OPT Project Controls Manager Jobs
Project Controls Manager jobs are a strong fit for F-1 OPT students with backgrounds in engineering, construction management, or project management. Most roles qualify as specialty occupations for H-1B visa sponsorship, and STEM OPT extensions of up to 24 months are available for graduates from accredited STEM programs.
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Get Access To All JobsAbout us:
At ENFRA, we blend a rich history with a forward-looking vision. With over 100 years of experience, we are a pillar of stability in the energy infrastructure industry and a leader in innovative energy solutions. Our commitment to leveraging emerging technologies ensures that we remain at the forefront of the Energy-as-a-Service sector.
We believe in growth—not just for our business, but for our people. Our team members have the opportunity to advance their careers in a supportive environment that values continuous learning and development. We embrace innovation and encourage creative problem solving to tackle the energy infrastructure and energy challenges of tomorrow.
Inclusion is at the heart of our culture. We strive to create a workplace where every voice is heard and valued, fostering a collaborative environment where diverse perspectives drive our success.
Join us to be part of a legacy of excellence and a future of groundbreaking advancements. At ENFRA, stability, innovation, and growth are more than just values—they are the pillars of our continued success.
Overview:
The Senior Project Controls Specialist is responsible for providing oversight of project Planning & Scheduling, Progress Measurement and Cost Management throughout all project phases. They are proactive self-starters with a proven ability to work independently and efficiently, while also engaging closely with the Project Team, Executives, Subcontractors, and Clients. They must proactively identify and solve problems that impact project performance. Focusing on continual improvement and opportunities for risk mitigation is a key responsibility of this position. The Senior Project Controls Specialist may be required to provide guidance to junior personnel. As such, they must have in-depth knowledge of the Project Controls function.
Responsibilities:
GENERAL:
- Leads the project controls team on large and highly complex EPC projects.
- Provides oversight in the areas of scheduling, cost management, change management, and risk management.
- Provides technical guidance for decisions by key stakeholders.
- Supports development of the constructability process, (the how it's built) & related interdependencies between Engineering, Procurement, Fabrication and Construction in support of feasibility studies.
- Interacts with Operations and represents the Company in the best manner to owners, subcontractors, and their representatives.
- Implements internal and contractual requirements on the project via the project controls execution plan.
- Leads setup and implementation of Project Management and Controls Systems.
- Attend all meetings concerning cost, progress, schedule, and contractual matters.
- Supports the preparation of the project close-out report.
- Support Division Project Controls Leadership with ad hoc tasks as required.
- From time to time, may participate in proposal development.
- Support development of the Work Breakdown Structure (WBS) on complex projects.
- Ensures adherence to Company systems and processes.
- May be required to take on more technical roles on smaller projects, including Procurement, Subcontract Administration, etc.
- Recommends solutions or recovery plans for problem areas.
- Supervise and mentor junior personnel in all Project Controls aspects.
- Actively looks for areas of improvement on project and company standards.
SCHEDULE:
- Oversees and assists in the development, maintenance, review, and analysis of the project schedule.
- Maintains outstanding issues logs and coordinate follow up as necessary.
- Monitor key dates, against dates defined in the main contract and any subcontracts.
- Develops schedule views as required, such as, Weekly and Six Week Look Ahead schedules.
COST CONTROL:
- Leads preparation of the monthly project EAC.
- Analyzes and interprets the project forecast.
- Supports Project Accounting with billing, revenue recognition, and cash flow processes.
- Supports the project controls team in development of the cost spread for cash flows.
PROGRESS MEASUREMENT:
- Leads the set up and maintenance of the progress measurement system.
- Oversees the quantity surveying and progress functions on the project.
- Monitor project progress; prepares necessary project reports weekly, monthly, or as required by the project cadence.
CHANGE MANAGEMENT:
- Responsible for Implementing and supporting the Change Management process.
