OPT Control Electrician Jobs
Control Electrician jobs on OPT typically require hands-on experience with PLCs, control panels, and industrial wiring systems. Most roles fall under electrical or systems engineering disciplines, which align well with OPT STEM extensions. Employers in manufacturing, utilities, and automation often need licensed journeymen, so confirm your state licensure status before applying.
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Get Access To All JobsJob Posting End Date
11-16-2026
Please note the job posting will close on the day before the posting end date.
Job Summary
Perform work associated with the installation, operation, testing and maintenance of all protection and control devices and related equipment under direct, immediate or general supervision. Such devices and equipment includes but is not limited to digital relays, electromechanical relays, intelligent electronic devices, Station Disturbance Recorders (SDR), digital fault recorders (DFR), oscillographs and event recorders, RTU's and station SCADA systems, statistical load metering, telemetering and transducers. Additionally, install, maintain and operate all power line carriers (PLC), tone, pilot wire, fiber and associated P&C communications equipment. Respond to emergency call-outs and coordinate prompt restoration of service to customers as required. This list is not intended to limit assignment of work or the degree of supervision under all operating conditions. Employee may perform miscellaneous, related, and incidental work in addition to that specifically outlined below. The following reference is provided as a guideline for persons responsible for directing the duties and responsibilities of assigned personnel, to assist in the safety and development of employees, and is not intended to limit assignment of work or the degree of supervision under all operating conditions:
- DIRECT SUPERVISION - When a qualified person is working with/hands-on with the person performing the designated task.
- IMMEDIATE SUPERVISION - When a qualified person is near the structure/equipment and is in constant visual and/or verbal contact to the person performing the designated task.
- GENERAL SUPERVISION - An employee of equal or higher classification, knowledgeable of the task at hand and not necessarily at the job site.
- QUALIFIED PERSON - P&C Electrician or Supervisor who is knowledgeable of the task or work to be performed, and is capable of performing the appropriate emergency rescue.
Job Description
AEP is seeking a P&C Electrician C to P&C Electrician A for the Texarkana Area.
Residency Requirements: Successful Candidate must live within a 30 mile radius of the Texarkana Service Center.
- Assist in the performance of acceptance and installation tests on protection, control, and measurement devices and associated equipment in stations.
- Test protection & control devices and equipment periodically and as required.
- Calibrate protection & control devices and equipment on a pre-established schedule and as required.
- Assist with diagnosis of trouble, mis-operation, or damage of equipment and assist with corrective action to affect repair and prevent recurrence.
- Operate a computer device to test, calibrate, and retrieve data from protection & control and devices.
- Assist in the installation, maintenance, and operation of all power line carriers, station SCADA, and associated communications equipment or cables as assigned.
- Perform switching under direct supervision of qualified personnel following direction of the proper operating authority.
- Assist in the installation, maintenance, and operation of any new and added equipment or systems as assigned.
- Maintain test equipment and automotive equipment in good working order so that work can be performed safely and efficiently anywhere throughout the System.
- Prepare and maintain accurate records, reports and drawings as required.
- Assist employees of equal or higher classification.
- Perform all duties in accordance with the Company's safety rules and operating regulations, NERC and environmental compliance, and practices.
- Perform similar or less skilled work as assigned.
Note: This position is posted at multiple grade levels and offers a range of opportunities for advancement. The minimum qualifications outlined below apply to the P&C Electrician C level, with increased educational, skill or experience requirements for higher level P&C Electricians.
What We're Looking For:
Education: Associate’s degree in electrical engineering technology, electronic technology, or related technology field.
Experience: No previous work experience required. Must have the ability and desire to acquire the necessary knowledge and skills to perform the duties and/or responsibilities of the key job (P & C Electrician A) in this family and be qualified through demonstration, examination and/or performance appraisal as determined by the Company. Considerable travel and overtime may be required to complete work assignments. Must successfully complete Physical Abilities Test (PAT).
License/Certification: Must possess and maintain a valid state driver’s license and must meet all vehicle operation requirements as designated by federal and/or state law.
Other:
- Minimum Requirements: Amount of weight lifted from floor/ground to waist level: 60 pounds. Amount of weight to be carried for 20 feet: 50 pounds.
- Amount of weight lifted to chest level: 30 pounds. Amount of weight lifted to eye level: 30 pounds.
- Distance to walk accumulated over the course of an 8 hour shift: 1 mile.
- Distance in feet to climb and work on a ladder/structure: 20 feet and higher.
