OPT Highway Engineer Jobs
Highway Engineer jobs are a strong fit for F-1 OPT students with degrees in civil or transportation engineering. Most roles qualify as STEM-designated positions, making you eligible for the 24-month STEM OPT extension on top of your initial 12 months of work authorization.
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$23.21 - $25.79 Hourly
Location
Chugwater, WY
Job Type
Permanent Full-time
Job Number
2026-01981
Department
Department of Transportation
Division
Department of Transportation
Opening Date
08/06/2026
Closing Date
Continuous
FLSA
Non-Exempt
Job Classification
TNHM05
GENERAL DESCRIPTION:
The Wyoming Department of Transportation (WYDOT) is seeking a Highway Maintenance Technician & Snowplow Operator in Chugwater, Wyoming, to perform various maintenance duties under limited supervision to provide a safe and effective transportation system.
This position offers a:
$2,000 Hiring Bonus See notes for eligibility
Working for the State of Wyoming offers more than a paycheck. Our total compensation package includes:
- Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
- Paid vacation, sick leave, FMLA, and holidays
- Retirement - Pension and 457B plans that help you build a secure future
- Flexible schedules and work-life balance options
- Meaningful work that makes a difference for Wyoming communities
and MUCH MORE! Click here for detailed information, or you can watch this short video to learn about our benefit package!
Want to see the full value of your compensation beyond salary? Explore our Total Compensation Calculator: https://compensationcalculator.wyo.gov
To see what life at WYDOT can mean for you, we invite you to view below:
Chugwater is a great small town, and it is the home of the famous Chugwater Chili. The Chugwater Chili Cook-off is held every June. Enjoy old-fashioned shakes and malts in Wyoming's oldest working soda fountain, Chugwater Soda Fountain. Drop into the Buffalo Lodge and Grill or the new Stampede Eatery, which features live music every Friday and Saturday evening. Take time to view some history at a National Historic marker marking the stage stop on the Cheyenne to Deadwood route. Wyoming is one of seven states with no income tax.
Human Resource Contact: 307-473-3243 / Madeline Miozzi / madeline.miozzi@wyo.gov
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
The listed functions are illustrative only and are not intended to describe every function that may be performed at the job level.
- Maintains and operates complex equipment safely and proficiently.
- Trains incumbents in the operation and maintenance of equipment.
- Provides work direction to Highway Maintenance Assistant employees.
- Under limited supervision, flags traffic and sets up traffic control devices.
- Operates single and tandem-axle trucks, equipped with stripers, auger, aerial lift equipment, or provided with plows, wing plows, sanders, and chemical systems to remove snow and ice from roadway surface.
- Responsible for the rehabilitation of roadway surfaces and traffic control devices such as signs and highway striping.
- Responsible for the maintenance of equipment and facilities at the rest area, including water and wastewater treatment.
- Attends and completes all required training to obtain/maintain necessary certifications, perform inspections, and learn new skills.
- Communicates information to update others as to work status and/or process effectiveness.
- Utilizes special computerized equipment.
- Performs duties involved in removing snow and ice from roadways.
- Responsible for adhering to all safety standards, policies, and procedures, including the correct use of all associated personal protective equipment.
PREFERENCES/AGENCY REQUIREMENTS:
- Must have the ability to obtain water certifications if necessary.
- Must have the ability to obtain a Certification to operate specified equipment as directed by WYDOT.
- Must have the ability to obtain a Certificate of course completion of Defensive Driving.
- Must have the ability to obtain a First Aid/CPR certification.
- Must have the ability to obtain a Flagger certification.
KNOWLEDGE:
- Knowledge of state highway pavement marking and signing standards.
- Knowledge of specifications, standard plans, policies and procedures, rules, regulations, and traffic control standards.
- Knowledge of equipment maintenance and repair procedures.
- Knowledge of hazardous materials Response Procedures.
- Knowledge of Federal and State requirements for the proper use of personal protective equipment.
- Knowledge of basic equipment operation for single and tandem-axle trucks, loaders, and tractors.
- Knowledge of Safe Work Procedures, First Aid and CPR, and Material Safety Data Sheets for chemicals used in completing tasks.
- Knowledge of Hazardous Materials Response Procedures.
