OPT Diesel Technician Jobs
Diesel Technician jobs on OPT are available with trucking fleets, equipment dealers, and municipal agencies that regularly sponsor work visas. Your F-1 OPT gives you up to 12 months of work authorization, with a 24-month STEM extension possible if your degree qualifies. Hands-on diagnostic and repair experience strengthens your profile significantly.
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At Ford, you’ll work on ideas that matter, alongside passionate people who want to make a global impact. Together, we’re shaping the next era of transportation—grounded in purpose, driven by progress. Make your move.
- Job Type: Full time
- Work Type: Hybrid
We made history and now we work to transform the future – for our customers, our communities and our families. You'll see your work on the road every day, helping people move freely and pursue their dreams. At Ford, you can build more than vehicles. Come build what matters.
ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES
As an Advanced Diesel Emissions Systems Engineer, you will lead the concept definition, design, and integration of cutting-edge emissions systems for the 6.7L Scorpion diesel engine. The primary focus will be developing hardware and software strategies to achieve the 31MY Bin75 compliance. You will serve as a technical lead, balancing cross-functional trade-offs between mechanical, electrical, and chemical domains to deliver an optimized, durable propulsion system.
What you'll do...
- System Development & Validation: Lead development testing across chassis dynamometers, engine dynamometers, and physical Super Duty test vehicles equipped with the 6.7L Scorpion diesel engine. Utilize virtual vehicle analytical simulations to front-load calibration development and demonstrate Tier 4 system capability.
- Certification Delivery: Own the calibration deliverables required to achieve Tier 4 chassis certification for Super Duty/6.7L Scorpion applications, including preparation of test procedures, data packages, and compliance documentation for regulatory submission.
- Attribute Trade-off Management: Conduct sensitivity studies to optimize the balance between Tier 4 emissions compliance, fuel economy, performance, and drivability specific to the 6.7L Scorpion powertrain. Establish preferred values for control variables using a data-driven approach.
- Sub-System Coordination: Synchronize the calibration of various 6.7L Scorpion sub-systems—including the diesel engine, fuel injection system, turbocharger, EGR, and aftertreatment (DOC/DPF/SCR)—with the transmission and driveline to ensure seamless integration and achievement of Tier 4 emissions targets on chassis-certified platforms.
- Experimental Design: Utilize Design of Experiments (DOE) methods to efficiently map complex multi-variable calibration spaces and define robust operating strategies across the Super Duty duty cycle range.
- Prototype Commissioning: Lead the setup and commissioning of prototype Super Duty systems equipped with the 6.7L Scorpion engine in both chassis dyno and vehicle environments. Perform system-level debugging and troubleshoot complex mechanical, electrical, and software issues.
- Technical Reporting: Document and present calibration progress, trade-off results, and Tier 4 regulatory compliance status to program leadership and cross-functional teams, including emissions certification and regulatory affairs groups.
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS
- Education: Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or a related technical field.
- Experience: 3+ years of experience in powertrain calibration, with a specific focus on heavy-duty diesel emissions calibration and chassis certification; experience with the 6.7L Power Stroke/Scorpion engine platform strongly preferred.
- Technical Tools: Proficiency with industry-standard calibration tools (e.g., ETAS INCA, or Vector CANape) and CAN communication protocols.
- Regulatory Knowledge: Deep understanding of EPA/CARB Tier 4 emissions regulatory requirements and chassis certification test procedures applicable to Super Duty diesel applications.
- Diesel Aftertreatment Expertise: Design and validation experience with diesel exhaust aftertreatment systems (DOC/DPF/SCR).
- Hands-on Aptitude: Demonstrated mechanical and electrical (wiring) skills for prototype vehicle/bench setup and hardware-in-the-loop troubleshooting on diesel powertrain systems.
- Testing Proficiency: Experience with data acquisition (DAQ) systems and various testing environments, including chassis and engine dynamometers.
- Data Analysis: Experience in data engineering and statistical validation, with a proven track record of analyzing large-scale datasets to identify statistically significant trends.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Advanced Degree: Master's or PhD in Engineering.
- Experience: Experience in powertrain calibration, with a specific focus on the 6.7L Power Stroke/Scorpion engine platform strongly preferred.
- Specialized Software: Experience with MATLAB/Simulink and advanced DOE optimization software (e.g., AVL ASCMO, Model-Based Calibration Toolbox).
- Leadership: Proven ability to lead cross-functional technical reviews and mentor junior calibration engineers.
You may not check every box, or your experience may look a little different from what we've outlined, but if you think you can bring value to Ford Motor Company, we encourage you to apply!
As an established global company, we offer the benefit of choice. You can choose what your Ford future will look like: will your story span the globe, or keep you close to home? Will your career be a deep dive into what you love, or a series of new teams and new skills? Will you be a leader, a changemaker, a technical expert, a culture builder…or all of the above? No matter what you choose, we offer a work life that works for you, including:
- Immediate medical, dental, vision and prescription drug coverage
- Flexible family care days, paid parental leave, new parent ramp-up programs, subsidized back-up child care and more
- Family building benefits including adoption and surrogacy expense reimbursement, fertility treatments, and more
- Vehicle discount program for employees and family members and management leases
- Tuition assistance
- Established and active employee resource groups
- Paid time off for individual and team community service
- A generous schedule of paid holidays, including the week between Christmas and New Year’s Day
- Paid time off and the option to purchase additional vacation time.