- Supports change management efforts, including building of cost estimates and amendments to the contract.
- Evaluate, negotiate, and agree to costs and revenue with client and subcontractor(s) for changes in contract and subcontract work (on larger projects, this responsibility can be with the Contracts Manager).
- Prepare contract supplements (on larger projects, this responsibility is with the Contracts Manager).
- Support the development of claims including back charges against subcontractors and vendors.
RISK AND OPPORTUNITY MANAGEMENT:
- Implements and maintains the Project Risk and Opportunity process.
- Assists with risk and opportunity analysis for all phases of the project.
REPORTING:
- Responsible for accuracy of project controls reports.
- Participate or lead project reviews conducted with the client and internal management.
- Develop Cost Curves and Run-Down Curves.
- Develop Project Risk and Opportunity Management reports.
- Participate or lead the weekly and monthly cost and schedule review meetings.
- Create Weekly/Monthly/Quarterly Reports.
QUALIFICATIONS
Required Education, Experience, and Qualifications
- 4 year degree in engineering, architecture, construction management, business, finance, or a related field or
- 4 to 8 years of experience in project controls or project management, preferably in building construction, healthcare, or EPC.
- Demonstrated knowledge of scheduling, cost engineering, subcontract coordination, and general project administration.
- Familiarity reading drawings and specifications.
- Proficient in common business tools such as P6 and Microsoft Office applications.
- Effective verbal and written communication skills.
- Detail-oriented and willing to tackle various ongoing projects in a fast-paced environment.
- Ability to multitask and perform duties outside of the scope of work when necessary.
Preferred Education, Experience, and Qualifications
- N/A
Travel Requirements
- 5-10% of time will be spent traveling to job site(s)/office location.
Physical/Work Environment Requirements
- Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
- Climbing stairs.
- Remaining in a stationary position, often kneeling, standing or sitting for prolonged periods.
- Repeating motions that may include the wrists, hands and/or fingers.
- Quiet environment.
- Light work that includes adjusting and/or moving objects up to 20 pounds.
Pay Range: USD $101,610.00 - USD $135,640.00 /Yr.
ENFRA is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer of Minorities, Women, Protected Veterans, and Individuals with Disabilities, and participates in the e-Verify program. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, color, religion, sex, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, disability, or any other classification protected by law.
About us:
At ENFRA, we blend a rich history with a forward-looking vision. With over 100 years of experience, we are a pillar of stability in the energy infrastructure industry and a leader in innovative energy solutions. Our commitment to leveraging emerging technologies ensures that we remain at the forefront of the Energy-as-a-Service sector.
We believe in growth—not just for our business, but for our people. Our team members have the opportunity to advance their careers in a supportive environment that values continuous learning and development. We embrace innovation and encourage creative problem solving to tackle the energy infrastructure and energy challenges of tomorrow.
Inclusion is at the heart of our culture. We strive to create a workplace where every voice is heard and valued, fostering a collaborative environment where diverse perspectives drive our success.
Join us to be part of a legacy of excellence and a future of groundbreaking advancements. At ENFRA, stability, innovation, and growth are more than just values—they are the pillars of our continued success.
Overview:
The Senior Project Controls Specialist is responsible for providing oversight of project Planning & Scheduling, Progress Measurement and Cost Management throughout all project phases. They are proactive self-starters with a proven ability to work independently and efficiently, while also engaging closely with the Project Team, Executives, Subcontractors, and Clients. They must proactively identify and solve problems that impact project performance. Focusing on continual improvement and opportunities for risk mitigation is a key responsibility of this position. The Senior Project Controls Specialist may be required to provide guidance to junior personnel. As such, they must have in-depth knowledge of the Project Controls function.
Responsibilities:
GENERAL:
- Leads the project controls team on large and highly complex EPC projects.
- Provides oversight in the areas of scheduling, cost management, change management, and risk management.
- Provides technical guidance for decisions by key stakeholders.
