OPT Environmental Technician Jobs
Environmental Technician roles are a strong fit for F-1 OPT students with degrees in environmental science, biology, chemistry, or engineering technology. Many positions involve field sampling, lab analysis, and compliance monitoring, which align directly with STEM OPT extension eligibility and the 24-month extension most students qualify for.
See All OPT Environmental Technician JobsOverview
Showing 5 of 192+ Environmental Technician jobs
Have you applied for this role?
Have you applied for this role?
Have you applied for this role?
Have you applied for this role?
Have you applied for this role?
See all 192+ Environmental Technician Jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new Environmental Technician roles.
Get Access To All JobsPosition Overview
Davey Resource Group, Inc. (DRG) is seeking motivated individuals interested in natural resources, ecological restoration, and environmental fieldwork. Inventory Arborist Technicians/Environmental Technicians support a wide range of clients—including government, utility, commercial, tribal, and nonprofit partners—by assisting with natural resource management, regulatory compliance, habitat restoration, and ecological data collection.
This hybrid role is field‑focused, physically demanding, and ideal for individuals who enjoy working outdoors in varying weather and terrain conditions. Work will involve both urban forestry assignments (tree inventories and tree preservation) along with restoration project work as needed. Travel will be required depending on project needs.
Job Duties
Environmental Fieldwork & Restoration
- Perform stormwater maintenance by inspecting inlets, weeding, applying herbicide to invasive species, and mowing native plant material.
- Perform invasive species control and herbicide application using backpack sprayers, spray rigs, and other equipment.
- Conduct restoration activities including native plant installation, seed broadcasting, streambank, lakeshore, ravine, and bluff stabilization.
- Participate in prescribed burning operations (where certified/assigned).
Urban Forestry (Inventory Work)
- Identify local plant species, including typical characteristics, diseases, and pests.
- Support forestry activities such as tree inventories, vegetation surveys, tree risk assessments, and management plans (site‑dependent).
- Assist with tree protection and preservation plans, planting programs, and pruning/removal contract oversight.
Technical Responsibilities
- Use GIS and related software for mapping, data entry, and reporting.
- Perform data analysis, report writing, project documentation, memos, and client communication.
- Follow safety protocols for equipment operation, chemical handling, and field procedures.
Client & Team Interaction
- Understand contract needs/specifications and develop appropriate solutions.
- Work collaboratively as part of a field team; engage directly with municipal, state, federal, nonprofit, and private clients.
- Assist in project delivery, scheduling, field logistics, and communication with stakeholders.
Qualifications
Education & Experience
- Two-to-four‑year degree in Biology, Ecology, Forestry, Botany, Environmental Science, Soil Science, Zoology, Horticulture, Hydrology, or related field or equivalent experience.
- 1–2 years of experience in ecological restoration preferred.
- Minimum of 3 years urban forestry experience preferred.
Licenses & Certifications
- An ISA Certified Arborist credential is required for this role (TRAQ qualification is beneficial).
- Valid driver’s license with clean record (CDL may be required depending on project).
- Ability/willingness to obtain state pesticide applicator certification.
- Prescribed burn training (S130/S190) preferred.
Skills & Physical Requirements
- Plant/tree identification skills.
- Experience using chainsaws, brush saws, weed whips, UTV/ATVs, augers, and similar equipment.
- Ability to work in rugged terrain, adverse weather, and carry up to 50 lbs.
- Strong communication skills, attention to detail, and professionalism.
Additional Information
What We Offer:
- Starting hourly rates ranging from $21-$24 per hour.
- Paid time off and paid holidays.
- Opportunities for advancement.
- All job specific equipment and safety gear provided.
- 401(k) retirement savings plan with a company match.
- Employee-owned company and discounted stock purchase options.
- Group Health Plan.
- Employee Referral Bonus Program: Send-A-Friend.
- Locations throughout the United States in major cities and desirable areas.
- Career Development Program supported by industry expert safety specialists and skilled trainers.
- The Davey Tree Family Scholarship for children of employees.
- Charitable matching gift program.
- All listed benefits available to eligible employees.
Company Overview
Davey Resource Group, Inc., a division of The Davey Tree Expert Company, provides natural resource consulting, ecological restoration, forestry services, and sustainable land management solutions across the United States and Canada. DRG combines scientific expertise with practical implementation, fostering a collaborative, safety oriented, and inclusive workplace culture.
Divisional Overview
The Davey Tree Expert Company is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to protected class, including race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national or ethnic origin, marital or familial status, disability, status as a protected veteran, status as an Aboriginal or Indigenous person, or other classification protected by law.
