OPT Equipment Operator Jobs
Equipment Operator jobs on OPT are available across construction, mining, manufacturing, and infrastructure sectors. Most roles require hands-on machinery experience, and employers in these industries have a longer history of hiring international workers. Your OPT period gives you 12 months of authorized work, with a 24-month STEM extension available if your program qualifies.
Find OPT Equipment Operator JobsOverview
Showing 5 of 26+ Equipment Operator jobs
See all Equipment Operator Jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new Equipment Operator roles.
Get Access To All JobsJob Summary
Perform associated duties and assist with placing in service, monitoring, and isolating all plant auxiliary equipment systems and/or components of a system. Communicate with operators and supervisors and other appropriate personnel the operating status of the plant's equipment. Assist in performance of semi-skilled work including maintenance and operating duties as assigned and in plant outages as needed. Participates in continuous improvement activities.
Job Posting End Date
06-26-2026
Please note the job posting will close on the day before the posting end date.
RESIDENCY REQUIREMENT: Successful candidate will live within 1 hour drive of Flint Creek Power Plant under normal driving conditions.
What You'll Do:
- Monitor and inspect all plant equipment for normal operation. Identify, record, and report abnormal conditions to the proper authority. Communicate to other operators and supervisors the operating status of the plant's equipment during shift change.
- Assist in troubleshooting equipment problems and document these problems using the appropriate computer tracking systems.
- Assist in preparing boilers, turbines and auxiliaries for operation and removal from service.
- Perform routine cleaning of plant areas, tools, and equipment, including outside areas, as assigned. Operate, clean and lubricate equipment necessary to perform these tasks.
- Assist with isolation of plant equipment and placing/removing clearance tags in accordance with the Company Clearance Policy.
- Operate, regulate, adjust, clean and perform minor maintenance on power plant equipment including associated pumps, piping and valves, fittings, etc.
- Perform routine operation and maintenance of basic water treating systems including chemical control, routine testing of effluents, chlorination, and lubrication.
- Assist in the proper and safe unloading and handling of bulk products.
- Assist in collecting and preparing samples, operate sampling equipment and perform tests requiring the use of basic analytical equipment and knowledge of common chemical materials. Prepare bulk supplies of chemicals to specific concentration; assist in special analyses and tests necessary to regulate proper chemical treatment of system. Record all concerns and report to supervisor.
What We're Looking For:
Plant Equipment Operator first 2 mths
Education requirements: High school diploma or GED and Associate degree in mechanical, electrical, power plant technology or related technical degree or at least 2 years industrial maintenance and or operations experience is required.
Work Experience: Preferred: Operations experience in chemical, industrial, refinery or military environments.
Required License(s)/Certification(s): Must possess the appropriate State driver license.
OTHER REQUIREMENTS:
- Required EEI Testing: POSS/MASS Combination, but must be successful in POSS. A link to these materials may be found at AEP.com Careers by selecting Employment testing.
- A physical abilities assessment is also required for this position.
- Must be willing to work rotating shifts including weekends, nights, and holidays.
- Minimum long distance travel required but the inspection of remote equipment is a daily requirement for this position.
- Must respond to callouts in both outage and non-outage work to maintain and support business operational needs and schedules.
- Must be able to learn and comply with all applicable plant operating instructions and procedures.
- Must be able to learn and comply with the rules, safety practices and procedures applicable to the work environment and report unsafe conditions and practices.
- Must learn and have a working knowledge of Safety and Environmental guidelines.
- Must be able to learn and properly use the tools and equipment applicable to work duties.
- Must be able to read, interpret and work from simple prints and specifications.
- Communicate effectively, both verbally and written.
- Demonstrate professional conduct and effective interactions with employees, contractors and others.
- Must be willing and able to work inside designated confined space entry areas, elevated areas and in hot and cold temperatures.
- Must be able to wear respirator when required.
- Train for firefighting, first aid, AED and other emergency response programs as required.
- Demonstration of applicable knowledge, skills and abilities are required for next progression within job family.
