Energy OPT Jobs in Ohio
Energy F-1 OPT sponsorship jobs in Ohio are concentrated around the state's mix of utilities, renewable energy developers, and oil and gas operations. Major employers like FirstEnergy, AEP Ohio, and EDP Renewables have hired OPT candidates in engineering and technical roles. Columbus, Akron, and Toledo are the most active hiring hubs for international students entering Ohio's energy sector.
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Job Posting End Date
08-04-2026
Please note the job posting will close on the day before the posting end date.
Job Summary
The Telecom Technician C will perform basic to intermediate level installation, maintenance, repair or replacement, testing, and inspection of various Telecommunications equipment, systems, and infrastructure. This role will work to gain knowledge and understanding of various Telecommunications technologies, business processes, and business partner requirements; and will work to gain knowledge of emerging technologies. Technician C will perform these tasks under immediate or general supervision according to the task level and will adhere to standard practices and procedures. Technician C is a 2-year, 2-step progression program with job levels C2 and C1.
Telecomm Technician C:
What You'll Do:
- Assist in performing, or perform, basic to intermediate level installation, acceptance testing, and documentation of various Telecommunications related equipment and systems. (May assist in performing, or perform, higher level work for next-level training or as assigned.)
- Assist in performing, or perform, basic to intermediate level troubleshooting and system testing, maintenance, and repair of electronic and optical equipment, infrastructure, and systems. (May assist in performing, or perform, higher level work for next-level training or as assigned.)
- Maintain accurate records, reports, drawings, and other data required for all work performed.
- Inspect and maintain test equipment, tools, automotive equipment and safety/protective equipment in good working order and compliance.
- Demonstrate the ability to read, understand, and update electronic and electrical prints, diagrams, and asset records related to Telecom equipment and technologies.
- Demonstrate the ability to operate tools and other equipment necessary to perform job duties.
- Assist others as requested or assigned and provide training and guidance to employees in lower classifications.
- Perform all duties in accordance with the Company’s safety rules and operating regulations, NERC CIP and environmental compliance and practices.
- Respond to emergency callouts as required.
- Perform essential job functions and tasks as defined in lower-level job descriptions in the Telecom Technician Job Family and other duties as assigned.
- Successfully complete all assigned training.
The Technician C must achieve a working knowledge and demonstrate intermediate level technical support skills in one or more of the following technology examples, as assigned by leader:
- Transmission and Distribution station data networks, SCADA (supervisory control and data acquisition), distribution automation systems, smart grids, and telecom for other utility systems.
- Generation and Renewables facilities telecom voice and data systems.
- Transport systems, such as microwave radio, fiber optic, and other transport/wireless systems.
- Land Mobile Radio System: P25 site electronics and mobile radio installation, support and programming, and RF antenna systems.
- Fiber optic cables, fiber splicing, testing, and termination/connecting methods.
- AC/DC electrical power systems, including basic understanding of circuits and components of distribution and transmission stations and networks.
- Telecom wiring and cabling requirements, installation methods, and industry standard practices.
- Networking systems that include routers, switches, wireless access points, and related devices.
- Infrastructure support equipment and facilities such as DC chargers/rectifiers, batteries, UPS systems, generators, transfer panels, security and monitoring, HVAC, grounding and signal cabling, site access roads, site yards, fences and gates, shelters, towers, and antenna systems.
- Specialized support of centers such as transmission and distribution dispatch centers and control centers, customer call centers, data centers and other specialized locations.
- Proven ability to work independently as a Fiber Optic Splicer, including fiber splicing, termination, testing, and troubleshooting.
- Experience installing, commissioning, and troubleshooting transport equipment.
- Experience installing, commissioning, and troubleshooting network equipment.
- Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills with the ability to identify and resolve technical issues in a timely manner.
- Ability to read and interpret technical drawings, schematics, and equipment documentation.
- Working knowledge of applicable safety practices, standards, and procedures.
What We're Looking For:
Education Requirements Listed Below:
- Associate degree, or equivalent 2-year technical degree, in electrical engineering technology, electronic technology, or related technology field; or military training/experience in related technology field; or high school diploma with a minimum 3 years of related work experience or industry knowledge.
Work Experience Requirements Listed Below:
- Must demonstrate knowledge of basic level technical support skills equivalent to a Telecom Technician Apprentice I and have a minimum of 3 years of technical work experience in addition to education requirement.
For internal candidates (AEP Employees) Only:
- Must have a minimum of 1 year of satisfactory work experience, equivalent to, or as a Telecom Technician Apprentice I.
- Must have successfully completed all required training for the previous job level; and demonstrated/successfully tested the knowledge, skills, and capabilities required of an experienced Telecom Technician Apprentice I.
Other Requirements:
- Must possess and maintain a valid state driver’s license.
