OPT Project Controls Engineer Jobs
Project Controls Engineer jobs are well-suited for F-1 OPT students with degrees in engineering, construction management, or related fields. Most roles qualify as STEM OPT positions, giving you up to 36 months of work authorization. Employers in construction, energy, and infrastructure regularly sponsor H-1B visas for this role.
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Get Access To All JobsWhat We Are Looking For (Overview):
The Equipment and Controls Technician (E&C Tech) position can be based out of a Kinder Morgan Southern Natural Gas (SNG) location in the South Georgia / North Florida system including but not limited to Hilliard, Lake City, and Jacksonville in Florida. The E&C Tech supports Kinder Morgan’s Southern Natural Gas (SNG) Hilliard station in Florida and our Georgia stations in Riceboro, Brookman, and Rincon near Savannah. This is a Monday through Friday position with on-call responsibilities nights and weekends. Kinder Morgan offers a robust benefits package including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, two retirement plans, paid holidays, and paid time off. Kinder Morgan is one of the largest energy infrastructure companies in North America.
To be considered for our Eastern Georgia, Northeast Florida E&C Tech job click on Apply Now to sign in or create an account to upload your resume. This is a great opportunity if you are an experienced Senior or Industrial Electrician, Electrical and Controls Technician, Electrical and Instrumentation Technician (E&I Tech), Engineer, Electric Technician, Compression Technician, Instruments and Electric Tech, or similar. Experience working with equipment manufactured by Caterpillar Solar Turbines is a plus.
This position can be located at one of Kinder Morgan’s SNG locations in the South Georgia / North Florida system including but not limited to Hilliard, Lake City, and Jacksonville in Florida; Riceboro, Rincon or Brookman Compressor Stations in Georgia.
What You Will Do (Responsibilities):
E&C Primary Purpose:
Implements and maintains electrical power circuits and equipment, control and automation systems, electronic and pneumatic equipment used in pipeline, compressor stations, terminals, pump stations, plant operations and measurement facilities.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
- Duties include installing, inspecting, maintaining, operating, troubleshooting, repairing and calibrating various mechanical, pneumatic, hydraulic, electrical and electronic equipment, and completing all appropriate documentation associated with the duties.
- Perform preventative maintenance checks on pumps, compressors, drivers, and auxiliary equipment.
- Performs Inspection and Maintenance (I&M) checks on all control systems.
- Identify, report, and correct safety and environmental concerns.
- Perform all work in compliance with Company standards, procedures, and regulatory and tariff requirements.
- Demonstrate performance toward operational excellence.
- Mentor fellow employees when the opportunity presents itself.
- Maintain electrical switch gear and power distribution.
- Perform advanced engine/compressor/pump analytical testing. Lead efforts to develop and implement changes because of the analytical testing.
- Assist Corrosion and Engineering personnel with the evaluation / development / implementation / maintenance of facility grounding systems.
- Install, analyze and repair security/intrusion systems.
- Responsible for the general upkeep and maintenance of all facilities and equipment as needed.
- Oversee the construction and/or maintenance activities performed by third parties.
- Other duties as assigned.
Our E&C Techs come to Kinder Morgan with a variety of backgrounds. So whether you received your mechanical and electrical training while serving our Country in the military or while working in the private sector with motors, VFDs, PLCs, and Automatic Transfer Switches we encourage you to consider continuing your career as an Equipment and Controls Technician with Kinder Morgan.
What You Need (Qualifications):
Educational Requirements:
- Two-year Associate Degree in job related technical training or equivalent work experience.
Experience / Specific Knowledge:
- Working knowledge of National Electric Codes.
- Proficient with electronic test instruments.
- Knowledge of process controls and gas processing fundamentals.
- Knowledge and experience preparing drawings of electrical circuits.
- Knowledge and experience reading and interpreting electrical and mechanical blueprints and diagrams.
- Knowledge and experience applying and interpreting results from common electrical measurement instruments (voltmeter, ammeter, ohmmeter, oscilloscope, etc).
- Knowledge of company policies and practices, and regulatory and tariff requirements.
Certifications, Licenses, Registrations:
- Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license and a driving record satisfactory to the company and its insurers.
- May be required to possess a commercial driver’s license, drive a company commercial vehicle and comply with all commercial vehicle regulations.
- May be required to achieve and maintain certifications as required to perform job duties.
