OPT Principal Solutions Engineer Jobs
Principal Solutions Engineer roles sit at the intersection of deep technical expertise and enterprise sales, making them strong candidates for OPT sponsorship. Most employers file H-1B visa petitions for this title. Your 12-month OPT window, extendable to 36 months with a STEM extension, gives you meaningful runway to prove your value.
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Get Access To All JobsJob Posting End Date
08-16-2026
Please note the job posting will close on the day before the posting end date.
Job Summary
The role involves establishing an advanced understanding of the technologies and processes necessary for the development and support of Operational Technology (OT) Real Time tools and systems. Responsibilities include providing application support for Energy Management Systems (EMS) and Supervisory Control & Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems, as well as other applications utilized in Transmission Control Centers.
Key tasks involve leading efforts to plan, research, and evaluate patching, failover, and maintenance activities required for OT Real Time systems, while developing a comprehensive understanding of EMS and SCADA functionalities. The position also includes developing and maintaining best practices for application development and participating in the creation of technical documentation to support RealTime applications. A strong emphasis on adaptability, customer needs, and continuous improvement is essential for effectively supporting Real Time systems.
What you’ll do:
- Architect and own OT platform solutions for EMS (primary), SCADA, and ADMS, with a strong focus on the OSI Monarch EMS platform, driving system enhancements, architectural integrity, and real‑time operational reliability.
- Manage EMS platform vendor relationships and third‑party integrations, serving as the primary technical interface with AspenTech/OSI; coordinate vendor support, influence roadmap direction, and lead enablement of new EMS features and advanced applications.
- Define and enforce platform best practices for availability, backup, disaster recovery, and performance optimization, including configuration and support of EMS data archives (PI, OSI Chronus).
- Lead cross‑functional technical efforts to deliver EMS platform capabilities and services, while supporting controlled SCADA/EMS software upgrades, patching, and modernization initiatives across the real‑time OT environment.
- Partner with real‑time operations teams and Business Units to understand operational end needs, and translate those needs into EMS platform capabilities, standards, configurations, and reusable services, while retaining platform ownership within OT rather than BU‑specific solution delivery.
- Evaluate emerging EMS, SCADA, ADMS, and OT technologies through platform‑level analysis to assess operational impact, risk, and long‑term alignment with EMS platform strategy.
- Investigate, troubleshoot, and resolve complex EMS/SCADA platform issues, serving as a senior escalation point for application failures and performance issues, while providing guidance to less experienced employees on log analysis and root‑cause troubleshooting.
- Configure platform monitoring and develop repeatable automation using PowerShell, Batch, and Python to deploy configuration changes, patches, and updates consistently across EMS and SCADA servers.
- Analyze logs and application/system monitors proactively to identify potential issues and develop mitigation strategies that improve platform stability and reduce operational impact.
- Conduct routine backups and periodic restoration testing to validate recovery readiness and maintain documented emergency restoration and disaster recovery procedures for EMS and SCADA platforms.
- Coordinate with teams and business process owners to schedule and administer patches, updates, and server configuration changes to minimize downtime, while providing after‑hours support as part of an on‑call rotation for critical EMS platform incidents.
What we’re looking for:
EMS (Energy Management System) Highly preferred.
Real Time Operations Solution Engineer Principal SG9
Education & Experience
- Bachelor’s degree in a related field with 6 years of relevant experience
- Or Associate’s degree in a related field with 8 years of relevant experience
- Or High school diploma/GED with 10 years of relevant experience
Real Time Operations Solution Engineer Lead SG10
Education & Experience
- Bachelor’s degree in a related field with 8 years of relevant experience
- Or associate’s degree in a related field with 10 years of relevant experience
- Or High school diploma/GED with 12 years of relevant experience
Related Fields for Education and Experience:
- IT/OT System Administration
- IT/OT Application Support
- Cyber Security
- ADMS/DMA/EMS/OMS/SCADA
Note: Professional certifications (such as A+, Network+, CCNA, CCNP, Cyber Security+, Security+, and CCSP) may be accepted as substitutes for a portion of the required experience.
Additional Requirements
Overtime, on-call assignments, and occasional travel may be required.
Where you’ll work:
This role sits on site in New Albany, Ohio.
What you’ll get:
Real Time Operations Solution Engineer Principal SG9 ($116,255-$151,132)
Real Time Operations Solution Engineer Lead SG10 ($136,539-$177,503)
In addition to competitive compensation, AEP offers a unique comprehensive benefits package that aims to support and enhance the overall well-being of our employees.
