OPT Maintenance Technician Jobs
Maintenance Technician roles are a strong fit for F-1 OPT students with degrees in mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, or industrial technology. Most positions qualify as STEM OPT, giving you up to 36 months of work authorization. Employers in manufacturing, property management, and facilities regularly hire through OPT.
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Get Access To All JobsWork Schedule
Second Shift (Afternoons)
Environmental Conditions
- Able to lift 40 lbs. without assistance
- Adherence to all Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) Safety Standards
- Cleanroom: no hair products, jewelry, makeup, nail polish, perfume, exposed piercings, facial hair etc. allowed
- Some degree of PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) required (safety glasses, gowning, gloves, lab coat, ear plugs etc.)
Job Description
About Thermo Fisher Scientific
When you’re part of Thermo Fisher Scientific, you’ll do challenging work that makes a real-world impact. Our Clinical Trials Division supports the development and delivery of life-changing therapies by ensuring high-quality, compliant manufacturing and packaging operations.
Time/Shift Hours:
10-hour Shift
Monday - Thursday
2:45pm - 1:30AM
Position Summary
The Equipment Maintenance Technician III is a senior-level technical role responsible for maintaining, troubleshooting, and optimizing automated manufacturing and packaging equipment in a GMP-regulated environment. This role supports equipment reliability, regulatory compliance, and operational efficiency to ensure uninterrupted production of clinical trial materials.
This position requires hands-on technical expertise, the ability to work independently on routine and moderately complex issues, and effective collaboration with cross-functional teams including Engineering, Quality, and Manufacturing.
Key Responsibilities
Equipment Maintenance & Reliability
- Perform preventive, predictive, and corrective maintenance on automated manufacturing and packaging equipment.
- Troubleshoot and repair mechanical, electrical, pneumatic, and control system issues.
- Support root cause analysis (RCA) and implement corrective and preventive actions (CAPAs).
- Ensure equipment uptime and reliability meet operational performance targets.
Technical Troubleshooting & Systems Support
- Diagnose and resolve issues involving PLC-controlled systems (Allen-Bradley, Siemens), HMIs, robotics (Fanuc preferred), and vision systems (Cognex).
- Interpret electrical schematics, mechanical drawings, and system diagrams to support troubleshooting and repairs.
- Escalate complex issues as needed while contributing to timely resolution.
Production Support
- Support equipment setup, changeovers, and line clearance activities in compliance with GMP requirements.
- Configure equipment for different products, packaging formats, and batch requirements.
- Provide real-time technical support during production to minimize downtime.
Compliance & Documentation
- Maintain accurate documentation in accordance with cGMP and Good Documentation Practices (GDP).
- Support deviation investigations, audits, and regulatory inspections.
- Follow Environmental Health & Safety (EHS) procedures, including lockout/tagout (LOTO).
Continuous Improvement
- Participate in Lean Manufacturing and continuous improvement initiatives.
- Identify opportunities to improve equipment performance, reduce downtime, and enhance product quality.
- Support Engineering in equipment upgrades, qualifications, and process improvements.
Collaboration
- Partner with Manufacturing, Quality, Engineering, and Validation teams to ensure safe and compliant operations.
- Communicate technical issues, risks, and solutions effectively.
Qualifications
Education
- Associate degree or technical certification in Mechatronics, Industrial Maintenance, Automation, or a related field, or equivalent experience.
Experience
- 2–4 years of experience in equipment maintenance within a manufacturing environment; pharmaceutical, biotech, or medical device experience preferred.
- Experience supporting automated manufacturing or packaging equipment.
Technical Skills
- Experience troubleshooting PLC systems (Allen-Bradley and/or Siemens).
- Familiarity with robotics (Fanuc preferred) and vision systems (Cognex preferred).
- Strong mechanical and electrical troubleshooting capabilities.
- Ability to read and interpret technical documentation (schematics, diagrams, manuals).
Soft Skills
- Strong problem-solving and analytical abilities.
- Ability to work independently and within a team environment.
- Effective communication skills.
- Attention to detail with a focus on quality and compliance.
