Bridge Structural Engineering Designer

Talent Acquisition Specialist at KPFF Consulting Engineers

Company

Description:

KPFF, a multi-office, multi-discipline engineering firm, is committed to Excellence, Trust, Relationships, Stability, and Passion. With over 60 years of experience, KPFF provides creative solutions and excellent client service across a diverse range of projects and industries. Our 1,400 professionals in 30 offices nationwide thrive in a decentralized structure, offering flexibility and numerous opportunities for professional growth.

KPFF Seattle’s Heavy Civil/Structural Team is composed primarily of structural engineers who design and evaluate infrastructure that connects communities. The team works on a wide range of bridge and heavy‑civil projects including highway and pedestrian bridges, retaining walls, culverts that support fish passage, ferry terminals, piers, wharves, and structural inspections.

Located in Downtown Seattle, the Heavy Civil/Structural Engineering Team seeks an Entry‑Level Bridge Engineering Designer. This position offers the opportunity to dive headfirst into real‑world projects from day one. You’ll collaborate with senior engineers and work on diverse bridge and heavy civil projects, including high‑way and pedestrian bridges, retaining walls, ferry terminals, and marine structures.

• Assist in the design and analysis of bridges and heavy‑civil structures, including new construction and rehabilitation.
• Conduct structural analysis and prepare design sketches under the supervision of professional engineers.
• Perform inspection and fieldwork, supporting data collection and documentation.
• Engage in technical and project discussions within the design team, contributing to collaborative problem‑solving.
• Apply core engineering principles and advanced mathematical techniques to tackle real‑world challenges.
• Collaborate with project managers and multidisciplinary teams.
• Join client meetings and site visits to gain exposure to project development and stakeholder engagement.
• Gradually take part in project management tasks, such as monitoring budgets and schedules, interacting with clients, and leading junior engineers.
• Build expertise in navigating federal, state, and local regulations, while aligning with KPFF’s and our clients’ standards and practices.
• Participate in KPFF’s Forefront program, a commitment to mentorship, lifelong learning, and career development.
• Thrive in a vibrant, inclusive, and collaborative team environment that values creativity, curiosity, and excellence.

• Bachelor's degree in civil engineering with an emphasis on structural engineering.
• 0‑3 years experience working under a licensed professional engineer.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively in a team environment.
• Passionate about providing exceptional client service.
• Self‑motivated.
• Eager to develop and grow as a structural engineer.

• Master's degree with an emphasis on structural engineering (MSCE/MSE).
• Engineer‑in‑Training (EIT) certification, or scheduled date for the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam.
• Coursework and/or familiarity with structural analysis software such as SAP, CSI Bridge, or PG Super.

• Duties are primarily conducted in a standard office setting, requiring prolonged periods of sitting at a desk or computer table.
• Occasionally may be required to lift objects weighing up to 15 lbs.
• Occasionally visiting project and construction sites may involve walking, standing, kneeling, or navigating uneven terrain.
• Traveling to project sites or client meetings, which may involve driving or flying.

The base salary for this role is competitive and will be determined based on the candidate's experience, education, and skills. The expected range for a qualified candidate is $85,000 - $100,000 annually
. Additionally, we offer performance‑based bonuses to recognize and reward outstanding contributions in each reporting center.

• K retirement savings plan with employer contributions.
• Medical insurance.
• Dental insurance, with a no‑premium option.
• Vision insurance, with a no‑premium option.
• Health Savings…