Structural Project 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 a Structural Design Engineer to join our growing Des Moines team. This role is ideal for an engineer who has developed a solid technical foundation and is ready to expand their responsibilities across structural design, project execution, and mentorship while continuing to grow toward professional licensure and leadership opportunities.

You will work closely with project managers and senior engineers on the analysis and design of building structures, contribute to project coordination, and support the development of early-career engineers.

What You’ll Be Doing:

• Lead Structural Design Efforts: Perform structural analysis and design of building systems including gravity and lateral framing, foundations, and connections. Develop structural concepts and support full project design execution.
• Prepare and Review Calculations and Documentation: Develop detailed engineering calculations, technical reports, and design narratives. Review work prepared by junior engineers for accuracy and completeness.
• Produce and Coordinate Structural Drawings: Create and review construction documents using AutoCAD, Revit, and related software, ensuring high-quality coordination with architectural and other engineering disciplines.
• Collaborate Across Project Teams: Work directly with architects, contractors, and other engineers to integrate structural solutions into cohesive project deliverables.
• Participate in Site Activities: Conduct site visits, field observations, and investigations to verify existing conditions, support construction coordination, and respond to field questions.
• Support Project Management Activities: Assist in maintaining schedules, monitoring technical scope, and contributing to coordination activities throughout project delivery.
• Mentor Junior Staff: Provide day-to-day guidance and technical support to entry-level engineers and interns, fostering professional development and a collaborative learning environment.
• Quality Control Participation: Participate in internal peer reviews to ensure designs meet KPFF quality standards, safety requirements, and applicable building codes.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering or Structural Engineering required; Master’s degree preferred
• Engineer in Training (EIT) certification required; PE license preferred or in active progress toward licensure
• At least three years of professional structural engineering experience in building design
• Working knowledge of structural analysis and design tools including Revit, RISA, or similar platforms
• Solid understanding of structural engineering principles, building codes, and industry design standards
• Ability to independently execute technical tasks within larger project teams
• Strong problem-solving abilities and attention to detail
• Effective written and verbal communication skills for client-facing coordination and internal collaboration
• Ability to mentor junior staff and contribute positively to team development

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 6–10 years of experience is $90,000-$115,000. 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.