Where Putting the Customer First Powers Everything We Do
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!
American Electric Power (On-Site)
$116K- $177K / Year
#LI-Onsite
#AEPCareers
Compensation Data
Compensation Grade:
SP20-009
Compensation Range:
$116,255.00 - $177,503.00
The Physical Demand Level for this job is: S – Sedentary Work: Exerting up to 10 pounds of force occasionally (Occasionally: activity or condition exists up to 1/3 of the time) and/or a negligible amount of force frequently. (Frequently: activity or condition exists from 1/3 to 2/3 of the time) to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects, including the human body. Sedentary work involves sitting most of the time but may involve walking or standing for brief periods of time. Jobs are sedentary if walking and standing are required only occasionally, and all other sedentary criteria are met.
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
08-16-2026
Please note the job posting will close on the day before the posting end date.
Job Summary
The role involves establishing an advanced understanding of the technologies and processes necessary for the development and support of Operational Technology (OT) Real Time tools and systems. Responsibilities include providing application support for Energy Management Systems (EMS) and Supervisory Control & Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems, as well as other applications utilized in Transmission Control Centers.
Key tasks involve leading efforts to plan, research, and evaluate patching, failover, and maintenance activities required for OT Real Time systems, while developing a comprehensive understanding of EMS and SCADA functionalities. The position also includes developing and maintaining best practices for application development and participating in the creation of technical documentation to support RealTime applications. A strong emphasis on adaptability, customer needs, and continuous improvement is essential for effectively supporting Real Time systems.
What you’ll do:
- Architect and own OT platform solutions for EMS (primary), SCADA, and ADMS, with a strong focus on the OSI Monarch EMS platform, driving system enhancements, architectural integrity, and real‑time operational reliability.
- Manage EMS platform vendor relationships and third‑party integrations, serving as the primary technical interface with AspenTech/OSI; coordinate vendor support, influence roadmap direction, and lead enablement of new EMS features and advanced applications.
- Define and enforce platform best practices for availability, backup, disaster recovery, and performance optimization, including configuration and support of EMS data archives (PI, OSI Chronus).
- Lead cross‑functional technical efforts to deliver EMS platform capabilities and services, while supporting controlled SCADA/EMS software upgrades, patching, and modernization initiatives across the real‑time OT environment.
- Partner with real‑time operations teams and Business Units to understand operational end needs, and translate those needs into EMS platform capabilities, standards, configurations, and reusable services, while retaining platform ownership within OT rather than BU‑specific solution delivery.
- Evaluate emerging EMS, SCADA, ADMS, and OT technologies through platform‑level analysis to assess operational impact, risk, and long‑term alignment with EMS platform strategy.
- Investigate, troubleshoot, and resolve complex EMS/SCADA platform issues, serving as a senior escalation point for application failures and performance issues, while providing guidance to less experienced employees on log analysis and root‑cause troubleshooting.
- Configure platform monitoring and develop repeatable automation using PowerShell, Batch, and Python to deploy configuration changes, patches, and updates consistently across EMS and SCADA servers.
- Analyze logs and application/system monitors proactively to identify potential issues and develop mitigation strategies that improve platform stability and reduce operational impact.
- Conduct routine backups and periodic restoration testing to validate recovery readiness and maintain documented emergency restoration and disaster recovery procedures for EMS and SCADA platforms.
- Coordinate with teams and business process owners to schedule and administer patches, updates, and server configuration changes to minimize downtime, while providing after‑hours support as part of an on‑call rotation for critical EMS platform incidents.
What we’re looking for:
EMS (Energy Management System) Highly preferred.
Real Time Operations Solution Engineer Principal SG9
Education & Experience
- Bachelor’s degree in a related field with 6 years of relevant experience
- Or Associate’s degree in a related field with 8 years of relevant experience
- Or High school diploma/GED with 10 years of relevant experience
Real Time Operations Solution Engineer Lead SG10
Education & Experience
- Bachelor’s degree in a related field with 8 years of relevant experience
- Or associate’s degree in a related field with 10 years of relevant experience
- Or High school diploma/GED with 12 years of relevant experience
Related Fields for Education and Experience:
- IT/OT System Administration
- IT/OT Application Support
- Cyber Security
- ADMS/DMA/EMS/OMS/SCADA
Note: Professional certifications (such as A+, Network+, CCNA, CCNP, Cyber Security+, Security+, and CCSP) may be accepted as substitutes for a portion of the required experience.
Additional Requirements
Overtime, on-call assignments, and occasional travel may be required.
