OPT Mechanical Technician Jobs
Mechanical Technician roles are among the more OPT-friendly engineering positions because hands-on technical work often qualifies as STEM OPT, giving you up to 36 months of work authorization. Most employers in manufacturing, aerospace, and energy sectors are familiar with sponsoring international engineers at the technician level.
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Get Access To All JobsReq ID: 254455
Job Location: 4800 Houston, TX (NorthPoint)
Work days/Shift Hours – if applicable: 4:00 PM - 4:30 AM / 2-2-3 Flex Schedule.
Compensation
Starting pay ranges from $38.01 to $42.33 per hour, based on experience. Additional earning opportunities may include performance-based incentives, quarterly bonuses, referral bonuses, and comprehensive benefits.
General Purpose
The role of a Controls Technician is to provide competent and effective electrical and controls support to Plant operations. The ability to perform work safely, meet the needs of Operations, execute the maintenance program and comply with all safety codes such as the National Electrical Code is paramount. The Controls Technician must ensure plant electrical and control systems are installed, maintained and modified in accordance with local, state and national electrical safety codes. The Controls Technician must identify, troubleshoot and repair problems in electrical and controls wiring and programming that occur in production equipment and systems and be able to work with voltages up to 600V, three-phase & single-phase A/C circuits, transformers, switchgear, and motor control centers. He/she must be able to run tests, isolate problems, replace faulty sections of wiring, and perform other tasks as necessary. He/she also performs preventive maintenance and upgrades to electronic control systems.
Duties and Responsibilities
- Perform preventive maintenance on electrical and control systems to include disassembly, cleaning, reassembly, and calibration.
- Understand how to read and translate the information found within building and process blueprints and one-line diagrams to install outlets, circuits, load centers and other forms of electrical equipment.
- After installing the electrical equipment, test all connections to ensure all components are working properly and safely.
- Troubleshoot and diagnose electrical and controls issues in industrial equipment and processes using experience, system knowledge and proper instruments appropriate to the voltages and currents encountered.
- Meet and follow local, state and national electrical codes.
- Maintain motor control centers (MCC’s), switchgear, industrial robots, electronic controllers on mechanized tools, as well as transformers and generators.
- Communicate with management, engineers, mechanics, and equipment operators to advise them if there are any potential electrical hazards.
- Install fiber optic cables, coaxial wires and computers in support of plant telecommunications systems.
- Execute the maintenance work schedule as provided by his/her supervisor. Proper execution of the work schedule will require strategic decisions to ensure the scheduled work will be completed within the period scheduled.
- Keep the assigned Plant Controls Specialist informed of all issues which may affect the operational capability of the area processes and equipment.
- Examine jobs to be done and determine scope and best way to accomplish the work. Consult with requester, maintenance planner, and/or supervisor when necessary.
- Obtain one-lines, drawings, instructional manuals and special procedures, as needed, from files or other sources. Make any additional sketches, diagrams, etc., necessary to clarify the intent of the work order.
- Ensure the safety needs are given a top priority in operations support and work execution. Some examples are Arc Flash/Shock Hazard safety, confined space entry, LOTO, hazardous materials, hand tool safe use, etc.
- Update the computerized maintenance management system (CMMS) as necessary to maintain accurate plant asset historical records.
- Have complete knowledge of plant's processes and packaging systems.
- Adhere to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs) in the execution of the work schedule and operational support. Ensure the shop is maintained in a safe and orderly fashion.
- Enforce plant policies in the execution of their assigned duties.
- Protect the integrity and quality of product at all times.
- Attend meetings and support continuous improvement initiatives.
- Recommend equipment to be included in preventive maintenance programs.
- Suggest improvements to all maintenance processes, including planning scheduling, preventive maintenance, corrective maintenance, CMMS, storeroom operations, etc.
- Promote the conservation of energy and water.
- Maintain close contact with assigned maintenance crew, the production supervisor and equipment production operator technicians.
- Make recommendations for system improvement.
- Maintain necessary records and files and distribute meaningful and accurate control reports.
- Recommend additions to storeroom stock.
- Perform other tasks and special assignments as requested by management.
Qualifications
Education:
- High School Diploma or GED; technical mfg. trade, or Associate’s Degree preferred.