- Knowledge of and ability to utilize office equipment such as computers, calculators, and telephones.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
Education & Experience Substitution:
2-4 years of progressive work experience (typically in Highway Maintenance/Highway Construction)
Certificates, Licenses, Registrations:
Must have the ability to obtain and maintain a Class A Commercial Driver's License within twelve (12) months of hire
OR
Education:
Associate's Degree (typically in Engineering)
Experience:
0-1 year of progressive work experience (typically in Highway Maintenance/Highway Construction)
Certificates, Licenses, Registrations:
Must have the ability to obtain and maintain a Class A Commercial Driver's License within twelve (12) months of hire
PHYSICAL WORKING CONDITIONS:
- Frequent use of manual and powered hand tools.
- Daily use of motor vehicles and heavy equipment.
- Frequent exposure to hazardous materials.
- Ability to independently lift and/or carry 50 pounds.
- Ability to stand/sit and operate equipment for long periods.
- Ability to work in adverse environmental conditions, which may include, but are not limited to, rain, snow, heat, and hail.
- Ability to walk long periods on even and uneven ground.
- Ability to work around high-speed traffic and heavy construction equipment.
- Occasional overnight travel is required.
NOTES:
- FLSA: Non-Exempt
- WYDOT will conduct motor vehicle record checks to verify a valid driver's license.
- Individuals in this classification must pass a pre-employment drug screening and/or physical and will be subject to random drug and alcohol testing.
- Individuals in this classification must be available for emergency work calls at any time, including nights, weekends, and holidays. Acceptance of an appointment to this classification signifies that the individual is aware of this requirement and will comply with it. Failure to be available for emergency work, without an acceptable excuse, will be grounds for immediate disciplinary action and possible dismissal.
- Individuals must report to work within 30 minutes of receiving a call. How this can be accomplished will be discussed in the job interview.
- The Wyoming Department of Transportation is a Drug-Free Workplace.
- WYDOT uses E-Verify, an Internet-based system, to confirm the eligibility of all newly hired employees to work in the United States. Learn more about E-Verify, including your rights and responsibilities.
Qualifying eligibility and criteria for the hiring bonus
- Acceptance of a permanent, full-time position posted for public recruitment.
- Temporary employees accepting a full-time position.
- Current employees accepting a promotional opportunity - recruitment must have been opened to the public.
- One year of service to WYDOT must be completed, failure to complete this requirement will forfeit the hiring incentive, and funds will be recouped from final pay.
- Internal candidates would be required to remain in the position for a minimum of one (1) year from their promotion date.
- Employees would only be eligible for one (1) hiring bonus in a 12-month period.
- If the employee elects to downgrade through an active recruitment and/or appointment during the twelve (12) month period, they would be required to pay the bonus back.
The State of Wyoming is an Equal Opportunity Employer and actively supports the ADA and reasonably accommodates qualified applicants with disabilities.
Class Specifications are subject to change, please refer to the A & I HRD Website to ensure that you have the most recent version.
Salary
$23.21 - $25.79 Hourly
Location
Chugwater, WY
Job Type
Permanent Full-time
Job Number
2026-01981
Department
Department of Transportation
Division
Department of Transportation
Opening Date
08/06/2026
Closing Date
Continuous
FLSA
Non-Exempt
Job Classification
TNHM05
GENERAL DESCRIPTION:
The Wyoming Department of Transportation (WYDOT) is seeking a Highway Maintenance Technician & Snowplow Operator in Chugwater, Wyoming, to perform various maintenance duties under limited supervision to provide a safe and effective transportation system.
This position offers a:
$2,000 Hiring Bonus See notes for eligibility
Working for the State of Wyoming offers more than a paycheck. Our total compensation package includes:
- Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
- Paid vacation, sick leave, FMLA, and holidays
- Retirement - Pension and 457B plans that help you build a secure future
- Flexible schedules and work-life balance options
- Meaningful work that makes a difference for Wyoming communities
and MUCH MORE! Click here for detailed information, or you can watch this short video to learn about our benefit package!
Want to see the full value of your compensation beyond salary? Explore our Total Compensation Calculator: https://compensationcalculator.wyo.gov
To see what life at WYDOT can mean for you, we invite you to view below:
Chugwater is a great small town, and it is the home of the famous Chugwater Chili. The Chugwater Chili Cook-off is held every June. Enjoy old-fashioned shakes and malts in Wyoming's oldest working soda fountain, Chugwater Soda Fountain. Drop into the Buffalo Lodge and Grill or the new Stampede Eatery, which features live music every Friday and Saturday evening. Take time to view some history at a National Historic marker marking the stage stop on the Cheyenne to Deadwood route. Wyoming is one of seven states with no income tax.