Where you’ll work:
This role sits on site in New Albany, Ohio.
What you’ll get:
Real Time Operations Solution Engineer Principal SG9 ($116,255-$151,132)
Real Time Operations Solution Engineer Lead SG10 ($136,539-$177,503)
In addition to competitive compensation, AEP offers a unique comprehensive benefits package that aims to support and enhance the overall well-being of our employees.
Where Putting the Customer First Powers Everything We Do
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!
American Electric Power (On-Site)
$116K- $177K / Year
#LI-Onsite
#AEPCareers
Compensation Data
Compensation Grade:
SP20-009
Compensation Range:
$116,255.00 - $177,503.00
The Physical Demand Level for this job is: S – Sedentary Work: Exerting up to 10 pounds of force occasionally (Occasionally: activity or condition exists up to 1/3 of the time) and/or a negligible amount of force frequently. (Frequently: activity or condition exists from 1/3 to 2/3 of the time) to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects, including the human body. Sedentary work involves sitting most of the time but may involve walking or standing for brief periods of time. Jobs are sedentary if walking and standing are required only occasionally, and all other sedentary criteria are met.
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 179+ OPT Principal Solutions Engineer Jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new OPT Principal Solutions Engineer Jobs.
Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding OPT Sponsorship as a Principal Solutions Engineer
Target employers with a STEM OPT track record
Large enterprise software and cloud infrastructure companies sponsor solutions engineers consistently. Search OFLC disclosure data for H-1B visa filings under this job title to identify which employers have an active sponsorship history before you apply.
Frame your degree as a technical differentiator
Principal Solutions Engineers typically need a bachelor's degree in computer science, engineering, or a related field. Emphasize how your technical degree directly supports your ability to architect solutions, not just present them, during interviews.
Apply before your OPT clock runs short
Employers sponsoring a Principal Solutions Engineer need lead time to file an LCA and H-1B petition. Start your search at least six months before your OPT expires so the transition timeline works for both sides.
Negotiate the sponsorship conversation early
Bring up OPT status and sponsorship intent during recruiter screening, not after an offer. Employers with established immigration programs expect this conversation and will not withdraw interest from a qualified candidate who asks directly.
Lean into your pre-sales and technical proof-of-concept experience
Demonstrable experience running technical evaluations, building demos, or closing enterprise deals with engineering support is what separates candidates at the principal level. Quantify outcomes: deals influenced, proof-of-concept conversion rates, or accounts expanded.
Use your STEM OPT extension strategically
If your degree is in a qualifying STEM field, apply for the 24-month extension before your initial OPT expires. This gives you up to three H-1B lottery cycles, significantly improving your odds of securing long-term sponsorship.
Principal Solutions Engineer OPT: Frequently Asked Questions
Can F-1 OPT students work as Principal Solutions Engineers in the United States?
Yes. F-1 students authorized for OPT can work as Principal Solutions Engineers without any additional employer filing during the OPT period. The role qualifies because it directly relates to technical and engineering degree fields. If your degree is in a STEM discipline, you may also be eligible for a 24-month extension beyond your initial 12-month authorization.
Do Principal Solutions Engineer roles typically lead to H-1B sponsorship?
Principal Solutions Engineer is a specialty occupation under USCIS guidelines, which means it meets the degree requirement threshold for H-1B eligibility. Enterprise software, cloud, and infrastructure companies routinely sponsor this title. The senior level of the role also makes a stronger case to USCIS than entry-level equivalents, since the complexity and specialization are well documented.
What degree fields support an OPT authorization for this role?
Computer science, computer engineering, electrical engineering, information systems, and applied mathematics are the most common qualifying fields. Some employers have successfully supported Principal Solutions Engineers with degrees in physics or mechanical engineering where the work involves technical systems design. Your degree must have a direct connection to the job duties, which is typically straightforward for this title.
How do I find Principal Solutions Engineer jobs that are open to OPT candidates?
Migrate Mate filters job listings by visa sponsorship willingness, so you can browse Principal Solutions Engineer openings from employers who have already indicated they work with OPT and H-1B candidates. This saves significant time compared to applying broadly and discovering sponsorship limitations late in the process.
Does the 60-day grace period apply if I lose a Principal Solutions Engineer job while on OPT?
Yes. If your employment ends before your OPT authorization expires, you have a 60-day grace period to find a new position, transfer to a different visa status, or depart the United States. Any new role must still fall within your authorized field of study. Staying within the solutions engineering or technical pre-sales space generally satisfies this requirement.