OPT Structural Drafter Jobs
Structural Drafter jobs are a strong fit for F-1 OPT students with degrees in civil engineering, architecture, or engineering technology. Most roles use AutoCAD or Revit daily, so your technical coursework translates directly. STEM OPT extension eligibility gives you up to three years of authorized work experience in this field.
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Get Access To All JobsThe Opportunity:
Tetra Tech is adding a Mid-Level CAD Drafter/Designer to support civil, environmental, and renewable energy projects, including solar development. This role will work closely with engineers, scientists, and senior designers to develop accurate, high-quality design drawings and models that support project planning, permitting, and construction.
Why Tetra Tech:
At Tetra Tech, we are Leading with Science to solve the world’s most complex challenges. Our industry-leading experts in engineering and consulting are committed to driving positive change in communities around the world. For over 50 years, we have been at the forefront of innovation and sustainability. Today we stand as a market leader, offering cutting-edge solutions in water, environment, energy, and international development. Our work has improved more than 625 million lives around the world.
Your Impact:
Join Tetra Tech to make a real difference. Our work leverages cutting-edge technologies, advanced analytics, and the expertise of world-class scientists and engineers to create meaningful change around the world. Discover your full potential – join us to advance your career while leaving a lasting legacy.
Essential Job Functions:
- Collaborate with engineers, scientists, and senior designers to develop designs for civil, environmental, and solar projects
- Prepare and develop topographic maps, profiles, cross-sections, and erosion & sediment control plans
- Draft civil, geotechnical, and structural design drawings for infrastructure such as:
- Roads
- Culverts
- Detention basins
- Stormwater management facilities
- Grading and BMPs
- Support engineering teams in developing preliminary and final photovoltaic (solar) designs
- Assist with preparation of engineering reports, cost estimates, specifications, and permitting documents
- Develop 3D models of project features using CADD software
- Ensure drawings meet client standards and QA/QC requirements
- Manage file organization, XREFs, and data shortcuts in accordance with best practices
- Coordinate with project managers and design engineers to support on-time, on-budget project delivery
- Plot and prepare drawings for review and final submittals
- Conduct activities in line with internal procedures, legislation, and industry standards
- Pursue continuous professional development and maintain a high degree of discipline knowledge and awareness
- Work in a safe manner at all times and report all health and safety incidents and concerns
Additional duties as required.
Required Qualifications:
- Associate’s degree in CAD, Drafting, or related field, or 5+ years of relevant experience
- Proficiency in AutoCAD Civil 3D (2023 or newer) and Bluebeam (required)
- Strong working knowledge of Civil 3D modules, including:
- Survey, Points, Surfaces
- Alignments, Profiles, Corridors
- Sections, Pipe Networks
- Volume calculations, labeling, and analysis
- Experience with:
- Grading plan preparation and revisions
- Cut/fill calculations and balancing quantities
- Survey files, coordinate systems, and data shortcuts
- Ability to manage XREFs, file organization, and plotting standards (CTB/STB/PC3)
- Strong understanding of technical drawing standards and QA/QC procedures
- Ability to visualize designs in 3D
- Must possess a valid driver’s license with a clean driving record without restrictions
Additional Skills & Competencies:
- Knowledge of civil engineering and land development principles
- Familiarity with renewable energy project design (solar preferred)
- Ability to evaluate alternatives and resolve technical design issues
- Strong multi-tasking and time management skills
- Ability to work both independently and collaboratively
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook, Project)
- Strong communication and problem-solving skills
Physical Requirements:
- Ability to sit and work at a computer for extended periods
- Ability to review detailed drawings and technical documents
Work Environment / Environmental Factors:
- Office-based work environment with potential hybrid flexibility
- Occasional coordination with field teams or site visits as needed
Life at Tetra Tech:
The perks of working at Tetra Tech include:
- Comprehensive and market-competitive benefits
- Merit-based financial rewards
- Flexibility and company-wide commitment to work/life balance
- Collaborative team atmosphere that values the contributions of all employees
- Learning and development opportunities for ongoing professional growth
A pre-employment drug screen in compliance with federal regulations is required, along with a physical if needed.
Compensation:
Pay commensurate with experience.
Pay Range: $75,000-$90,000 annually
Pay Range - There are multiple factors that are considered in determining final pay for a position, including, but not limited to, relevant work experience and demonstrated work experience in the above role; skills, certifications, and competencies that align to the specified role; geographic location; and education, as well as contract provisions regarding labor categories that are specific to the position.
At Tetra Tech, health and safety play a vital role in our success. Tetra Tech’s employees work together to comply with all applicable health & safety practices and protocols, including public health orders and regulations that are mandated by local, state, provincial, federal, international authorities, and clients.
