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 JobsINTRODUCTION
The Building Maintenance Engineer reports to the Chief Engineer (if applicable) and maintains a working relationship with and takes direction from all Property Managers in his/her area for issues affecting their properties.
Issues may range from tenant improvement work to preventive maintenance and repair of all building systems. This must be done in a manner that not only protects, but also maximizes the value of the property. The Building Engineer must exhibit outstanding client service and professionalism in all interactions with tenants and staff. Teamwork and collaboration are critical to this position’s success.
Pay: $28-$34 per hour.
The pay listed is the hourly range or the hourly rate for this position. A specific offer will vary based on applicant’s experience, skills, abilities, geographic location, and alignment with market data.
Benefit Information:
ABM offers a comprehensive benefits package. For information about ABM’s benefits, visit ABM Team Member Benefits | Front Line Team Members | (Programa de Beneficios de ABM)
Responsibilities
- Maintenance, repair, and operation of HVACR and MEP equipment as assigned to include large, air-cooled chillers, electric boilers, and heat exchangers
- Complete preventative and corrective maintenance tasks on all building systems
- Troubleshoot and diagnose building systems
- Prioritize the maintenance and repairs of facility equipment and parts
- Inspect alarm systems (fire protection) and schedule repairs as needed
- Perform daily building rounds to ensure functionality and safety
- Conduct general upkeep procedures and other tasks as assigned (painting etc.)
- Coordinate work performed by contractors and outside vendors
- Monitor critical spares inventory
- Ensure health and safety policies are complied with
- Monitor, operate and troubleshoot with building automation system
- Maintain logs for both maintenance and compliance related issues
- Customer-first mindset when responding to work orders
- Display ability and desire to train and mentor other building technicians.
SKILLS
- Proven experience as a maintenance technician with 7+ years in a facilities maintenance environment or a trades level equivalent
- Solid understanding of engineering concepts, including HVAC, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems
- Sound troubleshooting and problem-solving skills
- Working knowledge of tools and devices
- Ability to interpret blueprints, specifications and schematics
- Thorough understanding of the refrigeration cycle and Direct Exchange equipment
- Outstanding organizational and prioritization abilities
- A sound understanding of general maintenance processes and methods
- Ability to keep track of and report on activity
- Working knowledge of facilities systems and equipment
- Able to work in a fast-paced environment and multi-task effectively
- Effective interpersonal and written communication skills
- Experience with Lock Out Tag Out (LOTO) procedures
- Familiarity with CMMS (FM Systems, Primo, Data Stream, etc.)
QUALIFICATIONS
- Completion of HVACR or Facilities Maintenance/Operation program from an accredited institution and 1-3 years in a hands-on maintenance role.
- Special Engineer Minnesota State Boiler License
- Proficient with Microsoft Office applications
- Physical: lift 50 pounds, move 600-pound barrel with aid of barrel dolly, use full range of body movements (standing, squatting, sitting, walking, bending, etc.), climb stairs and ladders; manipulate small objects with hands
- Willingness to work an on-call schedule
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Maintenance Electrical License
- Experience working in an R&D environment
- Certified Maintenance and Reliability Professional (CMRP)
About us
ABM (NYSE: ABM) is one of the world’s largest providers of facility services and solutions. A driving force for a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable world, ABM provides essential services and forward-looking performance solutions that improve the spaces and places that matter most. From curbside to rooftop, ABM’s comprehensive services include janitorial, engineering, parking, electrical and lighting, energy and electric vehicle charging infrastructure, HVAC and mechanical, landscape and turf, and mission critical solutions. ABM serves a wide range of industries – from commercial office buildings to universities, airports, hospitals, data centers, manufacturing plants and distribution centers, entertainment venues and more. Founded in 1909, ABM serves over 20,000 clients, with annualized revenue approaching $8 billion and more than 100,000 team members in 350+ offices throughout the United States, United Kingdom, Republic of Ireland, and other international locations.
ABM is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer qualified applicants without regard race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran or any other protected factor under federal, state, or local law. ABM is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodation to individuals with disabilities. If you have a disability and need assistance in completing the employment application, please call 888-328-8606. We will provide you with assistance and make a determination on your request for reasonable accommodation on a case-by-case basis.
ABM participates in the U.S. Department of Homeland Security E-Verify program. E-Verify is an internet-based system used to electronically confirm employment eligibility.
ABM is a military-friendly company proudly employing thousands of men and women who have served in the U.S. military. With ABM, you’ll have access to a world-class training program and ample opportunities to use the skills you developed while serving our country. Whether you’re looking for a frontline or professional position, you can find post-military career opportunities across ABM.
ABM directs all applicants to apply at http://www.abm.com/ ABM does not accept unsolicited resumes.
