OPT Hvac Engineer Jobs
HVAC Engineer jobs are a strong fit for F-1 OPT students with degrees in mechanical engineering or a closely related field. HVAC roles qualify as STEM OPT, giving you up to 36 months of work authorization, and employers in construction, building systems, and energy sectors actively hire OPT candidates.
See All OPT Hvac Engineer JobsOverview
Showing 5 of 161+ Hvac Engineer 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 161+ Hvac Engineer Jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new Hvac Engineer roles.
Get Access To All JobsRequisition ID: 293085
- Relocation Authorized: National - Family
- Telework Type: Part-Time Telework
- Work Location: Knoxville, TN
Extraordinary teams building inspiring projects:
Since 1898, we have helped customers complete more than 25,000 projects in 160 countries on all seven continents that have created jobs, grown economies, improved the resiliency of the world's infrastructure, increased access to energy, resources, and vital services, and made the world a safer, cleaner place.
Differentiated by the quality of our people and our relentless drive to deliver the most successful outcomes, we align our capabilities to our customers' objectives to create a lasting positive impact. We serve the Infrastructure; Nuclear, Security & Environmental; Energy; Mining & Metals, and the Manufacturing and Technology markets. Our services span from initial planning and investment, through start-up and operations.
Core to Bechtel is our Vision, Values and Commitments. They are what we believe, what customers can expect, and how we deliver. Learn more about our extraordinary teams building inspiring projects in our Impact Report.
Project Overview:
The Knoxville Engineering Office is the engineering execution center for Bechtel’s Nuclear, Security, & Environmental business line, providing engineering design development and support to multiple large complex projects. Projects executed out of this office are primarily large government works throughout various sectors, including DOD and DOE.
Job Summary:
In this role, you will participate in the design, development, and evaluation of mechanical components and processes. You will collaborate and support other engineering disciplines for mechanical matters. Your professional work knowledge and abilities through the application of standard mechanical engineering techniques and criteria will enable you to make impactful contributions to the team.
"This position is designated as part-time telework per our global telework policy and will require at least three days of in-person attendance per week at the assigned office or project. Weekly in-person schedules will be determined by the individual and their supervisor, in consultation with functional or project leadership.”
Major Responsibilities:
-
Level 1:
- Participates in the design, development, modification and evaluation of mechanical components and processes used utilizing relevant Engineering Department Procedures (EDPs), design standards and guides, and Bechtel Standard Application Programs (BSAPs)
- Compiles, adjusts, and correlates data that will develop professional work knowledge and abilities through the application of standard mechanical engineering techniques, procedures and criteria utilizing relevant Engineering Department Procedures (EDPs), design standards and guides, and Bechtel Standard Application Programs (BSAPs)
- Provides input to and/or maintains technical logs and records
- Coordinates work and collaborates with other engineering disciplines
- Provides direct support to other engineering disciplines for mechanical related matters
- Coordinates development and presentation of material when requested
- Prepares or assists in preparation of conceptual studies, designs, reports, or proposals
-
Level 2:
- Evaluates, selects, and applies standard mechanical engineering methods, techniques, procedures, and criteria, using independent judgment in making adaptations and modifications
- Provides technical assistance to other mechanical personnel and will interact with project functions, the customer, and regulatory agency personnel in the resolution of complex regulatory issues and industry codes and standards
- Provides assistance to project and construction management in identifying and complying with project mechanical requirements and in addressing issues as they arise during project execution
Education and Experience Requirements:
- Level 1: Requires a Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical (or related) Engineering with a minimum of 1 year of relevant professional work experience.
- Level 2: Requires a Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical (or related) Engineering with a minimum of 2 years of relevant professional work experience.
Required Knowledge and Skills:
- Fundamental understanding of HVAC design, ASHRAE fundamentals, and mechanical systems.
- Experience developing heat load, airflow and static pressure drop calculations
- Experience developing HVAC airflow diagrams and/or ventilation and instrumentation diagrams.
- Experience with selecting HVAC equipment solutions to meet design requirements and developing procurement specifications to support the requisition process
- Experience collaborating in a multi-discipline team developing engineering and procurement design deliverables for large complex projects.
- Experience with Mechanical and/or HVAC specific software such as Carrier HAP, Trane Trace, etc.
- Ability to search codes, industry standards, project document databases for requirements to be implemented into the design.
- Engineering-in-Training (EIT) certification or ability to obtain within a year.