- Supports development of the constructability process, (the how it's built) & related interdependencies between Engineering, Procurement, Fabrication and Construction in support of feasibility studies.
- Interacts with Operations and represents the Company in the best manner to owners, subcontractors, and their representatives.
- Implements internal and contractual requirements on the project via the project controls execution plan.
- Leads setup and implementation of Project Management and Controls Systems.
- Attend all meetings concerning cost, progress, schedule, and contractual matters.
- Supports the preparation of the project close-out report.
- Support Division Project Controls Leadership with ad hoc tasks as required.
- From time to time, may participate in proposal development.
- Support development of the Work Breakdown Structure (WBS) on complex projects.
- Ensures adherence to Company systems and processes.
- May be required to take on more technical roles on smaller projects, including Procurement, Subcontract Administration, etc.
- Recommends solutions or recovery plans for problem areas.
- Supervise and mentor junior personnel in all Project Controls aspects.
- Actively looks for areas of improvement on project and company standards.
SCHEDULE:
- Oversees and assists in the development, maintenance, review, and analysis of the project schedule.
- Maintains outstanding issues logs and coordinate follow up as necessary.
- Monitor key dates, against dates defined in the main contract and any subcontracts.
- Develops schedule views as required, such as, Weekly and Six Week Look Ahead schedules.
COST CONTROL:
- Leads preparation of the monthly project EAC.
- Analyzes and interprets the project forecast.
- Supports Project Accounting with billing, revenue recognition, and cash flow processes.
- Supports the project controls team in development of the cost spread for cash flows.
PROGRESS MEASUREMENT:
- Leads the set up and maintenance of the progress measurement system.
- Oversees the quantity surveying and progress functions on the project.
- Monitor project progress; prepares necessary project reports weekly, monthly, or as required by the project cadence.
CHANGE MANAGEMENT:
- Responsible for Implementing and supporting the Change Management process.
- Supports change management efforts, including building of cost estimates and amendments to the contract.
- Evaluate, negotiate, and agree to costs and revenue with client and subcontractor(s) for changes in contract and subcontract work (on larger projects, this responsibility can be with the Contracts Manager).
- Prepare contract supplements (on larger projects, this responsibility is with the Contracts Manager).
- Support the development of claims including back charges against subcontractors and vendors.
RISK AND OPPORTUNITY MANAGEMENT:
- Implements and maintains the Project Risk and Opportunity process.
- Assists with risk and opportunity analysis for all phases of the project.
REPORTING:
- Responsible for accuracy of project controls reports.
- Participate or lead project reviews conducted with the client and internal management.
- Develop Cost Curves and Run-Down Curves.
- Develop Project Risk and Opportunity Management reports.
- Participate or lead the weekly and monthly cost and schedule review meetings.
- Create Weekly/Monthly/Quarterly Reports.
QUALIFICATIONS
Required Education, Experience, and Qualifications
- 4 year degree in engineering, architecture, construction management, business, finance, or a related field or
- 4 to 8 years of experience in project controls or project management, preferably in building construction, healthcare, or EPC.
- Demonstrated knowledge of scheduling, cost engineering, subcontract coordination, and general project administration.
- Familiarity reading drawings and specifications.
- Proficient in common business tools such as P6 and Microsoft Office applications.
- Effective verbal and written communication skills.
- Detail-oriented and willing to tackle various ongoing projects in a fast-paced environment.
- Ability to multitask and perform duties outside of the scope of work when necessary.
Preferred Education, Experience, and Qualifications
- N/A
Travel Requirements
- 5-10% of time will be spent traveling to job site(s)/office location.
Physical/Work Environment Requirements
- Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
- Climbing stairs.
- Remaining in a stationary position, often kneeling, standing or sitting for prolonged periods.
- Repeating motions that may include the wrists, hands and/or fingers.
- Quiet environment.
- Light work that includes adjusting and/or moving objects up to 20 pounds.