Experience:
- High School Diploma or GED; technical mfg. trade, or Associate’s Degree preferred.
- Basic industrial math skills, English language reading comprehension and writing.
- 3-5 Years of manufacturing maintenance experience focused on controls and electronics maintenance preferred.
- Proficiency in controls equipment, i.e. Allen Bradley PLCs, VFDs, HMIs, and Industrial Networks required. Experience with various Human Machine Interfaces.
- Basic Programmable Logic Control (PLC) knowledge required.
- Must be able to use a computer and associated PLC software programs.
- Able to execute small and medium projects involving controls equipment such as SLC 500, Controls Logix, Panel View Plus and Allen Bradley VFDs.
- Ability to follow manufacturers specifications and schematics.
- Working knowledge of hand and power tools.
- Able to read one-line diagrams, blueprints and schematics.
- Ability to read and interpret a variety of technical data, such as schematics, one-line diagrams, and technical orders relating to the electrical trade.
- Able to calculate electrical circuit load requirements.
- Comprehensive knowledge of the operation, capabilities, and limitations of complex electrical power and distribution.
- Maintenance background, which includes hydraulics, controls, electrical, PLC’s, machine tools and pneumatics.
- Skill in troubleshooting electrical problems on large projects and applying test procedures.
- Skill in the use of hand and power tools of the electrician trade to include a variety of electronic, electrical, or electromechanical test and measurement equipment.
- Ability to test, calibrate, troubleshoot, overhaul, repair, and install complete electrical systems.
- May be required to provide own tools.
- Able to lift up to 50 pounds.
- Ability to work on multiple levels, such as catwalks, ladders, etc. and ability to work in extreme temperatures.
- Must have strong problem-solving skills and the ability to work efficiently under stressful situations.
- Must be able to work flexible shift schedules up to 12-hour shifts as determined by business need.
- Perform all tasks in a safe manner to ensure achievement of Quality, Service, Cost, Sustainability, and Safety objectives.
- Knowledge of safety, environmental, and security regulations, practices, and procedures. Knowledge of regulations, procedures, and policies related to records maintenance and documentation.
Applicants with disabilities may be entitled to reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act and certain Texas or local laws. A reasonable accommodation is a change in the way things are normally done which will ensure an equal employment opportunity without imposing undue hardship on Coca-Cola Southwest Beverages. Please inform us at talentacquisition@cocacolaswb.com if you need assistance completing this application or to otherwise participate in the application process.
Coca-Cola Southwest Beverages LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, status as a veteran, and basis of disability or any other federal, state or local protected class.
Req ID: 254455
Job Location: 4800 Houston, TX (NorthPoint)
Work days/Shift Hours – if applicable: 4:00 PM - 4:30 AM / 2-2-3 Flex Schedule.
Compensation
Starting pay ranges from $38.01 to $42.33 per hour, based on experience. Additional earning opportunities may include performance-based incentives, quarterly bonuses, referral bonuses, and comprehensive benefits.
General Purpose
The role of a Controls Technician is to provide competent and effective electrical and controls support to Plant operations. The ability to perform work safely, meet the needs of Operations, execute the maintenance program and comply with all safety codes such as the National Electrical Code is paramount. The Controls Technician must ensure plant electrical and control systems are installed, maintained and modified in accordance with local, state and national electrical safety codes. The Controls Technician must identify, troubleshoot and repair problems in electrical and controls wiring and programming that occur in production equipment and systems and be able to work with voltages up to 600V, three-phase & single-phase A/C circuits, transformers, switchgear, and motor control centers. He/she must be able to run tests, isolate problems, replace faulty sections of wiring, and perform other tasks as necessary. He/she also performs preventive maintenance and upgrades to electronic control systems.
Duties and Responsibilities
- Perform preventive maintenance on electrical and control systems to include disassembly, cleaning, reassembly, and calibration.
- Understand how to read and translate the information found within building and process blueprints and one-line diagrams to install outlets, circuits, load centers and other forms of electrical equipment.
- After installing the electrical equipment, test all connections to ensure all components are working properly and safely.
- Troubleshoot and diagnose electrical and controls issues in industrial equipment and processes using experience, system knowledge and proper instruments appropriate to the voltages and currents encountered.
