OPT Project Architect Jobs
Project Architect jobs on OPT require strong design portfolio work and demonstrated project management experience. Most roles qualify as specialty occupations under F-1 OPT, supporting STEM OPT extension eligibility for architecture graduates. Firms actively sponsor H-1B visas for licensed or license-track architects, making this one of the stronger visa pathways in the built environment.
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Dallas, Texas, United States
ABOUT THE JOB
At Jacobs, we're challenging today to reinvent tomorrow by solving the world's most critical problems for thriving cities, resilient environments, mission-critical outcomes, operational advancement, scientific discovery and cutting-edge manufacturing, turning abstract ideas into realities that transform the world for good.
YOUR IMPACT
We share a common purpose – to make the world more connected and sustainable. And we’re excited about the innovative ways we can change the world. We design some of the most complex facilities being constructed today from conceptualization through construction support. Project delivery strategies include design/bid/build, design/build, and Integrated Project Delivery, and are often highly collaborative with the client, general contractor, and trade partners. The key to our success is our culture of continuous improvement, innovation, team-oriented work practices, inclusion and diversity, and respect for everyone. If you are up for the challenge and interested in turning abstract ideas into realities that transform the world for good, then Jacobs is where you belong.
We are looking for a passionate and dedicated Project Architect based out of Dallas, Texas. As an Architectural Professional, part of our Cities and Places team, you will be an integral member of a multi-disciplinary design team bringing together design, technical excellence, digital innovation, and project leadership. You’ll play a key part in delivering complex architecture projects from concept through construction. Project delivery strategies include design/bid/build, design build, and Integrated Project Delivery, and are often highly collaborative with the client, general contractor, and trade partners. You’ll have the opportunity to shape the built environment across the world’s most dynamic markets.
WHAT YOU’LL DO
- Responsible for collaborating on design projects; brainstorm project ideas, complete design drawings in AutoCAD and Revit, assist in ensuring SOW documents are completed and coordinated
- Develop workplans for completing the production of the projects, creating unique production solutions to communicate the drawings, specifications and basis of design documents required for the project
- Coordinate project details and specifications, collaborating with engineers, designers, and technical experts to produce beautiful, efficient, custom buildings and interiors to meet the client needs
- Communicate with involved parties; with contractors to monitor the progress of a project, with clients as well, noting their requests, answering their questions and sending them project updates
- Develop detailed plans and shop drawings using Autodesk AutoCAD and Revit
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Architecture
- Licensed Registered Architect (U.S.) with an ability to obtain reciprocal licenses
- Minimum 4 years of progressive architectural experience, including experience leading complex projects
- Proficiency in Revit, Bluebeam and BIM workflows
- Experience in several project delivery environments
- Strong understanding of building codes, construction methods, lifesafety responsibilities
- Experience coordinating within multidisciplinary design teams
- Strong communication, documentation, and material assessment skills
- Builds relationships with project managers, clients, and internal discipline leaders
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Design sensibility combined with technical expertise
- Experience detailing complex building assemblies
- Experience with facility fire, thermal, acoustical, air, security barriers and their interface and priority
- Experience with discipline scopes and schedules in the building design production process
- Experience with sustainable design frameworks (LEED, WELL, Envision, etc.)
- Familiarity with digital design tools such as Rhino, Enscape, Navisworks, or similar
COMPENSATION
- Posted Salary Range: Minimum $100,000.00
- Posted Salary Range: Upper $135,000.00
Our health and welfare benefits are designed to invest in you, and in the things you care about. Your health. Your well-being. Your security. Your future. Employees have access to medical, dental, vision, and basic life insurance, a 401(k) plan, and the ability to purchase company stock at a discount. Eligible employees may also enroll in a deferred compensation plan or the Executive Deferral Plan. Jacobs has an unlimited U.S. Personalized Paid Time Off (PPTO) policy for full-time salaried/exempt employees, seven paid holidays, and caregiver leave. And certain roles may be eligible for additional rewards, including merit increases, performance discretionary bonus, and stock.