Physical & Work Environment Requirements
- Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and perform physical tasks such as standing, bending, and reaching.
- Work performed in GMP-controlled environments, including cleanrooms requiring gowning.
- Flexibility to work shifts, weekends, or overtime as needed to support production.
Why Join Us?
- Work on impactful projects that support patient health worldwide
- Opportunities for career growth and technical development
- Collaborative and safety-focused work environment
- Competitive compensation and benefits package
Work Schedule
Second Shift (Afternoons)
Environmental Conditions
- Able to lift 40 lbs. without assistance
- Adherence to all Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) Safety Standards
- Cleanroom: no hair products, jewelry, makeup, nail polish, perfume, exposed piercings, facial hair etc. allowed
- Some degree of PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) required (safety glasses, gowning, gloves, lab coat, ear plugs etc.)
Job Description
About Thermo Fisher Scientific
When you’re part of Thermo Fisher Scientific, you’ll do challenging work that makes a real-world impact. Our Clinical Trials Division supports the development and delivery of life-changing therapies by ensuring high-quality, compliant manufacturing and packaging operations.
Time/Shift Hours:
10-hour Shift
Monday - Thursday
2:45pm - 1:30AM
Position Summary
The Equipment Maintenance Technician III is a senior-level technical role responsible for maintaining, troubleshooting, and optimizing automated manufacturing and packaging equipment in a GMP-regulated environment. This role supports equipment reliability, regulatory compliance, and operational efficiency to ensure uninterrupted production of clinical trial materials.
This position requires hands-on technical expertise, the ability to work independently on routine and moderately complex issues, and effective collaboration with cross-functional teams including Engineering, Quality, and Manufacturing.
Key Responsibilities
Equipment Maintenance & Reliability
- Perform preventive, predictive, and corrective maintenance on automated manufacturing and packaging equipment.
- Troubleshoot and repair mechanical, electrical, pneumatic, and control system issues.
- Support root cause analysis (RCA) and implement corrective and preventive actions (CAPAs).
- Ensure equipment uptime and reliability meet operational performance targets.
Technical Troubleshooting & Systems Support
- Diagnose and resolve issues involving PLC-controlled systems (Allen-Bradley, Siemens), HMIs, robotics (Fanuc preferred), and vision systems (Cognex).
- Interpret electrical schematics, mechanical drawings, and system diagrams to support troubleshooting and repairs.
- Escalate complex issues as needed while contributing to timely resolution.
Production Support
- Support equipment setup, changeovers, and line clearance activities in compliance with GMP requirements.
- Configure equipment for different products, packaging formats, and batch requirements.
- Provide real-time technical support during production to minimize downtime.
Compliance & Documentation
- Maintain accurate documentation in accordance with cGMP and Good Documentation Practices (GDP).
- Support deviation investigations, audits, and regulatory inspections.
- Follow Environmental Health & Safety (EHS) procedures, including lockout/tagout (LOTO).
Continuous Improvement
- Participate in Lean Manufacturing and continuous improvement initiatives.
- Identify opportunities to improve equipment performance, reduce downtime, and enhance product quality.
- Support Engineering in equipment upgrades, qualifications, and process improvements.
Collaboration
- Partner with Manufacturing, Quality, Engineering, and Validation teams to ensure safe and compliant operations.
- Communicate technical issues, risks, and solutions effectively.
Qualifications
Education
- Associate degree or technical certification in Mechatronics, Industrial Maintenance, Automation, or a related field, or equivalent experience.
Experience
- 2–4 years of experience in equipment maintenance within a manufacturing environment; pharmaceutical, biotech, or medical device experience preferred.
- Experience supporting automated manufacturing or packaging equipment.
Technical Skills
- Experience troubleshooting PLC systems (Allen-Bradley and/or Siemens).
- Familiarity with robotics (Fanuc preferred) and vision systems (Cognex preferred).
- Strong mechanical and electrical troubleshooting capabilities.
- Ability to read and interpret technical documentation (schematics, diagrams, manuals).
Soft Skills
- Strong problem-solving and analytical abilities.