- Distance in feet to ascend to and work in a bucket/lift: 100 feet and higher (tested at 60 feet).
- Ability to discriminate between colors: Yes (tested).
Competencies
- Technical Proficiency: Possesses technical knowledge acquired from an Associate Degree in Electrical/Electronic Engineering Technology. Gains knowledge of standards, codes, and regulations relevant to area of assignment. Gains knowledge with pertinent equipment, material, systems, and business processes. Assists employees in handling defined portions of routine problems when beneficial to AEP. Possesses basic computer literacy, knowledge, and skills.
- Leadership and Guidance: Performs work activities as assigned and coached by higher level employees. Demonstrates ability to work with others in supplying information and seeking assistance as necessary.
- Planning and Organization Ability: Plans work in accordance with AEP standard planning practices. Prioritizes routine work to meet the demands of the company. Maintains accurate records.
- Problem-Solving and Initiative: Applies technical knowledge and experience in resolving problems encountered in assigned work. Uses initiative in looking for opportunities to improve the process and increase job knowledge/technical skills. Seeks out, compiles, analyzes, and interprets information necessary to perform work activities and solve problems.
- Communications and Interpersonal Skills: Communicates effectively, both orally and in writing with internal and external customers. Assists in the preparation of technical reports and papers. Demonstrates the ability to be a team player. Relates to people in an open, friendly, and sincere manner.
- Decision Making and Business Awareness Characteristics: Develops decision-making skills based on sound judgment and job knowledge. Develops an understanding of the roles and responsibilities of the local organizational unit.
What You'll Get
In addition to a competitive compensation, AEP offers a unique comprehensive benefits package that aims to support and enhance the overall well-being of our employees.
Where Putting the Customer First Powers Everything We Do
At AEP, we’re more than just an energy company — we’re a team of dedicated professionals committed to delivering safe, reliable, and innovative energy solutions. Guided by our mission to put the customer first, we strive to exceed expectations by listening, responding, and continuously improving the way we serve our communities. If you're passionate about making a meaningful impact and being part of a forward-thinking organization, this is the company for you!
Compensation Data
Compensation Grade: U073-R29
Compensation Range: $37.50 - $62.38
The Physical Demand Level for this job is: H – Heavy Work: Exerting 50 to 100 pounds of force occasionally, and/or 25 to 50 pounds of force frequently, and/or greater than negligible up to 10-20 pounds of force constantly to move objects. Physical demand requirements are in excess of those for Medium Work.
It is hereby reaffirmed that it is the policy of American Electric Power (AEP) to provide Equal Employment Opportunity in all respects of the employer-employee relationship including recruiting, hiring, upgrading and promotion, conditions and privileges of employment, company sponsored training programs, educational assistance, social and recreational programs, compensation, benefits, transfers, discipline, layoffs and termination of employment to all employees and applicants without discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), national origin, age, veteran or military status, disability, genetic information, or any other basis prohibited by applicable law. When required by law, we might record certain information or applicants for employment may be invited to voluntarily disclose protected characteristics.
Job Posting End Date
11-16-2026
Please note the job posting will close on the day before the posting end date.
Job Summary
Perform work associated with the installation, operation, testing and maintenance of all protection and control devices and related equipment under direct, immediate or general supervision. Such devices and equipment includes but is not limited to digital relays, electromechanical relays, intelligent electronic devices, Station Disturbance Recorders (SDR), digital fault recorders (DFR), oscillographs and event recorders, RTU's and station SCADA systems, statistical load metering, telemetering and transducers. Additionally, install, maintain and operate all power line carriers (PLC), tone, pilot wire, fiber and associated P&C communications equipment. Respond to emergency call-outs and coordinate prompt restoration of service to customers as required. This list is not intended to limit assignment of work or the degree of supervision under all operating conditions. Employee may perform miscellaneous, related, and incidental work in addition to that specifically outlined below. The following reference is provided as a guideline for persons responsible for directing the duties and responsibilities of assigned personnel, to assist in the safety and development of employees, and is not intended to limit assignment of work or the degree of supervision under all operating conditions:
- DIRECT SUPERVISION - When a qualified person is working with/hands-on with the person performing the designated task.
- IMMEDIATE SUPERVISION - When a qualified person is near the structure/equipment and is in constant visual and/or verbal contact to the person performing the designated task.
- GENERAL SUPERVISION - An employee of equal or higher classification, knowledgeable of the task at hand and not necessarily at the job site.
