Mechanical engineering is one of the most in-demand and high-paying career paths in the United States. Every year, thousands of U.S. companies search for qualified professionals who can help design, test, and improve machines, tools, and mechanical systems. For foreigners with strong technical knowledge and a passion for problem-solving, mechanical engineering jobs in the USA with visa sponsorship present a clear path to a well-paid career and long-term settlement.
Due to a shortage of skilled labor in some technical sectors, many American companies are ready to offer visa sponsorship to foreign-trained mechanical engineers. These opportunities are especially attractive to international candidates who want stable employment, competitive wages, and legal pathways to work and live in the United States. From manufacturing and energy to aerospace and automotive industries, employers are hiring both experienced professionals and fresh graduates for various mechanical engineering roles.
If you’re a foreigner looking to work in the U.S., this guide will help you understand what you need, where to find the best-paying jobs, how to apply, and what kind of visa options are available for mechanical engineers. Each section is written in simple English to help you understand the process clearly and avoid mistakes that can delay your job search or visa application.
Visa sponsorship jobs for mechanical engineers come with many benefits, including long-term residency options, access to healthcare, and family relocation support in some cases. As long as you meet the required qualifications and know where to look, getting a well-paying mechanical engineering job in the U.S. is very possible.
Entry-level Skills and Experience Required
To qualify for a mechanical engineering job in the USA as a foreigner, you must first meet certain educational and practical requirements. Most employers expect at least a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering or a related field from a recognized institution. If your degree is from outside the U.S., it may need to be evaluated for equivalency through services like WES (World Education Services).
Besides a degree, practical experience is highly valued. Entry-level jobs may not require many years of work, but internships, industrial training, or hands-on project work can improve your chances of getting hired. U.S. companies want to see that you have used your engineering knowledge in real-world situations, whether through part-time work, research projects, or temporary roles in the industry.
Employers are also interested in candidates who have good problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and a solid understanding of engineering software like AutoCAD, SolidWorks, ANSYS, or MATLAB. If you’re applying for specialized roles, such as HVAC or robotics, employers may ask for extra certification or hands-on training in those areas.
Soft skills like communication, teamwork, and time management are equally important. Since mechanical engineers often work with other professionals such as civil engineers, technicians, and project managers, the ability to explain technical ideas clearly is a big advantage. In some cases, a basic understanding of American workplace culture may help you stand out, especially when it comes to teamwork and workplace safety.
If you’re just starting out, you should also be open to entry-level roles like junior engineer, design assistant, or maintenance trainee. These jobs can help you build experience and move up the ladder faster. Having a strong résumé, tailored to U.S. job standards, and preparing for interviews with confidence can also make a big difference in your job search.
Regions with the Highest Payment Structures
The salary for mechanical engineers in the United States can vary based on the region, demand, and type of industry. Some states offer much higher wages due to the presence of large manufacturing plants, tech companies, or energy firms. For foreign job seekers, targeting these high-paying areas can be a smart move if you’re looking to maximize your income while working under a sponsored visa.
California is one of the top-paying states for mechanical engineers. With large tech companies, aerospace firms, and green energy startups, cities like San Jose, San Diego, and Los Angeles offer excellent salaries. However, the cost of living is also high, so it’s important to balance income with expenses.
Texas is another strong region for mechanical engineering jobs. Houston, Dallas, and Austin are home to major companies in oil and gas, construction, and electronics. Texas also has a lower cost of living compared to coastal states, making it attractive for immigrants who want to save more from their salaries.
Michigan remains a hub for automotive engineering. Companies in Detroit and surrounding areas often hire mechanical engineers to work on vehicle design, testing, and production. If you’re interested in working with brands like Ford, GM, or Tesla, this region offers high-paying mechanical engineering jobs and regular demand for foreign talent.
Massachusetts, Illinois, and New York also pay well for mechanical engineers, particularly in sectors like robotics, research, and energy systems. Boston, Chicago, and New York City host many employers that hire through visa sponsorship programs for technical roles, especially for those with postgraduate degrees or industry certifications.
If you’re applying from abroad, consider checking job openings in states with favorable tax systems and a high number of visa-sponsoring employers. Some smaller cities also offer relocation incentives to attract foreign workers into their local workforce. These regions might not offer the absolute highest salaries, but they can still provide steady income and a lower cost of living for immigrants.
