Entry Level Structural Engineer

At KPFF Consulting Engineers, we are more than just an engineering design firm. For 65 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 30 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 an Entry-Level Structural Design Engineer to join our growing Des Moines team. This role is ideal for recent graduates or early-career engineers looking to strengthen their technical foundation while contributing to real-world building structure projects. Candidates with internship or co-op experience who are excited to translate academic training into professional practice are strongly encouraged to apply.

This position offers structured mentorship and exposure to design, analysis, documentation, and construction coordination within a collaborative team environment.

What You’ll Be Doing:

• Support Structural Design: Assist with the analysis and design of building structural systems including gravity and lateral framing, foundations, and connections under the guidance of senior engineers.
• Prepare Calculations and Design Documentation: Develop engineering calculations and contribute to technical reports and design narratives to support project deliverables.
• Create Structural Drawings: Prepare and revise structural drawings using AutoCAD, Revit, or similar software with attention to accuracy, constructability, and coordination.
• Collaborate Across Disciplines: Work alongside project managers, architects, and engineers to integrate structural designs into multi-disciplinary project documents.
• Participate in Site Activities: Support site visits, field investigations, and construction observation activities to build understanding of existing conditions and project execution.
• Assist with Quality Control: Participate in internal design reviews to ensure compliance with KPFF quality standards and building codes.
• Professional Growth and Development: Engage actively in mentorship, training, and continuing education as you build experience and work toward professional licensure.

• Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering or Structural Engineering required; Master’s degree preferred
• Engineer in Training (EIT) certification preferred or desire to earn within reasonable timeframe
• Up to three years of professional experience, including relevant internships, co-ops, or full-time roles
• Exposure to structural software such as Revit, RISA, and other related software is preferred
• Understanding of fundamental structural engineering concepts, materials, and mechanics
• Interest in building codes, standards, and construction practices
• Strong analytical skills and attention to detail
• Clear written and verbal communication abilities
• Ability to collaborate effectively in a team environment and learn under technical mentorship

Physical Demands and Work Environment

• Computer-based work for prolonged periods during analysis, drafting, and documentation efforts
• Occasional field visits to construction sites requiring mobility and navigation of uneven terrain
• Light lifting of equipment or materials up to approximately 15 pounds

Why Join KPFF?

• Career Advancement & Professional Freedom: We promote a culture where professional growth and leadership development are continuous. You’ll have opportunities to advance your career while shaping the next generation of engineers through mentorship and collaboration.
• Supportive & Dynamic Work Culture: Enjoy a supportive environment that values balance, autonomy, and long-term career satisfaction. Our flexible model empowers you to lead your projects while contributing to the broader success of the team.
• Innovative, Collaborative Environment: Join a group of engineers who value creativity, integrity, and teamwork. You’ll have the freedom to develop innovative solutions while working alongside professionals who are passionate about their craft and their community.

Compensation and Benefits

Compensation:
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 with 0-3 years of experience is $70,000-$90,000. Additionally, we offer performance-based bonuses to recognize and reward outstanding contributions in each Reporting Center. During the interview process, we’ll provide detailed information and address any questions about the overall compensation package and benefits.

Benefits: We are passionate about supporting our employees through flexible and comprehensive benefits. Our benefits include:

• 401(k) retirement savings plan with employer contribution (regardless of employee contribution)
• Medical insurance (two plans available to choose from)
• Dental insurance
• Vision Insurance
• Health Savings Account (HSA) with employer contribution
• Healthcare and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
• Life insurance
• KPFF Paid Family Leave
• Short-term and Long-term disability insurance
• Paid holidays (including two floating Holidays)
• Paid time off (vacation, sick, jury duty)
• Professional development and licensure fee reimbursement

KPFF Consulting Engineers 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, creed, ethnicity, national origin, religion, marital status, sex/gender (including sexual orientation or gender identity), pregnancy, veteran status, citizenship status, physical or mental disability, or any other protected basis.