Energy OPT Jobs in Tennessee
Tennessee's energy sector spans TVA's massive federal hydroelectric and nuclear network, major utilities like Dominion and Clearway, and a growing clean energy corridor along the I-40 belt through Nashville, Knoxville, and Chattanooga. F-1 OPT candidates in electrical engineering, environmental science, and energy management find active sponsorship activity here, particularly with utilities and federal contractors.
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Get Access To All JobsJob Title:
Distribution Modeling and Analytics Utilities Student Employee
Location:
Knoxville, TN
Job Summary and Description:
Distribution Modeling and Analytics Utilities around the world are transforming their distribution systems to support electrification, distributed energy resources (DER), resilience, decarbonization, and growing operational complexity. As planning and operations become increasingly data-driven, utilities need advanced analytics, high-fidelity modeling, artificial intelligence, and trusted data to maintain a reliable, resilient, and efficient grid.
The EPRI Distribution Operations and Planning team leads collaborative research that advances the state of the art in distribution system planning and operations. Through the development of innovative methodologies, simulation tools, analytics, and field-validated solutions, the team addresses challenges spanning grid modernization, DER integration, protection, resilience, operations, and emerging technologies. This position supports distribution system modeling, simulation, and analysis across a range of topics to advance the distribution system.
Job Functions:
- Distribution modeling and analysis using OpenDSS
- Apply and derive advanced data analytics
- Evaluating advanced grid technologies and applications (PV with smart inverters, storage, distribution management systems).
Preferences:
- BS in electrical engineering and 1 or more years of power industry experience or graduate coursework
- Experience/course work regarding distribution system modeling & simulation
- Must be able to follow written and verbal directions
Ideal Candidate:
- Experience using OpenDSS or commercial distribution planning software (CYME, Synergi, Milsoft)
- Experience with coding (e.g. python, C#, etc.) and data analysis (machine learning, statistical methods, etc.)
- Knowledge of distribution system modeling, utility measurement data, or advanced load flow simulation practices
- Outstanding problem solving and analytical skills
- Self-motivated with excellent time management
The hourly rate range for Student positions are:
- Undergraduate: $16-29 per hour
- Masters: $27-33 per hour
- Ph.D: $31-36 per hour
These ranges are an estimate, and the actual hourly rate may vary based on various factors, including without limitation applicant's education, experience, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity and alignment with market data. The hourly rate may also be adjusted based on applicant's geographic location.
As an EPRI Student, you will not participate in EPRI’s Benefit Programs which includes health insurance, retirement benefits, vacation, sick leave (except as set required by law) and holiday pay. However, as a Student employee you are eligible for the benefits of Social Security, State Disability Insurance, and Workers’ Compensation Insurance.
For Student positions which require one to relocate to an EPRI office, relocation assistance is not provided and the student will be responsible for covering all relocation costs/expenses.
EPRI participates in E-Verify, an online system operated jointly by the Department of Homeland Security and the Social Security Administration (SSA). EPRI uses the system to check the work status of new hires by comparing information from the employee's I-9 form against SSA and Department of Homeland Security databases.
EPRI is an equal opportunity employer. EEO/AA/M/F/VETS/Disabled
Together . . . Shaping the Future of Energy.
Job Title:
Distribution Modeling and Analytics Utilities Student Employee
Location:
Knoxville, TN
Job Summary and Description:
Distribution Modeling and Analytics Utilities around the world are transforming their distribution systems to support electrification, distributed energy resources (DER), resilience, decarbonization, and growing operational complexity. As planning and operations become increasingly data-driven, utilities need advanced analytics, high-fidelity modeling, artificial intelligence, and trusted data to maintain a reliable, resilient, and efficient grid.
The EPRI Distribution Operations and Planning team leads collaborative research that advances the state of the art in distribution system planning and operations. Through the development of innovative methodologies, simulation tools, analytics, and field-validated solutions, the team addresses challenges spanning grid modernization, DER integration, protection, resilience, operations, and emerging technologies. This position supports distribution system modeling, simulation, and analysis across a range of topics to advance the distribution system.
