance (medical, dental, vision)
- Annual 401k profit sharing based on company profit for the year and account contribution
- Professional development reimbursements including state registration and professional association dues
- Employer paid commuter/parking stipend
- Cell phone stipend
- Life insurance and disability benefits
- Hybrid work schedule
- Employee Assistance Program
- 9 paid holidays including an additional employee-selected day
- Paid time off for sick leave, family leave, community service, holidays and vacation
- Time-and-a-half pay for eligible overtime
To learn more about our comprehensive benefits package, visit https://www.pae-engineers.com/careers/benefits. This information is provided per the Equal Pay Act.
Our commitment to pay equity
PAE is a JUST label certified company; we demonstrate JUST label requirements within pay equity. Pay scales should meet or exceed applicable legislated wage requirements and industry standards and compensate, on the same basis, all individuals performing the same or similar work and work of equal value. We are committed to the principle of pay equity – paying employees equitably for substantially similar work. To learn more about pay equity and our commitments to equitable business practices, you may view our JUST label certification here: Living Future: Just Label Certification.
What We’re Made Of
Founded in 1967, PAE is a leading sustainable engineering and consulting firm on a mission to deliver clean air, energy, and water for all. We specialize in mechanical, electrical, and plumbing engineering, building performance analysis, technology design, and lighting design (LUMA). PAE designs some of the nation's highest-performing and most regenerative built environments across the U.S., from Living Buildings to all-electric buildings and beyond. Our portfolio includes over 100 LEED Platinum projects as well as dozens of projects that have either achieved or are pursuing the Living Building Challenge, Passive House, Architecture 2030, Carbon Neutral, Net Zero Energy, and Net Zero Water.
Fine Print
Please note that resumes received from third party recruiters or agencies will not be accepted unless requested directly by PAE Talent Acquisition and with a prior signed fee agreement. If candidates without a previously signed recruiter fee agreement are submitted, PAE reserves the right to engage with and hire those candidate(s) without any obligation financial or otherwise to the recruiter or agency.
In order to provide equal employment and advancement opportunities to all individuals, employment decisions at PAE will be based on merit, qualifications and abilities. PAE does not discriminate in employment opportunities or practices on the basis of race, color, religion, gender (sex), national origin, age, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, physical characteristics historically associated with race, disability, genetic information or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.
PAE will make reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with known disabilities unless doing so would result in an undue hardship. This policy governs all aspects of employment including: selection, job assignment, compensation, discipline, termination and access to benefits and training.
LI-hybrid
See all 188+ OPT Building Engineer Jobs
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Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding OPT Sponsorship as a Building Engineer
Confirm your degree qualifies for STEM OPT
Building Engineer roles typically qualify for the 24-month STEM OPT extension if your degree is in mechanical, electrical, or civil engineering. Verify your program CIP code with your DSO before applying to maximize your work authorization window.
Target employers with facilities management operations
Large commercial property owners, hospital systems, and university facilities departments hire Building Engineers year-round and are more accustomed to OPT paperwork. Smaller landlords often lack HR infrastructure to handle work authorization documentation efficiently.
Lead with your technical certifications
Certifications like EPA 608, OSHA 30, or LEED Green Associate signal job-readiness to employers who may be uncertain about OPT timelines. Credentials reduce perceived hiring risk and make your application competitive against locally authorized candidates.
Apply early relative to your OPT start date
Building Engineer roles often have 30-to-60-day onboarding timelines for background checks and access credentialing. Apply at least two months before your OPT authorization begins to avoid gaps between your start date and the employer's readiness.
Clarify OPT authorization confidently in interviews
Many facilities employers confuse OPT with H-1B visa sponsorship. Prepare a clear one-minute explanation that OPT is your existing work authorization, requires no employer petition, and costs the employer nothing to initiate during your authorized period.
Use Migrate Mate to find OPT-friendly employers
Browse Building Engineer listings on Migrate Mate to identify employers who have previously hired OPT students. Focusing your applications on these companies significantly improves your chances of finding a role before your OPT window closes.
Building Engineer OPT: Frequently Asked Questions
Do Building Engineer jobs qualify for the STEM OPT extension?
Most Building Engineer positions qualify for the 24-month STEM OPT extension if your degree is in a STEM-designated field such as mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, or civil engineering. Your DSO can confirm eligibility by checking your program's CIP code against the official STEM designation list. If you qualify, you can work up to 36 months total on OPT, which gives employers a meaningful runway before any H-1B sponsorship decision is necessary.
Do employers need to do anything to hire me on OPT as a Building Engineer?
During initial OPT, your employer does not file any petition or pay any government fees. You provide your EAD card as proof of work authorization, and the employer records it on your I-9. For the STEM OPT extension, your employer must be enrolled in E-Verify and sign a formal training plan with your DSO. This is a straightforward administrative step that most property management companies and building operators can complete without legal counsel.
What types of employers hire Building Engineers on OPT?
Commercial real estate firms, hospital systems, university facilities departments, hotel operators, and large property management companies are the most active hirers. These organizations maintain engineering staff year-round and have established HR processes for work authorization documentation. You can find employers actively open to OPT candidates by browsing Building Engineer listings on Migrate Mate, which focuses specifically on roles accessible to international students.
Can I work on-site at a client building as an OPT Building Engineer?
Yes, OPT authorizes you to work at your employer's client sites as long as your employer of record remains the company on your EAD and your I-9. Third-party placement arrangements where a staffing agency places you with an end client can create compliance complications, so confirm the employment structure before accepting an offer. Your DSO can review any unusual arrangements to ensure your OPT authorization remains valid.
How much time do I realistically have to find sponsorship as a Building Engineer on OPT?
If you qualify for the STEM extension, you have up to 36 months of OPT work authorization, which typically covers two to three H-1B lottery cycles. Building Engineer roles in commercial real estate and facilities management are sponsored under the H-1B regularly, as the job requires a specific engineering degree. Starting conversations about long-term sponsorship with your employer around the 18-month mark gives both sides enough time to plan without pressure.