Competencies, Skills, and Abilities:
- Must respond to, and address, callouts and emergencies (within 45 minutes) during and after regular business hours including after dark hours, which require carrying a communication device.
- Travel will be required. The position is part of an Operations Team that covers operations from Rincon, GA down to Hilliard, FL. Travel will be required to support those operations as needed, with some overnight travel possible. Infrequent travel out of town for training or project meetings will also be required.
- Overtime may be required and is anticipated.
- Job planning and prioritizing.
- Intermediate computer skills (knowledge of MS Office, operating systems, company software).
- Basic math skills (addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, fractions, decimals).
- Good verbal and written communication skills.
- Customer focus.
- Ability to work with a team, take direction from supervisors, keep required work schedules, focus attention on details, and follow work rules.
Working Conditions / Physical Demands:
- Must be able to withstand extreme weather conditions.
- Must be able to frequently enter confined spaces, climb to and work from elevated platforms, excavated areas, ladders, stairwells, walkways, etc.
- Must be able to lift a minimum of 20 pounds in awkward positions, and ability to lift 50 pounds from floor to waist (occasional).
- May work in low-lit areas.
- Be available for shift work when applicable.
Preferred Experience, Skills and Knowledge
- 5 years’ experience in operating and maintaining treating plants and compressors.
- Knowledge and experience in safe handling practices of flammable gases, liquids and high-pressure systems.
- Knowledge and experience with electronic equipment, high pressure gas, processing equipment, pumps and reciprocating or gas turbine engines and compressors. Particular knowledge and experience working with equipment manufactured by Solar Turbines is a plus.
- Knowledge of Wonderware software.
- Computer skills: Proficient in MS Office: Word, Excel, And Outlook. Experience with various operation systems and other company specific software; Asset Management Software (Maximo), Incident Management Systems (IMPACT), Learning Management Systems (LMS), etc.
- Mathematical skills: Proficient in addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, fractions, and decimals.
The above statements describe the general nature and level of work being performed. This position may perform other duties as assigned. Job level commensurate with experience and skill sets. The successful candidate will be required to clear a drug screen and a complete background check, after an offer has been extended and prior to being employed.
Why Join Kinder Morgan:
Kinder Morgan is a large energy infrastructure company operating in North America. Access to reliable, affordable energy is a critical component for improving lives around the world. We are committed to providing energy transportation and storage services in a safe, efficient, and environmentally responsible manner for the benefit of the people, communities, and businesses we serve.
Kinder Morgan provides equal employment opportunity to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, childbirth and related medical conditions, gender (including gender identity and expression), sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, marital status, military or veteran status, family status, status as an individual authorized to work in the U.S., or any other status protected by law.
What We Are Looking For (Overview):
The Equipment and Controls Technician (E&C Tech) position can be based out of a Kinder Morgan Southern Natural Gas (SNG) location in the South Georgia / North Florida system including but not limited to Hilliard, Lake City, and Jacksonville in Florida. The E&C Tech supports Kinder Morgan’s Southern Natural Gas (SNG) Hilliard station in Florida and our Georgia stations in Riceboro, Brookman, and Rincon near Savannah. This is a Monday through Friday position with on-call responsibilities nights and weekends. Kinder Morgan offers a robust benefits package including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, two retirement plans, paid holidays, and paid time off. Kinder Morgan is one of the largest energy infrastructure companies in North America.
To be considered for our Eastern Georgia, Northeast Florida E&C Tech job click on Apply Now to sign in or create an account to upload your resume. This is a great opportunity if you are an experienced Senior or Industrial Electrician, Electrical and Controls Technician, Electrical and Instrumentation Technician (E&I Tech), Engineer, Electric Technician, Compression Technician, Instruments and Electric Tech, or similar. Experience working with equipment manufactured by Caterpillar Solar Turbines is a plus.
This position can be located at one of Kinder Morgan’s SNG locations in the South Georgia / North Florida system including but not limited to Hilliard, Lake City, and Jacksonville in Florida; Riceboro, Rincon or Brookman Compressor Stations in Georgia.
What You Will Do (Responsibilities):
E&C Primary Purpose:
Implements and maintains electrical power circuits and equipment, control and automation systems, electronic and pneumatic equipment used in pipeline, compressor stations, terminals, pump stations, plant operations and measurement facilities.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
- Duties include installing, inspecting, maintaining, operating, troubleshooting, repairing and calibrating various mechanical, pneumatic, hydraulic, electrical and electronic equipment, and completing all appropriate documentation associated with the duties.
