OPT Energy Project Manager Jobs
Energy Project Manager jobs on OPT require employers to support your work authorization, whether that's a 12-month standard OPT period or a 24-month STEM extension if your degree is in engineering, environmental science, or a related STEM field. Most roles in this space sit within utilities, renewables, and energy consulting firms that regularly hire international talent.
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Get Access To All JobsINTRODUCTION
Interviews are anticipated to be conducted within two weeks of closing date.
Our Mission.
It is the mission of New Mexico's Department of Wildlife: "To conserve, regulate, propagate and protect the wildlife and fish within the state of New Mexico using a flexible management system that ensures sustainable use for public food supply, recreation and safety; and to provide for off-highway motor vehicle recreation that recognizes cultural, historic, and resource values while ensuring public safety."
The Ecological and Environmental Planning Section in the Wildlife Management Division gives wildlife a voice by conducting environmental reviews of development and habitat restoration projects.
Why does the job exist?
The Mining and Energy Habitat Specialist provides technical guidance regarding impacts to wildlife and their habitats from coal, hard rock, humate, uranium, and other mines, abandoned mine lands, other extractive industries (oil and gas), mineral exploration activities, and wind, solar, and other alternative energy developments. This Specialist routinely communicates and consults with industry; federal and state agencies, including the U.S. Bureau of Land Management and Energy, Minerals and Natural Resources Department; local governments, communities, and other stakeholders to provide guidance regarding wildlife and wildlife habitats as related to mining and energy development activities.
How does it get done?
Key responsibilities for this position include:
1) Providing technical guidance regarding projects, plans, National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) documents, permit documents, and regulations pertaining to proposed mining and energy-focused projects. Specific responsibilities include but are not limited to:
a) Reviewing proposed energy- and mining-focused projects (includes energy transmission lines), permit documents, or land management plans and any associated NEPA documents and, in consultation with appropriate New Mexico Department of Wildlife (Department) staff and drawing on federal, state, and local laws, regulations, and policies, preparing official recommendations from the Department for ways to prevent or mitigate impacts on wildlife and their habitats from the proposed activities; includes site visits to mining and energy project sites as needed to inform reviews;
b) Providing input related to mining and energy development in New Mexico as part of: the review, revision, and implementation of the State Wildlife Action Plan; the creation of new, and updates to existing, guidelines for mitigating the impacts of mining and energy development activities on wildlife and their habitats; and participation in inter-agency programs, task forces, working groups, and similar collaborative efforts, including supporting agency representatives to the New Mexico Mining Commission, Water Quality Control Commission, and the Mining and Mineral Division's Mining Act Team as needed.
c) Remaining current with technical issues pertaining to mining and energy development in New Mexico and associated impacts on wildlife through attendance at professional meetings and trainings and by reading scientific publications; and
d) Serving as the agency's technical point of contact with the New Mexico Environment Department to address any remediation needs for the agency's Pecos Canyon properties. This includes developing or implementing maintenance plans, engaging contractors, and taking actions necessary for compliance with and release from requirements described in the Administrative Order on Consent for the Pecos mine, mill site, and fish hatchery units.
Who are the customers?
This position primarily prepares official Department recommendations regarding projects proposed or permitted by a variety of entities, including private mining and energy companies and consulting firms working on their behalf and state, federal, and local government agencies. This position regularly conducts site inspections as organized by state and federal agencies with permitting authority for mining and energy developments in the State of New Mexico and attended by other agencies and private companies.
Ideal Candidate
This position primarily prepares official Department recommendations regarding projects proposed or permitted by a variety of entities, including private mining and energy companies and consulting firms working on their behalf and state, federal, and local government agencies. This position regularly conducts site inspections as organized by state and federal agencies with permitting authority for mining and energy developments in the State of New Mexico and attended by other agencies and private companies.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATION
Bachelor's degree in biology, fisheries science/management, wildlife science/management, animal science, forestry, ecology, or similar related natural resource degree and one (1) year directly related work experience. Any combination of education from an accredited college or university in a related field and/or direct experience in this occupation totaling five (5) years may substitute for the required education and experience.
EMPLOYMENT REQUIREMENTS
Pre-employment background investigation is required and is conditional pending results. Must possess and maintain a valid Driver's License. Must possess and maintain a current Defensive Driving Course Certificate from the State of New Mexico or must pass and receive Defensive Driving Course Certification as a condition of continued employment.
