OPT Electrician Jobs
Electrician jobs on OPT are available through employers who sponsor H-2B visa, H-1B visa, or TN visas for skilled tradespeople. Most roles require state licensure, which varies by state, so confirming your license transfers before accepting an offer matters. STEM OPT extension does not apply to this field.
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Job Posting End Date
09-30-2026
Please note the job posting will close on the day before the posting end date.
Job Summary
Performs all types of work involved in the construction, maintenance, rebuild, removal, operation, testing and inspection of energized or de-energized generation, transmission and distribution facilities. Respond to emergency call-outs on station trouble and coordinate prompt restoration of service to customers as required. The following sets forth the principal duties required with the degree of supervision normally given. 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 - Station 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
The successful candidate must live or be willing to relocate to a 45-minute report time to the Robert E. Matthews Service Center, 12333 Kevin Ave. Ashland, Ky 41102.
This vacancy is posted in a range and will be filled based on education and experience.
Station Electrician C:
What you’ll do:
Essential Job Functions & Tasks
- Work on energized equipment up to 260 volts. After six months in classification, employee shall assist in work on conductors and equipment energized at voltages above 750 volts with direct supervision or assistance of personnel in higher classification.
- Select proper prints and/or drawings for various work and have a basic understanding of each.
- Use voltmeters, ohmmeters, ammeters, insulation meggers and other test equipment associated with station work.
- Assist in disassembling and reassembling, inspecting, maintenance, and repairing of station transformers, circuit breakers, portable substations, rotating machinery, network protectors and transformers, air ducts and heat exchangers; install and maintain station batteries; replace nitrogen bottles and air filters.
- Assist in station work such as installing conduit, pipe, cable and wire; use hand lines to pass tools and materials; dig and backfill trenches; remove and spread stone; uncrate equipment and material; install and remove portable substation fences, barriers and safety signs; paint structures and equipment; climb station structures.
- Use various kinds of tapes, insulating materials, protective and insulating paints and varnishes, and understand proper application of each.
- Assist in making visual inspections such as check lights, heaters, circuit breaker counters, oil levels, and bus connections; read gauges such as voltmeters, ammeters, hydrometers, pressure and level gauges; apply start-run-stop tests on emergency generators, water and sump pumps and fire engine motors. Report abnormal conditions.
- Replace lamps, switches, duplex outlets, dry cells; install and maintain signal and communication systems.
- Assist in various tests involving oil samples, connecting and operating portable and stationary oil handling equipment. Assist in electrical tests, TTR, Doble, core megger and resistance for transformer testing, etc.
- Assist in station switching including use of radio communication and/or direct instruction from higher classification, assist in checking equipment clearances and making de-energized tests, place grounds as directed.
- Knowledge and proficiency in steel and aerial lift rescue.
- Maintain records and prepare and submit reports as required.
- Attend and participate in training and assist in the training of other employees as assigned.
- Use and operate various company vehicles, specialized equipment, hand and power tools.
- Operate company vehicles, cranes, aerial lifts and specialized equipment. Perform duties incidental to the operation of such equipment.
- Use hand and power tools; operate portable generators, blowers and pumps; inspect and store personal protective equipment.
- Knowledge and use of various knots used in station work.
- Perform similar or less skilled work as assigned.
- Assist employees of equal or higher classification; direct the work of employees assigned to assist.
- Become familiar with the Company's safety rules and practices and in the application of resuscitation and First Aid as presented in the Company's Safety Manual. Perform duties in accordance with the Company's safety rules and operating regulations and practices.
What We're Looking For:
Education requirements are listed below:
- Associate degree in electrical/mechanical/industrial maintenance technology or equivalent education and/or experience.
- Equivalent education and experience is limited to military training and work experience of technical/technician nature (such as aviation and nuclear instrumentation technician); or recent experience (within last 6 months) as a Station Electrician or equivalent job title with another utility or contractor.
Work Experience requirement listed below:
- No previous work experience required.
Other Must Haves:
- Must be available to work overtime, call-out overtime and shift work, as required.
- Travel requirements are expected > 50 % of the time.
Physical demand requirements details are listed below:
- Distance in feet to climb and work on a ladder/structure: 50 ft and higher. Knowledge of print reading sufficient to interpret and apply information from drawings, instruction manuals, one-line diagrams, and associated documents.
- Must satisfactorily complete, in such time frames as may be established by the Company, all required training to advance to the next higher classification in the line of progression, or vacate the current classification.