The base salary range for this position is $100,000.00 to $135,000.00. Within the range, individual pay is determined by work location and additional factors, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. Job posted on October 15, 2026. This position will be open for at least 3 days.
We value collaboration and believe that in-person interactions are crucial for both our culture and client delivery. We empower employees with our hybrid working policy, allowing them to split their work week between Jacobs offices/projects and remote locations enabling them to deliver their best work.
Your application experience is important to us, and we’re keen to adapt to make every interaction even better. If you require further support or reasonable adjustments with regards to the recruitment process (for example, you require the application form in a different format), please contact the team via Careers Support.
LOCATION
Dallas, Texas, United States
ABOUT THE JOB
At Jacobs, we're challenging today to reinvent tomorrow by solving the world's most critical problems for thriving cities, resilient environments, mission-critical outcomes, operational advancement, scientific discovery and cutting-edge manufacturing, turning abstract ideas into realities that transform the world for good.
YOUR IMPACT
We share a common purpose – to make the world more connected and sustainable. And we’re excited about the innovative ways we can change the world. We design some of the most complex facilities being constructed today from conceptualization through construction support. Project delivery strategies include design/bid/build, design/build, and Integrated Project Delivery, and are often highly collaborative with the client, general contractor, and trade partners. The key to our success is our culture of continuous improvement, innovation, team-oriented work practices, inclusion and diversity, and respect for everyone. If you are up for the challenge and interested in turning abstract ideas into realities that transform the world for good, then Jacobs is where you belong.
We are looking for a passionate and dedicated Project Architect based out of Dallas, Texas. As an Architectural Professional, part of our Cities and Places team, you will be an integral member of a multi-disciplinary design team bringing together design, technical excellence, digital innovation, and project leadership. You’ll play a key part in delivering complex architecture projects from concept through construction. Project delivery strategies include design/bid/build, design build, and Integrated Project Delivery, and are often highly collaborative with the client, general contractor, and trade partners. You’ll have the opportunity to shape the built environment across the world’s most dynamic markets.
WHAT YOU’LL DO
- Responsible for collaborating on design projects; brainstorm project ideas, complete design drawings in AutoCAD and Revit, assist in ensuring SOW documents are completed and coordinated
- Develop workplans for completing the production of the projects, creating unique production solutions to communicate the drawings, specifications and basis of design documents required for the project
- Coordinate project details and specifications, collaborating with engineers, designers, and technical experts to produce beautiful, efficient, custom buildings and interiors to meet the client needs
- Communicate with involved parties; with contractors to monitor the progress of a project, with clients as well, noting their requests, answering their questions and sending them project updates
- Develop detailed plans and shop drawings using Autodesk AutoCAD and Revit
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Architecture
- Licensed Registered Architect (U.S.) with an ability to obtain reciprocal licenses
- Minimum 4 years of progressive architectural experience, including experience leading complex projects
- Proficiency in Revit, Bluebeam and BIM workflows
- Experience in several project delivery environments
- Strong understanding of building codes, construction methods, lifesafety responsibilities
- Experience coordinating within multidisciplinary design teams
- Strong communication, documentation, and material assessment skills
- Builds relationships with project managers, clients, and internal discipline leaders
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
- Design sensibility combined with technical expertise
- Experience detailing complex building assemblies
- Experience with facility fire, thermal, acoustical, air, security barriers and their interface and priority
- Experience with discipline scopes and schedules in the building design production process
- Experience with sustainable design frameworks (LEED, WELL, Envision, etc.)
- Familiarity with digital design tools such as Rhino, Enscape, Navisworks, or similar
COMPENSATION
- Posted Salary Range: Minimum $100,000.00
- Posted Salary Range: Upper $135,000.00
Our health and welfare benefits are designed to invest in you, and in the things you care about. Your health. Your well-being. Your security. Your future. Employees have access to medical, dental, vision, and basic life insurance, a 401(k) plan, and the ability to purchase company stock at a discount. Eligible employees may also enroll in a deferred compensation plan or the Executive Deferral Plan. Jacobs has an unlimited U.S. Personalized Paid Time Off (PPTO) policy for full-time salaried/exempt employees, seven paid holidays, and caregiver leave. And certain roles may be eligible for additional rewards, including merit increases, performance discretionary bonus, and stock.
