OPT Mechanic Jobs
Mechanic jobs on OPT are available across automotive dealerships, aerospace maintenance, and industrial equipment sectors. Your F-1 OPT work authorization lets you work full-time for any qualifying employer, but STEM OPT extension eligibility depends on whether your degree aligns with the specific mechanical role.
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Recruitment/Posting Title Mechanical System Mechanic II
Job Category Staff & Executive - Facilities/Environmental/Maintenance
Department Facilities Maintenance NB
Overview
The Division of Institutional Planning & Operations (IP&O) employs a workforce of approximately 2,700 staff, represented by 15 collective negotiations agreements, and is responsible for institutional strategic initiatives and operations, which encompasses an expansive range of comprehensive service and business operations across the State of New Jersey. These include planning and construction, facilities, public safety and emergency operations, environmental health and safety, transportation, housing, and auxiliary/retail operations.
Posting Summary
Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, is seeking a Mechanical System Mechanic II for the Division of Institutional Planning & Operations (IP&O). Under the direction of the Supervisor, Maintenance and Construction, performs a variety of maintenance, repairs, and installation/replacement of machinery, mechanical equipment, and systems, and when assigned to shifts, responds and takes action on all skilled trade calls. Assists in the work direction of other mechanics, trades helpers, and mechanics of other skilled trades.
Among the key duties of this position are the following:
- Operates, maintains, repairs and installs specialized and complex machinery including, but not limited to pumps, compressors, air moving/distribution equipment, motors, heat exchangers, valves, pneumatic systems and regulators.
- Responds to mechanical trouble calls and requests within the facilities, using hand tools, power tools, analyzing equipment and testing instruments.
- Performs routine maintenance, preventive maintenance and inspections on mechanical equipment and related equipment/systems. Ancillary equipment and support systems is inclusive of, but not limited to; controls, regulators, motors, compressors, air stations, coils, fluid/gas piping, strainers, operating valves and medical air/gas systems.
- Prepares, maintains and submits to the Supervisor, Maintenance and Construction requisitions for material, work orders, required records and reports, pertaining to mechanical equipment systems.
- Maintains daily time sheets and information pertaining to work performed and time spent.
- Interprets data from the Power Plant, mechanical systems, control systems, energy management systems and shift log, taking action, and making the Supervisor, Maintenance and Construction aware of the appropriate action taken, when necessary.
- Prepares or works from sketches, plans, specifications, in accordance with mechanical standards.
- Responds to emergency calls and determines what corrective action must be taken to limit damage to facilities and equipment and assuring the maintenance of a safe environment, when assigned to shifts. Records in accordance with standards all activity and provides notice to immediate and/or covering the Supervisor, Maintenance and Construction of any situations that disrupt operations and/or compromise safety.
- Assists in the work direction of other mechanics, facility staff, trades helpers and/or mechanics of other skilled trades.
- Understands and adheres to Rutgers’ compliance standards as they appear in RBHS’s Corporate Compliance Policy, Code of Conduct and Conflict of Interest Policy.
- Performs other related duties as assigned.
FLSA Nonexempt
Grade 210
Salary Details
Minimum Salary 32.260
Mid Range Salary 32.760
Maximum Salary 33.740
Offer Information
The final salary offer may be determined by several factors, including, but not limited to, the candidate’s qualifications, experience, and expertise, and availability of department or grant funds to support the position. We also take into consideration market benchmarks, if and when appropriate, and internal equity to ensure fair compensation relative to the university’s broader compensation structure. We are committed to offering competitive and flexible compensation packages to attract and retain top talent.
Benefits
Rutgers provides a comprehensive benefits package to eligible employees. The specific benefits vary based on the position and may include:
- Medical, prescription drug, and dental coverage
- Paid vacation, holidays, and various leave programs
- Competitive retirement benefits, including defined contribution plans and voluntary tax-deferred savings options
- Employee and dependent educational benefits (when applicable)
- Life insurance coverage
- Employee discount programs
Position Status Full Time
Working Hours
Standard Hours 40.00
Daily Work Shift
Work Arrangement
Union Description IUOE 68
Payroll Designation PeopleSoft
Seniority Unit
Terms of Appointment Staff - 12 month
Position Pension Eligibility PERS
Qualifications
Minimum Education and Experience
Technical school diploma or an equivalent level of knowledge plus three (3) years of experience in the operation, maintenance, and installation of Mechanical systems/equipment in an industrial, education, and/or healthcare setting.
Certifications/Licenses
A valid driver’s license is required.
Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
- Sound knowledge of blueprint and schematic reading is required, as is thorough knowledge of all applicable (local, state, and national) codes.
- Ability to perform all skilled trades repairs, including mechanical equipment/systems, HVAC/R electrical, plumbing, and fire alarm systems.
