STEM OPT CAD Technician Jobs
CAD Technician roles in engineering, architecture, and manufacturing are a strong fit for F-1 students with STEM degrees in mechanical engineering, civil engineering, or a related field. Your 24-month STEM OPT extension applies here, and your employer must be enrolled in E-Verify to hire you under this authorization.
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Get Access To All JobsINTRODUCTION
Strong communities don’t just happen. They’re thoughtfully planned and future-ready. We bring life to urban downtowns, suburban hubs, small towns, and rural areas through master-planned communities, mixed-use developments, parks, and recreation facilities. The result: vibrant economic centers, resilient neighborhoods, and welcoming places that feel like home.
Accurate data is the top priority for our Geospatial team. Through our work, we measure, process, and analyze spatial data and define land boundaries. We provide our clients a full range of surveying, GIS, and mapping services. Join a team of inspired and talented professionals who continually find inventive ways to get the job done safer, better, faster, and smarter.
ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES
In this position as a Survey CAD Technician, you will have the opportunity to work as part of a team of surveyors, engineers, and technical experts on multiple projects for a range of public and private sector clients. Under the guidance of a Senior Surveyor, you will perform surveying and mapping services to locate improvements, analyze title encumbrances and easements and provide engineering support to assist in the design and construction of site improvements. This is a great opportunity for a motivated, energetic individual who wants to challenge their abilities in a dynamic work environment.
Your Key Responsibilities:
- Prepare CAD drawings on concurrent projects, including boundary, topographic, land title surveys, subdivision plats, metes and bounds descriptions, and other surveys.
- Prepare record deed and plat drawings to assist the field crews, reduce field data, calculate contours, complete final survey drawings, and retrace the boundaries of a project.
- Assist in coordinating activities of a survey field crew, ensure completion dates and budgets are met, and consistent application of firm operating standards and safety practices.
- Review field notes and exhibits for easement agreements.
- Prepare staking calculations for construction projects.
- Research survey records to obtain information about property boundaries to be surveyed and coordinate findings with the work of engineers, clients and others involved in projects.
- Review field survey data for accuracy, including measurements and calculations conducted for survey sites.
- Perform other duties of a similar nature as assigned.
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS
- Advanced knowledge of AutoCAD Civil3D surface modeling required.
- Knowledge of CAD standards and relevant software programs including, Openroads, Trimble Business Center, Microsoft Office, and related software a plus.
- Strong math skills, including algebra and trigonometry.
- Requires ability to work well in a team environment.
- Effective written and verbal communication skills.
- Able to work under and meet tight deadlines.
- UAS and/or LiDAR data processing a plus.
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
- Technical degree/diploma/certificate or equivalent in related field; or equivalent combination of education and experience.
- Minimum of 3 years of experience in Civil 3D performing similar tasks in an office environment.
Typically, this position works in an open-concept office environment.
This description is not a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that may be required of the employee and other duties, responsibilities and activities may be assigned or may be changed at any time with or without notice.
ABOUT STANTEC
Stantec is a global leader in sustainable engineering, architecture, and environmental consulting. The diverse perspectives of our partners and interested parties drive us to think beyond what’s previously been done on critical issues like climate change, digital transformation, and future-proofing our cities and infrastructure. We innovate at the intersection of community, creativity, and client relationships to advance communities everywhere, so that together we can redefine what’s possible.
If you’re passionate about empowering communities, join us to discover a career with endless opportunities to make communities more equitable, resilient, and livable.
PAY TRANSPARENCY: In compliance with pay transparency laws, pay ranges are provided for positions in locations where required. Please note, the final agreed upon compensation is based on individual education, qualifications, experience, and work location. At Stantec certain roles are bonus eligible. Actual compensation for part-time roles will be pro-rated based on the agreed number of working hours per week.
BENEFITS SUMMARY: Regular full-time and part-time employees (working at least 20 hours per week) have access to medical, dental, and vision plans, a wellness program, health saving accounts, flexible spending accounts, 401(k) plan, employee stock purchase program, life and accidental death & dismemberment (AD&D) insurance, short-term/long-term disability plans, emergency travel benefits, tuition reimbursement, professional membership fee coverage and paid family leave. Regular full-time and part-time employees will receive ten paid holidays in each calendar year. In addition, employees will be eligible to accrue vacation between 10 and 20 days per year and eligible for paid sick leave (and if more generous, in accordance with state and local law).
Temporary/casual employees have access to 401(k) plans, employee stock purchase program, and paid leave, in accordance with state and local law.
The benefits information listed above may not apply to union positions because benefits for such positions are governed by applicable collective bargaining agreements.
