OPT Mechanical Engineering Jobs
Mechanical engineering graduates are recruited across a wide range of industries on OPT, from automotive and aerospace to medical devices and consumer products, and the STEM OPT extension is available for all mechanical engineering degree programs. Employers in manufacturing, product development, and R&D have consistent demand for entry-level mechanical engineers and many have established pathways from OPT to H-1B visa sponsorship.
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Get Access To All JobsINTRODUCTION
Senior Mechanical Engineer / Biomedical Engineer
Resource Type: W2 Only
Pay Rate: $71/hr
Location: On-site – Santa Clara, CA
About Roche
A healthier future drives us to innovate, continuously advance science, and ensure access to healthcare for all. At Roche, we are building a world where people have more time with those they love. We are advancing next-generation sequencing (NGS) by simplifying workflows, accelerating clinical research, and expanding access to genomic data. Our integrated solutions span from sample preparation to sequencing and bioinformatics—delivering a seamless “sample in, result out” experience.
ROLE OVERVIEW
The Systems Technology Group within Roche Sequencing Solutions is seeking a Senior Mechanical Engineer to design and develop advanced sequencing systems. This is a hands-on, multidisciplinary role focused on solving complex mechanical challenges involving electro-mechanical, pneumatic, thermal, and fluidic systems.
CORE RESPONSIBILITIES
- Design and develop mechanical sub-systems including electro-mechanical, pneumatic, fluidic, and thermal components
- Collaborate cross-functionally with electrical, materials, and consumables teams
- Develop mechanisms for automated reagent and flow cell handling
- Design and implement thermal control systems
- Lead subsystem integration, verification, and troubleshooting
- Drive design reviews and resolve technical trade-offs
- Manage timelines and technical deliverables
- Create and maintain CAD models, drawings, and specifications
- Contribute to system architecture and technical strategy
- Present technical updates and engineering decisions to stakeholders
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
- PhD + 1 year, OR Master’s + 2 years, OR Bachelor’s + 4 years of relevant experience
- Strong expertise in mechanical and electro-mechanical system design
- Experience with thermal management and precision temperature control
- Hands-on experience with fluidics systems (pumps, valves, sensors, tubing)
- Proficiency in 3D CAD tools (e.g., SolidWorks)
- Experience with manufacturing processes (machining, injection molding, 3D printing)
- Strong troubleshooting skills across hardware, software, and chemistry interfaces
- Hands-on experience with machine shop tools and prototyping technologies
- Familiarity with Python, LabVIEW, or similar tools
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Experience with simulation tools (CFD, FEA)
- Background in NGS or genomics instrumentation
- Experience in regulated product development environments
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
- Ability to manage multiple priorities effectively
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
- This is a fully on-site role in Santa Clara, CA
- No relocation assistance is provided
- No requirement for fluidics/microfluidics specialization, but life sciences instrumentation experience is preferred
INTRODUCTION
Senior Mechanical Engineer / Biomedical Engineer
Resource Type: W2 Only
Pay Rate: $71/hr
Location: On-site – Santa Clara, CA
About Roche
A healthier future drives us to innovate, continuously advance science, and ensure access to healthcare for all. At Roche, we are building a world where people have more time with those they love. We are advancing next-generation sequencing (NGS) by simplifying workflows, accelerating clinical research, and expanding access to genomic data. Our integrated solutions span from sample preparation to sequencing and bioinformatics—delivering a seamless “sample in, result out” experience.
ROLE OVERVIEW
The Systems Technology Group within Roche Sequencing Solutions is seeking a Senior Mechanical Engineer to design and develop advanced sequencing systems. This is a hands-on, multidisciplinary role focused on solving complex mechanical challenges involving electro-mechanical, pneumatic, thermal, and fluidic systems.
