Automotive OPT Jobs in South Carolina
South Carolina's automotive sector is one of the most active in the Southeast, anchored by BMW Manufacturing in Spartanburg, Volvo Cars in Berkeley County, and a dense network of Tier 1 and Tier 2 suppliers. F-1 OPT candidates in engineering, quality, and manufacturing roles will find meaningful sponsorship opportunities across the Upstate and Lowcountry regions.
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Get Access To All JobsBecome our next FutureStarter
Are you ready to make an impact? ZF is looking for talented individuals to join our team. As a FutureStarter, you’ll have the opportunity to shape the future of mobility. Join us and be part of something extraordinary!
Sr. Technician - Service
Country/Region: US
Location: Gray Court, SC, US
Req ID 92405 | Gray Court, United States ZF Gainesville, LLC
Position Summary:
The Senior Service Technician is responsible for the repair, service, calibration, and commissioning (i.e. installation and technical support) of test systems in order to support end-of-line and R&D testing operations at customer sites.
Position Responsibilities:
- Perform activities to diagnose, repair, maintain, install, and rebuild a variety of test systems to support validation processes on-site and at the customer site.
- Install equipment, perform test procedures, diagnose mechanical/electrical/hydraulic/pneumatic issues, and analyze nature of malfunction required to repair test systems.
- Replace electric motors, pumps, belts, electric wiring, numeric controls, and related components involving mechanical, electrical, electronic, hydraulic, and pneumatic functions.
- Tear down and check component parts; repair, reassemble, and test valves, pumps, solenoid valves, rewire controls.
- Build special assembly and/or test fixtures; machine special replacement parts and/or fixtures.
- Move and install equipment; wire-in electric power, install hydraulic lines, and hook-up air lines.
- Perform scheduled preventive maintenance or calibrations on test systems.
- Check effective functionality of equipment safety devices on a periodic basis.
- Document issues, solutions, and repair work performed.
- Report unusual equipment or operating issues to management as they arise.
- Use a variety of machine tools and test equipment such as lathes, mills, grinders, saws, and drill presses, electrical meters, measuring & calibration tools, precision inspection tools, and common hand tools.
- Maintain an organized and hazard-free work area in compliance with all customer policies and governmental guidelines to ensure a safe and productive work environment.
- Work in accordance to 5S procedures.
- Participate in continuous improvement programs.
- Maintain professional and technical knowledge by attending educational workshops, formal training, reviewing professional publications, establishing and expanding professional networks, and participating in professional societies.
- Comply with all IATF/ZF policies and procedures.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
Essential Skills and Experience:
- Associate’s Degree
- 4 – 6+ years of related experience and/or trades training in complex machine maintenance (internship and co-op included)
- Ability to read blueprints in DIN/ISO standard format (in metric)
- Ability to analyze blueprints and use mathematics to evaluate/understand complex machine drawings
- Working knowledge in Hydraulics/Pneumatics/Mechanical components/parts functionalities
- Working knowledge of machine, tool, equipment, and test systems operations in addition to related repair methods and procedures involving mechanical, electrical, hydraulic, and pneumatic components/parts
- Basic knowledge in electrical wiring and troubleshooting
- Proficient in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint)
- Basic math and reading skills
- Ability to work independently in a fast paced, high-volume environment
- Ability to interface with cross-functional teams and all levels of personnel and management
- Good verbal and written communication skills
Be part of our ZF team as Sr. Technician - Service and apply now!
Contact
Tammy Whitt
+1 770 297 4062
DIVERSITY COMMITMENT:
Diversity, Equity and Inclusion are more than just words for us. They are at the core of the ZF Way that propels our team members towards their utmost success. We strive to build and nurture a culture where inclusiveness is a natural reflex. We actively seek ways to remove barriers so that every member of ZF can rise to their full potential. We aim to embed this in our legacy through how we operate and build our products as we shape next generation mobility, safety, sustainability and social justice.
With four generations across 118 nationalities in 41 countries, ZF combines a unique variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and ideas. Together, we solve problems, drive innovation and shape next generation mobility.