Davey Resource Group, Inc., is a leader in the natural resource, environmental, and forestry consulting industries throughout the United States. The Davey Tree Expert Company provides research-driven tree services, grounds maintenance and environmental consulting for residential, utility, commercial and environmental partners in the U.S. and Canada. We care about our clients, each other and the world around us. We offer the resources, size and stability of a big company while maintaining the culture, entrepreneurial spirit and feel of a small one. We invest in our employees by offering industry-leading training, technology and benefits that lead to a rewarding and safe work experience at all levels. Wherever you want to grow your career, there’s a place for you at Davey.
Accommodations: If requested by employee or otherwise as required by law, reasonable accommodations will be made to enable employees with disabilities to perform essential job functions.
If you need assistance at any time, please contact us at 1-877-411-7601 or at Recruiting@davey.com.
Employment Type: Permanent
Job Type: Full Time
Travel Expectations: Up to 25%
Location: South St. Paul, MN
Position Overview
Davey Resource Group, Inc. (DRG) is seeking motivated individuals interested in natural resources, ecological restoration, and environmental fieldwork. Inventory Arborist Technicians/Environmental Technicians support a wide range of clients—including government, utility, commercial, tribal, and nonprofit partners—by assisting with natural resource management, regulatory compliance, habitat restoration, and ecological data collection.
This hybrid role is field‑focused, physically demanding, and ideal for individuals who enjoy working outdoors in varying weather and terrain conditions. Work will involve both urban forestry assignments (tree inventories and tree preservation) along with restoration project work as needed. Travel will be required depending on project needs.
Job Duties
Environmental Fieldwork & Restoration
- Perform stormwater maintenance by inspecting inlets, weeding, applying herbicide to invasive species, and mowing native plant material.
- Perform invasive species control and herbicide application using backpack sprayers, spray rigs, and other equipment.
- Conduct restoration activities including native plant installation, seed broadcasting, streambank, lakeshore, ravine, and bluff stabilization.
- Participate in prescribed burning operations (where certified/assigned).
Urban Forestry (Inventory Work)
- Identify local plant species, including typical characteristics, diseases, and pests.
- Support forestry activities such as tree inventories, vegetation surveys, tree risk assessments, and management plans (site‑dependent).
- Assist with tree protection and preservation plans, planting programs, and pruning/removal contract oversight.
Technical Responsibilities
- Use GIS and related software for mapping, data entry, and reporting.
- Perform data analysis, report writing, project documentation, memos, and client communication.
- Follow safety protocols for equipment operation, chemical handling, and field procedures.
Client & Team Interaction
- Understand contract needs/specifications and develop appropriate solutions.
- Work collaboratively as part of a field team; engage directly with municipal, state, federal, nonprofit, and private clients.
- Assist in project delivery, scheduling, field logistics, and communication with stakeholders.
Qualifications
Education & Experience
- Two-to-four‑year degree in Biology, Ecology, Forestry, Botany, Environmental Science, Soil Science, Zoology, Horticulture, Hydrology, or related field or equivalent experience.
- 1–2 years of experience in ecological restoration preferred.
- Minimum of 3 years urban forestry experience preferred.
Licenses & Certifications
- An ISA Certified Arborist credential is required for this role (TRAQ qualification is beneficial).
- Valid driver’s license with clean record (CDL may be required depending on project).
- Ability/willingness to obtain state pesticide applicator certification.
- Prescribed burn training (S130/S190) preferred.
Skills & Physical Requirements
- Plant/tree identification skills.
- Experience using chainsaws, brush saws, weed whips, UTV/ATVs, augers, and similar equipment.
- Ability to work in rugged terrain, adverse weather, and carry up to 50 lbs.
- Strong communication skills, attention to detail, and professionalism.
Additional Information
What We Offer:
- Starting hourly rates ranging from $21-$24 per hour.
- Paid time off and paid holidays.
- Opportunities for advancement.
- All job specific equipment and safety gear provided.
- 401(k) retirement savings plan with a company match.
- Employee-owned company and discounted stock purchase options.
- Group Health Plan.
- Employee Referral Bonus Program: Send-A-Friend.
- Locations throughout the United States in major cities and desirable areas.
- Career Development Program supported by industry expert safety specialists and skilled trainers.
- The Davey Tree Family Scholarship for children of employees.
- Charitable matching gift program.
- All listed benefits available to eligible employees.
Company Overview
Davey Resource Group, Inc., a division of The Davey Tree Expert Company, provides natural resource consulting, ecological restoration, forestry services, and sustainable land management solutions across the United States and Canada. DRG combines scientific expertise with practical implementation, fostering a collaborative, safety oriented, and inclusive workplace culture.