Pay Range: USD $101,610.00 - USD $135,640.00 /Yr.
ENFRA is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer of Minorities, Women, Protected Veterans, and Individuals with Disabilities, and participates in the e-Verify program. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, color, religion, sex, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, disability, or any other classification protected by law.
See all 674+ OPT Project Controls Manager Jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new OPT Project Controls Manager Jobs.
Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding OPT Sponsorship as a Project Controls Manager
Target engineering and construction firms with active H-1B histories
Large engineering, infrastructure, and EPC firms sponsor H-1B visas for Project Controls Managers regularly. Focus your search on companies with documented sponsorship patterns rather than smaller contractors who rarely navigate the process.
Emphasize your degree field alignment in every application
Project Controls Manager roles typically require a degree in engineering, construction management, or a related technical field. Make that alignment explicit in your resume and cover letter so hiring managers immediately see your specialty occupation eligibility.
Pursue STEM OPT extension if your degree qualifies
Engineering and construction management degrees are often STEM-designated, making you eligible for a 24-month OPT extension. That gives employers a three-year window to plan sponsorship, which meaningfully reduces their perceived risk in hiring you.
Highlight scheduling and cost control software proficiency
Proficiency in Primavera P6, Microsoft Project, or Earned Value Management tools signals technical depth that justifies a specialty occupation classification. List specific platforms and methodologies you have used on real projects prominently on your resume.
Raise sponsorship directly and early in the process
Avoid waiting until an offer is on the table to discuss visa status. Mentioning your OPT timeline and H-1B eligibility in early conversations helps employers plan and avoids late-stage surprises that can derail otherwise strong candidates.
Build credentials that reinforce the specialty occupation case
Certifications like PMI-SP, AACE CCP, or EVP strengthen the argument that your role requires specialized knowledge. Employers with less sponsorship experience often need this kind of supporting evidence when filing H-1B petitions with USCIS.
Project Controls Manager OPT: Frequently Asked Questions
Does a Project Controls Manager role qualify as a specialty occupation for H-1B sponsorship?
Yes, in most cases. USCIS generally classifies Project Controls Manager positions as specialty occupations when they require a bachelor's degree or higher in engineering, construction management, or a closely related field. The key is that your job description must specify a degree requirement in a particular discipline, not just any bachelor's degree. Roles at large EPC firms or government contractors are typically well-documented for this purpose.
How long can I work as a Project Controls Manager on OPT?
Standard post-completion OPT gives you 12 months of work authorization. If your degree is in a STEM-designated field such as civil engineering, mechanical engineering, or construction management, you may be eligible for a 24-month STEM OPT extension, giving you up to three years total. Your employer must be enrolled in E-Verify to support the STEM extension, so confirm that before accepting an offer.
Where can I find Project Controls Manager jobs that offer visa sponsorship?
Migrate Mate is built specifically for F-1 OPT students and filters for employers who sponsor work visas. Browsing Project Controls Manager listings on Migrate Mate lets you focus on companies with documented H-1B sponsorship histories rather than applying broadly and discovering late that an employer does not sponsor. It removes one of the most frustrating parts of the job search for international students.
What industries hire the most Project Controls Managers willing to sponsor visas?
Oil and gas, infrastructure construction, defense contracting, and large-scale civil engineering projects account for a significant share of Project Controls Manager sponsorships. Firms operating on federal contracts or large capital programs tend to have established immigration processes and are more comfortable sponsoring H-1B visas than smaller regional contractors. Energy and utilities have also been consistent sponsors for this role.
Can I change employers while on OPT as a Project Controls Manager?
Yes, but you must report the change to your Designated School Official within ten days and update your record in SEVIS. Your new position must also be directly related to your degree field to remain in valid OPT status. If you are on a STEM OPT extension, your new employer must also be enrolled in E-Verify and you must submit a new I-983 training plan before your start date.