Total Rewards/Benefits:
For decades, Bechtel has worked to inspire the next generation of employees and beyond! Because our teams face some of the world's toughest challenges, we offer robust benefits to ensure our people thrive. Whether it is advancing careers, delivering programs to enhance our culture, or providing time to recharge, Bechtel has the benefits to build a legacy of sustainable growth. Learn more at Bechtel Total Rewards
Diverse teams build the extraordinary:
As a global company, Bechtel has long been home to a vibrant multitude of nationalities, cultures, ethnicities, and life experiences. This diversity has made us a more trusted partner, more effective problem solvers and innovators, and a more attractive destination for leading talent.
We are committed to being a company where every colleague feels that they belong-where colleagues feel part of "One Team," respected and rewarded for what they bring, supported in pursuing their goals, invested in our values and purpose, and treated equitably.
Bechtel is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, age, national origin, disability, citizenship status (except as authorized by law), protected veteran status, genetic information, and any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law. Applicants with a disability, who require a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process, may e-mail their request to acesstmt@bechtel.com
Requisition ID: 293085
- Relocation Authorized: National - Family
- Telework Type: Part-Time Telework
- Work Location: Knoxville, TN
Extraordinary teams building inspiring projects:
Since 1898, we have helped customers complete more than 25,000 projects in 160 countries on all seven continents that have created jobs, grown economies, improved the resiliency of the world's infrastructure, increased access to energy, resources, and vital services, and made the world a safer, cleaner place.
Differentiated by the quality of our people and our relentless drive to deliver the most successful outcomes, we align our capabilities to our customers' objectives to create a lasting positive impact. We serve the Infrastructure; Nuclear, Security & Environmental; Energy; Mining & Metals, and the Manufacturing and Technology markets. Our services span from initial planning and investment, through start-up and operations.
Core to Bechtel is our Vision, Values and Commitments. They are what we believe, what customers can expect, and how we deliver. Learn more about our extraordinary teams building inspiring projects in our Impact Report.
Project Overview:
The Knoxville Engineering Office is the engineering execution center for Bechtel’s Nuclear, Security, & Environmental business line, providing engineering design development and support to multiple large complex projects. Projects executed out of this office are primarily large government works throughout various sectors, including DOD and DOE.
Job Summary:
In this role, you will participate in the design, development, and evaluation of mechanical components and processes. You will collaborate and support other engineering disciplines for mechanical matters. Your professional work knowledge and abilities through the application of standard mechanical engineering techniques and criteria will enable you to make impactful contributions to the team.
"This position is designated as part-time telework per our global telework policy and will require at least three days of in-person attendance per week at the assigned office or project. Weekly in-person schedules will be determined by the individual and their supervisor, in consultation with functional or project leadership.”
Major Responsibilities:
-
Level 1:
- Participates in the design, development, modification and evaluation of mechanical components and processes used utilizing relevant Engineering Department Procedures (EDPs), design standards and guides, and Bechtel Standard Application Programs (BSAPs)
- Compiles, adjusts, and correlates data that will develop professional work knowledge and abilities through the application of standard mechanical engineering techniques, procedures and criteria utilizing relevant Engineering Department Procedures (EDPs), design standards and guides, and Bechtel Standard Application Programs (BSAPs)
- Provides input to and/or maintains technical logs and records
- Coordinates work and collaborates with other engineering disciplines
- Provides direct support to other engineering disciplines for mechanical related matters
- Coordinates development and presentation of material when requested
- Prepares or assists in preparation of conceptual studies, designs, reports, or proposals
-
Level 2:
- Evaluates, selects, and applies standard mechanical engineering methods, techniques, procedures, and criteria, using independent judgment in making adaptations and modifications
- Provides technical assistance to other mechanical personnel and will interact with project functions, the customer, and regulatory agency personnel in the resolution of complex regulatory issues and industry codes and standards
- Provides assistance to project and construction management in identifying and complying with project mechanical requirements and in addressing issues as they arise during project execution
Education and Experience Requirements:
- Level 1: Requires a Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical (or related) Engineering with a minimum of 1 year of relevant professional work experience.
- Level 2: Requires a Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical (or related) Engineering with a minimum of 2 years of relevant professional work experience.
Required Knowledge and Skills:
- Fundamental understanding of HVAC design, ASHRAE fundamentals, and mechanical systems.
- Experience developing heat load, airflow and static pressure drop calculations
- Experience developing HVAC airflow diagrams and/or ventilation and instrumentation diagrams.
- Experience with selecting HVAC equipment solutions to meet design requirements and developing procurement specifications to support the requisition process
- Experience collaborating in a multi-discipline team developing engineering and procurement design deliverables for large complex projects.
- Experience with Mechanical and/or HVAC specific software such as Carrier HAP, Trane Trace, etc.
- Ability to search codes, industry standards, project document databases for requirements to be implemented into the design.