Divisional Overview
The Davey Tree Expert Company is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to protected class, including race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national or ethnic origin, marital or familial status, disability, status as a protected veteran, status as an Aboriginal or Indigenous person, or other classification protected by law.
Davey Resource Group, Inc., is a leader in the natural resource, environmental, and forestry consulting industries throughout the United States. The Davey Tree Expert Company provides research-driven tree services, grounds maintenance and environmental consulting for residential, utility, commercial and environmental partners in the U.S. and Canada. We care about our clients, each other and the world around us. We offer the resources, size and stability of a big company while maintaining the culture, entrepreneurial spirit and feel of a small one. We invest in our employees by offering industry-leading training, technology and benefits that lead to a rewarding and safe work experience at all levels. Wherever you want to grow your career, there’s a place for you at Davey.
Accommodations: If requested by employee or otherwise as required by law, reasonable accommodations will be made to enable employees with disabilities to perform essential job functions.
If you need assistance at any time, please contact us at 1-877-411-7601 or at Recruiting@davey.com.
Employment Type: Permanent
Job Type: Full Time
Travel Expectations: Up to 25%
Location: South St. Paul, MN
See all 192+ OPT Environmental Technician Jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new OPT Environmental Technician Jobs.
Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding OPT Sponsorship as an Environmental Technician
Target environmental consulting firms first
Firms like environmental consultancies and remediation contractors hire Environmental Technicians regularly and have established OPT onboarding processes. They handle EPA compliance work year-round, making consistent hiring more likely than project-based government contractors.
Confirm your degree qualifies for STEM OPT
Environmental science, environmental engineering, chemistry, and biology degrees typically appear on the STEM OPT designated degree list. Confirm your specific CIP code with your DSO before applying, since this determines whether you qualify for the 24-month extension.
Apply before your OPT start date, not after
Most employers need time to verify your EAD and set up payroll. Begin applying at least 60 days before your current OPT authorization begins so offers and start dates align with your authorized employment period without gaps.
Highlight field and lab certifications on your resume
40-hour HAZWOPER certification, soil sampling experience, and water quality testing skills directly address what hiring managers screen for. These credentials signal you can work independently in the field from day one, reducing training costs employers factor into OPT hiring decisions.
Ask about STEM OPT mentorship plans early
STEM OPT requires a formal training plan submitted to your DSO. Raise this in later-stage interviews, not after the offer. Employers already familiar with Form I-983 requirements are far more likely to complete it accurately and on time.
Focus on employers with active EPA or state agency contracts
Companies holding active environmental compliance contracts with federal or state agencies tend to have stable, long-term staffing needs. That stability matters for OPT students who need continuous employment to maintain valid status throughout the authorization period.
Environmental Technician OPT: Frequently Asked Questions
Do Environmental Technician roles qualify for the STEM OPT extension?
Most do, provided your underlying degree is on the STEM designated degree list. Degrees in environmental science, environmental engineering, chemistry, biology, and related technical fields commonly qualify. The job itself must also be directly related to your degree field. Confirm your CIP code with your DSO before accepting an offer, since the extension is tied to your degree classification, not just the job title.
What does an employer need to sponsor an Environmental Technician on OPT?
For standard OPT, the employer simply verifies your EAD and reports the hire to your DSO within 10 days. For STEM OPT, the employer must be E-Verify enrolled, sign a formal training plan on Form I-983, and provide evaluations every six months. Most mid-size environmental consulting firms are already E-Verify enrolled due to federal contract requirements, which makes them practical targets for STEM OPT students.
How do I find Environmental Technician jobs that are open to OPT students?
Migrate Mate lists Environmental Technician positions from employers who are open to hiring OPT and visa-sponsored candidates, so you're not filtering through hundreds of roles that exclude international students. Searching there saves significant time compared to applying broadly and discovering sponsorship limitations late in the process.
Can I work as an Environmental Technician as a contractor or on a per-project basis on OPT?
OPT requires that you work for a single employer in a role directly related to your degree. Short-term project work is permissible as long as each engagement is with one employer at a time and the work remains within your degree field. Self-employment and independent contracting for multiple clients simultaneously are not permitted under standard or STEM OPT authorization.
What happens to my OPT status if my Environmental Technician contract ends between projects?
Standard OPT allows up to 90 cumulative days of unemployment, and STEM OPT extends that to 150 days. If a project-based contract ends, that gap counts toward your unemployment limit from the day employment stops. Lining up your next position before a contract closes is important. Your DSO must also be updated promptly whenever your employment situation changes to keep your SEVIS record accurate.