Career By Design

I am a civil engineering graduate with a Masters degree from University of Texas At Tyler. I came to the US as an international student in the Fall of 2017. Currently, I am actively searching for an entry-level civil engineering job. I have a couple of years of work experience in highway, structural design works in hydropower and road projects back in Nepal. Recently, I achieved my EIT certification from the Texas Board of Professional Engineers. But it's been really hard for me to even get a job interview. I do not know the reason behind this, maybe this has got something to do with the fact that I will need to be sponsored in the future by companies. But as I am in Optional Practical Training (OPT), I will not need any kind of sponsorship for 3 years. I would really appreciate if I could get some advice on this? Or would love to get in contact with companies who hire international candidates.

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Prajwal Pokhrel EIT, MSCE
Civil Engineer
Irving TX
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Hello Prajwal,

I see where you are coming from. I can not certainly say that the fact that it has been hard for you to get interviews is entirely attributed to sponsorship, although there is probably some component in it, as it sounds you have a sound resume. How long have you been looking for a job and when did you graduate? It might take some months before you get something. Have you expanded your search to other cities outside Texas and different companies? Maybe different industries? The good thing about us engineers is that we are versatile and flexible in terms of working industry. I can also take a look at your resume to see if there is something that can be improved. My best advice is to be persistent, patient and not shy. The last one being the most important one. Dont be afraid of reaching, calling or meeting people out of the blue, as long as it always in a respectful manner!

If you'd like me to take a look at your resume, please reach out to me directly via LinkedIn. I might also be able to help you with the job search.
Good luck!
Salvador

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Salvador Bentolila P.E., ENV SP, M.ASCE
AECOM
New York NY
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Hello Prajwal,

Finding a job is a challenge for everyone but for international candidates is even harder since some companies have strict policies about hiring non-permanent residents. I went through the same situation as you between 2010-2011. I ended up going back home, but it was the right decision since I could apply the knowledge and skills I gained in the U.S. in my home country. Things were different back then, the U.S. was going through a tough economical period and the rate of unemployment was higher compared to now. Now I believe the job market is solid and there may be good chances for you to get a job. These are some of my suggestions that make help to increase your chances to get interviews and hopefully a job.

  - Consider applying for an internship. This may be a good opportunity to get your foot in the door. An internship would let you get some experience, while the employer does not have the commitment to sponsor a work visa. An internship can lead to a permanent job after it is over. 
 - Look for things that make you different from your peers (e.g. languages, programming skill, use of specific software). Once you identify your differentiator, apply to companies that required that specific skill set.
- Expand your network. One way is attending the monthly ASCE meetings or any other professional society in your city or state. This is a good way to meet people and promote yourself as a candidate. People in these meetings may be working in companies that are hiring or would be hiring at any point.
- Look for small companies that may required a temporary worker. Again, this may lead to something more permanent.

Hope this help you out, and good luck with your search.

Sincerely, 

Camilo 


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Camilo Torres C.Eng, EIT, M.ASCE
Bogota
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