Human Resource Contact: 307-473-3243 / Madeline Miozzi / madeline.miozzi@wyo.gov
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
The listed functions are illustrative only and are not intended to describe every function that may be performed at the job level.
- Maintains and operates complex equipment safely and proficiently.
- Trains incumbents in the operation and maintenance of equipment.
- Provides work direction to Highway Maintenance Assistant employees.
- Under limited supervision, flags traffic and sets up traffic control devices.
- Operates single and tandem-axle trucks, equipped with stripers, auger, aerial lift equipment, or provided with plows, wing plows, sanders, and chemical systems to remove snow and ice from roadway surface.
- Responsible for the rehabilitation of roadway surfaces and traffic control devices such as signs and highway striping.
- Responsible for the maintenance of equipment and facilities at the rest area, including water and wastewater treatment.
- Attends and completes all required training to obtain/maintain necessary certifications, perform inspections, and learn new skills.
- Communicates information to update others as to work status and/or process effectiveness.
- Utilizes special computerized equipment.
- Performs duties involved in removing snow and ice from roadways.
- Responsible for adhering to all safety standards, policies, and procedures, including the correct use of all associated personal protective equipment.
PREFERENCES/AGENCY REQUIREMENTS:
- Must have the ability to obtain water certifications if necessary.
- Must have the ability to obtain a Certification to operate specified equipment as directed by WYDOT.
- Must have the ability to obtain a Certificate of course completion of Defensive Driving.
- Must have the ability to obtain a First Aid/CPR certification.
- Must have the ability to obtain a Flagger certification.
KNOWLEDGE:
- Knowledge of state highway pavement marking and signing standards.
- Knowledge of specifications, standard plans, policies and procedures, rules, regulations, and traffic control standards.
- Knowledge of equipment maintenance and repair procedures.
- Knowledge of hazardous materials Response Procedures.
- Knowledge of Federal and State requirements for the proper use of personal protective equipment.
- Knowledge of basic equipment operation for single and tandem-axle trucks, loaders, and tractors.
- Knowledge of Safe Work Procedures, First Aid and CPR, and Material Safety Data Sheets for chemicals used in completing tasks.
- Knowledge of Hazardous Materials Response Procedures.
- Knowledge of and ability to utilize office equipment such as computers, calculators, and telephones.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
Education & Experience Substitution:
2-4 years of progressive work experience (typically in Highway Maintenance/Highway Construction)
Certificates, Licenses, Registrations:
Must have the ability to obtain and maintain a Class A Commercial Driver's License within twelve (12) months of hire
OR
Education:
Associate's Degree (typically in Engineering)
Experience:
0-1 year of progressive work experience (typically in Highway Maintenance/Highway Construction)
Certificates, Licenses, Registrations:
Must have the ability to obtain and maintain a Class A Commercial Driver's License within twelve (12) months of hire
PHYSICAL WORKING CONDITIONS:
- Frequent use of manual and powered hand tools.
- Daily use of motor vehicles and heavy equipment.
- Frequent exposure to hazardous materials.
- Ability to independently lift and/or carry 50 pounds.
- Ability to stand/sit and operate equipment for long periods.
- Ability to work in adverse environmental conditions, which may include, but are not limited to, rain, snow, heat, and hail.
- Ability to walk long periods on even and uneven ground.
- Ability to work around high-speed traffic and heavy construction equipment.
- Occasional overnight travel is required.
NOTES:
- FLSA: Non-Exempt
- WYDOT will conduct motor vehicle record checks to verify a valid driver's license.
- Individuals in this classification must pass a pre-employment drug screening and/or physical and will be subject to random drug and alcohol testing.
- Individuals in this classification must be available for emergency work calls at any time, including nights, weekends, and holidays. Acceptance of an appointment to this classification signifies that the individual is aware of this requirement and will comply with it. Failure to be available for emergency work, without an acceptable excuse, will be grounds for immediate disciplinary action and possible dismissal.
- Individuals must report to work within 30 minutes of receiving a call. How this can be accomplished will be discussed in the job interview.
- The Wyoming Department of Transportation is a Drug-Free Workplace.
