OPT Construction Jobs
Construction jobs on OPT typically fall under engineering, architecture, or project management disciplines, all of which qualify for the 12-month standard OPT period. STEM-designated programs in civil or structural engineering can extend that to 36 months, giving you significantly more time to build U.S. work experience and pursue sponsorship.
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Get Access To All JobsConstruction Engineer - Night Shift
At HDR, our employee-owners are fully engaged in creating a welcoming environment where each of us is valued and respected, a place where everyone is empowered to bring their authentic selves and novel ideas to work every day. As we foster a culture of inclusion throughout our company and within our communities, we constantly ask ourselves: What is our impact on the world?
Each and every role throughout our organization makes a difference in our ability to change the world for the better. Read further to learn how you could help make great things possible not only in your community, but around the world.
HDR is providing PM/CM services for the Los Angeles World Airports ATMP Landside Improvements Project. The project will deliver critical improvements to the roadways, streets, and thoroughfares in and around the Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) campus. HDR will assist with the management of projects throughout the design, preconstruction, and construction phases, from inception to closeout. HDR is proud to lead a strong team of world-class professionals to sculpt this project that is a key part of the infrastructure transformation ahead of the 2028 Olympics and will serve millions of travelers and Angelenos for decades to come.
The Construction Engineer supports the Resident Engineer in the administration, construction inspection, and oversight of public works (roadways, structures, complete streets, ITS / Traffic signals) construction projects. This role involves contract administration support, construction engineering, coordinating with contractors, coordinating with stakeholders (LAWA, Caltrans and City of LA Departments), coordinating with utilities and 3rd parties, ensuring compliance with project plans and specifications, maintaining thorough project documentation, and supporting quality assurance and safety protocols on site.
Key Responsibilities:
- Coordinate and support LAWA Construction Inspection Division and City of LA with nightly field inspections to verify construction activities follow approved plans, specifications, and regulatory requirements (e.g., Caltrans, local agency standards, utility agreements etc).
- Prepare and maintain checklists for inspections, field material sampling and testing in accordance with project plans, specifications and contract documents.
- Prepare and maintain project records, including conformed set of plans and specifications, daily reports, quantity calculations, photos, develop punch-lists and as-built documentation.
- Assist with the review and processing of submittals, RFIs, Field Directives, request for task orders, change notices and change orders.
- Monitor contractor progress and participate in schedule reviews and look-ahead coordination.
- Support enforcement of jobsite safety, traffic control, environmental / MMRP compliance, and SWPPP requirements.
- Coordinate field materials sampling and testing and source inspection with the quality assurance team.
- Provide field support during layout, construction staking, and verification of contract pay items.
- Assist in the review and preparation of the LAWA’s Area Shutdown Request (ASR), Utility Shutdown Request (USR), LAWA Impact request (LIR), Caltrans Lane closure requests.
- Assist in the review and application of the Caltrans encroachment and City of LA various departments permits.
- Participate in pre-construction meetings, progress meetings, and final acceptance walks as needed.
- Communicate effectively with project stakeholders including LAWA PMCM, LAWA Quality-Inspection-Division (QID), Design-Builder, Local Agency representatives, sub-contractors, and other consultants.
Preferred Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, Construction Management, or related field.
- 5+ years of experience on public infrastructure projects (transportation, roadway, bridges, or utilities preferred).
- Familiarity with Caltrans Standard Specifications, Construction Manual, and project delivery procedures.
- Familiarity with Greenbook, Brown Book and City of LA specifications, and project delivery procedures.
- Proficient in Microsoft Office, Bluebeam, and construction management software (e.g., PMWeb, Primavera, Procore, or similar).
- Ability to read and interpret construction plans and technical specifications.
- Strong organizational, written, and verbal communication skills.
- Valid California driver’s license and ability to travel to job sites.
- Ability to use laptop, tablets and/or iPads in the field for documentation and use of technology.
- EIT certification or working toward PE license.
- Experience supporting federally funded or prevailing wage projects.
- OSHA 10 or 30 certification.
- Experience with alternate delivery method such as progressive design build, design-build and/or CMGC.
- Familiarity with LAWA Design and Construction Handbook, and project delivery procedures.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Construction Management or closely related field.
- Previous construction engineering experience.
- Requires professional engineering license recognized by the licensing board for the location of the position offered. Example: Professional Engineer (PE or P.Eng) license.
- Experience using Microsoft Office, Estimating & CPM Scheduling Software, and web-based document collaboration software.
- Must have excellent verbal and written communication skills.
- An attitude and commitment to being an active participant of our employee-owned culture is a must.
What We Believe
HDR is our company. Together, we build on each other's life experiences and perspectives to make great things possible every day. This shapes our collaborative culture, encourages organizational trust and connects us closer to the clients and communities we serve.
Our Commitment
As employee owners, we all have a role in creating an inclusive environment where each of us is welcomed, valued, respected and empowered to bring our authentic selves to work every day.