Job Functions:
- Distribution modeling and analysis using OpenDSS
- Apply and derive advanced data analytics
- Evaluating advanced grid technologies and applications (PV with smart inverters, storage, distribution management systems).
Preferences:
- BS in electrical engineering and 1 or more years of power industry experience or graduate coursework
- Experience/course work regarding distribution system modeling & simulation
- Must be able to follow written and verbal directions
Ideal Candidate:
- Experience using OpenDSS or commercial distribution planning software (CYME, Synergi, Milsoft)
- Experience with coding (e.g. python, C#, etc.) and data analysis (machine learning, statistical methods, etc.)
- Knowledge of distribution system modeling, utility measurement data, or advanced load flow simulation practices
- Outstanding problem solving and analytical skills
- Self-motivated with excellent time management
The hourly rate range for Student positions are:
- Undergraduate: $16-29 per hour
- Masters: $27-33 per hour
- Ph.D: $31-36 per hour
These ranges are an estimate, and the actual hourly rate may vary based on various factors, including without limitation applicant's education, experience, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity and alignment with market data. The hourly rate may also be adjusted based on applicant's geographic location.
As an EPRI Student, you will not participate in EPRI’s Benefit Programs which includes health insurance, retirement benefits, vacation, sick leave (except as set required by law) and holiday pay. However, as a Student employee you are eligible for the benefits of Social Security, State Disability Insurance, and Workers’ Compensation Insurance.
For Student positions which require one to relocate to an EPRI office, relocation assistance is not provided and the student will be responsible for covering all relocation costs/expenses.
EPRI participates in E-Verify, an online system operated jointly by the Department of Homeland Security and the Social Security Administration (SSA). EPRI uses the system to check the work status of new hires by comparing information from the employee's I-9 form against SSA and Department of Homeland Security databases.
EPRI is an equal opportunity employer. EEO/AA/M/F/VETS/Disabled
Together . . . Shaping the Future of Energy.
OPT Energy Job Roles in Tennessee
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Search Energy Jobs in TennesseeEnergy OPT Sponsorship Jobs in Tennessee: Frequently Asked Questions
Which energy companies in Tennessee sponsor F-1 OPT visas?
The Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), one of the country's largest federal utilities, has a documented history of hiring international graduates in engineering and environmental roles under OPT. Other active employers include Clearway Energy and regional utilities operating in the Nashville and Knoxville corridors. Federal contractors supporting TVA's nuclear and hydro facilities also frequently hire F-1 OPT candidates in technical roles.
Which cities in Tennessee have the most energy F-1 OPT sponsorship jobs?
Knoxville is the strongest market, anchored by TVA's headquarters and Oak Ridge National Laboratory's energy research programs. Nashville follows closely, with growing clean energy development and corporate utility offices. Chattanooga has attracted energy technology investment tied to its smart grid infrastructure. Memphis, while less concentrated in energy, has opportunities with regional transmission and utility operations.
What types of energy roles typically qualify for F-1 OPT sponsorship in Tennessee?
Roles that align F-1 OPT eligibility with a qualifying degree field include electrical engineer, power systems analyst, environmental engineer, nuclear engineer, energy data analyst, and renewable energy project coordinator. Positions at TVA and Oak Ridge National Laboratory in research, grid operations, and sustainability reporting are particularly common fits. The role must be directly related to your degree field to satisfy OPT requirements.
How do I find energy F-1 OPT sponsorship jobs in Tennessee?
Migrate Mate is built specifically for international students and filters energy jobs in Tennessee by visa type, including F-1 OPT, so you're not sorting through listings that don't apply to your status. Beyond the job board, targeting TVA's campus recruiting program and Oak Ridge National Laboratory's internship pipeline is worthwhile, as both institutions have structured pathways for international graduates in energy-related degree programs.
Are there any Tennessee-specific considerations for F-1 OPT sponsorship in energy?
Tennessee's energy sector is heavily tied to federal infrastructure through TVA, which means many roles fall under federal hiring rules that can limit OPT sponsorship for direct government positions. However, TVA contractors and private utilities operating in the state are not subject to the same restrictions. STEM OPT extension eligibility is particularly relevant here since most qualifying energy roles sit in STEM degree categories, allowing up to 24 additional months of work authorization.