OPT Project Specialist Jobs
Project Specialist roles on OPT typically fall under business operations, program management, or consulting, and they qualify as specialty occupation positions when they require a relevant bachelor's degree. Your 12-month OPT window starts on your employment start date, so securing a role before graduation keeps your timeline intact.
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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 198+ OPT Project Specialist Jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new OPT Project Specialist Jobs.
Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding OPT Sponsorship as a Project Specialist
Target employers with active H-1B sponsorship history
Companies that have sponsored H-1B workers before are far more likely to do it again. Prioritizing these employers from the start means your OPT role is more likely to convert into long-term sponsorship before your 12 months expire.
Clarify your OPT authorization timeline upfront
Bring up your OPT status early in the interview process, not at the offer stage. Most hiring managers appreciate transparency, and it filters out employers who won't sponsor before you invest time in multi-round interviews.
Quantify project outcomes on your resume
Project Specialists are evaluated on delivery. Showing measurable results, like reduced timelines, cost savings, or stakeholder satisfaction rates, makes your application stand out and demonstrates the kind of value employers find worth sponsoring long-term.
Pursue PMP or CAPM certification if you're pre-graduation
Holding or actively pursuing a recognized project management credential signals professional seriousness. Many employers equate certification with reduced onboarding costs, which strengthens the business case for sponsoring you after OPT.
Negotiate a start date that aligns with your EAD card
You cannot legally begin work until your Employment Authorization Document is in hand and your start date matches or follows the date printed on it. Confirm the exact date with your DSO before accepting any offer.
Project Specialist OPT: Frequently Asked Questions
Does a Project Specialist role qualify as a specialty occupation for OPT and H-1B purposes?
It depends on how the role is defined. A Project Specialist position qualifies as a specialty occupation when the employer requires a bachelor's degree in a specific field, such as business administration, engineering, or information systems. Generic job postings that say 'any degree' or list no degree requirement can create problems during H-1B adjudication. Review the job description carefully before applying.
Can I work as a Project Specialist on OPT while my H-1B is pending?
Yes, if your employer files an H-1B petition before your OPT expires and you receive a timely filed receipt notice, cap-gap protection extends your OPT work authorization automatically through September 30 of that year. If your H-1B is selected in the lottery and approved, your status changes on October 1. Confirm your specific dates with your designated school official.
What should I report to my DSO when I start a Project Specialist job on OPT?
You must report your employer name, employer address, job title, and start date to your DSO within 10 days of starting work. The DSO then updates your SEVIS record. Failing to report on time is a common compliance mistake that can jeopardize your status. Keep a copy of your employment offer letter to reference when submitting this information.
Where can I find Project Specialist jobs that are open to OPT candidates?
Migrate Mate is built specifically for F-1 OPT students, so every job listed is relevant to your work authorization status. Searching there filters out the noise of general job boards where OPT eligibility is rarely stated clearly. You can browse Project Specialist openings by industry, location, and employer sponsorship history in one place.
Does Project Specialist work on OPT count toward STEM OPT extension eligibility?
Only if your degree is on the DHS STEM Designated Degree Program List and the employer is enrolled in E-Verify. Project management and operations roles can qualify under STEM OPT when the underlying degree is in a qualifying field like information technology, industrial engineering, or management information systems. Confirm your degree's CIP code with your international student office before applying for the extension.