This position is a salary grade 7 and ranges from $86,600-$144,900.
Final determination of salary grade will be based on candidate's skills and experience, and base salary will be set within the applicable range according to job scope, responsibility and competitive market value.
Visa sponsorship is available for this position.
Candidates for positions with Ford Motor Company must be legally authorized to work in the United States. Verification of employment eligibility will be required at the time of hire.
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, age, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability status or protected veteran status. In the United States, if you need a reasonable accommodation for the online application process due to a disability, please call 1-888-336-0660.
This position is hybrid. Candidates who are in commuting distance to a Ford hub location may be required to be onsite four or more days per week. #LI-Hybrid
LI-RR1
Overview
At Ford, you’ll work on ideas that matter, alongside passionate people who want to make a global impact. Together, we’re shaping the next era of transportation—grounded in purpose, driven by progress. Make your move.
- Job Type: Full time
- Work Type: Hybrid
We made history and now we work to transform the future – for our customers, our communities and our families. You'll see your work on the road every day, helping people move freely and pursue their dreams. At Ford, you can build more than vehicles. Come build what matters.
ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES
As an Advanced Diesel Emissions Systems Engineer, you will lead the concept definition, design, and integration of cutting-edge emissions systems for the 6.7L Scorpion diesel engine. The primary focus will be developing hardware and software strategies to achieve the 31MY Bin75 compliance. You will serve as a technical lead, balancing cross-functional trade-offs between mechanical, electrical, and chemical domains to deliver an optimized, durable propulsion system.
What you'll do...
- System Development & Validation: Lead development testing across chassis dynamometers, engine dynamometers, and physical Super Duty test vehicles equipped with the 6.7L Scorpion diesel engine. Utilize virtual vehicle analytical simulations to front-load calibration development and demonstrate Tier 4 system capability.
- Certification Delivery: Own the calibration deliverables required to achieve Tier 4 chassis certification for Super Duty/6.7L Scorpion applications, including preparation of test procedures, data packages, and compliance documentation for regulatory submission.
- Attribute Trade-off Management: Conduct sensitivity studies to optimize the balance between Tier 4 emissions compliance, fuel economy, performance, and drivability specific to the 6.7L Scorpion powertrain. Establish preferred values for control variables using a data-driven approach.
- Sub-System Coordination: Synchronize the calibration of various 6.7L Scorpion sub-systems—including the diesel engine, fuel injection system, turbocharger, EGR, and aftertreatment (DOC/DPF/SCR)—with the transmission and driveline to ensure seamless integration and achievement of Tier 4 emissions targets on chassis-certified platforms.
- Experimental Design: Utilize Design of Experiments (DOE) methods to efficiently map complex multi-variable calibration spaces and define robust operating strategies across the Super Duty duty cycle range.
- Prototype Commissioning: Lead the setup and commissioning of prototype Super Duty systems equipped with the 6.7L Scorpion engine in both chassis dyno and vehicle environments. Perform system-level debugging and troubleshoot complex mechanical, electrical, and software issues.
- Technical Reporting: Document and present calibration progress, trade-off results, and Tier 4 regulatory compliance status to program leadership and cross-functional teams, including emissions certification and regulatory affairs groups.
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS
- Education: Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or a related technical field.
- Experience: 3+ years of experience in powertrain calibration, with a specific focus on heavy-duty diesel emissions calibration and chassis certification; experience with the 6.7L Power Stroke/Scorpion engine platform strongly preferred.
- Technical Tools: Proficiency with industry-standard calibration tools (e.g., ETAS INCA, or Vector CANape) and CAN communication protocols.
- Regulatory Knowledge: Deep understanding of EPA/CARB Tier 4 emissions regulatory requirements and chassis certification test procedures applicable to Super Duty diesel applications.
- Diesel Aftertreatment Expertise: Design and validation experience with diesel exhaust aftertreatment systems (DOC/DPF/SCR).
- Hands-on Aptitude: Demonstrated mechanical and electrical (wiring) skills for prototype vehicle/bench setup and hardware-in-the-loop troubleshooting on diesel powertrain systems.
- Testing Proficiency: Experience with data acquisition (DAQ) systems and various testing environments, including chassis and engine dynamometers.
- Data Analysis: Experience in data engineering and statistical validation, with a proven track record of analyzing large-scale datasets to identify statistically significant trends.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Advanced Degree: Master's or PhD in Engineering.
- Experience: Experience in powertrain calibration, with a specific focus on the 6.7L Power Stroke/Scorpion engine platform strongly preferred.
- Specialized Software: Experience with MATLAB/Simulink and advanced DOE optimization software (e.g., AVL ASCMO, Model-Based Calibration Toolbox).
- Leadership: Proven ability to lead cross-functional technical reviews and mentor junior calibration engineers.