- The essential and/or marginal job functions and the associated abilities/requirements/conditions outlined above describe the general nature and level of the work performed. They are not intended to and in no way represent an exhaustive listing of all tasks involved in performing the job.
Plant Equipment Operator next 4 mths
Education requirements: High school diploma or GED and Associate degree in mechanical, electrical, power plant technology or related technical degree or at least 3 years industrial maintenance and or operations experience is required.
Work Experience requirement: Preferred: Operations experience in chemical, industrial, refinery or military environments.
Required License(s)/Certification(s): Must possess the appropriate State driver's license.
OTHER REQUIREMENTS:
- Required EEI Testing: POSS/MASS Combination, but must be successful in POSS. A link to these materials may be found at AEP.com Careers by selecting Employment testing.
- A physical abilities assessment is also required for this position.
- Must be willing to work rotating shifts including weekends, nights, and holidays.
- Minimum long distance travel required but the inspection of remote equipment is a daily requirement for this position.
- Must respond to callouts in both outage and non-outage work to maintain and support business operational needs and schedules.
- Must be able to learn and comply with all applicable plant operating instructions and procedures.
- Must be able to learn and comply with the rules, safety practices and procedures applicable to the work environment and report unsafe conditions and practices.
- Must learn and have a working knowledge of Safety and Environmental guidelines.
- Must be able to learn and properly use the tools and equipment applicable to work duties.
- Must be able to read, interpret and work from simple prints and specifications.
- Communicate effectively, both verbally and written.
- Demonstrate professional conduct and effective interactions with employees, contractors and others.
- Must be willing and able to work inside designated confined space entry areas, elevated areas and in hot and cold temperatures.
- Must be able to wear respirator when required.
- Train for firefighting, first aid, AED and other emergency response programs as required.
- Demonstration of applicable knowledge, skills and abilities are required for next progression within job family.
- The essential and/or marginal job functions and the associated abilities/requirements/conditions outlined above describe the general nature and level of the work performed. They are not intended to and in no way represent an exhaustive listing of all tasks involved in performing the job.
Plant Equipment Operator aft 6 mth
Education requirements: High school diploma or GED and Associate degree in mechanical, electrical or power plant technology or related technical degree or equivalent of at least 4 years industrial maintenance and or operations experience is required.
Work Experience requirement: Preferred: Operations in chemical, industrial, refinery or military environment.
Required License(s)/Certification(s): Must possess the appropriate State driver's license.
OTHER REQUIREMENTS:
- Required EEI Testing: POSS/MASS Combination, but must be successful in POSS. A link to these materials may be found at AEP.com Careers by selecting Employment testing.
- A physical abilities assessment is also required for this position.
- Must be willing to work rotating shifts including weekends, nights, and holidays.
- Minimum long distance travel required but the inspection of remote equipment is a daily requirement for this position.
- Must respond to call-outs in both outage and non-outage work to maintain and support business operational needs and schedules.
- Must be able to learn and comply with all applicable plant operating instructions and procedures.
- Must be able to learn and comply with the rules, safety practices and procedures applicable to the work environment and report unsafe conditions and practices.
- Must learn and have a working knowledge of Safety and Environmental guidelines. Must be able to learn and properly use the tools and equipment applicable to work duties.
- Must be able to read, interpret and work from simple prints and specifications. Communicate effectively, both verbally and written.
- Demonstrate professional conduct and effective interactions with employees, contractors and others.
- Must be willing and able to work inside designated confined space entry areas, elevated areas and in hot and cold temperatures.
- Must be able to wear respirator when required.
- Train for firefighting, first aid, AED and other emergency response programs as required. Demonstration of applicable knowledge, skills and abilities are required for next progression within job family.
- The essential and/or marginal job functions and the associated abilities/requirements/conditions outlined above describe the general nature and level of the work performed. They are not intended to and in no way represent an exhaustive listing of all tasks involved in performing the job.