CORE RESPONSIBILITIES
- Design and develop mechanical sub-systems including electro-mechanical, pneumatic, fluidic, and thermal components
- Collaborate cross-functionally with electrical, materials, and consumables teams
- Develop mechanisms for automated reagent and flow cell handling
- Design and implement thermal control systems
- Lead subsystem integration, verification, and troubleshooting
- Drive design reviews and resolve technical trade-offs
- Manage timelines and technical deliverables
- Create and maintain CAD models, drawings, and specifications
- Contribute to system architecture and technical strategy
- Present technical updates and engineering decisions to stakeholders
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
- PhD + 1 year, OR Master’s + 2 years, OR Bachelor’s + 4 years of relevant experience
- Strong expertise in mechanical and electro-mechanical system design
- Experience with thermal management and precision temperature control
- Hands-on experience with fluidics systems (pumps, valves, sensors, tubing)
- Proficiency in 3D CAD tools (e.g., SolidWorks)
- Experience with manufacturing processes (machining, injection molding, 3D printing)
- Strong troubleshooting skills across hardware, software, and chemistry interfaces
- Hands-on experience with machine shop tools and prototyping technologies
- Familiarity with Python, LabVIEW, or similar tools
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Experience with simulation tools (CFD, FEA)
- Background in NGS or genomics instrumentation
- Experience in regulated product development environments
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
- Ability to manage multiple priorities effectively
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
- This is a fully on-site role in Santa Clara, CA
- No relocation assistance is provided
- No requirement for fluidics/microfluidics specialization, but life sciences instrumentation experience is preferred
See all 3,769+ Mechanical Engineering jobs
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Get Access To All JobsMechanical Engineering OPT Job Search Tips
Mechanical engineering is a STEM degree, so STEM OPT extension applies
Your ME degree qualifies for the 24-month STEM OPT extension at an E-Verify employer, giving you up to three years of work authorization. This is one of the most significant advantages mechanical engineering graduates have in the U.S. job market.
Manufacturing, aerospace, and automotive are strong sectors for OPT ME graduates
These industries hire mechanical engineers consistently and have well-established processes for sponsoring international talent. Many of the largest employers, including Boeing, General Motors, and Raytheon, are regular H-1B visa sponsors with dedicated immigration support.
CAD and simulation skills are among the most in-demand
Proficiency in SolidWorks, AutoCAD, ANSYS, or CATIA is often the deciding factor for entry level mechanical engineering roles. Highlighting these skills clearly in your resume and portfolio strengthens your application regardless of limited U.S. work experience.
Check security clearance requirements for defense-adjacent roles
Some mechanical engineering roles at defense contractors or government facilities require clearances that aren’t available to non-citizens. Confirming requirements before applying keeps your search focused on accessible opportunities.
Report any change in employer to your DSO within 10 days
If you switch employers during your OPT window or take on a second job, you need to update your DSO within 10 days. This is especially important in engineering, where contract and project-based roles can lead to employer changes. Keep your SEVIS record accurate throughout.
Ask about H-1B sponsorship history before accepting any offer
Mechanical engineering is a strong H-1B sponsorship category, but not every employer sponsors. Asking about their history, how many times they’ve filed and what their process looks like, is a reasonable question that experienced employers will answer directly.
Mechanical Engineering OPT: Frequently Asked Questions
Which industries hire mechanical engineering OPT students most actively?
Automotive, aerospace, medical devices, industrial equipment, consumer products, and energy companies are the most active hirers of mechanical engineering graduates on OPT. Manufacturing companies with active product development and R&D programs have recurring graduate hiring needs and established immigration support. The medical device sector in particular combines strong hiring volume with high H-1B sponsorship rates for engineering roles.
What mechanical engineering skills are most valued by OPT employers?
CAD proficiency in SolidWorks, CATIA, or AutoCAD is typically the first technical requirement. Finite element analysis, GD&T, manufacturing process knowledge, and thermal or fluid simulation experience are valuable depending on the specific industry. Hands-on lab, internship, or capstone project experience that demonstrates these skills in an applied context makes your application significantly more competitive.
Do mechanical engineering jobs at smaller manufacturers offer OPT hiring?
Many smaller manufacturers and engineering firms hire OPT students, particularly those with prior internship experience in the industry. Smaller companies may have less formal immigration support than large corporations, but this does not mean they are unwilling to sponsor H-1B later. Having an early, transparent conversation about your OPT timeline and future sponsorship needs helps smaller employers plan ahead rather than treating it as a surprise.
Can I work in research and development on STEM OPT as a mechanical engineer?
Yes, R&D roles at companies and research institutions are well-suited to STEM OPT because the work directly applies your engineering degree. University research labs, corporate R&D centers, and national laboratories with civilian research mandates all hire mechanical engineering graduates on OPT. These environments also tend to be familiar with STEM OPT requirements and supportive of the process.
How do I make the transition from OPT to H-1B as a mechanical engineer?
The most important step is choosing an employer with a clear sponsorship track record in mechanical or manufacturing engineering roles. Building a strong performance record during OPT, having the H-1B conversation with your manager well before the March registration window, and making sure your employer has immigration counsel in place are the practical steps. Mechanical engineering roles at established manufacturers and product companies have strong sponsorship histories.
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