OPT Civil Engineer Jobs
Civil Engineer OPT jobs are available across infrastructure, transportation, geotechnical, and construction management sectors. Most roles qualify as STEM OPT positions, making you eligible for a 24-month STEM extension on top of your initial 12 months. Strong demand from federal contractors and municipal agencies means many employers are familiar with OPT work authorization.
See All OPT Civil Engineer JobsOverview
Showing 5 of 3,989+ Civil Engineer jobs
Have you applied for this role?
Have you applied for this role?
Have you applied for this role?
Have you applied for this role?
Have you applied for this role?
See all 3,989+ Civil Engineer Jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new Civil Engineer roles.
Get Access To All JobsINTRODUCTION
Bowman has an opportunity for a Civil Engineer I to join our team in Las Vegas, NV.
At Bowman, we believe in creating opportunities for aspiring people to thrive and achieve ambitious goals. That’s why a career at Bowman is more than a job. It is an opportunity to be part of a diverse and engaged community of professionals, to be treated as a respected and valued member of a motivated team and to be empowered to do exceptional work that advances the best interest of everyone involved. We recognize the importance of creating a work environment that is both rewarding to our employees and supportive of our unwavering commitment to provide unparalleled service to our clients.
Overview
Evaluate, select, and apply standard engineering techniques, procedures, and criteria on moderately complex projects.
Responsibilities
Leadership and Direction: Receive general instruction on key objectives for execution. Receive direction as needed, and especially on difficult assignments and possible solutions. Work is completed using standard engineering techniques and design principles and is reviewed by more senior staff to ensure application of sound professional judgement.
At the Operational and Company Level: Work with senior level engineers, clients and agencies, subcontractors, and design teams on moderately complex engineering project issues.
Do the Work:
- Conceptualize the initial civil design approach for assigned phases of large land/site development.
- Complete civil engineering work for assigned phases of large land/site development.
- Assist with the development of plans, specifications, and reports.
- Complete design work and calculations using computer-aided software.
- Provide technical assistance in the resolution of design problems that may include performing field investigation or inspections, detailed design work and calculations, and detailed checking of design computations done by others, or general coordination of specific design aspects into a project.
SUCCESS METRICS AND COMPETENCIES
- Ability to work both independently and within a team environment.
- Ability to effectively participate as part of a project team.
- High level of motivation and a problem-solving attitude.
- Strong sense of urgency in responding to constituents.
- Effective verbal and written communication skills.
- Strong work ethic and commitment to quality.
- Self-reliance and ability to operate independently with limited direction.
- Commitment to promoting the reputation of the company through quality of work and attention to detail.
- Aspiration to grow professionally and advance within the company.
- Ability to work effectively with internal leaders and peers, as well as external clients.
- Commitment to becoming a "citizen" of the broader organization, breaking down barriers and silos.
- Commitment to working in partnership with others inside and outside the organization.
- Ability to effectively manage multiple time-sensitive tasks.
- Data analysis and interpretation skills.
QUALIFICATIONS
- Bachelor's degree in civil engineering or related engineering discipline required at time of employment.
- EIT preferred.
- Entry level position, experience in civil engineering a plus; land/site development industry a plus.
- Land Development engineering experience and skills; large- and small-scale drainage and BMP design preferred.
- Experience with computer applications and civil engineering design software such as Civil3D in a professional or academic setting.
- Familiarity with reading construction plans.
- Working knowledge of AutoCAD, Civil3D, AES, CIVILD, WSPGW, PCSWMM, StormCAD, HEC-HMS, HEC-RAS preferred.
- Familiarity with Storm Drain Modeling and Rational Method Hydrologic Calculations.
- Familiarity with Open Channel & Detention Basin Modeling and Design.
- Familiarity with HEC-RAS modeling and CLOMR/LOMR applications and processing.
- Experience researching zoning, development standards, development review processes, compliance matters, regulations and standards.
- Assist with preparing reports, narratives, development applications, submittal documents, and response letters.
- Ability to multi-task and coordinate on multiple projects, with multiple clients and sub-consultants.
- Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Projects).
PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORKING ENVIRONMENT
- May be eligible for remote or hybrid work arrangements.
- Primarily indoor professional office environment, which can consist of possible bright/dim light, noise, fumes, odors, and traffic.
- Mobility around an office environment, occasional squat or kneel.
- Mobility around a job/construction site to include walking, bending, crawling, climbing, squatting, or kneeling and wearing of required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
- Frequent and prolonged use of standard office equipment such as computers, phones, photocopiers, filing cabinets and fax machines.
- Occasional lifting or carrying up to 20 pounds.
- Occasional pushing or pulling up to 20 pounds.
- Occasional reaching outward or above shoulder.
ABOUT BOWMAN
Are you ready to build a career that makes a lasting impact? At Bowman, our people are at the center of everything we do. We’re committed to creating an environment where employees can thrive both personally and professionally, while helping to shape the infrastructure of tomorrow.