Where You'll Work:
On-Site at Flint Creek Power Plant in Gentry, Arkansas
What You'll Get:
- Plant Equipment Operator 1st 2 mths $30.31
- Plant Equipment Operator next 4 mths $34.29
- Plant Equipment Operator aft 6 mths $37.50
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.
Compensation Data
Compensation Grade:
U073-S50
Compensation Range:
$30.31 - $37.50
The Physical Demand Level for this job is: M – Medium Work: Exerting 20 to 50 pounds of force occasionally, and/or 10 to 25 pounds of force frequently, and/or greater than negligible up to 10 pounds of force constantly to move objects. Physical demand requirements are in excess of those for Light 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 Summary
Perform associated duties and assist with placing in service, monitoring, and isolating all plant auxiliary equipment systems and/or components of a system. Communicate with operators and supervisors and other appropriate personnel the operating status of the plant's equipment. Assist in performance of semi-skilled work including maintenance and operating duties as assigned and in plant outages as needed. Participates in continuous improvement activities.
Job Posting End Date
06-26-2026
Please note the job posting will close on the day before the posting end date.
RESIDENCY REQUIREMENT: Successful candidate will live within 1 hour drive of Flint Creek Power Plant under normal driving conditions.
What You'll Do:
- Monitor and inspect all plant equipment for normal operation. Identify, record, and report abnormal conditions to the proper authority. Communicate to other operators and supervisors the operating status of the plant's equipment during shift change.
- Assist in troubleshooting equipment problems and document these problems using the appropriate computer tracking systems.
- Assist in preparing boilers, turbines and auxiliaries for operation and removal from service.
- Perform routine cleaning of plant areas, tools, and equipment, including outside areas, as assigned. Operate, clean and lubricate equipment necessary to perform these tasks.
- Assist with isolation of plant equipment and placing/removing clearance tags in accordance with the Company Clearance Policy.
- Operate, regulate, adjust, clean and perform minor maintenance on power plant equipment including associated pumps, piping and valves, fittings, etc.
- Perform routine operation and maintenance of basic water treating systems including chemical control, routine testing of effluents, chlorination, and lubrication.
- Assist in the proper and safe unloading and handling of bulk products.
- Assist in collecting and preparing samples, operate sampling equipment and perform tests requiring the use of basic analytical equipment and knowledge of common chemical materials. Prepare bulk supplies of chemicals to specific concentration; assist in special analyses and tests necessary to regulate proper chemical treatment of system. Record all concerns and report to supervisor.
What We're Looking For:
Plant Equipment Operator first 2 mths
Education requirements: High school diploma or GED and Associate degree in mechanical, electrical, power plant technology or related technical degree or at least 2 years industrial maintenance and or operations experience is required.
Work Experience: Preferred: Operations experience in chemical, industrial, refinery or military environments.
Required License(s)/Certification(s): Must possess the appropriate State driver license.
OTHER REQUIREMENTS:
- Required EEI Testing: POSS/MASS Combination, but must be successful in POSS. A link to these materials may be found at AEP.com Careers by selecting Employment testing.
- A physical abilities assessment is also required for this position.
- Must be willing to work rotating shifts including weekends, nights, and holidays.
- Minimum long distance travel required but the inspection of remote equipment is a daily requirement for this position.
- Must respond to callouts in both outage and non-outage work to maintain and support business operational needs and schedules.
- Must be able to learn and comply with all applicable plant operating instructions and procedures.
- Must be able to learn and comply with the rules, safety practices and procedures applicable to the work environment and report unsafe conditions and practices.
- Must learn and have a working knowledge of Safety and Environmental guidelines.
- Must be able to learn and properly use the tools and equipment applicable to work duties.
- Must be able to read, interpret and work from simple prints and specifications.
- Communicate effectively, both verbally and written.
- Demonstrate professional conduct and effective interactions with employees, contractors and others.
- Must be willing and able to work inside designated confined space entry areas, elevated areas and in hot and cold temperatures.
- Must be able to wear respirator when required.