You may not check every box, or your experience may look a little different from what we've outlined, but if you think you can bring value to Ford Motor Company, we encourage you to apply!
As an established global company, we offer the benefit of choice. You can choose what your Ford future will look like: will your story span the globe, or keep you close to home? Will your career be a deep dive into what you love, or a series of new teams and new skills? Will you be a leader, a changemaker, a technical expert, a culture builder…or all of the above? No matter what you choose, we offer a work life that works for you, including:
- Immediate medical, dental, vision and prescription drug coverage
- Flexible family care days, paid parental leave, new parent ramp-up programs, subsidized back-up child care and more
- Family building benefits including adoption and surrogacy expense reimbursement, fertility treatments, and more
- Vehicle discount program for employees and family members and management leases
- Tuition assistance
- Established and active employee resource groups
- Paid time off for individual and team community service
- A generous schedule of paid holidays, including the week between Christmas and New Year’s Day
- Paid time off and the option to purchase additional vacation time.
This position is a salary grade 7 and ranges from $86,600-$144,900.
Final determination of salary grade will be based on candidate's skills and experience, and base salary will be set within the applicable range according to job scope, responsibility and competitive market value.
Visa sponsorship is available for this position.
Candidates for positions with Ford Motor Company must be legally authorized to work in the United States. Verification of employment eligibility will be required at the time of hire.
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, age, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability status or protected veteran status. In the United States, if you need a reasonable accommodation for the online application process due to a disability, please call 1-888-336-0660.
This position is hybrid. Candidates who are in commuting distance to a Ford hub location may be required to be onsite four or more days per week. #LI-Hybrid
LI-RR1
See all OPT Diesel Technician Jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new OPT Diesel Technician Jobs.
Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding OPT Sponsorship as a Diesel Technician
Target fleet operators and dealerships
Large trucking companies, heavy equipment dealers, and construction firms hire diesel technicians at scale and have established HR processes for visa sponsorship. Smaller independent shops rarely have the infrastructure to file H-1B visa petitions or navigate OPT documentation requirements.
Highlight manufacturer certifications
Certifications from Cummins, Detroit Diesel, or Caterpillar signal employer-specific training investment and make sponsorship easier to justify. Employers are more willing to sponsor technicians who hold credentials that take years to earn and are difficult to replace quickly.
Start your OPT job search early
USCIS processing for your EAD card can take several months. Apply for OPT authorization at least 90 days before your program end date so your card arrives before your start date. Late applications leave you unable to work legally even with an offer in hand.
Clarify your STEM extension eligibility
If your degree is in mechanical engineering, automotive technology, or a related STEM field, you may qualify for a 24-month OPT extension. Confirm your CIP code with your DSO early, as this significantly extends the window employers have to pursue H-1B sponsorship for you.
Address sponsorship directly in interviews
Bring up your OPT status proactively rather than waiting for employers to ask. Explain your authorized work period, the STEM extension if applicable, and the H-1B timeline clearly. Employers unfamiliar with OPT often assume it is more complicated than it actually is.
Focus applications on OPT-friendly employers
Not every diesel shop has sponsored a visa before. Prioritize employers with a documented history of H-1B or OPT hiring. Browse Migrate Mate to find Diesel Technician roles filtered specifically for F-1 OPT students, saving time you would otherwise spend filtering manually.
Diesel Technician OPT: Frequently Asked Questions
Can I work as a Diesel Technician on F-1 OPT?
Yes. F-1 OPT authorizes you to work in a job directly related to your field of study. If you earned a degree in diesel technology, mechanical engineering, or automotive systems, a Diesel Technician role qualifies. Your EAD card is your proof of work authorization, and you must have it in hand before your first day.
Does a Diesel Technician job qualify for the STEM OPT extension?
It depends on your degree, not your job title. If your program falls under a qualifying STEM CIP code, such as mechanical engineering technology or engineering science, you may be eligible for the 24-month extension. Confirm your CIP code with your designated school official. The job itself does not determine STEM eligibility, your degree program does.
How do I find Diesel Technician employers who sponsor OPT students?
The most efficient approach is to search on Migrate Mate, which is built specifically for F-1 OPT students and filters jobs by sponsorship history. Fleet operators, heavy equipment dealers, and municipal transit authorities are the most consistent sponsors in this field. Applying broadly to any shop without filtering for sponsorship willingness wastes significant time.
What happens to my OPT status if I get laid off as a Diesel Technician?
You enter a 60-day unemployment grace period during which you remain in valid F-1 status but are not authorized to work. You must find a new qualifying position within that window or risk falling out of status. Track your cumulative unemployment days carefully, as OPT allows no more than 90 days of total unemployment across the full authorization period.
Do Diesel Technician employers typically sponsor H-1B visas after OPT?
Some do, particularly large national fleet companies and equipment manufacturers with dedicated HR teams, but many smaller regional shops do not have established sponsorship processes. The H-1B requires the role to qualify as a specialty occupation requiring a bachelor's degree, which can be a genuine obstacle for technician roles. Discussing long-term sponsorship intent with the employer before accepting an offer is strongly advisable.