About Tetra Tech:
Tetra Tech is the leader in water, environment, and sustainable infrastructure, providing high-end consulting and engineering services for projects worldwide. With 30,000 employees working together, Tetra Tech provides clear solutions to complex problems by Leading with Science® to address the entire water cycle, protect and restore the environment, design sustainable and resilient infrastructure, and support the clean energy transition.
Tetra Tech is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified candidates will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, sex, marital or familial status, status as a protected veteran, or any other characteristic protected by law. Tetra Tech is a VEVRAA federal contractor and we request priority referral of veterans.
We invite applications from all interested parties.
Explore our open positions. Follow us on social media to learn more about our people, culture, and opportunities:
LinkedIn: @TetraTechCareers
X (Twitter): @TetraTechJobs
The Opportunity:
Tetra Tech is adding a Mid-Level CAD Drafter/Designer to support civil, environmental, and renewable energy projects, including solar development. This role will work closely with engineers, scientists, and senior designers to develop accurate, high-quality design drawings and models that support project planning, permitting, and construction.
Why Tetra Tech:
At Tetra Tech, we are Leading with Science to solve the world’s most complex challenges. Our industry-leading experts in engineering and consulting are committed to driving positive change in communities around the world. For over 50 years, we have been at the forefront of innovation and sustainability. Today we stand as a market leader, offering cutting-edge solutions in water, environment, energy, and international development. Our work has improved more than 625 million lives around the world.
Your Impact:
Join Tetra Tech to make a real difference. Our work leverages cutting-edge technologies, advanced analytics, and the expertise of world-class scientists and engineers to create meaningful change around the world. Discover your full potential – join us to advance your career while leaving a lasting legacy.
Essential Job Functions:
- Collaborate with engineers, scientists, and senior designers to develop designs for civil, environmental, and solar projects
- Prepare and develop topographic maps, profiles, cross-sections, and erosion & sediment control plans
- Draft civil, geotechnical, and structural design drawings for infrastructure such as:
- Roads
- Culverts
- Detention basins
- Stormwater management facilities
- Grading and BMPs
- Support engineering teams in developing preliminary and final photovoltaic (solar) designs
- Assist with preparation of engineering reports, cost estimates, specifications, and permitting documents
- Develop 3D models of project features using CADD software
- Ensure drawings meet client standards and QA/QC requirements
- Manage file organization, XREFs, and data shortcuts in accordance with best practices
- Coordinate with project managers and design engineers to support on-time, on-budget project delivery
- Plot and prepare drawings for review and final submittals
- Conduct activities in line with internal procedures, legislation, and industry standards
- Pursue continuous professional development and maintain a high degree of discipline knowledge and awareness
- Work in a safe manner at all times and report all health and safety incidents and concerns
Additional duties as required.
Required Qualifications:
- Associate’s degree in CAD, Drafting, or related field, or 5+ years of relevant experience
- Proficiency in AutoCAD Civil 3D (2023 or newer) and Bluebeam (required)
- Strong working knowledge of Civil 3D modules, including:
- Survey, Points, Surfaces
- Alignments, Profiles, Corridors
- Sections, Pipe Networks
- Volume calculations, labeling, and analysis
- Experience with:
- Grading plan preparation and revisions
- Cut/fill calculations and balancing quantities
- Survey files, coordinate systems, and data shortcuts
- Ability to manage XREFs, file organization, and plotting standards (CTB/STB/PC3)
- Strong understanding of technical drawing standards and QA/QC procedures
- Ability to visualize designs in 3D
- Must possess a valid driver’s license with a clean driving record without restrictions
Additional Skills & Competencies:
- Knowledge of civil engineering and land development principles
- Familiarity with renewable energy project design (solar preferred)
- Ability to evaluate alternatives and resolve technical design issues
- Strong multi-tasking and time management skills
- Ability to work both independently and collaboratively
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook, Project)
- Strong communication and problem-solving skills
Physical Requirements:
- Ability to sit and work at a computer for extended periods
- Ability to review detailed drawings and technical documents
Work Environment / Environmental Factors:
- Office-based work environment with potential hybrid flexibility
- Occasional coordination with field teams or site visits as needed
Life at Tetra Tech:
The perks of working at Tetra Tech include:
- Comprehensive and market-competitive benefits
- Merit-based financial rewards
- Flexibility and company-wide commitment to work/life balance
- Collaborative team atmosphere that values the contributions of all employees
- Learning and development opportunities for ongoing professional growth
A pre-employment drug screen in compliance with federal regulations is required, along with a physical if needed.
Compensation:
Pay commensurate with experience.
