Structural Design Engineer

Company Description

At KPFF Consulting Engineers, we are more than just an engineering design firm. For over 60 years, we have dedicated ourselves to innovative, sustainable engineering that shapes the built environment and tackles complex infrastructure challenges. Our team culture emphasizes balance, growth, and well-being, supporting each member’s professional journey with flexibility, generous benefits, and a collaborative approach to work-life integration.

With over 1,400 professionals across 27 offices nationwide, KPFF’s decentralized structure allows each office the flexibility to pursue projects aligned with their regional strengths. Learn more at www.kpff.com.

Job Description

We are seeking a skilled Structural Design Engineer to join our engineering team in Des Moines. This position offers an excellent opportunity to further your expertise in structural engineering and take on greater responsibility in the design and execution of complex projects.

As a Design Engineer, you will work closely with senior engineers, contributing to the analysis, design, and documentation of a variety of structural systems.

• Lead and Contribute to Structural Design: Perform structural analysis and design of building components, including framing systems, foundations, and connections, using industry-standard software and ensuring compliance with codes and standards.
• Prepare and Review Structural Calculations and Documentation: Develop and verify complex structural calculations, prepare technical reports, and create design documentation to support project deliverables.
• Collaborate in Design Development: Work with senior engineers to refine and develop design solutions for various structural systems, ensuring they meet project requirements and client expectations.
• Create and Update Structural Drawings: Use AutoCAD, Revit, or similar software to develop, review, and modify structural drawings with high accuracy and attention to detail.
• Conduct Site Assessments and Field Investigations: Perform site visits to collect data, assess existing conditions, and ensure alignment with project specifications and construction progress.
• Support Project Coordination and Compliance: Assist in maintaining project schedules, ensuring regulatory compliance, and coordinating with permitting authorities as needed.
• Collaborate with Multi-Disciplinary Teams: Work closely with architects, contractors, and other engineers to integrate structural designs with other disciplines and ensure a cohesive project outcome.
• Mentor and Guide Junior Engineers: Provide guidance and support to junior engineers and interns, fostering a collaborative and educational work environment.
• Engage in Quality Control Processes: Participate in quality control reviews to ensure structural designs meet company and industry standards, promoting safety and structural integrity.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering or Structural Engineering; Master’s degree preferred
• At least four years of relevant full-time experience in structural engineering design
• Engineer in Training (EIT) required, Professional Engineer (PE) license preparation in progress
• Proficiency in structural analysis software (e.g., AutoCAD, Revit, ETABS, SAP2000)
• Solid understanding of structural engineering principles, mechanics, and materials
• Knowledge of building codes, standards, and construction practices
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite for reporting and documentation purposes
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with attention to detail
• Effective written and verbal communication skills for clear project documentation and collaboration
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team

Physical Demands and Work Environment

• Ability to sit or stand for extended periods while working on a computer, reviewing plans, or conducting site visits.
• Capacity to move around project sites, climb ladders, and navigate uneven terrain.
• Occasionally lifting up to 15 pounds of equipment or materials.

Additional Information

Culture and Benefits
At KPFF, we offer a rewarding career path that emphasizes autonomy, innovation, and professional development. Our culture prioritizes employee ownership, teamwork, and shared values, creating an environment where contributions are celebrated, and career growth is encouraged. We aren’t just colleagues; we’re a community dedicated to collaborative innovation, providing you the platform to make a lasting impact on meaningful projects.

KPFF Employee Benefits

• Medical Plan Options: Choice of Traditional PPO or HDHP with HSA, covering preventive care and prescriptions.
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA): Tax-advantaged accounts for healthcare and dependent care expenses.
• Dental & Vision: Full preventive care, plus coverage for major dental services and vision allowances.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Free, confidential support for personal, family, and work challenges.
• Life & AD&D Insurance: Company-provided life insurance equal to one year’s salary, plus AD&D.
• 401(k) Retirement Plan: KPFF contributes 3% of salary, with no match needed. 
• Disability Insurance: Short-term and long-term coverage at 60% income, fully covered by KPFF.
• Paid Time Off: Generous PTO, two floating holidays, and paid company holidays.
• Paid Family Leave: Six weeks at 60% pay, with options to use PTO for full income.

This employer participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S.

KPFF Consulting Engineers is an equal opportunity employer and considers all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.