Preferred Qualifications
New Jersey Black Seal Engineer’s License is preferred.
Equipment Utilized
Physical Demands and Work Environment
Physical Demands: Position required the individual to stand, walk, use finger, handle or feel, reach with hands and arms, climb or balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl, and to talk or hear up to 2/3 of the time, from 50 to 100 pounds less than 1/3 of the time; to lift a weight or exert a force of up to 25 pounds up to 2/3 of the time, from 50 to 100 pounds less than 1/3 of the time. Ability to perform physical labor without restrictions, including lifting equipment in excess of fifty (50) pounds, performing work on roofs, scaffolding, and ladders.
Work Environment: The position may require work in the following environmental conditions: wet or humid conditions (non-weather), work near mechanical moving parts, in high, precarious places, among fumes and airborne particles, in outdoor weather conditions, and near vibrations up to 2/3 of the time; with toxic or caustic chemicals, in extreme hot or cold conditions, at risk of electrical shock, and of radiation less than 1/3 of the time. Moderate noise conditions are typical for the work environment for this job. The position requires close, distance, and color vision, peripheral vision, and depth perception, as well as the ability to adjust focus.
Special Conditions
Clean Driving Record
Posting Details
Posting Number 25ST2452
Posting Open Date 11/26/2025
Special Instructions to Applicants
Applicant Documents: With the submission of your application, please ensure that an updated resume is uploaded. Your resume must include the month and year for each position in your employment history, as well as indicate whether each role was full-time, part-time, or per-diem.
Regional Campus Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences (RBHS)
Home Location Campus College Ave (RU-New Brunswick)
City New Brunswick
State NJ
Location Details
Pre-employment Screenings
All offers of employment are contingent upon successful completion of all pre-employment screenings.
Immunization Requirements
Under Policy 100.3.1 Immunization Policy for Covered Individuals, if employment will commence during Flu Season, Rutgers University may require certain prospective employees to provide proof that they are vaccinated against Seasonal Influenza for the current Flu Season, unless the University has granted the individual a medical or religious exemption. Additional infection control and safety policies may apply. Prospective employees should speak with their hiring manager to determine which policies apply to the role or position for which they are applying. Failure to provide proof of vaccination for any required vaccines or obtain a medical or religious exemption from the University will result in rescission of a candidate’s offer of employment or disciplinary action up to and including termination.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
It is university policy to provide equal employment opportunity to all its employees and applicants for employment regardless of their race, creed, color, national origin, age, ancestry, nationality, marital or domestic partnership or civil union status, sex, pregnancy, gender identity or expression, disability status, liability for military service, protected veteran status, affectional or sexual orientation, atypical cellular or blood trait, genetic information (including the refusal to submit to genetic testing), or any other category protected by law. As an institution, we encourage all qualified applicants to apply. For additional information please see the Non-Discrimination Statement at the following web address: http://uhr.rutgers.edu/non-discrimination-statement
Supplemental Questions
Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).
- Do you have a minimum of a Technical school diploma or an equivalent level of knowledge plus three (3) years of experience in the operation, maintenance, and installation of Mechanical systems/equipment in an industrial, education, and/or healthcare setting?
- Yes
- No
- Do you have a valid driver’s license?
- Yes
- No
Applicant Documents
Required Documents
- Resume/CV
- Cover Letter/Letter of Application
Optional Documents
- Writing Sample 1
Position Details
Recruitment/Posting Title Mechanical System Mechanic II
Job Category Staff & Executive - Facilities/Environmental/Maintenance
Department Facilities Maintenance NB
Overview
The Division of Institutional Planning & Operations (IP&O) employs a workforce of approximately 2,700 staff, represented by 15 collective negotiations agreements, and is responsible for institutional strategic initiatives and operations, which encompasses an expansive range of comprehensive service and business operations across the State of New Jersey. These include planning and construction, facilities, public safety and emergency operations, environmental health and safety, transportation, housing, and auxiliary/retail operations.
Posting Summary
Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, is seeking a Mechanical System Mechanic II for the Division of Institutional Planning & Operations (IP&O). Under the direction of the Supervisor, Maintenance and Construction, performs a variety of maintenance, repairs, and installation/replacement of machinery, mechanical equipment, and systems, and when assigned to shifts, responds and takes action on all skilled trade calls. Assists in the work direction of other mechanics, trades helpers, and mechanics of other skilled trades.
Among the key duties of this position are the following:
- Operates, maintains, repairs and installs specialized and complex machinery including, but not limited to pumps, compressors, air moving/distribution equipment, motors, heat exchangers, valves, pneumatic systems and regulators.
- Responds to mechanical trouble calls and requests within the facilities, using hand tools, power tools, analyzing equipment and testing instruments.
