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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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 Electrician Jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new OPT Electrician Jobs.
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.