- Meet and follow local, state and national electrical codes.
- Maintain motor control centers (MCC’s), switchgear, industrial robots, electronic controllers on mechanized tools, as well as transformers and generators.
- Communicate with management, engineers, mechanics, and equipment operators to advise them if there are any potential electrical hazards.
- Install fiber optic cables, coaxial wires and computers in support of plant telecommunications systems.
- Execute the maintenance work schedule as provided by his/her supervisor. Proper execution of the work schedule will require strategic decisions to ensure the scheduled work will be completed within the period scheduled.
- Keep the assigned Plant Controls Specialist informed of all issues which may affect the operational capability of the area processes and equipment.
- Examine jobs to be done and determine scope and best way to accomplish the work. Consult with requester, maintenance planner, and/or supervisor when necessary.
- Obtain one-lines, drawings, instructional manuals and special procedures, as needed, from files or other sources. Make any additional sketches, diagrams, etc., necessary to clarify the intent of the work order.
- Ensure the safety needs are given a top priority in operations support and work execution. Some examples are Arc Flash/Shock Hazard safety, confined space entry, LOTO, hazardous materials, hand tool safe use, etc.
- Update the computerized maintenance management system (CMMS) as necessary to maintain accurate plant asset historical records.
- Have complete knowledge of plant's processes and packaging systems.
- Adhere to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs) in the execution of the work schedule and operational support. Ensure the shop is maintained in a safe and orderly fashion.
- Enforce plant policies in the execution of their assigned duties.
- Protect the integrity and quality of product at all times.
- Attend meetings and support continuous improvement initiatives.
- Recommend equipment to be included in preventive maintenance programs.
- Suggest improvements to all maintenance processes, including planning scheduling, preventive maintenance, corrective maintenance, CMMS, storeroom operations, etc.
- Promote the conservation of energy and water.
- Maintain close contact with assigned maintenance crew, the production supervisor and equipment production operator technicians.
- Make recommendations for system improvement.
- Maintain necessary records and files and distribute meaningful and accurate control reports.
- Recommend additions to storeroom stock.
- Perform other tasks and special assignments as requested by management.
Qualifications
Education:
- High School Diploma or GED; technical mfg. trade, or Associate’s Degree preferred.
Experience:
- High School Diploma or GED; technical mfg. trade, or Associate’s Degree preferred.
- Basic industrial math skills, English language reading comprehension and writing.
- 3-5 Years of manufacturing maintenance experience focused on controls and electronics maintenance preferred.
- Proficiency in controls equipment, i.e. Allen Bradley PLCs, VFDs, HMIs, and Industrial Networks required. Experience with various Human Machine Interfaces.
- Basic Programmable Logic Control (PLC) knowledge required.
- Must be able to use a computer and associated PLC software programs.
- Able to execute small and medium projects involving controls equipment such as SLC 500, Controls Logix, Panel View Plus and Allen Bradley VFDs.
- Ability to follow manufacturers specifications and schematics.
- Working knowledge of hand and power tools.
- Able to read one-line diagrams, blueprints and schematics.
- Ability to read and interpret a variety of technical data, such as schematics, one-line diagrams, and technical orders relating to the electrical trade.
- Able to calculate electrical circuit load requirements.
- Comprehensive knowledge of the operation, capabilities, and limitations of complex electrical power and distribution.
- Maintenance background, which includes hydraulics, controls, electrical, PLC’s, machine tools and pneumatics.
- Skill in troubleshooting electrical problems on large projects and applying test procedures.
- Skill in the use of hand and power tools of the electrician trade to include a variety of electronic, electrical, or electromechanical test and measurement equipment.
- Ability to test, calibrate, troubleshoot, overhaul, repair, and install complete electrical systems.
- May be required to provide own tools.
- Able to lift up to 50 pounds.
- Ability to work on multiple levels, such as catwalks, ladders, etc. and ability to work in extreme temperatures.
- Must have strong problem-solving skills and the ability to work efficiently under stressful situations.
- Must be able to work flexible shift schedules up to 12-hour shifts as determined by business need.
- Perform all tasks in a safe manner to ensure achievement of Quality, Service, Cost, Sustainability, and Safety objectives.