- Performs routine maintenance, preventive maintenance and inspections on mechanical equipment and related equipment/systems. Ancillary equipment and support systems is inclusive of, but not limited to; controls, regulators, motors, compressors, air stations, coils, fluid/gas piping, strainers, operating valves and medical air/gas systems.
- Prepares, maintains and submits to the Supervisor, Maintenance and Construction requisitions for material, work orders, required records and reports, pertaining to mechanical equipment systems.
- Maintains daily time sheets and information pertaining to work performed and time spent.
- Interprets data from the Power Plant, mechanical systems, control systems, energy management systems and shift log, taking action, and making the Supervisor, Maintenance and Construction aware of the appropriate action taken, when necessary.
- Prepares or works from sketches, plans, specifications, in accordance with mechanical standards.
- Responds to emergency calls and determines what corrective action must be taken to limit damage to facilities and equipment and assuring the maintenance of a safe environment, when assigned to shifts. Records in accordance with standards all activity and provides notice to immediate and/or covering the Supervisor, Maintenance and Construction of any situations that disrupt operations and/or compromise safety.
- Assists in the work direction of other mechanics, facility staff, trades helpers and/or mechanics of other skilled trades.
- Understands and adheres to Rutgers’ compliance standards as they appear in RBHS’s Corporate Compliance Policy, Code of Conduct and Conflict of Interest Policy.
- Performs other related duties as assigned.
FLSA Nonexempt
Grade 210
Salary Details
Minimum Salary 32.260
Mid Range Salary 32.760
Maximum Salary 33.740
Offer Information
The final salary offer may be determined by several factors, including, but not limited to, the candidate’s qualifications, experience, and expertise, and availability of department or grant funds to support the position. We also take into consideration market benchmarks, if and when appropriate, and internal equity to ensure fair compensation relative to the university’s broader compensation structure. We are committed to offering competitive and flexible compensation packages to attract and retain top talent.
Benefits
Rutgers provides a comprehensive benefits package to eligible employees. The specific benefits vary based on the position and may include:
- Medical, prescription drug, and dental coverage
- Paid vacation, holidays, and various leave programs
- Competitive retirement benefits, including defined contribution plans and voluntary tax-deferred savings options
- Employee and dependent educational benefits (when applicable)
- Life insurance coverage
- Employee discount programs
Position Status Full Time
Working Hours
Standard Hours 40.00
Daily Work Shift
Work Arrangement
Union Description IUOE 68
Payroll Designation PeopleSoft
Seniority Unit
Terms of Appointment Staff - 12 month
Position Pension Eligibility PERS
Qualifications
Minimum Education and Experience
Technical school diploma or an equivalent level of knowledge plus three (3) years of experience in the operation, maintenance, and installation of Mechanical systems/equipment in an industrial, education, and/or healthcare setting.
Certifications/Licenses
A valid driver’s license is required.
Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
- Sound knowledge of blueprint and schematic reading is required, as is thorough knowledge of all applicable (local, state, and national) codes.
- Ability to perform all skilled trades repairs, including mechanical equipment/systems, HVAC/R electrical, plumbing, and fire alarm systems.
Preferred Qualifications
New Jersey Black Seal Engineer’s License is preferred.
Equipment Utilized
Physical Demands and Work Environment
Physical Demands: Position required the individual to stand, walk, use finger, handle or feel, reach with hands and arms, climb or balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl, and to talk or hear up to 2/3 of the time, from 50 to 100 pounds less than 1/3 of the time; to lift a weight or exert a force of up to 25 pounds up to 2/3 of the time, from 50 to 100 pounds less than 1/3 of the time. Ability to perform physical labor without restrictions, including lifting equipment in excess of fifty (50) pounds, performing work on roofs, scaffolding, and ladders.
Work Environment: The position may require work in the following environmental conditions: wet or humid conditions (non-weather), work near mechanical moving parts, in high, precarious places, among fumes and airborne particles, in outdoor weather conditions, and near vibrations up to 2/3 of the time; with toxic or caustic chemicals, in extreme hot or cold conditions, at risk of electrical shock, and of radiation less than 1/3 of the time. Moderate noise conditions are typical for the work environment for this job. The position requires close, distance, and color vision, peripheral vision, and depth perception, as well as the ability to adjust focus.
Special Conditions
Clean Driving Record
Posting Details
Posting Number 25ST2452
Posting Open Date 11/26/2025
Special Instructions to Applicants
Applicant Documents: With the submission of your application, please ensure that an updated resume is uploaded. Your resume must include the month and year for each position in your employment history, as well as indicate whether each role was full-time, part-time, or per-diem.
Regional Campus Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences (RBHS)
Home Location Campus College Ave (RU-New Brunswick)
City New Brunswick
State NJ
Location Details
Pre-employment Screenings
All offers of employment are contingent upon successful completion of all pre-employment screenings.