Our company is committed to the principles of Equal Employment Opportunity and to providing reasonable accommodations to applicants with physical and/or mental disabilities. If you are interested in applying for employment with us and are in need of accommodation or special assistance to navigate our website or to complete your application, please contact us. Requests for reasonable accommodation will be considered on a case-by-case basis. ZF is an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer and is committed to ensuring equal employment opportunities for all job applicants and employees. Employment decisions are based upon job-related reasons regardless of an applicant's race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, disability, marital status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by law. Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer M/F/Disability/Veteran
What does DEI (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion) mean for ZF as a company?
At ZF, we continuously strive to build and maintain a culture where inclusiveness is lived and diversity is valued. We actively seek ways to remove barriers so that all our employees can rise to their full potential. We aim to embed this vision in our legacy through how we operate and build our products as we shape the future of mobility.
Find out how we work at ZF:
Job Segment: Technical Support, Maintenance, Electrical, Inspector, Compliance, Technology, Manufacturing, Engineering, Quality, Legal
Become our next FutureStarter
Are you ready to make an impact? ZF is looking for talented individuals to join our team. As a FutureStarter, you’ll have the opportunity to shape the future of mobility. Join us and be part of something extraordinary!
Sr. Technician - Service
Country/Region: US
Location: Gray Court, SC, US
Req ID 92405 | Gray Court, United States ZF Gainesville, LLC
Position Summary:
The Senior Service Technician is responsible for the repair, service, calibration, and commissioning (i.e. installation and technical support) of test systems in order to support end-of-line and R&D testing operations at customer sites.
Position Responsibilities:
- Perform activities to diagnose, repair, maintain, install, and rebuild a variety of test systems to support validation processes on-site and at the customer site.
- Install equipment, perform test procedures, diagnose mechanical/electrical/hydraulic/pneumatic issues, and analyze nature of malfunction required to repair test systems.
- Replace electric motors, pumps, belts, electric wiring, numeric controls, and related components involving mechanical, electrical, electronic, hydraulic, and pneumatic functions.
- Tear down and check component parts; repair, reassemble, and test valves, pumps, solenoid valves, rewire controls.
- Build special assembly and/or test fixtures; machine special replacement parts and/or fixtures.
- Move and install equipment; wire-in electric power, install hydraulic lines, and hook-up air lines.
- Perform scheduled preventive maintenance or calibrations on test systems.
- Check effective functionality of equipment safety devices on a periodic basis.
- Document issues, solutions, and repair work performed.
- Report unusual equipment or operating issues to management as they arise.
- Use a variety of machine tools and test equipment such as lathes, mills, grinders, saws, and drill presses, electrical meters, measuring & calibration tools, precision inspection tools, and common hand tools.
- Maintain an organized and hazard-free work area in compliance with all customer policies and governmental guidelines to ensure a safe and productive work environment.
- Work in accordance to 5S procedures.
- Participate in continuous improvement programs.
- Maintain professional and technical knowledge by attending educational workshops, formal training, reviewing professional publications, establishing and expanding professional networks, and participating in professional societies.
- Comply with all IATF/ZF policies and procedures.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
Essential Skills and Experience:
- Associate’s Degree
- 4 – 6+ years of related experience and/or trades training in complex machine maintenance (internship and co-op included)
- Ability to read blueprints in DIN/ISO standard format (in metric)
- Ability to analyze blueprints and use mathematics to evaluate/understand complex machine drawings
- Working knowledge in Hydraulics/Pneumatics/Mechanical components/parts functionalities
- Working knowledge of machine, tool, equipment, and test systems operations in addition to related repair methods and procedures involving mechanical, electrical, hydraulic, and pneumatic components/parts
- Basic knowledge in electrical wiring and troubleshooting
- Proficient in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint)
- Basic math and reading skills
- Ability to work independently in a fast paced, high-volume environment
- Ability to interface with cross-functional teams and all levels of personnel and management
- Good verbal and written communication skills
Be part of our ZF team as Sr. Technician - Service and apply now!