Salary Expectations for Mechanical Engineers
Mechanical engineers in the USA earn some of the best salaries in the world. If you are coming in through a visa sponsorship program, especially under an H-1B or EB-3 visa, you can expect a starting salary that reflects the U.S. labor standards. As of 2025, the average annual salary for mechanical engineers in the United States is between $75,000 and $115,000 depending on experience, education level, location, and type of employer.
Entry-level mechanical engineers usually start from around $65,000 to $80,000 per year. If you have a master’s degree or specialized training in areas like HVAC, fluid dynamics, or renewable energy, you may begin at a higher salary range. Those with 5–10 years of experience can earn over $100,000 per year, especially in sectors like aerospace, energy, and robotics.
In regions like California and Massachusetts, salaries are on the higher end due to strong demand and expensive living conditions. Engineers working in oil and gas projects in Texas or offshore drilling stations may receive additional bonuses, overtime pay, and hazard allowances. Some employers also provide full benefits, including health insurance, relocation support, and housing stipends for foreign workers under a valid work visa.
Another important factor is the type of visa you’re using. For example, H-1B visa holders must be paid a prevailing wage, which is determined by the U.S. Department of Labor to protect foreign workers from underpayment. This ensures that you’ll receive a salary equal to or greater than what American citizens in the same role earn.
It’s important to understand that salary offers may also include non-cash benefits such as stock options, professional development funding, or paid leave. These extras are especially common in tech-focused firms and startups. If you’re moving with your family, some employers even help cover visa and schooling costs, depending on the job level and location.
Companies Hiring Mechanical Engineers in the USA
Several U.S.-based companies are known for hiring international mechanical engineers through visa sponsorship. These companies usually have a long history of sponsoring foreign talent and often offer full-time roles with long-term work opportunities. If you are searching for a stable job and a legal pathway to live in the U.S., these employers can be a good starting point.
General Electric (GE) frequently hires mechanical engineers for roles in aviation, power, and renewable energy. GE is known for its global reach and engineering leadership, making it a preferred employer for skilled workers with technical degrees. The company regularly sponsors H-1B visas for foreign professionals and often provides relocation support.
Boeing, one of the world’s largest aerospace firms, recruits mechanical engineers to work on aircraft design, testing, and production systems. Locations such as Seattle, St. Louis, and Charleston are known for engineering jobs that come with strong benefits and good salaries. Boeing has consistently offered visa sponsorships for skilled workers with the right qualifications.
Tesla and SpaceX also offer positions to mechanical engineers, particularly in the fields of automation, robotics, and advanced manufacturing. These companies look for top talent with strong academic records and hands-on experience in innovative systems. Both firms have been known to sponsor international candidates who meet their high technical standards.
Caterpillar and John Deere, known for industrial machinery and heavy equipment, also hire mechanical engineers across the United States. They offer visa sponsorships for hard-to-fill roles, especially in production and design. Other companies like Schlumberger, Fluor, and Siemens USA hire foreign-trained engineers in the energy and oil sectors.
Many of these companies post job openings directly on their careers websites, or through major job platforms that allow you to filter roles with visa sponsorship options. Before applying, make sure your résumé and documents meet U.S. standards, and tailor each application to match the job description closely.
Visa Types and Options for Mechanical Engineers
There are several visa types that foreign mechanical engineers can use to legally work in the United States. Understanding the best visa for your situation can help you plan your move carefully and avoid delays or rejection. The most common type of visa for engineering professionals is the H-1B visa, which allows U.S. companies to hire foreign workers in specialty occupations.
To qualify for the H-1B, you must have a bachelor’s degree or higher in a related field, and the job must require that level of education. This visa is employer-sponsored, meaning the U.S. company must file a petition on your behalf. If approved, you can stay and work in the U.S. for up to six years, and in some cases, apply for permanent residency (green card) later.
Another visa option is the EB-3 visa, which is an employment-based green card category. Under the EB-3 Skilled Worker classification, mechanical engineers can apply for permanent residence if they receive a full-time job offer from a U.S. employer willing to sponsor them. Unlike the H-1B, this visa provides a direct path to green card status but often takes more time to process.
The TN visa is available to citizens of Canada and Mexico under the USMCA agreement. If you are a Canadian or Mexican mechanical engineer, this visa allows you to work in the U.S. for a specific employer with less paperwork compared to H-1B.
