OPT Maintenance Mechanic Jobs
Maintenance Mechanic jobs on OPT are available across manufacturing, facilities, and industrial sectors, fields that consistently sponsor work visas. Most roles require hands-on mechanical skills over a specific degree, but your OPT authorization must align with your field of study. STEM OPT extensions apply for engineering-related programs.
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Get Access To All JobsJob Posting End Date
05-19-2026
Please note the job posting will close on the day before the posting end date.
Job Summary
Perform skilled work in the checking, inspecting, repair, maintenance, installation and construction of plant equipment and apparatus.
Job Description
What you’ll do:
Essential Job Functions & Tasks
- Inspect, erect and/or remove simple scaffolding, rigging and blocking and assist in the erection or removal of extensive or complicated scaffolding, rigging and blocking.
- Use appropriate tools and perform jobs such as drill and tap holes, thread bolts, cut and thread pipe, mill and prep boiler tubes, use measuring devices required in the work, and learn to perform simple machining jobs on machine shop tools. Use layout tools such as rules, scales, straight edges, dividers, trams, squares, levels, plumb bobs and protractors to lay out plane figures on flat surfaces, such as wear plates, bolt holes on man covers, and flanges and holes for conduit in junction boxes.
- Perform non-code electric arc welding such as building up work surfaces on wear plates where warping is not a problem, and where adequate stock remains to prevent burning through; make tack and assembly welds in the maintenance and construction of items such as jigs, fixtures, chutes, hoppers, wear plates, and cable troughs where such welds are not required to be continuous structural welds.
- Perform metal cutting (oxyacetylene, propylene, etc.) and simple welding and brazing in the flat position. Use oxyacetylene torches, LP gas torches, and the like, for purposes of assembly or disassembly, bending, forming, or heat-treating when the configuration of the object is such that intricate control of heat application is not required, such as in the removal of couplings from service water pumps, sump pumps and bending U-straps from carbon steel.
- Perform electrical work such as pull in and terminate 2- and 3-wire conductors for lighting or fractional horsepower circuits and make repairs to same; tape electrical connections on circuits up to and including 260 volt, AC and DC on fractional horsepower equipment; use clamp-on ammeters and voltmeters; clean de-energized electrical equipment.
- Install and make repairs to masonry refractory and insulation.
- Replace and adjust valve packing, drive balls, gauges glasses, sight glasses, position/level switches, pressure gauges, manometers, pressure switches and similar devices.
- Inspect, clean, repair and reassemble as assigned: gas igniters and nozzles, fans, dampers, air preheaters, heat exchangers, small motors, pumps, fans, etc.
- Clean and mask surfaces preparatory to painting; perform paintings using brushes or spray equipment with approved paints. Perform rough carpentry work, make minor repairs to brick or concrete walls and floors, perform rough plastering, replace glass and repair window and door hardware.
- Operate mobile equipment and its associated equipment and perform duties incidental to the operation of such equipment. Maintain equipment, tools and work areas in a clean and orderly condition. Obtain clearance orders and determine that the equipment to be worked on has been properly cleared and tagged. Report irregularities and abnormal conditions to supervision.
- Perform duties in accordance with the Company safety rules, operating regulations and practices. Train for and carry out assignments in firefighting, first aid or other emergency programs as required.
- Must also perform the duties of and have maintained all the qualifications for the Maintenance-line-of-progression, passing periodic examinations, as required. Normally achieved at 1040-hour intervals or equivalent testing.
- Perform similar or less skilled work as assigned.
What we’re looking for:
Education
- Associate degree in engineering, industrial or energy technology; OR Associate degree in another discipline and two (2) years of related work experience; OR high school diploma with four (4) years of related work experience; OR high school diploma with two (2) years of related military experience. Related experience is listed under Principal Accountabilities.
- Must be able to pass an entry examination, as required.
Work Experience
- Must be familiar with plant maintenance, materials, practices, tools and rigging, scaffolding and blocking involved in the work.
- Must have demonstrated the ability to physically and mentally perform work in all areas and heights required.
- Must be familiar with the layout, construction, and functions of the equipment and apparatus in the plant and about the plant property.
- Must be familiar with equipment clearance procedures, rules, safety practices and procedures applicable to the work.
- Must be able to read, interpret, and work from simple prints and specifications. Must be able to learn to instruct and direct other employees.
Required License(s)/Certification(s)
- Must obtain and maintain all necessary certifications and licenses as required.
- Must possess the appropriate State driver license.
Other preferences:
- Physical demand level is Medium.
- Must be able to climb ladders & stairs a number of times each day.
- Must be able to use fine dexterity to move switches & controls to precise locations.
- Must be able to detect color on alarms, equipment & other devices.
- Must be able to hear announcements on the Plant PA system, and to hear abnormal sounds of plant equipment.