- QUALIFIED PERSON - P&C Electrician or Supervisor who is knowledgeable of the task or work to be performed, and is capable of performing the appropriate emergency rescue.
Job Description
AEP is seeking a P&C Electrician C to P&C Electrician A for the Texarkana Area.
Residency Requirements: Successful Candidate must live within a 30 mile radius of the Texarkana Service Center.
- Assist in the performance of acceptance and installation tests on protection, control, and measurement devices and associated equipment in stations.
- Test protection & control devices and equipment periodically and as required.
- Calibrate protection & control devices and equipment on a pre-established schedule and as required.
- Assist with diagnosis of trouble, mis-operation, or damage of equipment and assist with corrective action to affect repair and prevent recurrence.
- Operate a computer device to test, calibrate, and retrieve data from protection & control and devices.
- Assist in the installation, maintenance, and operation of all power line carriers, station SCADA, and associated communications equipment or cables as assigned.
- Perform switching under direct supervision of qualified personnel following direction of the proper operating authority.
- Assist in the installation, maintenance, and operation of any new and added equipment or systems as assigned.
- Maintain test equipment and automotive equipment in good working order so that work can be performed safely and efficiently anywhere throughout the System.
- Prepare and maintain accurate records, reports and drawings as required.
- Assist employees of equal or higher classification.
- Perform all duties in accordance with the Company's safety rules and operating regulations, NERC and environmental compliance, and practices.
- Perform similar or less skilled work as assigned.
Note: This position is posted at multiple grade levels and offers a range of opportunities for advancement. The minimum qualifications outlined below apply to the P&C Electrician C level, with increased educational, skill or experience requirements for higher level P&C Electricians.
What We're Looking For:
Education: Associate’s degree in electrical engineering technology, electronic technology, or related technology field.
Experience: No previous work experience required. Must have the ability and desire to acquire the necessary knowledge and skills to perform the duties and/or responsibilities of the key job (P & C Electrician A) in this family and be qualified through demonstration, examination and/or performance appraisal as determined by the Company. Considerable travel and overtime may be required to complete work assignments. Must successfully complete Physical Abilities Test (PAT).
License/Certification: Must possess and maintain a valid state driver’s license and must meet all vehicle operation requirements as designated by federal and/or state law.
Other:
- Minimum Requirements: Amount of weight lifted from floor/ground to waist level: 60 pounds. Amount of weight to be carried for 20 feet: 50 pounds.
- Amount of weight lifted to chest level: 30 pounds. Amount of weight lifted to eye level: 30 pounds.
- Distance to walk accumulated over the course of an 8 hour shift: 1 mile.
- Distance in feet to climb and work on a ladder/structure: 20 feet and higher.
- Distance in feet to ascend to and work in a bucket/lift: 100 feet and higher (tested at 60 feet).
- Ability to discriminate between colors: Yes (tested).
Competencies
- Technical Proficiency: Possesses technical knowledge acquired from an Associate Degree in Electrical/Electronic Engineering Technology. Gains knowledge of standards, codes, and regulations relevant to area of assignment. Gains knowledge with pertinent equipment, material, systems, and business processes. Assists employees in handling defined portions of routine problems when beneficial to AEP. Possesses basic computer literacy, knowledge, and skills.
- Leadership and Guidance: Performs work activities as assigned and coached by higher level employees. Demonstrates ability to work with others in supplying information and seeking assistance as necessary.
- Planning and Organization Ability: Plans work in accordance with AEP standard planning practices. Prioritizes routine work to meet the demands of the company. Maintains accurate records.
- Problem-Solving and Initiative: Applies technical knowledge and experience in resolving problems encountered in assigned work. Uses initiative in looking for opportunities to improve the process and increase job knowledge/technical skills. Seeks out, compiles, analyzes, and interprets information necessary to perform work activities and solve problems.
- Communications and Interpersonal Skills: Communicates effectively, both orally and in writing with internal and external customers. Assists in the preparation of technical reports and papers. Demonstrates the ability to be a team player. Relates to people in an open, friendly, and sincere manner.
- Decision Making and Business Awareness Characteristics: Develops decision-making skills based on sound judgment and job knowledge. Develops an understanding of the roles and responsibilities of the local organizational unit.
What You'll Get
In addition to a competitive compensation, AEP offers a unique comprehensive benefits package that aims to support and enhance the overall well-being of our employees.