A career at Bowman means being part of a collaborative, forward-thinking organization where innovation, inclusion, and growth are encouraged at every level. We offer competitive compensation, a supportive work environment, and benefits designed to help our employees succeed.
OUR COMPREHENSIVE BENEFITS PACKAGE INCLUDES:
- Medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance
- 401(k) retirement savings plan with company match
- Paid time off, sick leave, and paid holidays
- Tuition reimbursement and professional development support
- Discretionary bonuses and other performance-based incentives
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP), wellness initiatives, and employee discounts
Eligibility for certain benefits may vary based on position, location, and employment status.
JOB DESCRIPTION DISCLAIMER
Note: While this job description is intended to be an accurate reflection of the job requirements, it is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Management reserves the right to modify, add, or remove duties from particular jobs and to assign other duties as necessary at any time with or without notice.
Bowman is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace where all employees feel valued and respected. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. For our EEO Policy Statement, please click here. If you’d like more information on your EEO rights under the law, please click here.
Bowman has an obligation to provide and maintain a safe, healthy, and productive environment for its employees and clients. We are committed to maintaining a drug and alcohol-free workplace.
If you have any questions about the application process, please email recruiting@bowman.com.
INTRODUCTION
Bowman has an opportunity for a Civil Engineer I to join our team in Las Vegas, NV.
At Bowman, we believe in creating opportunities for aspiring people to thrive and achieve ambitious goals. That’s why a career at Bowman is more than a job. It is an opportunity to be part of a diverse and engaged community of professionals, to be treated as a respected and valued member of a motivated team and to be empowered to do exceptional work that advances the best interest of everyone involved. We recognize the importance of creating a work environment that is both rewarding to our employees and supportive of our unwavering commitment to provide unparalleled service to our clients.
Overview
Evaluate, select, and apply standard engineering techniques, procedures, and criteria on moderately complex projects.
Responsibilities
Leadership and Direction: Receive general instruction on key objectives for execution. Receive direction as needed, and especially on difficult assignments and possible solutions. Work is completed using standard engineering techniques and design principles and is reviewed by more senior staff to ensure application of sound professional judgement.
At the Operational and Company Level: Work with senior level engineers, clients and agencies, subcontractors, and design teams on moderately complex engineering project issues.
Do the Work:
- Conceptualize the initial civil design approach for assigned phases of large land/site development.
- Complete civil engineering work for assigned phases of large land/site development.
- Assist with the development of plans, specifications, and reports.
- Complete design work and calculations using computer-aided software.
- Provide technical assistance in the resolution of design problems that may include performing field investigation or inspections, detailed design work and calculations, and detailed checking of design computations done by others, or general coordination of specific design aspects into a project.
SUCCESS METRICS AND COMPETENCIES
- Ability to work both independently and within a team environment.
- Ability to effectively participate as part of a project team.
- High level of motivation and a problem-solving attitude.
- Strong sense of urgency in responding to constituents.
- Effective verbal and written communication skills.
- Strong work ethic and commitment to quality.
- Self-reliance and ability to operate independently with limited direction.
- Commitment to promoting the reputation of the company through quality of work and attention to detail.
- Aspiration to grow professionally and advance within the company.
- Ability to work effectively with internal leaders and peers, as well as external clients.
- Commitment to becoming a "citizen" of the broader organization, breaking down barriers and silos.
- Commitment to working in partnership with others inside and outside the organization.
- Ability to effectively manage multiple time-sensitive tasks.
- Data analysis and interpretation skills.
QUALIFICATIONS
- Bachelor's degree in civil engineering or related engineering discipline required at time of employment.
- EIT preferred.
- Entry level position, experience in civil engineering a plus; land/site development industry a plus.
- Land Development engineering experience and skills; large- and small-scale drainage and BMP design preferred.
- Experience with computer applications and civil engineering design software such as Civil3D in a professional or academic setting.
- Familiarity with reading construction plans.
- Working knowledge of AutoCAD, Civil3D, AES, CIVILD, WSPGW, PCSWMM, StormCAD, HEC-HMS, HEC-RAS preferred.
- Familiarity with Storm Drain Modeling and Rational Method Hydrologic Calculations.
- Familiarity with Open Channel & Detention Basin Modeling and Design.
- Familiarity with HEC-RAS modeling and CLOMR/LOMR applications and processing.
- Experience researching zoning, development standards, development review processes, compliance matters, regulations and standards.
- Assist with preparing reports, narratives, development applications, submittal documents, and response letters.
- Ability to multi-task and coordinate on multiple projects, with multiple clients and sub-consultants.
- Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Projects).
PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORKING ENVIRONMENT
- May be eligible for remote or hybrid work arrangements.
- Primarily indoor professional office environment, which can consist of possible bright/dim light, noise, fumes, odors, and traffic.
- Mobility around an office environment, occasional squat or kneel.
- Mobility around a job/construction site to include walking, bending, crawling, climbing, squatting, or kneeling and wearing of required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
- Frequent and prolonged use of standard office equipment such as computers, phones, photocopiers, filing cabinets and fax machines.