- Perform preventative maintenance checks on pumps, compressors, drivers, and auxiliary equipment.
- Performs Inspection and Maintenance (I&M) checks on all control systems.
- Identify, report, and correct safety and environmental concerns.
- Perform all work in compliance with Company standards, procedures, and regulatory and tariff requirements.
- Demonstrate performance toward operational excellence.
- Mentor fellow employees when the opportunity presents itself.
- Maintain electrical switch gear and power distribution.
- Perform advanced engine/compressor/pump analytical testing. Lead efforts to develop and implement changes because of the analytical testing.
- Assist Corrosion and Engineering personnel with the evaluation / development / implementation / maintenance of facility grounding systems.
- Install, analyze and repair security/intrusion systems.
- Responsible for the general upkeep and maintenance of all facilities and equipment as needed.
- Oversee the construction and/or maintenance activities performed by third parties.
- Other duties as assigned.
Our E&C Techs come to Kinder Morgan with a variety of backgrounds. So whether you received your mechanical and electrical training while serving our Country in the military or while working in the private sector with motors, VFDs, PLCs, and Automatic Transfer Switches we encourage you to consider continuing your career as an Equipment and Controls Technician with Kinder Morgan.
What You Need (Qualifications):
Educational Requirements:
- Two-year Associate Degree in job related technical training or equivalent work experience.
Experience / Specific Knowledge:
- Working knowledge of National Electric Codes.
- Proficient with electronic test instruments.
- Knowledge of process controls and gas processing fundamentals.
- Knowledge and experience preparing drawings of electrical circuits.
- Knowledge and experience reading and interpreting electrical and mechanical blueprints and diagrams.
- Knowledge and experience applying and interpreting results from common electrical measurement instruments (voltmeter, ammeter, ohmmeter, oscilloscope, etc).
- Knowledge of company policies and practices, and regulatory and tariff requirements.
Certifications, Licenses, Registrations:
- Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license and a driving record satisfactory to the company and its insurers.
- May be required to possess a commercial driver’s license, drive a company commercial vehicle and comply with all commercial vehicle regulations.
- May be required to achieve and maintain certifications as required to perform job duties.
Competencies, Skills, and Abilities:
- Must respond to, and address, callouts and emergencies (within 45 minutes) during and after regular business hours including after dark hours, which require carrying a communication device.
- Travel will be required. The position is part of an Operations Team that covers operations from Rincon, GA down to Hilliard, FL. Travel will be required to support those operations as needed, with some overnight travel possible. Infrequent travel out of town for training or project meetings will also be required.
- Overtime may be required and is anticipated.
- Job planning and prioritizing.
- Intermediate computer skills (knowledge of MS Office, operating systems, company software).
- Basic math skills (addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, fractions, decimals).
- Good verbal and written communication skills.
- Customer focus.
- Ability to work with a team, take direction from supervisors, keep required work schedules, focus attention on details, and follow work rules.
Working Conditions / Physical Demands:
- Must be able to withstand extreme weather conditions.
- Must be able to frequently enter confined spaces, climb to and work from elevated platforms, excavated areas, ladders, stairwells, walkways, etc.
- Must be able to lift a minimum of 20 pounds in awkward positions, and ability to lift 50 pounds from floor to waist (occasional).
- May work in low-lit areas.
- Be available for shift work when applicable.
Preferred Experience, Skills and Knowledge
- 5 years’ experience in operating and maintaining treating plants and compressors.
- Knowledge and experience in safe handling practices of flammable gases, liquids and high-pressure systems.
- Knowledge and experience with electronic equipment, high pressure gas, processing equipment, pumps and reciprocating or gas turbine engines and compressors. Particular knowledge and experience working with equipment manufactured by Solar Turbines is a plus.
- Knowledge of Wonderware software.
- Computer skills: Proficient in MS Office: Word, Excel, And Outlook. Experience with various operation systems and other company specific software; Asset Management Software (Maximo), Incident Management Systems (IMPACT), Learning Management Systems (LMS), etc.
- Mathematical skills: Proficient in addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, fractions, and decimals.
The above statements describe the general nature and level of work being performed. This position may perform other duties as assigned. Job level commensurate with experience and skill sets. The successful candidate will be required to clear a drug screen and a complete background check, after an offer has been extended and prior to being employed.