The base salary range for this position is $100,000.00 to $135,000.00. Within the range, individual pay is determined by work location and additional factors, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. Job posted on October 15, 2026. This position will be open for at least 3 days.
We value collaboration and believe that in-person interactions are crucial for both our culture and client delivery. We empower employees with our hybrid working policy, allowing them to split their work week between Jacobs offices/projects and remote locations enabling them to deliver their best work.
Your application experience is important to us, and we’re keen to adapt to make every interaction even better. If you require further support or reasonable adjustments with regards to the recruitment process (for example, you require the application form in a different format), please contact the team via Careers Support.
See all OPT Project Architect Jobs
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Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding OPT Sponsorship in Project Architect
Target firms with a history of H-1B sponsorship
Architecture firms that have sponsored H-1B visas before are far more likely to do it again. Search OFLC disclosure data to verify a firm's sponsorship history before investing time in their application process.
Get your ARE progress on your resume
Firms evaluating OPT candidates want to see a clear path to licensure. List the divisions you've passed and your target completion timeline. It signals long-term commitment and makes sponsorship feel like a lower-risk investment.
Clarify your OPT timeline upfront
Project Architect roles involve long project cycles. Hiring managers need to know how much time you have on OPT and whether STEM extension applies. Addressing this early prevents late-stage surprises that kill offers.
Prioritize mid-size firms over large studios
Mid-size architecture firms often sponsor more readily than large corporate studios with rigid HR policies. They move faster, give OPT candidates real project ownership sooner, and are more willing to invest in retaining strong performers.
Lead with your software and delivery skills
Revit proficiency, BIM coordination experience, and construction documents expertise are the skills that make Project Architect candidates immediately billable. Firms weigh sponsorship costs against your ability to contribute from day one.
Negotiate the H-1B filing timeline before accepting
Before signing an offer, confirm exactly when the firm plans to file your H-1B petition. The April lottery deadline is fixed. If your OPT expires before October 1, a cap-gap or STEM extension bridge strategy needs to be in place.
Project Architect OPT: Frequently Asked Questions
Can I work as a Project Architect on F-1 OPT without being a licensed architect?
Yes. The Project Architect title does not require an active license in most states during OPT. Firms commonly hire unlicensed candidates who are in the ARE process and supervise their work under a licensed principal. Your architecture degree is what establishes OPT eligibility, not your licensure status.
Does a Project Architect role qualify for STEM OPT extension?
Architecture programs accredited by NAAB are classified under CIP code 04.0201, which is listed on the STEM Designated Degree Program list. If your degree is from a qualifying program, you're eligible to apply for the 24-month STEM OPT extension, giving you up to three years of total OPT work authorization.
What type of employers sponsor H-1B visas for Project Architects?
Mid-size and large architecture firms, multidisciplinary design studios, real estate developers with in-house design teams, and construction management firms with integrated architecture practices all sponsor H-1B visas for Project Architects. To find firms actively hiring OPT candidates in this role, browse Migrate Mate, which focuses specifically on visa-sponsoring employers.
How does the Project Architect role qualify as a specialty occupation for H-1B purposes?
A specialty occupation requires a bachelor's degree or higher in a specific field as a minimum entry requirement for the role. Architecture clearly meets this standard, and USCIS has consistently approved H-1B petitions for architecture positions. Your employer will need a certified Labor Condition Application and must demonstrate the role requires at minimum a bachelor's in architecture or a related field.
What happens to my OPT authorization if the firm delays my H-1B filing?
If your employer misses the April H-1B lottery registration window, you cannot be selected for that fiscal year. If your OPT expires before the following October 1 start date, you'll need to either have a valid STEM OPT extension bridging the gap or leave the country. Confirming the filing plan before accepting an offer is essential.