Contact
Tammy Whitt
+1 770 297 4062
DIVERSITY COMMITMENT:
Diversity, Equity and Inclusion are more than just words for us. They are at the core of the ZF Way that propels our team members towards their utmost success. We strive to build and nurture a culture where inclusiveness is a natural reflex. We actively seek ways to remove barriers so that every member of ZF can rise to their full potential. We aim to embed this in our legacy through how we operate and build our products as we shape next generation mobility, safety, sustainability and social justice.
With four generations across 118 nationalities in 41 countries, ZF combines a unique variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and ideas. Together, we solve problems, drive innovation and shape next generation mobility.
Our company is committed to the principles of Equal Employment Opportunity and to providing reasonable accommodations to applicants with physical and/or mental disabilities. If you are interested in applying for employment with us and are in need of accommodation or special assistance to navigate our website or to complete your application, please contact us. Requests for reasonable accommodation will be considered on a case-by-case basis. ZF is an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer and is committed to ensuring equal employment opportunities for all job applicants and employees. Employment decisions are based upon job-related reasons regardless of an applicant's race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, disability, marital status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by law. Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer M/F/Disability/Veteran
What does DEI (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion) mean for ZF as a company?
At ZF, we continuously strive to build and maintain a culture where inclusiveness is lived and diversity is valued. We actively seek ways to remove barriers so that all our employees can rise to their full potential. We aim to embed this vision in our legacy through how we operate and build our products as we shape the future of mobility.
Find out how we work at ZF:
Job Segment: Technical Support, Maintenance, Electrical, Inspector, Compliance, Technology, Manufacturing, Engineering, Quality, Legal
OPT Automotive Job Roles in South Carolina
See all Automotive OPT Jobs in South Carolina
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Search Automotive Jobs in South CarolinaAutomotive OPT Sponsorship Jobs in South Carolina: Frequently Asked Questions
Which automotive companies sponsor F-1 OPT visas in South Carolina?
BMW Manufacturing in Spartanburg and Volvo Cars in Berkeley County are the two largest original equipment manufacturers with established international hiring programs. Beyond OEMs, suppliers such as Michelin North America (headquartered in Greenville), ZF, and Bosch have significant South Carolina operations and have historically supported OPT employees in engineering and technical roles. Sponsorship practices vary by role, department, and annual hiring cycles, so confirming directly with recruiters is essential.
Which cities in South Carolina have the most automotive F-1 OPT sponsorship jobs?
Spartanburg and the broader Upstate region, including Greenville and Anderson, concentrate the highest density of automotive employers due to BMW's plant and its surrounding supplier ecosystem. Berkeley County near Charleston has grown significantly with the Volvo Cars facility. Columbia occasionally sees automotive-adjacent roles tied to logistics and corporate functions. For F-1 OPT candidates, the Spartanburg-Greenville corridor represents the strongest starting point.
What types of automotive roles typically qualify for F-1 OPT sponsorship?
Roles that align with F-1 OPT STEM extension eligibility tend to attract the most sponsorship interest. These include manufacturing engineering, quality assurance engineering, supply chain and logistics analysis, process engineering, and vehicle systems testing. Software-defined vehicle and electrification roles are increasingly common at South Carolina plants. Positions requiring a direct degree-to-role connection, particularly in mechanical, electrical, industrial, or computer engineering, are most consistently supported by OPT work authorization.
How do I find automotive F-1 OPT sponsorship jobs in South Carolina?
Migrate Mate is built specifically for international students and filters job listings by visa type, including F-1 OPT, and by industry. Searching automotive roles in South Carolina on Migrate Mate surfaces positions from employers with documented sponsorship activity, saving significant research time. Beyond the platform, attending career fairs hosted by Clemson University and the University of South Carolina, both of which have strong ties to the Upstate automotive cluster, can also surface unadvertised opportunities.
Are there any South Carolina-specific considerations for F-1 OPT in the automotive industry?
South Carolina's automotive employers operate under significant production schedules and often hire on project-specific timelines, which can affect how quickly OPT authorization needs to be in place. F-1 students using standard OPT have 12 months of work authorization, while STEM OPT extension applicants must be employed by an E-Verify enrolled employer. Most major manufacturers and large Tier 1 suppliers in the state are E-Verify enrolled, but confirming this with any prospective employer before accepting an offer is advisable.