- Train for firefighting, first aid, AED and other emergency response programs as required.
- Demonstration of applicable knowledge, skills and abilities are required for next progression within job family.
- The essential and/or marginal job functions and the associated abilities/requirements/conditions outlined above describe the general nature and level of the work performed. They are not intended to and in no way represent an exhaustive listing of all tasks involved in performing the job.
Plant Equipment Operator next 4 mths
Education requirements: High school diploma or GED and Associate degree in mechanical, electrical, power plant technology or related technical degree or at least 3 years industrial maintenance and or operations experience is required.
Work Experience requirement: Preferred: Operations experience in chemical, industrial, refinery or military environments.
Required License(s)/Certification(s): Must possess the appropriate State driver's license.
OTHER REQUIREMENTS:
- Required EEI Testing: POSS/MASS Combination, but must be successful in POSS. A link to these materials may be found at AEP.com Careers by selecting Employment testing.
- A physical abilities assessment is also required for this position.
- Must be willing to work rotating shifts including weekends, nights, and holidays.
- Minimum long distance travel required but the inspection of remote equipment is a daily requirement for this position.
- Must respond to callouts in both outage and non-outage work to maintain and support business operational needs and schedules.
- Must be able to learn and comply with all applicable plant operating instructions and procedures.
- Must be able to learn and comply with the rules, safety practices and procedures applicable to the work environment and report unsafe conditions and practices.
- Must learn and have a working knowledge of Safety and Environmental guidelines.
- Must be able to learn and properly use the tools and equipment applicable to work duties.
- Must be able to read, interpret and work from simple prints and specifications.
- Communicate effectively, both verbally and written.
- Demonstrate professional conduct and effective interactions with employees, contractors and others.
- Must be willing and able to work inside designated confined space entry areas, elevated areas and in hot and cold temperatures.
- Must be able to wear respirator when required.
- Train for firefighting, first aid, AED and other emergency response programs as required.
- Demonstration of applicable knowledge, skills and abilities are required for next progression within job family.
- The essential and/or marginal job functions and the associated abilities/requirements/conditions outlined above describe the general nature and level of the work performed. They are not intended to and in no way represent an exhaustive listing of all tasks involved in performing the job.
Plant Equipment Operator aft 6 mth
Education requirements: High school diploma or GED and Associate degree in mechanical, electrical or power plant technology or related technical degree or equivalent of at least 4 years industrial maintenance and or operations experience is required.
Work Experience requirement: Preferred: Operations in chemical, industrial, refinery or military environment.
Required License(s)/Certification(s): Must possess the appropriate State driver's license.
OTHER REQUIREMENTS:
- Required EEI Testing: POSS/MASS Combination, but must be successful in POSS. A link to these materials may be found at AEP.com Careers by selecting Employment testing.
- A physical abilities assessment is also required for this position.
- Must be willing to work rotating shifts including weekends, nights, and holidays.
- Minimum long distance travel required but the inspection of remote equipment is a daily requirement for this position.
- Must respond to call-outs in both outage and non-outage work to maintain and support business operational needs and schedules.
- Must be able to learn and comply with all applicable plant operating instructions and procedures.
- Must be able to learn and comply with the rules, safety practices and procedures applicable to the work environment and report unsafe conditions and practices.
- Must learn and have a working knowledge of Safety and Environmental guidelines. Must be able to learn and properly use the tools and equipment applicable to work duties.
- Must be able to read, interpret and work from simple prints and specifications. Communicate effectively, both verbally and written.
- Demonstrate professional conduct and effective interactions with employees, contractors and others.
- Must be willing and able to work inside designated confined space entry areas, elevated areas and in hot and cold temperatures.
- Must be able to wear respirator when required.
- Train for firefighting, first aid, AED and other emergency response programs as required. Demonstration of applicable knowledge, skills and abilities are required for next progression within job family.
- The essential and/or marginal job functions and the associated abilities/requirements/conditions outlined above describe the general nature and level of the work performed. They are not intended to and in no way represent an exhaustive listing of all tasks involved in performing the job.