LOCATION
Primary Location: United States | TX | San Antonio
ORGANIZATION: 1720 CommDev-US Southwest-San Antonio TX
EMPLOYEE STATUS: Regular
BUSINESS JUSTIFICATION: New Position
TRAVEL: Yes
SCHEDULE: Full time
JOB POSTING: 10/06/2026 05:06:26
REQ ID: 1006274
Stantec provides equal employment opportunities to all qualified employees and applicants for future and current employment and prohibit discrimination on the grounds of race, colour, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, genetic information, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression. We prohibit discrimination in decisions concerning recruitment, hiring, referral, promotion, compensation, fringe benefits, job training, terminations or any other condition of employment. Stantec is in compliance with laws and regulations and ensures equitable opportunities in all aspects of employment. At Stantec we are committed to ensuring our recruitment process is accessible to all. If you require reasonable adjustments to be made during the recruitment process then please inform a member of our Talent Acquisition team.
INTRODUCTION
Strong communities don’t just happen. They’re thoughtfully planned and future-ready. We bring life to urban downtowns, suburban hubs, small towns, and rural areas through master-planned communities, mixed-use developments, parks, and recreation facilities. The result: vibrant economic centers, resilient neighborhoods, and welcoming places that feel like home.
Accurate data is the top priority for our Geospatial team. Through our work, we measure, process, and analyze spatial data and define land boundaries. We provide our clients a full range of surveying, GIS, and mapping services. Join a team of inspired and talented professionals who continually find inventive ways to get the job done safer, better, faster, and smarter.
ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES
In this position as a Survey CAD Technician, you will have the opportunity to work as part of a team of surveyors, engineers, and technical experts on multiple projects for a range of public and private sector clients. Under the guidance of a Senior Surveyor, you will perform surveying and mapping services to locate improvements, analyze title encumbrances and easements and provide engineering support to assist in the design and construction of site improvements. This is a great opportunity for a motivated, energetic individual who wants to challenge their abilities in a dynamic work environment.
Your Key Responsibilities:
- Prepare CAD drawings on concurrent projects, including boundary, topographic, land title surveys, subdivision plats, metes and bounds descriptions, and other surveys.
- Prepare record deed and plat drawings to assist the field crews, reduce field data, calculate contours, complete final survey drawings, and retrace the boundaries of a project.
- Assist in coordinating activities of a survey field crew, ensure completion dates and budgets are met, and consistent application of firm operating standards and safety practices.
- Review field notes and exhibits for easement agreements.
- Prepare staking calculations for construction projects.
- Research survey records to obtain information about property boundaries to be surveyed and coordinate findings with the work of engineers, clients and others involved in projects.
- Review field survey data for accuracy, including measurements and calculations conducted for survey sites.
- Perform other duties of a similar nature as assigned.
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS
- Advanced knowledge of AutoCAD Civil3D surface modeling required.
- Knowledge of CAD standards and relevant software programs including, Openroads, Trimble Business Center, Microsoft Office, and related software a plus.
- Strong math skills, including algebra and trigonometry.
- Requires ability to work well in a team environment.
- Effective written and verbal communication skills.
- Able to work under and meet tight deadlines.
- UAS and/or LiDAR data processing a plus.
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
- Technical degree/diploma/certificate or equivalent in related field; or equivalent combination of education and experience.
- Minimum of 3 years of experience in Civil 3D performing similar tasks in an office environment.
Typically, this position works in an open-concept office environment.
This description is not a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that may be required of the employee and other duties, responsibilities and activities may be assigned or may be changed at any time with or without notice.
ABOUT STANTEC
Stantec is a global leader in sustainable engineering, architecture, and environmental consulting. The diverse perspectives of our partners and interested parties drive us to think beyond what’s previously been done on critical issues like climate change, digital transformation, and future-proofing our cities and infrastructure. We innovate at the intersection of community, creativity, and client relationships to advance communities everywhere, so that together we can redefine what’s possible.
If you’re passionate about empowering communities, join us to discover a career with endless opportunities to make communities more equitable, resilient, and livable.
PAY TRANSPARENCY: In compliance with pay transparency laws, pay ranges are provided for positions in locations where required. Please note, the final agreed upon compensation is based on individual education, qualifications, experience, and work location. At Stantec certain roles are bonus eligible. Actual compensation for part-time roles will be pro-rated based on the agreed number of working hours per week.
BENEFITS SUMMARY: Regular full-time and part-time employees (working at least 20 hours per week) have access to medical, dental, and vision plans, a wellness program, health saving accounts, flexible spending accounts, 401(k) plan, employee stock purchase program, life and accidental death & dismemberment (AD&D) insurance, short-term/long-term disability plans, emergency travel benefits, tuition reimbursement, professional membership fee coverage and paid family leave. Regular full-time and part-time employees will receive ten paid holidays in each calendar year. In addition, employees will be eligible to accrue vacation between 10 and 20 days per year and eligible for paid sick leave (and if more generous, in accordance with state and local law).