Immunization Requirements
Under Policy 100.3.1 Immunization Policy for Covered Individuals, if employment will commence during Flu Season, Rutgers University may require certain prospective employees to provide proof that they are vaccinated against Seasonal Influenza for the current Flu Season, unless the University has granted the individual a medical or religious exemption. Additional infection control and safety policies may apply. Prospective employees should speak with their hiring manager to determine which policies apply to the role or position for which they are applying. Failure to provide proof of vaccination for any required vaccines or obtain a medical or religious exemption from the University will result in rescission of a candidate’s offer of employment or disciplinary action up to and including termination.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
It is university policy to provide equal employment opportunity to all its employees and applicants for employment regardless of their race, creed, color, national origin, age, ancestry, nationality, marital or domestic partnership or civil union status, sex, pregnancy, gender identity or expression, disability status, liability for military service, protected veteran status, affectional or sexual orientation, atypical cellular or blood trait, genetic information (including the refusal to submit to genetic testing), or any other category protected by law. As an institution, we encourage all qualified applicants to apply. For additional information please see the Non-Discrimination Statement at the following web address: http://uhr.rutgers.edu/non-discrimination-statement
Supplemental Questions
Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).
- Do you have a minimum of a Technical school diploma or an equivalent level of knowledge plus three (3) years of experience in the operation, maintenance, and installation of Mechanical systems/equipment in an industrial, education, and/or healthcare setting?
- Yes
- No
- Do you have a valid driver’s license?
- Yes
- No
Applicant Documents
Required Documents
- Resume/CV
- Cover Letter/Letter of Application
Optional Documents
- Writing Sample 1
See all 102+ OPT Mechanic Jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new OPT Mechanic Jobs.
Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding OPT Sponsorship as a Mechanic
Target STEM-aligned mechanic roles
Positions in aerospace, industrial, or electromechanical systems often qualify for STEM OPT extension if your degree is in engineering or a related field. Confirm SOC code alignment with your DSO before applying to maximize your authorized work period.
Prioritize employers with E-Verify enrollment
STEM OPT extension requires your employer to be registered with E-Verify. Ask HR directly during early conversations. Dealerships and large fleet operators are more likely to be enrolled than small independent auto shops.
Document that your role relates to your degree
Your DSO must confirm your mechanic job is directly related to your field of study. Keep a written job description on hand that connects your daily duties to your engineering or technology coursework for DSO review.
Address OPT proactively, not at the offer stage
Bring up your work authorization status before final interviews. Many employers in automotive and industrial maintenance are unfamiliar with OPT. A brief, confident explanation early prevents last-minute confusion that kills otherwise strong offers.
Pursue certifications that signal employer readiness
ASE certifications are widely recognized across automotive and equipment maintenance. Holding one reduces employer hesitation about hiring OPT candidates because it demonstrates job-readiness independent of visa status, making sponsorship conversations easier to initiate.
Track your OPT end date against hiring timelines
Mechanic hiring cycles at large fleet operators and aerospace MRO facilities can take 60 to 90 days. Start your job search early enough that an offer and start date land well within your authorized period, with buffer.
Mechanic OPT: Frequently Asked Questions
Can I work as a mechanic on F-1 OPT?
Yes, F-1 OPT authorizes you to work full-time as a mechanic as long as the role is directly related to your field of study. An automotive technology or mechanical engineering degree supports most mechanic roles. Your DSO confirms the connection between the job and your degree before you begin work.
Do mechanic jobs qualify for the STEM OPT 24-month extension?
Some do. Mechanic roles in aerospace maintenance, electromechanical systems, or industrial equipment can qualify if they fall under an eligible STEM SOC code and your degree is in engineering, engineering technology, or a related STEM field. Standard automotive technician roles at dealerships often do not qualify. Confirm your specific SOC code with your DSO before accepting an offer.
How do I find mechanic employers who are open to hiring OPT students?
Migrate Mate is the recommended place to find mechanic jobs from employers familiar with OPT and visa sponsorship. Larger employers such as aerospace MRO companies, public transit agencies, and national fleet operators are generally more OPT-friendly than independent shops, which rarely have HR infrastructure to navigate work authorization requirements.
What happens if my OPT expires before I find a mechanic job?
If your OPT period ends without active employment, you enter a 60-day grace period during which you cannot work. You must either change visa status, depart the U.S., or have begun a timely filed STEM OPT extension application. Applying for STEM OPT before your current EAD expires keeps your authorization continuous while USCIS processes the extension.
Does an employer need to sponsor me for a visa to hire me as a mechanic on OPT?
Not during your OPT period. OPT work authorization is tied to your F-1 status, so no employer sponsorship is required to hire you. Sponsorship only becomes relevant if you want to remain in the U.S. after OPT ends, typically through an H-1B visa petition. Discussing long-term sponsorship intent with employers early avoids misunderstandings later.