- Must have the ability and desire to acquire the necessary knowledge and skills to perform the duties and/or responsibilities of the key job (Station Electrician A) in this family and be qualified through demonstration, examination and/or performance appraisal as determined by the Company.
- Ability to deal with customers and other employees in a courteous and professional manner.
- Ability to plan work and to properly instruct and brief others.
- Employee shall obtain the appropriate valid commercial driver's license prior to the end of the designated probationary period.
- Must meet all vehicle operation requirements as designated by federal and/or state law.
- Considerable travel and overtime may be required to complete work assignments.
- Must successfully complete Physical Abilities Test (PAT).
- Minimum Requirement Station Electrician Amount of Weight Lifted from Floor/Ground to Waist Level: 75. Amount of Weight to be Carried for 20 Feet: 60. Amount of Weight Lifted to Chest Level: 50. Amount of Weight Lifted to Eye Level: 30. Distance to Walk Accumulated over the Course of an 8-Hour Shift: ½ Mile. Distance in Feet to Climb and Work on a Ladder/Structure: 50 and Higher. Distance in Feet to Ascend to and Work in a Bucket/Lift: 100 and Higher (Tested at 60’). Ability to Discriminate between Colors: Yes (Tested).
Station Electrician B:
What you’ll do:
Essential Job Functions & Tasks
- Work on conductors and equipment energized at voltages above 750 volts with direct supervision or assistance of personnel in higher classification.
- Use live line tools as required for the work. Operate crane and aerial lift equipment when in close proximity to energized lines or equipment; operate company vehicles and specialized equipment.
- Assemble, repair and maintain circuit breakers, transformers, reactive devices, network protectors and transformers, and station equipment such as lightning arresters and capacitor banks; replace bushings in the field; repair and replace associated equipment and subassemblies; make connection splices and cable terminations; install ground wires on de-energized primary leads and conductors, power cables, and related apparatus.
- Erect and drill switchboard panels and mount equipment; replace switchboard equipment; wire de-energized panels and controls; wire energized panels and controls in the presence of a qualified employee; install and wire outlets, control lighting, fixtures and switches; install conduit, pipe and tubing. Select proper prints and/or drawings for various work and have a basic understanding of each.
- Assemble and erect station steel structural members; assemble and replace switches and buses; ascend station structures by climbing or other approved means; paint structures and equipment. Make structural parts from sketch or verbal instructions; patch concrete and build forms; do incidental rough carpenter work and perform caulking.
- Perform switching operations as directed and accept clearances, make de-energized tests, and install protective grounds.
- Make inspections of stations and buildings; report irregularities and abnormal conditions; remove string, bird nests and other foreign objects from station equipment; check operating condition of equipment such as pumps, compressors, and fire extinguishers; complete inspection reports.
- Make connections for various electrical tests.
- Set up and operate circuit breaker stroke analyzer; set up, tear down and operate oil handling equipment and SF6 gas equipment; record and read instruments and gauges such as voltmeters, watt/reactive meters, ammeters, hydrometers, pressure and level gauges. Check, adjust, and set auxiliary controls such as auxiliary switches, pressure switches, alarm and indicating gauges.
- Set up and operate TTR, Doble, core megger and resistance for transformer testing, etc.
- Maintain records and prepare and submit reports as required.
- Assist employees of equal or higher classification; direct the work of employees assigned to assist.
- Perform duties in accordance with the Company safety rules and operating regulations and practices.
- Assist in conducting departmental safety meetings and training of other employees. Inspect and maintain live line tools, ladders, and personal insulated safety equipment; use electric or gas welding equipment, hydraulic conduit benders, and compression tools. Maintain various types of fire-fighting equipment. Maintain tools and equipment in a clean and orderly condition.
- Perform similar or less skilled work as assigned.
What We're Looking For:
Education requirements are listed below:
- Two-year associate degree electrical/mechanical/industrial maintenance technology or equivalent education and/or experience.
- Equivalent education and experience is limited to military training and work experience of technical/technician nature (such as aviation and nuclear instrumentation technician); or recent experience (within last 6 months) as a Station Electrician or equivalent job title with another electric utility or contractor.
Work Experience requirement listed below:
- Minimum of 24 months satisfactory work experience as a Station Electrician C or the equivalent (as determined by the Company through demonstration, examination and performance appraisal).
Licenses/Certifications:
- Valid Class A CDL is required.
Other Must Haves:
- Must be available to work overtime, call-out overtime and shift work, as required.
- Travel requirements are expected > 50 % of the time.
- These are additional expectations for the job and could include specific work experience, license / certifications, preemployment testing, expectations about travel, shift work, etc:
- Shall have performed the duties of and have all the qualifications of a Station Electrician C and 24 months of on-the-job experience or the equivalent.
