Bridge Structural Engineering Designer

Company Description

KPFF, a multi‑office, multi‑discipline engineering firm, is committed to Excellence, Trust, Relationships, Stability, and Passion. For over 60 years the firm has provided creative solutions and excellent client service for a diverse range of projects and industries. With 1,400 professionals in 30 offices nationwide, KPFF offers abundant flexibility and numerous opportunities for professional growth. Join a legacy of excellence where every team member contributes to innovative solutions and meaningful projects.

KPFF Seattle’s Heavy Civil/Structural Team is composed primarily of structural engineers who design and evaluate infrastructure that connects communities. Our work spans 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. We take pride in our collaborative approach to consulting, partnering with clients across the industry, from small local agencies to state transportation departments, to architects and contractors.

The team works on projects that range from feasibility studies to new construction, rehabilitation, and retrofits, always with a focus on technical excellence, environmental stewardship, and community impact.

Located in Downtown Seattle, the team seeks an Entry Level Bridge Engineering Designer. This position will provide the opportunity to dive headfirst into real‑world projects from day one and collaborate with senior engineers on a diverse range of bridge and heavy civil projects.

• 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 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

• A bachelor’s degree in civil engineering with an emphasis on structural engineering
• 0–3 years of experience working under a licensed professional engineer
• Excellent written and verbal communication
• 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

• A 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 required to lift objects weighing up to 15 lbs.
• Occasionally visiting project and construction sites may involve walking, standing, kneeling, or navigating uneven terrain
• Travel to project sites or client meetings 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 $80,200 - $90,000 annually
. Additionally, performance‑based bonuses are offered to…