WORKING CONDITIONS
Typically works in an office setting. At least once a month work will occur in outdoor settings and require driving a four wheel drive vehicle, hiking, working in inclement weather, lifting up to 30 pounds, potentially using a handheld GPS or binoculars, and wearing personal protective equipment as required during mining and energy project site visits. Employee will be expected to work extensively on a computer and will be exposed to extended periods of sitting or standing at a stand-up desk. Also expected to work with other office equipment including printers, scanners, and a cellular phone and to be able to travel for work, including driving, air travel, and attending meetings and conferences. May include some irregular hours, especially during site visits, and work on weekends.
SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION
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Agency Contact Information: Ginny Seamster, Assistant Chief for Technical Guidance Email
For information on Statutory Requirements for this position, click the Classification Description link on the job advertisement.
BARGAINING UNIT POSITION
This position is not covered by a collective bargaining agreement.
INTRODUCTION
Interviews are anticipated to be conducted within two weeks of closing date.
Our Mission.
It is the mission of New Mexico's Department of Wildlife: "To conserve, regulate, propagate and protect the wildlife and fish within the state of New Mexico using a flexible management system that ensures sustainable use for public food supply, recreation and safety; and to provide for off-highway motor vehicle recreation that recognizes cultural, historic, and resource values while ensuring public safety."
The Ecological and Environmental Planning Section in the Wildlife Management Division gives wildlife a voice by conducting environmental reviews of development and habitat restoration projects.
Why does the job exist?
The Mining and Energy Habitat Specialist provides technical guidance regarding impacts to wildlife and their habitats from coal, hard rock, humate, uranium, and other mines, abandoned mine lands, other extractive industries (oil and gas), mineral exploration activities, and wind, solar, and other alternative energy developments. This Specialist routinely communicates and consults with industry; federal and state agencies, including the U.S. Bureau of Land Management and Energy, Minerals and Natural Resources Department; local governments, communities, and other stakeholders to provide guidance regarding wildlife and wildlife habitats as related to mining and energy development activities.
How does it get done?
Key responsibilities for this position include:
1) Providing technical guidance regarding projects, plans, National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) documents, permit documents, and regulations pertaining to proposed mining and energy-focused projects. Specific responsibilities include but are not limited to:
a) Reviewing proposed energy- and mining-focused projects (includes energy transmission lines), permit documents, or land management plans and any associated NEPA documents and, in consultation with appropriate New Mexico Department of Wildlife (Department) staff and drawing on federal, state, and local laws, regulations, and policies, preparing official recommendations from the Department for ways to prevent or mitigate impacts on wildlife and their habitats from the proposed activities; includes site visits to mining and energy project sites as needed to inform reviews;
b) Providing input related to mining and energy development in New Mexico as part of: the review, revision, and implementation of the State Wildlife Action Plan; the creation of new, and updates to existing, guidelines for mitigating the impacts of mining and energy development activities on wildlife and their habitats; and participation in inter-agency programs, task forces, working groups, and similar collaborative efforts, including supporting agency representatives to the New Mexico Mining Commission, Water Quality Control Commission, and the Mining and Mineral Division's Mining Act Team as needed.
c) Remaining current with technical issues pertaining to mining and energy development in New Mexico and associated impacts on wildlife through attendance at professional meetings and trainings and by reading scientific publications; and
d) Serving as the agency's technical point of contact with the New Mexico Environment Department to address any remediation needs for the agency's Pecos Canyon properties. This includes developing or implementing maintenance plans, engaging contractors, and taking actions necessary for compliance with and release from requirements described in the Administrative Order on Consent for the Pecos mine, mill site, and fish hatchery units.
Who are the customers?
This position primarily prepares official Department recommendations regarding projects proposed or permitted by a variety of entities, including private mining and energy companies and consulting firms working on their behalf and state, federal, and local government agencies. This position regularly conducts site inspections as organized by state and federal agencies with permitting authority for mining and energy developments in the State of New Mexico and attended by other agencies and private companies.
Ideal Candidate
This position primarily prepares official Department recommendations regarding projects proposed or permitted by a variety of entities, including private mining and energy companies and consulting firms working on their behalf and state, federal, and local government agencies. This position regularly conducts site inspections as organized by state and federal agencies with permitting authority for mining and energy developments in the State of New Mexico and attended by other agencies and private companies.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATION
Bachelor's degree in biology, fisheries science/management, wildlife science/management, animal science, forestry, ecology, or similar related natural resource degree and one (1) year directly related work experience. Any combination of education from an accredited college or university in a related field and/or direct experience in this occupation totaling five (5) years may substitute for the required education and experience.