- Equivalent experience is determined at the time of the assessment and appropriate time step credit will be given.
- Shall qualify through demonstration, examination and/or performance appraisal as determined by the Company.
- Thorough knowledge of the stations in the territory assigned.
- Knowledge of print reading sufficient to interpret and apply information from drawings, instruction manuals, one-line diagrams, and associated documents.
- Must satisfactorily complete, in such time frames as may be established by the Company, all required training to advance to the next higher classification in the line of progression or vacate the current classification.
- Must have the ability and desire to acquire the necessary knowledge and skills to perform the duties and/or responsibilities of the key job (Station Electrician A) in this family and be qualified through demonstration, examination and/or performance appraisal as determined by the Company.
- Ability to deal with customers and other employees in a courteous and professional manner.
- Ability to plan work and to properly instruct and brief others. Must possess and maintain a valid commercial driver’s license.
- Must meet all vehicle operation requirements as designated by federal and/or state law.
- Familiarity with the Company safety rules and practices and proficiency in the application of resuscitation and First Aid as presented in the Company’s Safety Manual.
- Considerable travel and overtime may be required to complete work assignments.
- Must successfully complete Physical Abilities Test (PAT).
- Physical demands required for this job include but not limited to: Minimum Requirement Station Electrician Amount of Weight Lifted from Floor/Ground to Waist Level: 75. Amount of Weight to be Carried for 20 Feet: 60. Amount of Weight Lifted to Chest Level: 50. Amount of Weight Lifted to Eye Level: 30. Distance to Walk Accumulated over the Course of an 8-Hour Shift: ½ Mile. Distance in Feet to Climb and Work on a Ladder/Structure: 50 and Higher. Distance in Feet to Ascend to and Work in a Bucket/Lift: 100 and Higher (Tested at 60’). Ability to Discriminate between Colors: Yes (Tested).
Station Electrician A:
What you’ll do:
Essential Job Functions & Tasks
- Install and maintain all types of station equipment, both energized and de-energized. Select proper prints and/or drawings and interpret specifications in order to proceed with each part of the work without supervision.
- Use live line tools provided for station work.
- Install and remove controls, instruments, meters, relays and control wiring for new and existing stations; lay out panels from drawings; wire energized panels.
- Understand and use a phase sequence meter when required.
- Assemble, adjust and maintain disconnects, air breaks, bypass, ground and interrupter switches.
- Lead in performance of station ground resistance tests.
- Perform inspections, maintenance, adjustment and testing on all types of station equipment including, but not limited to, circuit breakers and operating mechanisms, network protectors and transformers, mobiles, reactors, and regulators.
- Check and inspect stations and equipment; locate, clear, report and correct irregularities and abnormal conditions.
- Perform SF6 gas processing, oil de-gasification, vacuum pumping, dew point testing and other electrical tests.
- Check parallel circuits, both wye and Delta, using a phasing device or potential transformer voltmeter.
- Make transformer tap changes and understand the voltage and turns ratios involved.
- Select and install replacement bushings, arresters and insulators.
- Make operational tests on equipment; radios, carrier current, telemetering, pilot wire and control equipment; adjust as necessary or as directed.
- Maintain and operate tools, company vehicles, cranes, aerial lifts and specialized equipment. Perform duties incidental to the operation of such equipment.
- Maintain records and prepare and submit reports as required.
- Perform switching and grounding on transmission, distribution and generation lines and stations as required. Know the hazards involved with reactive controlling devices and coupling capacitors.
- Assist employees of equal or higher classification; direct the work of employees assigned to assist.
- Perform similar or less skilled work as assigned.
- Perform all duties in accordance with the Company's safety rules and operating regulations, environmental compliance, and practices.
- Assist in conducting departmental safety meetings and training of other employees.
What We're Looking For:
Education:
- Associate degree in electrical/mechanical/industrial maintenance technology or equivalent education and/or experience. Equivalent education and experience is limited to military training and work experience of technical/technician nature (such as aviation and nuclear instrumentation technician); or recent experience (within last 6 months) as a Station Electrician or equivalent job title with another electric utility or contractor.
Experience:
- Minimum of 24 months satisfactory combined work experience as a Station Electrician B or Station Electrician B-Certified or the equivalent (as determined by the Company through demonstration, examination and performance appraisal).
Licenses/Certifications:
- Valid Class A CDL is required.
Other Must Haves:
- Shall have performed the duties of and have all the qualifications of either a Station Electrician B or Station Electrician B-Certified and 24 months of on the job experience or the equivalent.