Pay Range: $75,000-$90,000 annually
Pay Range - There are multiple factors that are considered in determining final pay for a position, including, but not limited to, relevant work experience and demonstrated work experience in the above role; skills, certifications, and competencies that align to the specified role; geographic location; and education, as well as contract provisions regarding labor categories that are specific to the position.
At Tetra Tech, health and safety play a vital role in our success. Tetra Tech’s employees work together to comply with all applicable health & safety practices and protocols, including public health orders and regulations that are mandated by local, state, provincial, federal, international authorities, and clients.
About Tetra Tech:
Tetra Tech is the leader in water, environment, and sustainable infrastructure, providing high-end consulting and engineering services for projects worldwide. With 30,000 employees working together, Tetra Tech provides clear solutions to complex problems by Leading with Science® to address the entire water cycle, protect and restore the environment, design sustainable and resilient infrastructure, and support the clean energy transition.
Tetra Tech is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified candidates will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, sex, marital or familial status, status as a protected veteran, or any other characteristic protected by law. Tetra Tech is a VEVRAA federal contractor and we request priority referral of veterans.
We invite applications from all interested parties.
Explore our open positions. Follow us on social media to learn more about our people, culture, and opportunities:
LinkedIn: @TetraTechCareers
X (Twitter): @TetraTechJobs
See all OPT Structural Drafter Jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new OPT Structural Drafter Jobs.
Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding OPT Sponsorship in Structural Drafter
Lead with your CAD and BIM software proficiency
Structural Drafter roles are highly technical. List every software you know, including AutoCAD, Revit, and MicroStation. Employers hiring for these roles often screen by tool, so specificity on your resume increases your chances of passing the initial filter.
Target firms that regularly hire for technical drafting roles
Structural engineering firms, MEP consultancies, and large construction companies tend to have established processes for work authorization. These employers hire drafters repeatedly and are more comfortable navigating OPT paperwork than smaller one-off operations.
Confirm your degree qualifies for STEM OPT before applying
Civil engineering, architectural engineering, and engineering technology degrees typically qualify for the 24-month STEM OPT extension. Verify your program CIP code with your DSO early so you can confidently tell employers you have up to three years of OPT authorization.
Apply before your OPT start date to avoid timeline gaps
Many employers need several weeks to process onboarding and verify employment authorization. Applying two to three months before your OPT begins gives hiring managers enough runway to complete the process without your start date creating a logistical problem for them.
Highlight project experience that matches the employer's sector
Structural drafters work across commercial, residential, industrial, and infrastructure projects. Tailor your resume to reflect the employer's sector. A firm specializing in bridge design responds differently to a resume showing highway project experience versus residential construction work.
Address OPT authorization directly and early in outreach
When reaching out to hiring managers or recruiters, briefly state your OPT status and authorized period upfront. Removing ambiguity early prevents employers from self-selecting out before they evaluate your actual qualifications for the Structural Drafter role.
Structural Drafter OPT: Frequently Asked Questions
Can F-1 OPT students legally work as Structural Drafters in the United States?
Yes. Structural Drafter work is directly related to civil engineering, architectural engineering, and engineering technology degrees, which are the fields OPT is designed to authorize. Your employment must be in a role that relates to your degree field, and drafting within a structural engineering context satisfies that requirement under standard OPT guidelines.
Does a Structural Drafter role qualify for the STEM OPT extension?
It depends on your degree, not the job title. If your bachelor's or master's degree is in civil engineering, architectural engineering, or a related STEM field with a qualifying CIP code, you can apply for the 24-month STEM OPT extension. Confirm your CIP code with your Designated School Official before committing to an employer timeline.
How do I find Structural Drafter employers that are open to sponsoring OPT?
Migrate Mate is built specifically for F-1 OPT students and filters job listings by visa sponsorship willingness. Structural drafting roles posted there are from employers already open to hiring international students. This saves you from applying broadly and discovering late in the process that a company won't work with OPT authorization.
What should I do if an employer says they don't sponsor visas when I mention OPT?
Clarify that OPT does not require the employer to sponsor a visa. You already have work authorization through your F-1 status. The employer's only obligation is to verify your Employment Authorization Document and report your employment to your DSO within the E-Verify system if they are an E-Verify participant. Many employer objections dissolve once this distinction is explained.
Does a Structural Drafter job need to be full-time to count toward OPT authorization?
Standard OPT requires at least 20 hours of work per week to maintain valid F-1 status. Most Structural Drafter positions are full-time, which satisfies this requirement comfortably. Part-time roles do count if they meet the 20-hour minimum, but extended periods of unemployment or underemployment can jeopardize your OPT status and future visa eligibility.