Our eight Employee Network Groups (Asian Pacific, Black, Hispanic/Latino(a), LGBTQ+, People with Disabilities, Veterans, Women, Young Professionals) help create a sense of belonging and foster a supportive environment where everyone is empowered to engage and contribute. Each group has an executive sponsor and is open to all employees.
We provide a comprehensive benefits package that promotes employee ownership, employee health, performance, and success, which includes medical, dental, vision, short and long-term disability, life insurance, an employee assistance program, paid time away, parental leave, paid holidays, a retirement savings plan with employer match, employee referral bonus and tuition reimbursement. The expected compensation range for this position depends upon skills, experience, education and geographical location. (Stated benefits are for full-time regular positions. Temporary and part-time roles eligible for limited benefits.)
Compensation Range: $115,000 - $156,000
Primary Location:
United States-California-Los Angeles
Industry:
Construction, Project Controls & Design/Build
Schedule:
Full-time
Employee Status:
Regular
Business Class:
Field Services - Non-FAR / Negotiated
Job Posting:
Aug 7, 2026
Construction Engineer - Night Shift
At HDR, our employee-owners are fully engaged in creating a welcoming environment where each of us is valued and respected, a place where everyone is empowered to bring their authentic selves and novel ideas to work every day. As we foster a culture of inclusion throughout our company and within our communities, we constantly ask ourselves: What is our impact on the world?
Each and every role throughout our organization makes a difference in our ability to change the world for the better. Read further to learn how you could help make great things possible not only in your community, but around the world.
HDR is providing PM/CM services for the Los Angeles World Airports ATMP Landside Improvements Project. The project will deliver critical improvements to the roadways, streets, and thoroughfares in and around the Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) campus. HDR will assist with the management of projects throughout the design, preconstruction, and construction phases, from inception to closeout. HDR is proud to lead a strong team of world-class professionals to sculpt this project that is a key part of the infrastructure transformation ahead of the 2028 Olympics and will serve millions of travelers and Angelenos for decades to come.
The Construction Engineer supports the Resident Engineer in the administration, construction inspection, and oversight of public works (roadways, structures, complete streets, ITS / Traffic signals) construction projects. This role involves contract administration support, construction engineering, coordinating with contractors, coordinating with stakeholders (LAWA, Caltrans and City of LA Departments), coordinating with utilities and 3rd parties, ensuring compliance with project plans and specifications, maintaining thorough project documentation, and supporting quality assurance and safety protocols on site.
Key Responsibilities:
- Coordinate and support LAWA Construction Inspection Division and City of LA with nightly field inspections to verify construction activities follow approved plans, specifications, and regulatory requirements (e.g., Caltrans, local agency standards, utility agreements etc).
- Prepare and maintain checklists for inspections, field material sampling and testing in accordance with project plans, specifications and contract documents.
- Prepare and maintain project records, including conformed set of plans and specifications, daily reports, quantity calculations, photos, develop punch-lists and as-built documentation.
- Assist with the review and processing of submittals, RFIs, Field Directives, request for task orders, change notices and change orders.
- Monitor contractor progress and participate in schedule reviews and look-ahead coordination.
- Support enforcement of jobsite safety, traffic control, environmental / MMRP compliance, and SWPPP requirements.
- Coordinate field materials sampling and testing and source inspection with the quality assurance team.
- Provide field support during layout, construction staking, and verification of contract pay items.
- Assist in the review and preparation of the LAWA’s Area Shutdown Request (ASR), Utility Shutdown Request (USR), LAWA Impact request (LIR), Caltrans Lane closure requests.
- Assist in the review and application of the Caltrans encroachment and City of LA various departments permits.
- Participate in pre-construction meetings, progress meetings, and final acceptance walks as needed.
- Communicate effectively with project stakeholders including LAWA PMCM, LAWA Quality-Inspection-Division (QID), Design-Builder, Local Agency representatives, sub-contractors, and other consultants.
Preferred Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, Construction Management, or related field.
- 5+ years of experience on public infrastructure projects (transportation, roadway, bridges, or utilities preferred).
- Familiarity with Caltrans Standard Specifications, Construction Manual, and project delivery procedures.
- Familiarity with Greenbook, Brown Book and City of LA specifications, and project delivery procedures.
- Proficient in Microsoft Office, Bluebeam, and construction management software (e.g., PMWeb, Primavera, Procore, or similar).
- Ability to read and interpret construction plans and technical specifications.
- Strong organizational, written, and verbal communication skills.
- Valid California driver’s license and ability to travel to job sites.
- Ability to use laptop, tablets and/or iPads in the field for documentation and use of technology.
- EIT certification or working toward PE license.
- Experience supporting federally funded or prevailing wage projects.
- OSHA 10 or 30 certification.
- Experience with alternate delivery method such as progressive design build, design-build and/or CMGC.
- Familiarity with LAWA Design and Construction Handbook, and project delivery procedures.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Construction Management or closely related field.
- Previous construction engineering experience.