- WYDOT uses E-Verify, an Internet-based system, to confirm the eligibility of all newly hired employees to work in the United States. Learn more about E-Verify, including your rights and responsibilities.
Qualifying eligibility and criteria for the hiring bonus
- Acceptance of a permanent, full-time position posted for public recruitment.
- Temporary employees accepting a full-time position.
- Current employees accepting a promotional opportunity - recruitment must have been opened to the public.
- One year of service to WYDOT must be completed, failure to complete this requirement will forfeit the hiring incentive, and funds will be recouped from final pay.
- Internal candidates would be required to remain in the position for a minimum of one (1) year from their promotion date.
- Employees would only be eligible for one (1) hiring bonus in a 12-month period.
- If the employee elects to downgrade through an active recruitment and/or appointment during the twelve (12) month period, they would be required to pay the bonus back.
The State of Wyoming is an Equal Opportunity Employer and actively supports the ADA and reasonably accommodates qualified applicants with disabilities.
Class Specifications are subject to change, please refer to the A & I HRD Website to ensure that you have the most recent version.
See all 46+ OPT Highway Engineer Jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new OPT Highway Engineer Jobs.
Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding OPT Sponsorship as a Highway Engineer
Target public-sector employers first
State and local departments of transportation hire highway engineers regularly and are experienced with OPT work authorization. Government agencies often have established HR processes for international students, which reduces friction during onboarding and work authorization verification.
Confirm your degree qualifies for STEM OPT
Highway engineer roles typically fall under STEM-designated CIP codes in civil or transportation engineering. Confirm your specific degree program is on the STEM OPT extension list with your DSO before applying, so you can accurately communicate your full authorization period to employers.
Apply to large infrastructure contractors early
Firms like AECOM, WSP, and Jacobs file OPT I-983 training plans routinely and understand federal reporting requirements. Prioritizing established contractors reduces the risk of an employer being unfamiliar with OPT obligations once you receive an offer.
Be upfront about your OPT end date
Highway engineering projects run on multi-year timelines, so employers want staffing continuity. Tell hiring managers your current OPT expiration date and STEM extension eligibility early, so they can assess the timeline and plan any H-1B visa sponsorship before authorization gaps occur.
Highlight licensure progress on your resume
Passing the FE exam while on OPT signals long-term commitment to the profession and the U.S. market. Engineers who are actively working toward PE licensure are significantly more attractive to firms that invest in visa sponsorship for multi-year employee retention.
Frame federal project experience strategically
Many highway projects involve federal funding and require E-Verify compliance from contractors. Mention relevant federal-aid project coursework or internship exposure in your applications, as it signals familiarity with the compliance environment these employers already operate in.
Highway Engineer OPT: Frequently Asked Questions
Do highway engineer jobs qualify for the STEM OPT extension?
Most highway engineer positions qualify for the 24-month STEM OPT extension because they fall under civil or transportation engineering CIP codes, which are on the STEM designated degree program list. To use the extension, your employer must be E-Verify enrolled, and you must file the extension with your DSO before your initial OPT expires. Confirm your specific program's CIP code with your international student office.
Where can I find highway engineer jobs that are open to OPT students?
Migrate Mate is built specifically for F-1 OPT students and lists highway engineer roles from employers familiar with OPT and STEM extension requirements. Searching there narrows your results to opportunities where work authorization for international students is already part of the employer's hiring process, saving time compared to filtering general job boards manually.
Do highway engineer employers need to file anything for my OPT?
For standard OPT, your employer does not need to file anything with USCIS. Your work authorization is based on your EAD card. However, if you use the STEM OPT extension, your employer must be enrolled in E-Verify and co-sign your Form I-983 training plan, which outlines your learning objectives and supervision structure for the extension period.
Can I work on federally funded highway projects while on OPT?
Yes, OPT status does not disqualify you from working on federally funded highway projects. The key requirement is that your employer, or the prime contractor, complies with E-Verify if your position is covered under federal contracting rules. Some security-sensitive projects may have additional requirements, so confirm access restrictions with your employer before accepting an offer.
What happens to my OPT if my highway engineer employer loses a contract and I am laid off?
If you lose your job on OPT, you enter a 60-day grace period during which you must find new employment, change status, or depart the U.S. Unemployment during OPT cannot exceed 90 cumulative days for standard OPT or 150 days across both standard and STEM OPT combined. Report any employment changes to your DSO promptly to keep your SEVIS record accurate and avoid status violations.