Optional Practical Training (OPT) is available for international students studying in the U.S. If you graduate with a degree in mechanical engineering from a U.S. college or university, you may qualify for up to 36 months of OPT work authorization under the STEM extension. This gives you time to work and secure sponsorship for a long-term visa.
Each visa has different conditions and timelines, so it’s best to work with a qualified immigration lawyer or HR department when submitting applications. Make sure your credentials are properly evaluated and you meet the wage and job requirements set by the U.S. Department of Labor.
Where to Find Mechanical Engineering Job Opportunities
Finding mechanical engineering jobs in the USA with visa sponsorship can be easier when you know where to search and how to identify companies that are open to hiring international professionals. One of the first places to look is major U.S. job boards that include filters for visa sponsorship or foreign worker eligibility. These platforms often feature thousands of updated listings from employers across the country.
Websites like Indeed, Glassdoor, and LinkedIn are among the best for job seekers outside the U.S. Many companies now clearly state whether visa sponsorship is available in the job description. You can use search terms like “mechanical engineer visa sponsorship USA” or “H-1B mechanical engineering jobs” to narrow down results. Make sure to set up job alerts so you’re notified as soon as new roles are posted.
Another great source of information is the U.S. Department of Labor’s H-1B Disclosure Data. This public data shows which companies have previously filed for H-1B visas, what positions they hired for, and where those jobs are located. If a company has sponsored mechanical engineers in the past, there’s a high chance they may be open to sponsoring again.
Engineering-specific job portals like Engineering.com, ASME Career Center, and IEEE Job Site often list niche technical roles, including those with visa sponsorship opportunities. These platforms are useful because they attract employers who are looking for specific skill sets rather than general qualifications.
Professional networking is another valuable method. Joining associations like the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) or attending international job fairs and online hiring events can help you connect with recruiters and hiring managers who are actively seeking foreign talent. Many U.S.-based companies attend these events to identify skilled engineers from abroad.
You can also reach out directly to company career pages. Firms like GE, Tesla, and Boeing regularly update their job boards and often have dedicated immigration support teams for processing sponsorship applications. Don’t be afraid to send a well-written inquiry email along with your résumé and cover letter, especially if you meet the qualifications.
Staying consistent in your job search, updating your resume to U.S. standards, and preparing well for virtual interviews will increase your chances of getting noticed by employers. Focus on companies with a clear hiring history of international candidates and strong reviews from current and past foreign employees.
How to Apply for Mechanical Engineering Jobs as a Foreigner in the USA
Applying for a mechanical engineering job in the USA as a foreigner involves more than just submitting a résumé. To improve your chances, you need to present your qualifications in a way that aligns with U.S. hiring standards while also proving that you’re eligible and ready to work under visa sponsorship.
Start by preparing a professional résumé that fits U.S. formatting. Keep it short, clear, and focused on your technical skills, certifications, and work experience. List your achievements with specific outcomes—for example, “Designed an HVAC system that reduced energy consumption by 18%.” Avoid including personal information like date of birth or a photo, as these are not standard on U.S. resumes.
Your cover letter should be targeted to each job, showing that you understand the company’s needs and how your background matches the role. Mention clearly that you are seeking a role with visa sponsorship and that you’re eligible for work visas such as the H-1B, EB-3, or TN if applicable. This honesty upfront helps employers understand your situation and decide whether they can proceed with sponsorship.
If you’re applying to companies directly through their websites, always double-check the application instructions. Some might request additional documents, like transcripts or proof of degree equivalency. Others may have immigration policies in place that require HR approval before proceeding.
Networking also plays a big role. Use LinkedIn to connect with HR professionals and engineering managers in companies you’re interested in. Send short, polite messages expressing your interest and sharing your resume. If you’re already studying in the U.S. or visiting on a valid visa, attend job fairs and industry events to meet potential employers in person.
Once shortlisted, be ready for virtual interviews. These often include technical questions, case studies, or practical tests. Show your knowledge and also highlight your willingness to relocate and your understanding of U.S. work culture. Always ask about the next steps and visa processing timelines so that you stay informed.
After receiving a job offer, the company will usually start the visa process. If it’s an H-1B role, the employer must file a petition during the designated application window. For green card sponsorship under EB-3, the process includes labor certification and several documentation stages. Make sure to provide all required documents promptly and keep in contact with your employer’s HR or legal team throughout.
Following all these steps carefully will help you not just land the job, but also secure a legal, long-term work visa that opens the door to a stable future in the U.S.