- Exhibit AEP competencies that are always expected of every employee. A positive attitude, respectful behavior, and genuine support for teammates and leaders are necessary.
- A strong electronics / telecommunications aptitude is desired and essential to success.
- Overnight travel and daily travel for work as required.
- Be adaptable to work schedules and priorities that may change.
- Be available for call-out and planned overtime as necessary to support our 24x7 operation.
- Demonstrate computer and application skills needed to perform assigned Telecom work and documentation. Demonstrate effective oral and written communication skills.
Drive Time Requirement:
Successful candidate must live or be willing to relocate within 45 mins of the Newark Service Center (777 Hopewell Dr. Newark, Ohio 43056), OR the Cambridge Service Center (6558 Glenn Highway Cambridge, Ohio 43725), OR the Zanesville Service Center (1900 Licking Road Zanesville, Ohio 43701).
What You'll Get:
Telecomm Technician C: $42.45 - $46.79
In addition to a competitive compensation, AEP offers a unique comprehensive benefits package that aims to support and enhance the overall well-being of our employees.
At AEP, we’re more than just an energy company — we’re a team of dedicated professionals committed to delivering safe, reliable, and innovative energy solutions. Guided by our mission to put the customer first, we strive to exceed expectations by listening, responding, and continuously improving the way we serve our communities. If you're passionate about making a meaningful impact and being part of a forward-thinking organization, this is the company for you!
AEPOH
Compensation Data
Compensation Grade:
U018-989
Compensation Range:
$42.45 - $44.62
The Physical Demand Level for this job is: M – Medium Work: Exerting 20 to 50 pounds of force occasionally, and/or 10 to 25 pounds of force frequently, and/or greater than negligible up to 10 pounds of force constantly to move objects. Physical demand requirements are in excess of those for Light Work.
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It is hereby reaffirmed that it is the policy of American Electric Power (AEP) to provide Equal Employment Opportunity in all respects of the employer-employee relationship including recruiting, hiring, upgrading and promotion, conditions and privileges of employment, company sponsored training programs, educational assistance, social and recreational programs, compensation, benefits, transfers, discipline, layoffs and termination of employment to all employees and applicants without discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), national origin, age, veteran or military status, disability, genetic information, or any other basis prohibited by applicable law. When required by law, we might record certain information or applicants for employment may be invited to voluntarily disclose protected characteristics.
OPT Energy Job Roles in Ohio
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Search Energy Jobs in OhioEnergy OPT Sponsorship Jobs in Ohio: Frequently Asked Questions
Which energy companies in Ohio sponsor F-1 OPT visas?
FirstEnergy, AEP Ohio, and EDP Renewables are among the Ohio-based energy employers that have sponsored F-1 OPT workers in technical and engineering roles. Larger utilities and renewable energy developers are generally more likely to have established OPT sponsorship processes than smaller regional contractors. Checking a company's prior OPT and H-1B visa filing history through DOL disclosure data gives a clearer picture of their sponsorship patterns.
Which cities in Ohio have the most energy F-1 OPT sponsorship jobs?
Columbus is the largest hiring hub for energy OPT roles in Ohio, home to AEP Ohio's headquarters and a growing clean energy presence. Akron has historically supported FirstEnergy's operations, while Toledo sits near significant wind energy development in northwest Ohio. Cleveland also attracts energy sector talent given its industrial base and proximity to Lake Erie offshore wind project planning activity.
What types of energy roles typically qualify for F-1 OPT sponsorship in Ohio?
Roles that qualify for F-1 OPT must directly relate to your field of study. In Ohio's energy sector, that commonly includes electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, environmental science, power systems analysis, and energy data analytics positions. Roles requiring a specific technical degree align most cleanly with OPT eligibility requirements. General operations or non-technical support roles are less likely to satisfy the direct relationship requirement USCIS expects.
How do I find energy F-1 OPT sponsorship jobs in Ohio?
Migrate Mate is built specifically for international students and filters jobs by visa type, state, and industry, making it straightforward to browse energy F-1 OPT sponsorship jobs in Ohio without sorting through irrelevant postings. Beyond the job board, targeting Ohio utilities and renewable developers directly and confirming their OPT sponsorship history through DOL LCA disclosure data helps prioritize applications toward employers with a documented track record.
Are there state-specific considerations for F-1 OPT sponsorship in Ohio's energy industry?
Ohio's energy mix spans traditional utilities, natural gas, and an expanding wind and solar sector, which creates varied demand for OPT candidates across engineering disciplines. Ohio does not impose state-level restrictions on OPT employment, so federal F-1 OPT rules apply. STEM OPT extension eligibility is particularly relevant here since most qualifying energy roles in Ohio involve engineering or applied science degrees, potentially extending your authorized work period to 36 months total.