- Must be able to communicate plant information by phone, in person or by radio.
- Must be able to work on heights, grating, platforms and catwalks.
- Must be able to exert up to 50 lbs of pressure to manually turn off valves. Must be able to stand or walk continuously for up to 12 hours.
What you’ll get:
$33.34/hour
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.
At AEP, we’re more than just an energy company — we’re a team of dedicated professionals committed to delivering safe, reliable, and innovative energy solutions. Guided by our mission to put the customer first, we strive to exceed expectations by listening, responding, and continuously improving the way we serve our communities. If you're passionate about making a meaningful impact and being part of a forward-thinking organization, this is the company for you!
Compensation Data
Compensation Grade:
U006-445
Compensation Range:
$33.44 - $34.96
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 Posting End Date
05-19-2026
Please note the job posting will close on the day before the posting end date.
Job Summary
Perform skilled work in the checking, inspecting, repair, maintenance, installation and construction of plant equipment and apparatus.
Job Description
What you’ll do:
Essential Job Functions & Tasks
- Inspect, erect and/or remove simple scaffolding, rigging and blocking and assist in the erection or removal of extensive or complicated scaffolding, rigging and blocking.
- Use appropriate tools and perform jobs such as drill and tap holes, thread bolts, cut and thread pipe, mill and prep boiler tubes, use measuring devices required in the work, and learn to perform simple machining jobs on machine shop tools. Use layout tools such as rules, scales, straight edges, dividers, trams, squares, levels, plumb bobs and protractors to lay out plane figures on flat surfaces, such as wear plates, bolt holes on man covers, and flanges and holes for conduit in junction boxes.
- Perform non-code electric arc welding such as building up work surfaces on wear plates where warping is not a problem, and where adequate stock remains to prevent burning through; make tack and assembly welds in the maintenance and construction of items such as jigs, fixtures, chutes, hoppers, wear plates, and cable troughs where such welds are not required to be continuous structural welds.
- Perform metal cutting (oxyacetylene, propylene, etc.) and simple welding and brazing in the flat position. Use oxyacetylene torches, LP gas torches, and the like, for purposes of assembly or disassembly, bending, forming, or heat-treating when the configuration of the object is such that intricate control of heat application is not required, such as in the removal of couplings from service water pumps, sump pumps and bending U-straps from carbon steel.
- Perform electrical work such as pull in and terminate 2- and 3-wire conductors for lighting or fractional horsepower circuits and make repairs to same; tape electrical connections on circuits up to and including 260 volt, AC and DC on fractional horsepower equipment; use clamp-on ammeters and voltmeters; clean de-energized electrical equipment.
- Install and make repairs to masonry refractory and insulation.
- Replace and adjust valve packing, drive balls, gauges glasses, sight glasses, position/level switches, pressure gauges, manometers, pressure switches and similar devices.
- Inspect, clean, repair and reassemble as assigned: gas igniters and nozzles, fans, dampers, air preheaters, heat exchangers, small motors, pumps, fans, etc.
- Clean and mask surfaces preparatory to painting; perform paintings using brushes or spray equipment with approved paints. Perform rough carpentry work, make minor repairs to brick or concrete walls and floors, perform rough plastering, replace glass and repair window and door hardware.
- Operate mobile equipment and its associated equipment and perform duties incidental to the operation of such equipment. Maintain equipment, tools and work areas in a clean and orderly condition. Obtain clearance orders and determine that the equipment to be worked on has been properly cleared and tagged. Report irregularities and abnormal conditions to supervision.
- Perform duties in accordance with the Company safety rules, operating regulations and practices. Train for and carry out assignments in firefighting, first aid or other emergency programs as required.
- Must also perform the duties of and have maintained all the qualifications for the Maintenance-line-of-progression, passing periodic examinations, as required. Normally achieved at 1040-hour intervals or equivalent testing.
- Perform similar or less skilled work as assigned.
What we’re looking for:
Education
- Associate degree in engineering, industrial or energy technology; OR Associate degree in another discipline and two (2) years of related work experience; OR high school diploma with four (4) years of related work experience; OR high school diploma with two (2) years of related military experience. Related experience is listed under Principal Accountabilities.
- Must be able to pass an entry examination, as required.
Work Experience
- Must be familiar with plant maintenance, materials, practices, tools and rigging, scaffolding and blocking involved in the work.
- Must have demonstrated the ability to physically and mentally perform work in all areas and heights required.
- Must be familiar with the layout, construction, and functions of the equipment and apparatus in the plant and about the plant property.
- Must be familiar with equipment clearance procedures, rules, safety practices and procedures applicable to the work.
- Must be able to read, interpret, and work from simple prints and specifications. Must be able to learn to instruct and direct other employees.