EMPLOYMENT REQUIREMENTS
Pre-employment background investigation is required and is conditional pending results. Must possess and maintain a valid Driver's License. Must possess and maintain a current Defensive Driving Course Certificate from the State of New Mexico or must pass and receive Defensive Driving Course Certification as a condition of continued employment.
WORKING CONDITIONS
Typically works in an office setting. At least once a month work will occur in outdoor settings and require driving a four wheel drive vehicle, hiking, working in inclement weather, lifting up to 30 pounds, potentially using a handheld GPS or binoculars, and wearing personal protective equipment as required during mining and energy project site visits. Employee will be expected to work extensively on a computer and will be exposed to extended periods of sitting or standing at a stand-up desk. Also expected to work with other office equipment including printers, scanners, and a cellular phone and to be able to travel for work, including driving, air travel, and attending meetings and conferences. May include some irregular hours, especially during site visits, and work on weekends.
SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION
Do you know what Total Compensation is? Click here
Agency Contact Information: Ginny Seamster, Assistant Chief for Technical Guidance Email
For information on Statutory Requirements for this position, click the Classification Description link on the job advertisement.
BARGAINING UNIT POSITION
This position is not covered by a collective bargaining agreement.
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Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding OPT Sponsorship as an Energy Project Manager
Lead with your STEM OPT eligibility
If your degree is in engineering, environmental science, or energy systems, you qualify for the 24-month STEM OPT extension. Mention this upfront in your resume summary and cover letter so hiring managers understand your full authorization timeline immediately.
Target renewables and utilities hiring internationally
Solar, wind, and grid infrastructure companies have grown rapidly and tend to hire internationally trained engineers. Prioritize employers in these sectors over general construction firms, where OPT familiarity is lower and sponsorship conversations are harder to initiate.
Align your degree field to the job description
Energy Project Manager roles often require a degree in engineering or environmental science. Verify your diploma field matches what's listed. A misaligned degree can complicate STEM extension eligibility and raise questions during DSO verification with your university.
Quantify project outcomes in your application
Hiring managers in energy respond to results. List the megawatts managed, budget size, or timeline reductions you delivered. Concrete project metrics signal readiness for complex energy infrastructure work and offset any concerns about work authorization complexity.
Apply before your OPT window gets tight
Energy project roles often have slower hiring cycles due to multi-round interviews and procurement processes. Start applying at least four months before your OPT end date to leave room for offers, onboarding, and STEM extension filing if needed.
Ask about H-1B sponsorship during the offer stage
Large energy companies and engineering consultancies routinely sponsor H-1B visas. Once you have an offer, ask directly whether the company has sponsored before. Frame it as planning ahead, not as a condition, to keep the conversation constructive and professional.
Energy Project Manager OPT: Frequently Asked Questions
Can I work as an Energy Project Manager on OPT?
Yes, if your degree is in a related field such as civil engineering, electrical engineering, environmental science, or energy management. Your OPT employment must be directly related to your degree, so the job description needs to align with your academic training. A general business degree alone may not satisfy the relatedness requirement for a technical energy role.
Do Energy Project Manager roles qualify for the STEM OPT extension?
They can, provided your degree appears on the STEM Designated Degree Program List and your employer is enrolled in E-Verify. Common qualifying degrees for this role include electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, environmental engineering, and energy systems. Your DSO must approve the extension, and your employer must sign a formal training plan before you file the extension with USCIS.
How do I find Energy Project Manager jobs that support OPT students?
Migrate Mate is built specifically for F-1 OPT students and filters jobs by sponsorship willingness, so you're not applying blindly to roles where the employer has never considered work authorization. Search for Energy Project Manager roles on Migrate Mate to find employers already familiar with OPT timelines and STEM extension requirements, saving you time in the screening process.
Are large energy companies or smaller firms more likely to support OPT?
Large utilities, engineering consultancies, and renewable energy developers tend to have dedicated HR teams with prior OPT and H-1B experience. Smaller project development firms may support OPT but require more explanation during the offer stage. In either case, targeting companies with a track record of international hires increases your chances of a smooth authorization process.
What happens to my OPT status if my energy project ends before my authorization period does?
OPT allows up to 90 days of cumulative unemployment, which includes gaps between project assignments. If your employer is a consulting firm placing you on discrete projects, you remain employed between assignments as long as your contract is active. If you're laid off or your contract ends, the 90-day unemployment clock starts. Contact your DSO immediately to understand your options and timeline.