- Requires professional engineering license recognized by the licensing board for the location of the position offered. Example: Professional Engineer (PE or P.Eng) license.
- Experience using Microsoft Office, Estimating & CPM Scheduling Software, and web-based document collaboration software.
- Must have excellent verbal and written communication skills.
- An attitude and commitment to being an active participant of our employee-owned culture is a must.
What We Believe
HDR is our company. Together, we build on each other's life experiences and perspectives to make great things possible every day. This shapes our collaborative culture, encourages organizational trust and connects us closer to the clients and communities we serve.
Our Commitment
As employee owners, we all have a role in creating an inclusive environment where each of us is welcomed, valued, respected and empowered to bring our authentic selves to work every day.
Our eight Employee Network Groups (Asian Pacific, Black, Hispanic/Latino(a), LGBTQ+, People with Disabilities, Veterans, Women, Young Professionals) help create a sense of belonging and foster a supportive environment where everyone is empowered to engage and contribute. Each group has an executive sponsor and is open to all employees.
We provide a comprehensive benefits package that promotes employee ownership, employee health, performance, and success, which includes medical, dental, vision, short and long-term disability, life insurance, an employee assistance program, paid time away, parental leave, paid holidays, a retirement savings plan with employer match, employee referral bonus and tuition reimbursement. The expected compensation range for this position depends upon skills, experience, education and geographical location. (Stated benefits are for full-time regular positions. Temporary and part-time roles eligible for limited benefits.)
Compensation Range: $115,000 - $156,000
Primary Location:
United States-California-Los Angeles
Industry:
Construction, Project Controls & Design/Build
Schedule:
Full-time
Employee Status:
Regular
Business Class:
Field Services - Non-FAR / Negotiated
Job Posting:
Aug 7, 2026
See all 776+ OPT Construction Jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new OPT Construction Jobs.
Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding OPT Sponsorship in Construction
Target firms with H-1B sponsorship history
Large general contractors and engineering firms like Turner, Bechtel, and AECOM have established immigration programs. Look for companies that have previously sponsored civil engineers or project managers, as they already understand the process.
Frame your degree as a specialty occupation asset
Construction roles tied to a civil, structural, or architectural engineering degree qualify as specialty occupations for H-1B visa purposes. Emphasize your specific degree field in applications to help employers see a clear path to sponsorship.
Apply for STEM OPT extension before your initial period ends
If your degree is STEM-designated, file Form I-765 at least 90 days before your OPT expires. A timely filing preserves your work authorization while USCIS processes the extension, preventing any gap.
Pursue licensure exams early to strengthen your profile
Passing the FE or PE exam signals long-term career intent and makes you a more compelling sponsorship candidate. Many firms prioritize licensure-track engineers when evaluating who is worth investing in for H-1B filing.
Understand your E-Verify obligations under STEM OPT
STEM OPT employers must be enrolled in E-Verify and provide a formal training plan. Confirm both before accepting an offer, as non-compliant employers legally cannot hire you under the STEM extension.
Network through professional associations in your specialty
Organizations like ASCE and AGC connect you directly with hiring managers at sponsoring firms. Industry events and local chapter meetings put you in rooms with decision-makers who can advocate internally for your sponsorship.
Construction OPT: Frequently Asked Questions
Can F-1 OPT students work in construction jobs legally?
Yes, as long as your construction role is directly related to your degree. A civil engineering graduate working as a project engineer or site manager qualifies. Roles requiring only a high school diploma or general construction labor without a degree connection would not satisfy OPT's requirement that work be in your field of study.
Do construction jobs qualify for the STEM OPT extension?
Many do. Civil engineering, construction engineering, and architectural engineering are STEM-designated CIP codes, meaning graduates can apply for a 24-month STEM OPT extension on top of the initial 12 months. Your degree program, not the job title itself, determines STEM eligibility, so confirm your CIP code with your DSO before applying.
How do I find construction employers who sponsor OPT and H-1B visas?
Migrate Mate is built specifically for this, filtering construction and engineering jobs by employers willing to sponsor work authorization. Large infrastructure and general contracting firms are your strongest targets, as they have legal teams and HR processes already set up for sponsorship. Smaller firms may sponsor but require more direct conversation about the process.
What construction job titles are most likely to support H-1B sponsorship after OPT?
Roles that clearly require a specific bachelor's degree have the strongest case for H-1B specialty occupation status. Project engineer, structural engineer, geotechnical engineer, and BIM coordinator are common examples. General superintendent or construction manager roles can qualify but benefit from being tied explicitly to an engineering or construction management degree in the job description and offer letter.
Can I work on a construction job site as an F-1 OPT student, or only in an office?
You can work on a job site. OPT doesn't restrict where the work physically happens, only that the role relates to your field of study. A civil engineering graduate conducting site inspections, managing subcontractors, or overseeing quality control is performing work directly tied to their degree, which satisfies the OPT requirement regardless of whether the work is in an office or in the field.