Required License(s)/Certification(s)
- Must obtain and maintain all necessary certifications and licenses as required.
- Must possess the appropriate State driver license.
Other preferences:
- Physical demand level is Medium.
- Must be able to climb ladders & stairs a number of times each day.
- Must be able to use fine dexterity to move switches & controls to precise locations.
- Must be able to detect color on alarms, equipment & other devices.
- Must be able to hear announcements on the Plant PA system, and to hear abnormal sounds of plant equipment.
- Must be able to communicate plant information by phone, in person or by radio.
- Must be able to work on heights, grating, platforms and catwalks.
- Must be able to exert up to 50 lbs of pressure to manually turn off valves. Must be able to stand or walk continuously for up to 12 hours.
What you’ll get:
$33.34/hour
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.
At AEP, we’re more than just an energy company — we’re a team of dedicated professionals committed to delivering safe, reliable, and innovative energy solutions. Guided by our mission to put the customer first, we strive to exceed expectations by listening, responding, and continuously improving the way we serve our communities. If you're passionate about making a meaningful impact and being part of a forward-thinking organization, this is the company for you!
Compensation Data
Compensation Grade:
U006-445
Compensation Range:
$33.44 - $34.96
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 803+ OPT Maintenance Mechanic Jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new OPT Maintenance Mechanic Jobs.
Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding OPT Sponsorship as a Maintenance Mechanic
Target STEM OPT-eligible degree programs
If your degree is in mechanical engineering, industrial technology, or a related STEM field, you may qualify for a 24-month STEM OPT extension. This gives employers up to three years of OPT authorization, which significantly increases your sponsorship appeal.
Prioritize large manufacturers and facilities companies
Companies with large maintenance departments, such as automotive plants, food processing facilities, and logistics warehouses, file H-1B visa and H-2B visa petitions regularly. Larger operations have established HR processes and are more experienced with work authorization paperwork than smaller contractors.
Highlight certifications on your resume
EPA 608, OSHA 10, and hydraulics or PLC certifications signal job-readiness to hiring managers. Certified candidates reduce training costs, which makes employers more willing to absorb the administrative effort of supporting an OPT worker through visa sponsorship.
Apply before your OPT authorization gaps
Maintenance roles often have urgent hiring timelines due to operational needs. Apply at least three to four months before your OPT expires so employers have enough runway to evaluate you and begin any H-2B or H-1B sponsorship process without deadline pressure on either side.
Be transparent about your authorization timeline upfront
Disclose your OPT status and expiration date early in the hiring process. Maintenance departments plan shift coverage carefully, and employers appreciate candidates who give them accurate authorization timelines so they can make informed decisions about onboarding and future sponsorship.
Align your job function with your field of study
Your OPT job must be directly related to your degree. A mechanical engineering graduate working as a maintenance mechanic on industrial equipment is a clear match. Document how your coursework connects to your day-to-day maintenance responsibilities in case your DSO requests verification.
Maintenance Mechanic OPT: Frequently Asked Questions
Can F-1 OPT students legally work as Maintenance Mechanics in the United States?
Yes, as long as the role is directly related to your field of study. A Maintenance Mechanic position typically aligns with degrees in mechanical engineering, industrial engineering, or engineering technology. You'll need to confirm the connection with your DSO before accepting an offer, since USCIS expects your OPT employment to match your academic program.
Does a Maintenance Mechanic job qualify for STEM OPT extension?
It depends on your degree, not the job title. If your bachelor's or master's degree is in a STEM-designated field, such as mechanical engineering or manufacturing engineering technology, and the maintenance role falls within that field, you may qualify for the 24-month STEM OPT extension. Your employer must also be enrolled in E-Verify. Confirm your degree's CIP code with your DSO to verify eligibility.
Which visa types do employers typically sponsor for Maintenance Mechanics after OPT ends?
H-2B is common for maintenance roles in seasonal or project-based industries such as hospitality and agriculture. H-1B sponsorship is more likely for maintenance engineers with STEM degrees at large manufacturers. Some employers in specialized industrial sectors also use the TN visa for Canadian and Mexican nationals. The right pathway depends on your degree, nationality, and the employer's filing history.
How do I find Maintenance Mechanic jobs that are open to OPT students?
Migrate Mate is built specifically for F-1 OPT and visa-sponsored job seekers. You can filter for Maintenance Mechanic roles posted by employers with a history of sponsoring work authorization. This saves significant time compared to filtering through general job postings where OPT eligibility is rarely disclosed upfront.
What happens if my Maintenance Mechanic job ends while I'm on OPT?
You enter a 60-day unemployment grace period after your employment ends. During this window, you must find a new qualifying job or depart the United States. The new role must still be related to your degree. If you're on STEM OPT, report the job change to your DSO promptly, since STEM OPT requires an updated Form I-983 training plan with your new employer.