Why Join Kinder Morgan:
Kinder Morgan is a large energy infrastructure company operating in North America. Access to reliable, affordable energy is a critical component for improving lives around the world. We are committed to providing energy transportation and storage services in a safe, efficient, and environmentally responsible manner for the benefit of the people, communities, and businesses we serve.
Kinder Morgan provides equal employment opportunity to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, childbirth and related medical conditions, gender (including gender identity and expression), sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, marital status, military or veteran status, family status, status as an individual authorized to work in the U.S., or any other status protected by law.
See all 673+ OPT Project Controls Engineer Jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new OPT Project Controls Engineer Jobs.
Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding OPT Sponsorship as a Project Controls Engineer
Target industries with consistent H-1B sponsorship history
Oil and gas, utilities, and large-scale infrastructure firms sponsor Project Controls Engineers at higher rates than most industries. Filtering your search by these sectors improves your chances of finding OPT-friendly employers before your authorization window closes.
Confirm your degree qualifies for STEM OPT extension
Project Controls roles typically qualify under CIP codes for civil, mechanical, or industrial engineering. Verify your specific degree's CIP code with your DSO before accepting an offer so you can plan your full 36-month OPT timeline accurately.
Highlight scheduling and cost control tools on your resume
Proficiency in Primavera P6, Microsoft Project, or earned value management signals immediate value to employers. Quantify your impact where possible. Demonstrating technical depth reduces perceived onboarding risk and makes sponsorship conversations easier to initiate.
Raise the H-1B conversation after demonstrating fit
Bring up visa sponsorship after an employer expresses genuine interest, not in the first message. Frame it as a straightforward process for engineering roles, which it typically is. Employers unfamiliar with OPT are often open once they understand the timeline and low administrative burden.
Pursue roles on large capital projects
Major construction and energy projects run for years, creating genuine long-term need for project controls staff. Employers investing in multi-year projects have clear incentive to sponsor strong hires, making these engagements more likely to support you through OPT and into H-1B status.
Apply to EPC firms and project management consultancies first
Engineering, procurement, and construction firms and PM consultancies hire project controls professionals across multiple clients and sectors. Their familiarity with visa processes and high hiring volume makes them more receptive to OPT candidates than single-project or smaller regional employers.
Project Controls Engineer OPT: Frequently Asked Questions
Does a Project Controls Engineer role qualify for the STEM OPT extension?
Most Project Controls Engineer positions qualify for the 24-month STEM OPT extension, bringing your total work authorization to 36 months. Eligibility depends on your degree's CIP code, not just your job title. Degrees in civil, mechanical, industrial, or systems engineering typically qualify. Confirm with your DSO before accepting an offer, since your degree program determines eligibility, not the employer's job description.
Which industries hire the most Project Controls Engineers who sponsor visas?
Oil and gas, utilities, defense, and heavy infrastructure are the strongest sectors for visa sponsorship in this role. Large EPC firms, construction management companies, and government contractors employ project controls professionals at scale and have established processes for H-1B sponsorship. These employers operate long-duration capital projects, which creates a structural incentive to retain and sponsor strong candidates beyond the OPT period.
How can I find Project Controls Engineer jobs that are open to OPT candidates?
Migrate Mate is the best starting point. The platform is built specifically for F-1 OPT and international students and surfaces Project Controls Engineer roles from employers with documented sponsorship history. Browsing there saves time compared to filtering through general job boards where OPT eligibility is rarely disclosed upfront. Focus on firms with active capital projects and established international hiring patterns.
What software skills make OPT candidates more competitive for Project Controls roles?
Primavera P6 and Microsoft Project are the most widely required scheduling tools. Earned value management, cost forecasting, and risk analysis experience add significant weight to your application. Familiarity with Procore, SAP, or Oracle Unifier is valued in large infrastructure and EPC environments. Candidates who can demonstrate these skills through coursework, internships, or project work reduce the employer's perceived risk of sponsoring a visa.
When should I tell a potential employer I need OPT work authorization?
Disclose your OPT status before any formal offer is made, ideally once the employer has expressed clear interest. Many Project Controls employers, particularly in engineering and construction, have sponsored international hires before and treat it as routine. Be prepared to explain that OPT authorization is immediate, that STEM extension adds 24 more months, and that H-1B sponsorship can begin well before your OPT expires.