- Engineering-in-Training (EIT) certification or ability to obtain within a year.
Total Rewards/Benefits:
For decades, Bechtel has worked to inspire the next generation of employees and beyond! Because our teams face some of the world's toughest challenges, we offer robust benefits to ensure our people thrive. Whether it is advancing careers, delivering programs to enhance our culture, or providing time to recharge, Bechtel has the benefits to build a legacy of sustainable growth. Learn more at Bechtel Total Rewards
Diverse teams build the extraordinary:
As a global company, Bechtel has long been home to a vibrant multitude of nationalities, cultures, ethnicities, and life experiences. This diversity has made us a more trusted partner, more effective problem solvers and innovators, and a more attractive destination for leading talent.
We are committed to being a company where every colleague feels that they belong-where colleagues feel part of "One Team," respected and rewarded for what they bring, supported in pursuing their goals, invested in our values and purpose, and treated equitably.
Bechtel is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, age, national origin, disability, citizenship status (except as authorized by law), protected veteran status, genetic information, and any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law. Applicants with a disability, who require a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process, may e-mail their request to acesstmt@bechtel.com
See all 161+ OPT Hvac Engineer Jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new OPT Hvac Engineer Jobs.
Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding OPT Sponsorship as a Hvac Engineer
Verify your degree field aligns with the role
HVAC Engineer positions require a mechanical, electrical, or systems engineering background for OPT eligibility. Confirm your degree field directly matches the job description before applying to avoid authorization complications with your DSO.
Apply to firms with established OPT workflows
Larger MEP engineering firms and building systems companies file OPT paperwork regularly. Targeting employers who have sponsored OPT students before significantly reduces onboarding delays and the risk of authorization errors from unfamiliar HR teams.
Highlight your STEM OPT extension eligibility upfront
Tell hiring managers early that your degree qualifies for a 36-month STEM OPT extension. This extends your effective runway significantly and reduces pressure on employers to immediately pursue H-1B visa sponsorship after your initial 12-month period ends.
Pursue PE licensure preparation during OPT
Starting your FE exam during OPT signals long-term commitment to engineering employers. Many HVAC firms prioritize candidates on a clear path to Professional Engineer licensure, which directly strengthens your case for H-1B sponsorship after OPT ends.
Emphasize hands-on software proficiency in applications
Employers hiring HVAC Engineers on OPT want immediate productivity. Demonstrating proficiency in tools like AutoCAD MEP, Revit MEP, or HAP energy modeling software positions you as a day-one contributor rather than a candidate requiring extended ramp-up time.
Prioritize companies with active H-1B sponsorship history
Before accepting an offer, research whether the employer has sponsored H-1B visas for engineers in the past. Companies with consistent H-1B filing history are far more likely to sponsor you when your OPT authorization period concludes.
Hvac Engineer OPT: Frequently Asked Questions
Do HVAC Engineer jobs qualify for STEM OPT extension?
Yes, HVAC Engineer roles typically qualify for the 24-month STEM OPT extension when your degree is in mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, or a related STEM field listed on the DHS STEM Designated Degree Program List. This gives you up to 36 months of total OPT work authorization. Your employer must also be enrolled in E-Verify to support the extension.
Can I work as an HVAC Engineer on OPT without employer sponsorship?
OPT authorization itself does not require employer sponsorship in the traditional sense. Your employer does not file a petition with USCIS, but they must be a legitimate employer offering work directly related to your STEM degree. For the STEM OPT extension specifically, your employer must be enrolled in E-Verify and sign a formal training plan on Form I-983.
Where can I find HVAC Engineer jobs that accept OPT students?
Migrate Mate is built specifically for F-1 OPT students and filters jobs by visa-friendliness, so you can browse HVAC Engineer roles at employers who have demonstrated willingness to work with OPT candidates. Searching through a general job board makes it difficult to identify which employers understand OPT requirements and have the HR processes to support your authorization.
What happens to my OPT status if I switch HVAC employers?
You can change employers during OPT, but the new role must still be directly related to your degree field. Report the employer change to your DSO within 10 days so your SEVP record is updated. If you are on a STEM OPT extension, your new employer must also be enrolled in E-Verify, and you will need a new Form I-983 training plan signed by the incoming employer.
Do HVAC Engineer employers commonly sponsor H-1B visas after OPT?
Sponsorship rates vary by employer size and sector. Large MEP engineering consultancies, commercial construction firms, and building systems manufacturers have more established immigration programs and file H-1B petitions more consistently than smaller contractors. Targeting companies with documented H-1B filing history in engineering roles is the most reliable way to assess sponsorship likelihood before accepting an offer.