- Equivalent experience is determined at the time of the assessment and appropriate time step credit will be given. Shall qualify through demonstration, examination and/or performance appraisal as determined by the Company.
- Thorough knowledge of the stations in the territory assigned.
- Knowledge of print reading sufficient to interpret and apply information from drawings, instruction manuals, one-line diagrams, and associated documents.
- Ability to deal with customers and other employees in a courteous and professional manner.
- Ability to plan work and to properly instruct and brief others.
- Must possess and maintain a valid commercial driver’s license. Must meet all vehicle operation requirements as designated by federal and/or state law.
- Familiarity with the Company safety rules and practices and proficiency in the application of resuscitation and First Aid as presented in the Company’s Safety Manual.
- Considerable travel and overtime may be required to complete work assignments.
- Must successfully complete Physical Abilities Test (PAT).
- Minimum Requirement Station Electrician Amount of Weight Lifted from Floor/Ground to Waist Level: 75. Amount of Weight to be Carried for 20 Feet: 60. Amount of Weight Lifted to Chest Level: 50. Amount of Weight Lifted to Eye Level: 30. Distance to Walk Accumulated over the Course of an 8-Hour Shift: ½ Mile. Distance in Feet to Climb and Work on a Ladder/Structure: 50 and Higher. Distance in Feet to Ascend to and Work in a Bucket/Lift: 100 and Higher (Tested at 60’). Ability to Discriminate between Colors: Yes (Tested).
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:
U057-150
Compensation Range:
$31.33 - $58.62
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.
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Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding OPT Sponsorship in Electrician
Verify your state electrical license transfers
Electrical licensing is state-specific. Before applying, confirm whether your existing credentials qualify for reciprocity in that state or whether you'll need to complete additional exams or supervised hours before working legally.
Target employers with H-2B or TN sponsorship history
Large electrical contractors and construction firms are more likely to have sponsored skilled trades workers before. Focus on companies with federal contracts or large commercial projects, where workforce planning includes visa sponsorship.
Be upfront about your OPT end date
Electrician roles often involve multi-month project cycles. Employers need to know your OPT expiration date early so they can time sponsorship paperwork to avoid gaps in your authorization before a project completes.
Highlight apprenticeship hours and certifications clearly
OSHA 10 or 30 certifications, journeyman status, and documented apprenticeship hours signal job readiness. List these prominently on your resume, as hiring managers in trades evaluate credentials before reviewing anything else.
Understand that STEM OPT does not apply here
Electrician roles are not classified under STEM CIP codes, so you cannot apply for the 24-month STEM OPT extension. Plan your timeline around your standard 12-month OPT window and target employers willing to sponsor.
Prepare documentation proving work authorization proactively
Trades employers often run E-Verify and require I-9 documentation on day one. Bring your EAD card, passport, and I-20 to any onboarding meeting so there are no delays starting work after an offer is accepted.
Electrician OPT: Frequently Asked Questions
Can I work as an electrician on OPT?
Yes, you can work as an electrician on OPT as long as the role is directly related to your field of study. Most qualifying degrees would be in electrical engineering or a closely related technical program. You cannot work in a general trades role if it falls outside your degree field, so confirm the connection before accepting an offer.
Does the STEM OPT extension apply to electrician jobs?
No. The 24-month STEM OPT extension only applies to degrees classified under designated STEM CIP codes. Electrician and electrical trades roles are not included in that list. Your OPT work authorization is limited to the standard 12-month period, so visa sponsorship planning should start well before that window closes.
What visa can an employer sponsor after my OPT ends for an electrician role?
Employers most commonly sponsor electricians through the H-2B visa temporary nonagricultural worker visa, which is used for skilled trades. TN status is available for Canadian and Mexican nationals in certain engineering roles. H-1B visa sponsorship is possible but less common for trades positions unless the role is tied to an engineering function requiring a bachelor's degree.
Do I need a U.S. electrical license to work on OPT as an electrician?
In most states, yes. Electrical work is regulated at the state level, and you typically need a journeyman or master electrician license to work independently. Licensing requirements vary significantly by state, and some states offer reciprocity for licenses held elsewhere. Confirm the specific requirements for the state where the job is located before applying.
Where can I find electrician jobs that sponsor OPT students?
Migrate Mate is built specifically for F-1 OPT students and filters jobs by sponsorship willingness, saving you time you'd otherwise spend screening employers manually. Browse electrician and skilled trades listings on Migrate Mate to find employers who have a track record of working with international candidates and understand the OPT timeline.