- Occasional lifting or carrying up to 20 pounds.
- Occasional pushing or pulling up to 20 pounds.
- Occasional reaching outward or above shoulder.
ABOUT BOWMAN
Are you ready to build a career that makes a lasting impact? At Bowman, our people are at the center of everything we do. We’re committed to creating an environment where employees can thrive both personally and professionally, while helping to shape the infrastructure of tomorrow.
A career at Bowman means being part of a collaborative, forward-thinking organization where innovation, inclusion, and growth are encouraged at every level. We offer competitive compensation, a supportive work environment, and benefits designed to help our employees succeed.
OUR COMPREHENSIVE BENEFITS PACKAGE INCLUDES:
- Medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance
- 401(k) retirement savings plan with company match
- Paid time off, sick leave, and paid holidays
- Tuition reimbursement and professional development support
- Discretionary bonuses and other performance-based incentives
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP), wellness initiatives, and employee discounts
Eligibility for certain benefits may vary based on position, location, and employment status.
JOB DESCRIPTION DISCLAIMER
Note: While this job description is intended to be an accurate reflection of the job requirements, it is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Management reserves the right to modify, add, or remove duties from particular jobs and to assign other duties as necessary at any time with or without notice.
Bowman is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace where all employees feel valued and respected. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. For our EEO Policy Statement, please click here. If you’d like more information on your EEO rights under the law, please click here.
Bowman has an obligation to provide and maintain a safe, healthy, and productive environment for its employees and clients. We are committed to maintaining a drug and alcohol-free workplace.
If you have any questions about the application process, please email recruiting@bowman.com.
See all 3,989+ OPT Civil Engineer Jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new OPT Civil Engineer Jobs.
Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding OPT Sponsorship as a Civil Engineer
Target STEM-designated programs
Civil engineering degrees from ABET-accredited programs almost always carry a STEM designation, qualifying you for the 24-month extension. Confirm your CIP code with your DSO before applying so you can communicate your full OPT timeline confidently to employers.
Prioritize federal contractors and public agencies
Firms holding federal contracts, state DOTs, and municipal engineering agencies hire OPT students regularly and have established HR processes for work authorization. These employers are far more likely to be comfortable with your status than smaller private firms.
Get your EIT certification before you start applying
Passing the Fundamentals of Engineering exam signals professional seriousness and removes one hiring objection. Many civil engineering employers view EIT certification as a proxy for commitment, which helps offset any hesitation about sponsoring your future visa status.
Clarify your authorization window in your cover letter
Briefly state your OPT end date and STEM extension eligibility upfront. Civil engineering hiring cycles are long, so employers need to know whether your authorization covers the full onboarding and project ramp-up period before they invest in interviewing you.
Build a portfolio of software proficiency
Proficiency in AutoCAD, Civil 3D, and HEC-RAS is expected for most entry-level civil roles. Document specific projects where you used these tools. Employers are more willing to navigate OPT paperwork for candidates who can contribute immediately without additional technical training.
Network through professional engineering associations
ASCE student chapters and regional engineering societies regularly connect students with employers. Attending local branch events puts you in front of hiring managers who already understand OPT timelines, making conversations about work authorization far less awkward than a cold application.
Civil Engineer OPT: Frequently Asked Questions
Do civil engineering jobs qualify for the STEM OPT extension?
Yes. Civil engineering degree programs are classified under STEM CIP codes, which means graduates are eligible for the 24-month STEM OPT extension after their initial 12-month OPT period. Your employer must be enrolled in E-Verify, and you must file Form I-765 before your current OPT expires. This gives you up to 36 months of total work authorization.
What types of civil engineering employers commonly hire OPT students?
Federal contractors, state transportation departments, municipal public works agencies, and large engineering consultancies are the most OPT-friendly employers in civil engineering. Firms like AECOM, WSP, and Jacobs regularly hire international graduates. Smaller boutique firms may be less familiar with OPT authorization. You can browse civil engineer roles filtered by sponsorship willingness on Migrate Mate.
Can I work on federally funded infrastructure projects while on OPT?
Yes, OPT work authorization does not restrict you from working on federally funded projects. However, some classified government contracts require security clearance, which non-citizens cannot typically obtain. Most infrastructure roles, including highway, bridge, and water systems projects, do not require clearance and are fully accessible to OPT students working for eligible employers.
Does my OPT job need to be directly related to my civil engineering degree?
Yes. USCIS requires that OPT employment be directly related to your major field of study. For civil engineering graduates, this covers structural, geotechnical, environmental, transportation, and construction management roles. A position in general project management or facilities operations may not satisfy the requirement. Your DSO can confirm whether a specific role qualifies before you accept an offer.
What happens to my OPT if my civil engineering job ends before my authorization expires?
You have a cumulative 90-day unemployment allowance during standard OPT, which extends to 150 days if you are in an approved STEM extension period. Unemployment is counted from your OPT start date, not from when you lose the job. Exceeding the limit terminates your F-1 status, so securing a new qualifying position quickly is important.