- Knowledge of safety, environmental, and security regulations, practices, and procedures. Knowledge of regulations, procedures, and policies related to records maintenance and documentation.
Applicants with disabilities may be entitled to reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act and certain Texas or local laws. A reasonable accommodation is a change in the way things are normally done which will ensure an equal employment opportunity without imposing undue hardship on Coca-Cola Southwest Beverages. Please inform us at talentacquisition@cocacolaswb.com if you need assistance completing this application or to otherwise participate in the application process.
Coca-Cola Southwest Beverages LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, status as a veteran, and basis of disability or any other federal, state or local protected class.
See all 2,973+ OPT Mechanical Technician Jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new OPT Mechanical Technician Jobs.
Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding OPT Sponsorship as a Mechanical Technician
Target STEM-designated programs
Confirm your degree program has a STEM designation before applying. Mechanical technology and engineering technology programs typically qualify, giving you 36 months of OPT instead of 12. Verify your CIP code with your DSO before job searching.
Lead with your OPT timeline upfront
Disclose your OPT status early in the application process. Employers in manufacturing and aerospace are accustomed to hiring international technicians and will appreciate knowing your authorization period before investing time in interviews.
Emphasize hands-on lab and equipment experience
Hiring managers for mechanical technician roles prioritize practical skills over GPA. Highlight specific machinery, diagnostic tools, or testing equipment you have operated. CAD software proficiency and any quality control certifications strengthen your candidacy significantly.
Pursue roles at companies with active H-1B filings
Companies that have previously sponsored H-1B visas are more likely to continue sponsoring after your OPT expires. Search Department of Labor disclosure data for employers in your target sector who have consistent sponsorship histories in engineering roles.
Get relevant certifications before you apply
Certifications like OSHA 10, Six Sigma Yellow Belt, or manufacturer-specific credentials signal job readiness to employers. They also demonstrate commitment to U.S. industry standards, which matters when a hiring manager is weighing an OPT hire against a local candidate.
Negotiate your start date around OPT approval timing
OPT EAD card processing can take two to three months after your DSO files the I-20. Apply early and communicate realistic start dates to employers. Most engineering teams in manufacturing can accommodate a structured onboarding delay if you set expectations clearly.
Mechanical Technician OPT: Frequently Asked Questions
Does Mechanical Technician work qualify for STEM OPT extension?
It depends on your degree, not the job title. If your mechanical technology or engineering technology degree carries a STEM-designated CIP code, you qualify for the 24-month STEM OPT extension, giving you 36 months total. Confirm your program's designation with your DSO before you accept an offer, because your employer must also be enrolled in E-Verify.
What types of employers typically hire Mechanical Technicians on OPT?
Aerospace manufacturers, automotive companies, energy firms, defense contractors, and industrial equipment makers are the most active hirers of mechanical technicians on OPT. Large companies like Boeing, Lockheed Martin, and General Electric have established international hiring pipelines and are comfortable with OPT work authorization. Smaller precision manufacturing firms also hire OPT students but may have less experience navigating the paperwork.
Where is the best place to find Mechanical Technician jobs that sponsor OPT?
Migrate Mate is the most targeted option for F-1 OPT students. The platform focuses specifically on employers open to sponsoring international candidates, so you are not wasting applications on roles where OPT is a dealbreaker. Filtering by STEM-eligible roles on Migrate Mate also helps you prioritize opportunities with the strongest long-term visa pathway.
Can I work as a Mechanical Technician on pre-completion OPT while still finishing my degree?
Yes, but you are limited to 20 hours per week during the academic term on pre-completion OPT. Most full-time mechanical technician positions will not accommodate that restriction, so this option works best for part-time, contract, or co-op arrangements. Post-completion OPT removes the hour limit and is what most employers expect when hiring for full-time roles.
Does Mechanical Technician experience count toward the H-1B specialty occupation requirement?
It can, but the role must require a bachelor's degree in a specific technical field as a minimum requirement, not just as a preference. Technician-level positions sometimes fall short of that bar if the job description allows non-degree candidates. Work with an immigration attorney to evaluate whether your specific role and employer's job requirements would support an H-1B petition before your OPT expires.