Where Putting the Customer First Powers Everything We Do
At AEP, we’re more than just an energy company — we’re a team of dedicated professionals committed to delivering safe, reliable, and innovative energy solutions. Guided by our mission to put the customer first, we strive to exceed expectations by listening, responding, and continuously improving the way we serve our communities. If you're passionate about making a meaningful impact and being part of a forward-thinking organization, this is the company for you!
Compensation Data
Compensation Grade: U073-R29
Compensation Range: $37.50 - $62.38
The Physical Demand Level for this job is: H – Heavy Work: Exerting 50 to 100 pounds of force occasionally, and/or 25 to 50 pounds of force frequently, and/or greater than negligible up to 10-20 pounds of force constantly to move objects. Physical demand requirements are in excess of those for Medium Work.
It is hereby reaffirmed that it is the policy of American Electric Power (AEP) to provide Equal Employment Opportunity in all respects of the employer-employee relationship including recruiting, hiring, upgrading and promotion, conditions and privileges of employment, company sponsored training programs, educational assistance, social and recreational programs, compensation, benefits, transfers, discipline, layoffs and termination of employment to all employees and applicants without discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), national origin, age, veteran or military status, disability, genetic information, or any other basis prohibited by applicable law. When required by law, we might record certain information or applicants for employment may be invited to voluntarily disclose protected characteristics.
See all 63+ OPT Control Electrician Jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new OPT Control Electrician Jobs.
Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding OPT Sponsorship in Control Electrician
Verify your degree aligns with the role
Control Electrician positions often require a degree in electrical engineering, electrical technology, or a related field. Confirm your program qualifies before applying, since your OPT authorization is tied directly to your field of study.
Check state licensure requirements early
Many Control Electrician roles require a journeyman or master electrician license. Licensing requirements vary by state, so research what your target state requires and whether your OPT timeline gives you enough runway to pursue certification.
Target STEM OPT-eligible employers
Control Electrician roles at manufacturers, utilities, and automation firms often qualify for the 24-month STEM OPT extension. Prioritize employers enrolled in E-Verify, since that enrollment is required to support your STEM extension request.
Highlight PLC and control systems experience
Employers in industrial automation move quickly on candidates with demonstrated PLC programming and panel-building experience. Document specific platforms you have worked with, such as Allen-Bradley or Siemens, in your resume and cover letter.
Understand your OPT reporting obligations
You must report any new employer to your DSO within 10 days of starting work. Keep your DSO updated throughout your OPT period, particularly if you change job sites or take on contract assignments at different facilities.
Ask about future H-1B sponsorship during interviews
Control Electrician roles in large manufacturing or energy companies sometimes lead to H-1B visa sponsorship. Raise the question tactfully after receiving an offer, and research whether the employer has a history of sponsoring skilled trades or engineering roles.
Control Electrician OPT: Frequently Asked Questions
Can I work as a Control Electrician on OPT?
Yes, if your degree is in electrical engineering, electrical technology, or a closely related field. Your OPT work must be directly related to your major area of study. A general studies degree is unlikely to support authorization for a Control Electrician role, so confirm the connection with your DSO before applying.
Do Control Electrician jobs qualify for the STEM OPT extension?
Many do. Control Electrician roles that involve electrical systems design, automation, or industrial controls often fall under STEM-designated CIP codes, particularly within electrical engineering or electrical engineering technology programs. Your employer must also be enrolled in E-Verify. Confirm your degree's CIP code with your DSO to determine eligibility for the 24-month extension.
Where can I find Control Electrician jobs that are open to OPT students?
Migrate Mate lists Control Electrician jobs with sponsorship and OPT-friendly employers, so it is a practical starting point. Most OPT-friendly roles in this field are found at mid-size and large manufacturers, utility companies, and industrial automation firms rather than small electrical contractors who may not have experience with OPT work authorization.
Does working as a contract or temporary Control Electrician count toward my OPT?
Yes, contract and temporary positions are permitted on OPT as long as the work is directly related to your field of study and you work at least 20 hours per week. You must report each new employer or work site to your DSO within 10 days. Keep detailed records of your assignments in case USCIS requests documentation later.
Will I need a state electrician license to work on OPT as a Control Electrician?
It depends on the state and the specific role. Some Control Electrician positions in industrial or manufacturing settings do not require a personal license if you work under a licensed master electrician. Others do require journeyman licensure. Research the requirements in your target state early, since some licenses require exams or documented work hours that take time to complete.