Energy STEM OPT Jobs in Minnesota
F-1 STEM OPT energy jobs in Minnesota draw candidates to employers like Xcel Energy, Ecolab, and 3M, with hubs in Minneapolis-Saint Paul and Duluth supporting roles in power systems, renewable energy, and environmental engineering. Minnesota's growing clean energy sector and proximity to major utilities make it a competitive market for STEM OPT candidates in engineering, data analytics, and grid technology.
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Are you looking for an exciting job where you can put your skills and talents to work at a company you can feel proud to be a part of? Do you want a workplace that will challenge you and offer you opportunities to learn and grow? A position at Xcel Energy could be just what you’re looking for.
Position Summary
An Associate Data Scientist will play a crucial role in handling and analyzing large datasets to uncover valuable insights. They utilize statistical methods, machine learning algorithms, and data visualization techniques to interpret complex data. By collaborating with cross-functional teams, they help translate data findings into actionable business strategies, thereby supporting data-driven decision-making processes. Additionally, they may assist in developing predictive models, automating data collection processes, and ensuring data quality and integrity. This position often serves as a foundational step towards more advanced roles in data science, providing essential skills and experience in the field.
Core Responsibilities
- Familiar in working with the two primary languages - SQL and Python. Both are widely used for data analysis, machine learning, and visualization.
- Knowledge of machine learning techniques and algorithms.
- Experience with data visualization tools like Posit or Power BI.
- Understand key concepts related to managing and analyzing large datasets. This includes using statistical methods and machine learning algorithms to derive actionable insights.
- Translate the business goals to technical expertise.
- Translate data insights into actionable recommendations for decision-makers.
- Collaborate closely with more senior team members and learn from experienced colleagues.
- Effectively communicate findings to non-technical stakeholders, collaborate with team members, and present to business users.
Minimum Requirements
Bachelor’s degree in computer science, data science, statistics, math or a related analytical concentration is required. Other bachelor’s degrees with data science relevant certifications will be considered.
Preferred Characteristics
- Previous utility or construction experience.
- Previous project management work with technical tools such as: Power BI, SAP Business Objects, Python, SQL, Databricks, etc.
As a leading combination electricity and natural gas energy company, Xcel Energy offers a comprehensive portfolio of energy-related products and services to 3.4 million electricity and 1.9 million natural gas customers across eight Western and Midwestern states. At Xcel Energy, we strive to be the preferred and trusted provider of the energy our customers need. If you’re ready to be a part of something big, we invite you to join our team.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.
Individuals with a disability who need an accommodation to apply please contact us at recruiting@xcelenergy.com.
Non-Bargaining
The anticipated starting base pay for this position is: $84,900.00 to $120,566.66 per year.
This position is eligible for the following benefits: Annual Incentive Program, Medical/Pharmacy Plan, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, Dependent Care Reimbursement Account, Health Care Reimbursement Account, Health Savings Account (HSA) (if enrolled in eligible health plan), Limited-Purpose FSA (if enrolled in eligible health plan and HSA), Transportation Reimbursement Account, Short-term disability (STD), Long-term disability (LTD), Employee Assistance Program (EAP), Fitness Center Reimbursement (if enrolled in eligible health plan), Tuition reimbursement, Transit programs, Employee recognition program, Pension, 401(k) plan, Paid time off (PTO), Holidays, Volunteer Paid Time Off (VPTO), Parental Leave.
Benefit plans are subject to change and Xcel Energy has the right to end, suspend, or amend any of its plans, at any time, in whole or in part.
In any materials you submit, you may redact or remove age-identifying information including but not limited to dates of school attendance and graduation. You will not be penalized for redacting or removing this information.
Deadline to Apply: 07/02/26
EEO is the Law | EEO is the Law Supplement | Pay Transparency Nondiscrimination | Equal Opportunity Policy (PDF) | Employee Rights (PDF)
All Xcel Energy employees and contractors share responsibility for protecting the company's information and systems by adhering to cybersecurity policies, standards, and best practices, recognizing that cybersecurity is everyone's responsibility.
ACCESSIBILITY STATEMENT
Xcel Energy endeavors to make https://www.xcelenergy.com/ accessible to any and all users. If you would like to contact us regarding the accessibility of our website or need assistance completing the application process, please contact Xcel Energy Talent Acquisition at recruiting@xcelenergy.com. This contact information is for accommodation requests only and cannot be used to inquire about the status of applications.
STEM OPT Energy Job Roles in Minnesota
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Search Energy Jobs in MinnesotaEnergy STEM OPT Sponsorship Jobs in Minnesota: Frequently Asked Questions
Which energy companies in Minnesota sponsor F-1 STEM OPT visas?
Xcel Energy, one of the largest utilities in the Upper Midwest, has a consistent record of sponsoring STEM OPT candidates in engineering and data roles. Ecolab, headquartered in Saint Paul, sponsors across environmental and energy-adjacent fields. Smaller firms in wind and solar development also participate, particularly those enrolled in E-Verify, which is required for all STEM OPT employers.
Which cities in Minnesota have the most energy F-1 STEM OPT sponsorship jobs?
Minneapolis and Saint Paul together form the primary hub, home to utility headquarters, energy consulting firms, and clean technology companies. Duluth sees activity tied to wind energy development along the Iron Range corridor. Rochester has emerging opportunities connected to large-scale energy efficiency projects. Roles outside the Twin Cities metro often require relocation, so candidates should factor that into their job search.
What types of energy roles typically qualify for F-1 STEM OPT sponsorship in Minnesota?
Roles in electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, environmental science, data analytics, and grid systems analysis commonly qualify because they map to STEM-designated degree programs. Positions in renewable energy project development, power systems modeling, and energy efficiency consulting also appear frequently. The role must tie directly to a qualifying STEM field of study, and the employer must be enrolled in E-Verify to participate in the STEM OPT extension program.
How do I find energy F-1 STEM OPT sponsorship jobs in Minnesota?
Migrate Mate lets you filter specifically for energy employers in Minnesota with verified STEM OPT sponsorship history, saving time compared to sorting through general job listings. Because not all energy companies publicly advertise visa sponsorship, using a platform that surfaces employer sponsorship data is particularly useful in this sector. Focus your search on Twin Cities employers with active E-Verify enrollment and engineering or environmental science roles.
Are there any Minnesota-specific considerations for F-1 STEM OPT candidates in the energy sector?
Minnesota has a state-level renewable energy standard requiring utilities to source a significant share of power from clean energy, which drives ongoing hiring in wind, solar, and grid modernization. This regulatory environment supports steady demand for STEM talent. Candidates should confirm that their specific degree program appears on the STEM OPT designated degree program list maintained by the Department of Homeland Security, as energy-adjacent programs vary in eligibility.