Where You'll Work:
On-Site at Flint Creek Power Plant in Gentry, Arkansas
What You'll Get:
- Plant Equipment Operator 1st 2 mths $30.31
- Plant Equipment Operator next 4 mths $34.29
- Plant Equipment Operator aft 6 mths $37.50
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.
Compensation Data
Compensation Grade:
U073-S50
Compensation Range:
$30.31 - $37.50
The Physical Demand Level for this job is: M – Medium Work: Exerting 20 to 50 pounds of force occasionally, and/or 10 to 25 pounds of force frequently, and/or greater than negligible up to 10 pounds of force constantly to move objects. Physical demand requirements are in excess of those for Light 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 OPT Equipment Operator Jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new OPT Equipment Operator Jobs.
Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding OPT Sponsorship in Equipment Operator
Confirm your program qualifies for STEM OPT
Some Equipment Operator roles sit under engineering or technology-adjacent programs that qualify for the 24-month STEM extension. Verify your CIP code with your DSO before applying, so you can honestly tell employers you have up to three years of work authorization.
Target industries with established international hiring
Construction, mining, and heavy manufacturing have the longest track records of hiring foreign nationals. These sectors file Labor Condition Applications regularly and are more familiar with OPT paperwork than employers in industries without that hiring history.
Get your machinery certifications before applying
OSHA 10 or 30, forklift certification, and equipment-specific licenses signal job readiness and reduce employer hesitation. Certified candidates are easier to onboard, which matters when an employer is already navigating unfamiliar work authorization requirements.
Be upfront about your OPT timeline early
Tell hiring managers your authorization end date and STEM extension eligibility in your first conversation. Employers in skilled trades respect directness, and clarity about your timeline prevents last-minute surprises that can derail an offer.
Highlight union membership or eligibility where relevant
Many Equipment Operator roles are unionized through operating engineers locals. If you hold or are eligible for union membership, mention it. Unions often handle workforce paperwork centrally, which can simplify the process for employers less familiar with OPT compliance.
Apply to companies with existing H-2B or H-1B filing history
Employers who have previously filed for temporary or skilled foreign workers already understand work authorization logistics. This familiarity makes OPT transitions smoother and increases the likelihood they will consider sponsoring you after your OPT period ends.
Equipment Operator OPT: Frequently Asked Questions
Can I work as an Equipment Operator on OPT?
Yes, as long as the role is directly related to your field of study. Equipment Operator positions can qualify under civil engineering, construction management, or related technical programs. Your DSO must confirm the connection between the job and your degree before you begin work on OPT authorization.
Do Equipment Operator employers typically sponsor visas after OPT ends?
It depends on the employer's size and hiring history. Large construction firms, mining companies, and infrastructure contractors with established HR departments are more likely to sponsor H-1B visa or other visas. Smaller operators may not have the resources. Browse verified sponsoring employers on Migrate Mate to find companies with an active track record of supporting international workers in this field.
Does an Equipment Operator role qualify for the STEM OPT extension?
It can, depending on your degree program's CIP code. If your degree is in civil engineering, construction engineering technology, or a related STEM field, and the role falls within that field, you may qualify for the 24-month extension. Confirm with your DSO, who will verify the CIP code and sign off on your STEM OPT application through your school's SEVIS record.
What happens to my OPT if I switch Equipment Operator employers?
You can change employers on OPT without filing new paperwork, but you must report the change to your DSO within 10 days. Your new employer must also be listed in your SEVP portal. Make sure the new role still qualifies as related to your degree, since working in an unrelated position can jeopardize your F-1 status.
Are there restrictions on working for multiple Equipment Operator employers at once?
OPT allows multiple concurrent employers as long as each job is related to your field of study and you are working at least 20 hours per week in total across all positions. Each employer must be reported to your DSO. Self-employment or contract work through your own business entity is also permitted, provided the work remains within your authorized field.