Mining & Natural Resources OPT Jobs in Texas
F-1 OPT sponsorship jobs in Texas mining and natural resources are concentrated in the Permian Basin hub of Midland-Odessa, Houston's energy corridor, and the Eagle Ford Shale region. Major operators and oilfield services firms like ExxonMobil, Halliburton, and Schlumberger have active OPT hiring programs for geoscience, engineering, and environmental roles.
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Company Overview:
MP Materials (NYSE: MP) is rebuilding American industrial capability for a new era of autonomy, robotics, and electrification.
We are the only U.S. company with a fully integrated rare earth supply chain—from mining and refining to advanced metal and magnet manufacturing. Our products include both the critical materials used to make permanent magnets and the finished magnets themselves—enabling next-generation technologies in robotics, automation, aerospace, transportation, defense, and energy systems. These materials are the foundation of physical AI—the convergence of computation, movement, and control.
We hire ambitious, mission-driven people who want to tackle complex challenges and shape the future of strategic industries. Our culture is rooted in teamwork, resiliency, and integrity, with a deep commitment to operational excellence and national purpose. MP is rapidly evolving from a materials producer into a leading U.S. manufacturer—and our people are driving that transformation.
Position Overview:
The Electrical Operations Engineer will focus primarily on managing and executing electrical operating expense (OPEX) projects that drive cost efficiency, process improvements, and operational reliability at our new metal, alloy, and magnet-making facility. This role will work cross-functionally to reduce operational costs while maintaining or improving system performance.
Position Responsibilities:
- Serve as an on-site technical expert for electrical infrastructure systems and equipment, with a focus on practical field operations.
- Ensure effective collaboration between maintenance & operations with engineering and capital project teams.
- Ensure strict adherence to safety protocols, conduct inspections, and promote a safety-first culture across maintenance operations.
- Plan resources and develop or approve work procedures for electrical troubleshooting, repair, retrofit, and maintenance activities.
- Perform routine inspections and hands-on troubleshooting of mechanical and electrical systems to ensure operational reliability and minimize downtime.
- Plan and oversee maintenance projects, coordinate with contractors and vendors, and implement procedures that meet safety and regulatory standards.
- Lead or participate in root-cause analysis investigations related to electrical systems and failures.
- Identify and implement strategies to enhance equipment reliability and maintenance efficiency, including reliability-centered maintenance (RCM).
- Deliver training to facility engineers and cross-functional teams on electrical systems, procedures, and updates.
- Maintain detailed records of maintenance activities and generate performance reports, including KPIs, downtime analysis, and budget tracking.
- Assist in interpreting and applying applicable codes and standards (e.g., NEC, IEEE).
- Support engineering, construction, and commissioning teams by providing documentation and resolving design issues based on operational needs.
Basic Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering or related field.
- 3+ years of experience in electrical engineering with a focus on operational efficiency, cost reduction, or process improvement in a manufacturing or industrial environment.
- Strong understanding of electrical power distribution, control systems, and instrumentation relevant to manufacturing operations.
- Experience managing OPEX or continuous improvement projects with measurable cost savings.
- Proficiency in MS Office and electrical design or analysis software (e.g., AutoCAD Electrical, SKM).
- Ability to analyze operational data and electrical system performance to identify expense reduction opportunities.
- Excellent communication and collaboration skills to work effectively across departments.
- Strong organizational skills with ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines.
- Commitment to safety and environmental compliance.
Desired Qualities:
- EIT or manufacturing and reliability certifications.
- Familiarity with industry standards and codes (e.g., NEC, IEEE, NETA, OSHA, NRTL, UL).
- Ability to perform load calculations, short circuit analysis, and protective device coordination.
- Understanding of uninterruptable power sources, diesel/gas generators, electrical switchgear, power distribution units, variable frequency drives, and automatic/static transfer switches.
- Adept at establishing priorities on operational readiness at sites with multiple processes.
- Dependable in meeting deadlines and reliably delivering comprehensive, detailed design documentation.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a passion for innovation and continuous improvement.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary team.
MP Materials is Proud to be an Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Underrepresented groups/Women/Disabled/Veterans are encouraged to apply. Candidates whose disabilities make them unable to meet the position’s requirements will still be considered qualified if they can perform the essential functions of the job with reasonable accommodation.
Your Right to Work – In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment verification document form upon hire.
For Assistance with Application – Alternative methods of applying for employment are available to individuals unable to submit an application through this site because of a disability. Contact Human Resources Department at 702-844-6111; dial 7 when prompted for HR; 1700 South Pavilion Center Dr. 8th Floor, Las Vegas, NV 89135 to discuss reasonable accommodation.
OPT Mining & Natural Resources Job Roles in Texas
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Search Mining & Natural Resources Jobs in TexasMining & Natural Resources OPT Sponsorship Jobs in Texas: Frequently Asked Questions
Which mining and natural resources companies sponsor F-1 OPT visas in Texas?
Texas-based operators and services firms with documented OPT hiring include ExxonMobil, Chevron, ConocoPhillips, Halliburton, and SLB (formerly Schlumberger). Midsize exploration and production companies headquartered in Houston and Midland also hire OPT students for technical roles, particularly in geology, petroleum engineering, and environmental compliance. Filing history varies by role and business cycle, so confirming sponsorship intent before applying is important.
Which cities in Texas have the most mining and natural resources F-1 OPT sponsorship jobs?
Houston is the primary hiring hub, home to the corporate headquarters of most major operators and oilfield services companies. Midland and Odessa anchor Permian Basin field operations and attract reservoir and drilling engineering roles. San Antonio serves the Eagle Ford Shale corridor, while Austin hosts an emerging energy technology cluster. Smaller production-focused positions also appear in Corpus Christi and Laredo near refining and pipeline infrastructure.
What types of mining and natural resources roles typically qualify for F-1 OPT sponsorship in Texas?
Roles that typically qualify are those requiring a bachelor's degree or higher in a directly related field. Common qualifying positions include petroleum engineer, geoscientist, environmental scientist, reservoir analyst, drilling engineer, and data scientist supporting subsurface operations. Field technician and general operations roles without a degree requirement less commonly qualify for OPT, as the authorization must align with your enrolled field of study.
How do I find mining & natural resources F-1 OPT sponsorship jobs in Texas?
Migrate Mate lets you filter specifically for mining and natural resources positions in Texas with verified F-1 OPT sponsorship history, so you can identify which employers have actively hired OPT students in this sector rather than applying broadly. Cross-referencing employer LCA filing records through OFLC gives additional confirmation of sponsorship intent. Focusing your search on Houston, Midland, and San Antonio will surface the highest concentration of relevant openings.
Are there any state-specific or industry-specific considerations for F-1 OPT sponsorship in Texas mining and natural resources?
Texas has no state income tax, which affects total compensation comparisons, but does not change federal OPT authorization rules. The cyclical nature of oil and gas means hiring volumes fluctuate with commodity prices, so OPT timelines matter: STEM OPT extensions of 24 months are available for qualifying degrees in petroleum engineering, geology, and related STEM fields, giving you more runway to secure H-1B visa sponsorship through an employer already familiar with your work.