- Ability to work independently and within a team environment.
- Effective communication skills.
- Attention to detail with a focus on quality and compliance.
Physical & Work Environment Requirements
- Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and perform physical tasks such as standing, bending, and reaching.
- Work performed in GMP-controlled environments, including cleanrooms requiring gowning.
- Flexibility to work shifts, weekends, or overtime as needed to support production.
Why Join Us?
- Work on impactful projects that support patient health worldwide
- Opportunities for career growth and technical development
- Collaborative and safety-focused work environment
- Competitive compensation and benefits package
See all 327+ OPT Maintenance Technician Jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new OPT Maintenance Technician Jobs.
Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding OPT Sponsorship as a Maintenance Technician
Confirm your degree qualifies for STEM OPT
Maintenance Technician roles typically qualify for the 24-month STEM OPT extension when your degree is in mechanical, electrical, or industrial engineering. Verify your program's CIP code with your DSO before applying to avoid surprises at the offer stage.
Target industries with high sponsorship rates
Manufacturing plants, commercial real estate firms, and hospital facilities departments hire maintenance technicians regularly and are accustomed to OPT work authorization. These employers tend to have HR processes already set up for international candidates, which speeds up onboarding.
Lead with your OPT timeline upfront
Mention your OPT end date and STEM extension eligibility in your cover letter. Employers unfamiliar with OPT often assume international students are unavailable to start quickly. Clarity early prevents your application from being screened out before a recruiter reads your qualifications.
Highlight hands-on technical training and certifications
OSHA 10, EPA 608, and HVAC certifications signal job-readiness to hiring managers faster than a degree alone. List any lab work, internships, or campus facilities experience. Employers making OPT hires want confidence you can contribute from day one without extensive ramp-up.
Ask about the I-983 training plan during interviews
STEM OPT requires your employer to complete Form I-983, outlining how the role relates to your degree. Asking about this during interviews signals you understand the process and reassures employers that OPT compliance will not create unexpected administrative burden for their HR team.
Apply before your OPT start date, not after
Hiring timelines for maintenance roles can run four to eight weeks from application to offer. Start applying two to three months before graduation so your EAD card arrives before your first scheduled day and you avoid any gap between your program end and employment start.
Maintenance Technician OPT: Frequently Asked Questions
Can F-1 OPT students work as Maintenance Technicians in the United States?
Yes. F-1 students who have completed a qualifying degree can work as Maintenance Technicians during their OPT period. The role must be directly related to your field of study, such as mechanical, electrical, or industrial engineering. Your employer does not need to file any petition with USCIS. You work on the strength of your EAD card alone during the standard 12-month OPT period.
Does a Maintenance Technician job qualify for the 24-month STEM OPT extension?
It depends on your degree, not the job title. If your degree is in a STEM-designated field such as mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, or industrial technology, and the Maintenance Technician role relates to that field, you can apply for the 24-month extension. Your DSO must recommend the extension in SEVIS, and your employer must be E-Verify enrolled and sign Form I-983.
How do I find Maintenance Technician employers who are comfortable hiring OPT students?
Migrate Mate is designed specifically for F-1 OPT job seekers and filters for employers open to OPT and visa sponsorship, including Maintenance Technician roles across manufacturing, property management, and facilities. Searching there saves significant time compared to cold-applying and discovering late in the process that an employer does not work with international candidates.
Do Maintenance Technician roles typically lead to H-1B sponsorship?
Some do, particularly at larger manufacturing companies, hospital systems, and commercial real estate firms with established HR teams. The key factor is whether the role is classified as a specialty occupation requiring at least a bachelor's degree, which stronger candidates can argue for engineering-focused maintenance positions. Smaller employers or those hiring for general repair work are less likely to sponsor an H-1B visa petition.
What happens if my EAD card has not arrived before my start date?
You cannot legally begin working without your EAD card in hand, even if you have a job offer. Contact your DSO immediately if there is a delay. USCIS allows you to request expedited processing if you have documented economic necessity or a confirmed employment start date. Communicate transparently with your employer so they can adjust your start date rather than rescind the offer.