INTRODUCTION
The Building Maintenance Engineer reports to the Chief Engineer (if applicable) and maintains a working relationship with and takes direction from all Property Managers in his/her area for issues affecting their properties.
Issues may range from tenant improvement work to preventive maintenance and repair of all building systems. This must be done in a manner that not only protects, but also maximizes the value of the property. The Building Engineer must exhibit outstanding client service and professionalism in all interactions with tenants and staff. Teamwork and collaboration are critical to this position’s success.
Pay: $28-$34 per hour.
The pay listed is the hourly range or the hourly rate for this position. A specific offer will vary based on applicant’s experience, skills, abilities, geographic location, and alignment with market data.
Benefit Information:
ABM offers a comprehensive benefits package. For information about ABM’s benefits, visit ABM Team Member Benefits | Front Line Team Members | (Programa de Beneficios de ABM)
Responsibilities
- Maintenance, repair, and operation of HVACR and MEP equipment as assigned to include large, air-cooled chillers, electric boilers, and heat exchangers
- Complete preventative and corrective maintenance tasks on all building systems
- Troubleshoot and diagnose building systems
- Prioritize the maintenance and repairs of facility equipment and parts
- Inspect alarm systems (fire protection) and schedule repairs as needed
- Perform daily building rounds to ensure functionality and safety
- Conduct general upkeep procedures and other tasks as assigned (painting etc.)
- Coordinate work performed by contractors and outside vendors
- Monitor critical spares inventory
- Ensure health and safety policies are complied with
- Monitor, operate and troubleshoot with building automation system
- Maintain logs for both maintenance and compliance related issues
- Customer-first mindset when responding to work orders
- Display ability and desire to train and mentor other building technicians.
SKILLS
- Proven experience as a maintenance technician with 7+ years in a facilities maintenance environment or a trades level equivalent
- Solid understanding of engineering concepts, including HVAC, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems
- Sound troubleshooting and problem-solving skills
- Working knowledge of tools and devices
- Ability to interpret blueprints, specifications and schematics
- Thorough understanding of the refrigeration cycle and Direct Exchange equipment
- Outstanding organizational and prioritization abilities
- A sound understanding of general maintenance processes and methods
- Ability to keep track of and report on activity
- Working knowledge of facilities systems and equipment
- Able to work in a fast-paced environment and multi-task effectively
- Effective interpersonal and written communication skills
- Experience with Lock Out Tag Out (LOTO) procedures
- Familiarity with CMMS (FM Systems, Primo, Data Stream, etc.)
QUALIFICATIONS
- Completion of HVACR or Facilities Maintenance/Operation program from an accredited institution and 1-3 years in a hands-on maintenance role.
- Special Engineer Minnesota State Boiler License
- Proficient with Microsoft Office applications
- Physical: lift 50 pounds, move 600-pound barrel with aid of barrel dolly, use full range of body movements (standing, squatting, sitting, walking, bending, etc.), climb stairs and ladders; manipulate small objects with hands
- Willingness to work an on-call schedule
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Maintenance Electrical License
- Experience working in an R&D environment
- Certified Maintenance and Reliability Professional (CMRP)
About us
ABM (NYSE: ABM) is one of the world’s largest providers of facility services and solutions. A driving force for a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable world, ABM provides essential services and forward-looking performance solutions that improve the spaces and places that matter most. From curbside to rooftop, ABM’s comprehensive services include janitorial, engineering, parking, electrical and lighting, energy and electric vehicle charging infrastructure, HVAC and mechanical, landscape and turf, and mission critical solutions. ABM serves a wide range of industries – from commercial office buildings to universities, airports, hospitals, data centers, manufacturing plants and distribution centers, entertainment venues and more. Founded in 1909, ABM serves over 20,000 clients, with annualized revenue approaching $8 billion and more than 100,000 team members in 350+ offices throughout the United States, United Kingdom, Republic of Ireland, and other international locations.
ABM is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer qualified applicants without regard race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran or any other protected factor under federal, state, or local law. ABM is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodation to individuals with disabilities. If you have a disability and need assistance in completing the employment application, please call 888-328-8606. We will provide you with assistance and make a determination on your request for reasonable accommodation on a case-by-case basis.
ABM participates in the U.S. Department of Homeland Security E-Verify program. E-Verify is an internet-based system used to electronically confirm employment eligibility.
ABM is a military-friendly company proudly employing thousands of men and women who have served in the U.S. military. With ABM, you’ll have access to a world-class training program and ample opportunities to use the skills you developed while serving our country. Whether you’re looking for a frontline or professional position, you can find post-military career opportunities across ABM.
ABM directs all applicants to apply at http://www.abm.com/ ABM does not accept unsolicited resumes.
See all 210+ OPT Building Engineer Jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new OPT Building Engineer Jobs.
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.