Structural Engineer - Entry Level Design Engineer

To qualify for the Structural Engineer - Entry Level Design Engineer role at KPFF Consulting Engineers, candidates should hold a BS in Civil Engineering with an emphasis on Structures. Essential coursework includes Concrete, Steel, or Wood Design, and while no full-time experience is necessary, a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher is preferred. Candidates with relevant internships or an EIT certification will have an edge in their applications.

As an Entry Level Design Engineer at KPFF in Los Angeles, you’ll find a warm, collaborative environment that encourages teamwork and communication. The office promotes a healthy work-life balance with flexible scheduling options. Duties are generally performed in a comfortable office setting, with opportunities for hybrid work arrangements after your training period.

KPFF is dedicated to the professional growth of their Structural Engineers through a structured environment that promotes continual learning. Engineers benefit from extensive training, mentorship programs, and educational events that enhance their technical skills. Furthermore, you will have opportunities to attend social events, fostering relationship building and networking within the engineering community.

KPFF offers a competitive benefits package that includes medical, vision, and dental insurance, along with paid holidays and a generous vacation policy of 2 weeks annually. Additionally, you’ll receive a solid 401(k) plan with company contributions, family leave options, professional development opportunities, and special stipends for remote work and communication expenses.

The starting salary range for the Structural Engineer - Entry Level Design Engineer position at KPFF Consulting Engineers in Los Angeles is between $76,000 and $85,000, dependent on educational qualifications. KPFF values your unique contributions and skills, ensuring salary structures reflect the expertise and growth of their engineers.

Interested candidates can apply for the Structural Engineer - Entry Level Design Engineer position at KPFF by submitting their application through the careers page. Be sure to include your resume, transcripts, and a personalized cover letter that addresses your passion for structural engineering and your goals for the internship.

At KPFF, new Structural Engineers will have many opportunities to collaborate with experienced professionals across different levels of the organization. The team-based culture encourages interaction and brainstorming within a supportive atmosphere, allowing entry-level engineers to gain insights and expertise while contributing to meaningful projects.

When answering this question, reflect on your passion for the field of structural engineering. Discuss specific experiences or projects that ignited your curiosity, whether it was a particular class, an internship experience, or your affinity for math and physics. Personal anecdotes make your answer memorable and relatable.

Be prepared to highlight relevant courses you've completed, such as Concrete Design or Structural Analysis. Discuss specific projects or assignments that had a significant impact on your understanding of structural principles, and make connections to how these experiences have prepared you for the role at KPFF.

Answer this question by emphasizing your organizational skills and time management techniques. Discuss methods you use to prioritize tasks, such as creating to-do lists, setting deadlines, and using project management tools. Showing your ability to effectively manage several responsibilities at once demonstrates your readiness for the fast-paced engineering environment at KPFF.

Be sure to mention any software programs you have experience with, such as AutoCAD, Revit, or SAP2000. Highlight specific projects where you utilized these tools, and emphasize your eagerness to learn new software as needed at KPFF.

This is your opportunity to demonstrate problem-solving skills. Share a specific project, detailing the challenges faced and how you contributed to overcoming them. Highlight your teamwork and communication skills, showcasing how you worked collaboratively with others to ensure the project's successful completion.

In answering this question, briefly explain your knowledge of seismic design principles and their importance in structural engineering, particularly in California. Provide examples of how you’ve studied or applied these principles in your coursework or projects.

Discuss resources you utilize to stay informed about the latest trends in structural engineering, such as industry publications, online forums, seminars, or professional organizations. This demonstrates your commitment to lifelong learning and your desire for professional development at KPFF.

Highlight your understanding of the value of collaboration in engineering. Share examples from coursework or internships where you successfully worked within a team, illustrating your ability to communicate openly, respect diverse ideas, and contribute to a successful team dynamic.

Share a specific instance where you received constructive feedback and how you took that feedback to improve your skills or performance. Highlight your open-mindedness and willingness to grow, which aligns with KPFF's emphasis on a supportive and nurturing work environment.

Be clear about your aspirations in structural engineering. Whether you aim to specialize in a particular area, seek further education, or take on leadership roles, sharing your goals shows a proactive attitude and helps your interviewers understand how you could align with KPFF's values and growth opportunities.