Temporary/casual employees have access to 401(k) plans, employee stock purchase program, and paid leave, in accordance with state and local law.
The benefits information listed above may not apply to union positions because benefits for such positions are governed by applicable collective bargaining agreements.
LOCATION
Primary Location: United States | TX | San Antonio
ORGANIZATION: 1720 CommDev-US Southwest-San Antonio TX
EMPLOYEE STATUS: Regular
BUSINESS JUSTIFICATION: New Position
TRAVEL: Yes
SCHEDULE: Full time
JOB POSTING: 10/06/2026 05:06:26
REQ ID: 1006274
Stantec provides equal employment opportunities to all qualified employees and applicants for future and current employment and prohibit discrimination on the grounds of race, colour, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, genetic information, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression. We prohibit discrimination in decisions concerning recruitment, hiring, referral, promotion, compensation, fringe benefits, job training, terminations or any other condition of employment. Stantec is in compliance with laws and regulations and ensures equitable opportunities in all aspects of employment. At Stantec we are committed to ensuring our recruitment process is accessible to all. If you require reasonable adjustments to be made during the recruitment process then please inform a member of our Talent Acquisition team.
See all STEM OPT CAD Technician Jobs
Sign up for free to unlock all listings, filter by visa type, and get alerts for new STEM OPT CAD Technician Jobs.
Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding STEM OPT Authorization as a CAD Technician
Verify your CIP code qualifies first
Not every engineering-adjacent degree automatically qualifies for STEM OPT extension. Cross-reference your degree's CIP code against the official STEM Designated Degree Program List that USCIS maintains to confirm eligibility before targeting employers.
Confirm E-Verify enrollment before applying
CAD roles frequently appear at small engineering consultancies and architectural firms that aren't enrolled in E-Verify. Check the E-Verify employer search tool directly before investing time in applications at any firm you aren't certain is enrolled.
Align your portfolio to STEM OPT training goals
Your I-983 training plan must show a direct connection between your CAD work and your STEM degree. Build your portfolio around project types, like structural analysis or mechanical design, that map clearly to coursework in your degree program.
Target industries with consistent OPT hiring patterns
Use Migrate Mate to filter CAD Technician openings by employers with E-Verify enrollment and active OPT hiring history, so you're spending time on roles at firms that have already demonstrated they can support your authorization.
Ask about cap-gap coverage during offer negotiation
If your initial OPT expires while your H-1B visa petition is pending, cap-gap rules extend your work authorization automatically. Confirm your prospective employer understands this timeline before your start date so there's no gap in your employment record.
Use OFLC Wage Search to benchmark offers before signing
CAD Technician prevailing wages vary significantly by state, metro area, and experience level. Run the OFLC Wage Search for SOC code 17-3013 in your target location to verify any offer meets the DOL wage floor for your role.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does my STEM degree qualify me for the 24-month STEM OPT extension as a CAD Technician?
It depends on your specific degree, not your job title. Your degree's CIP code must appear on the STEM Designated Degree Program List published by USCIS. Degrees in mechanical engineering, civil engineering, computer-aided design technology, or related engineering disciplines typically qualify, but you should verify your exact CIP code with your DSO before applying for the extension.
Does every employer hiring CAD Technicians need to be enrolled in E-Verify?
Yes. E-Verify enrollment is a firm requirement for any employer who wants to hire you under STEM OPT. Many smaller engineering firms, architectural practices, and drafting studios are not enrolled. You can check enrollment status using the E-Verify employer search before applying. Migrate Mate surfaces CAD Technician roles filtered for E-Verify-enrolled employers so you don't have to screen manually.
What goes into the I-983 training plan for a CAD Technician role?
The I-983 must describe specific learning objectives tied to your STEM degree, the practical skills you'll develop through the CAD work, how your employer will supervise and evaluate your progress, and the compensation structure. For CAD Technicians, strong training plans typically connect your drafting and modeling work to coursework in engineering design, materials science, or technical drawing. Both you and your employer sign the form, and your DSO certifies it.
What happens to my STEM OPT authorization if my employer stops being E-Verify enrolled?
Your authorization is tied to working for an E-Verify-enrolled employer. If your employer loses enrollment or withdraws from E-Verify, you can no longer work for them under STEM OPT. You'd need to find a new E-Verify-enrolled employer and update your I-983 through your DSO. USCIS requires you to report material changes to your training plan within five business days.
Can I work as a CAD Technician at a firm that primarily does contract or project-based work?
Yes, but the employer of record on your I-983 training plan must be the entity that employs you directly, not a staffing agency placing you at client sites. If you're hired through a staffing or contracting firm, that firm must be enrolled in E-Verify and must serve as your actual employer for STEM OPT purposes. Working as an independent contractor or 1099 worker does not satisfy STEM OPT employment requirements.