Bridge Engineer - 2-4 Years - Structural

A Bridge Engineer at KPFF Consulting Engineers is responsible for the design, planning, and management of bridge and infrastructure projects. You will have a chance to work with both public and private clients, tackling complex engineering challenges that require innovative solutions. Your role will encompass the entire project lifecycle, from early design stages through to permitting and construction oversight. This position allows for professional growth as you collaborate closely with seasoned engineers and project managers to deliver high-quality outcomes.

To be considered for the Bridge Engineer position at KPFF Consulting Engineers, candidates must hold a B.S. in Civil Engineering with a structural emphasis and preferably an M.S. In addition, an Engineer-in-Training (EIT) certification is required. You should have at least two years of relevant structural engineering experience and be knowledgeable in concrete, steel, and timber design. Familiarity with non-linear analysis is a plus, highlighting the technical skills necessary for success in this role.

KPFF Consulting Engineers offers attractive benefits for its Bridge Engineers, including various medical insurance options, dental and vision coverage, and a generous paid time off policy with holidays, vacation, and personal leave. Additionally, KPFF contributes 3% of your base salary to your 401(k) plan, offers bonuses, flexible scheduling, a monthly cell phone stipend, and opportunities for educational events and relationship building, which support both your personal and professional life.

The work environment for Bridge Engineers at KPFF is considered collaborative and supportive, emphasizing teamwork and communication across all levels of the organization. Engineers engage frequently with one another, participate in social events, and attend educational programs that enhance their skills. Initially, the role requires in-person attendance, but after the training period, a hybrid work schedule can be accommodated, allowing for a better work-life balance.

At KPFF Consulting Engineers, Bridge Engineers are involved in a variety of exciting projects that include not only traditional bridge design but also waterfront infrastructure and water treatment facilities. This diverse range of project types offers valuable experience and the chance to apply your engineering skills in practical settings, all supporting KPFF's mission to create innovative solutions and enhance infrastructure across the West Coast.

To apply for the Bridge Engineer position at KPFF Consulting Engineers, interested candidates must submit their resume through the company’s careers page. It is highly recommended to include a cover letter highlighting your most relevant experience and addressing specific attributes related to the role. Ensure that your application is complete with transcripts, particularly if you are selected for an interview.

KPFF Consulting Engineers is dedicated to the professional growth of its Bridge Engineers, providing numerous opportunities for learning and development through technical training, educational events, and mentorship from experienced colleagues. The company encourages a culture of knowledge sharing, where your accomplishments will determine your career trajectory, ultimately paving the way for roles with greater responsibility or specialization.

When discussing your design process in an interview for the Bridge Engineer role at KPFF, remember to articulate the steps you take, from initial research and understanding client needs to the final design implementation. Highlight your ability to collaborate with team members, manage project timelines, and ensure adherence to safety and regulatory standards, showing your comprehensive approach to engineering design.

During your interview, share specific projects where you've successfully utilized concrete and steel in your designs. Discuss your coursework involving these materials and your hands-on experiences leading to optimized structural solutions. This will help demonstrate your competence and confidence in using these materials effectively.

When asked about handling challenges, provide a specific example of a difficult project you encountered. Discuss how you identified the issue, the steps you took to resolve it, and the outcome. Highlight your problem-solving skills, ability to work under pressure, and your collaborative approach with team members to find effective solutions.

In your response, explain that non-linear analysis is crucial for understanding the behavior of structures under real load conditions, especially for complex designs. Share any practical experiences or coursework where you've applied non-linear analysis techniques, showcasing your technical knowledge relevant to the Bridge Engineer role.

Provide an example of a team project where you contributed significantly. Describe your specific responsibilities, how you coordinated with teammates, and any conflicts that arose and how they were resolved. Emphasize teamwork, communication skills, and collaboration—all vital for the role at KPFF.

Discuss your method for prioritization, whether through time management techniques, tools, or software that aid your organization. Explain how you gauge project importance and deadlines to ensure you meet client expectations without compromising quality.

Talk about your proactive approach to professional development, including attending workshops, subscribing to industry publications, or participating in online forums. Show your commitment to continuous learning, which is essential in the ever-evolving field of structural engineering.

In your answer, highlight how sustainability is integrated into your engineering practices, from material selection to energy-efficient designs. Share examples where you've contributed to sustainable projects, demonstrating your awareness and commitment to responsible engineering.

Discuss the project management software you are familiar with and how you've used it to streamline project workflows. Describe how it has helped you in tracking deadlines, managing resources, facilitating communication among team members, and ensuring project milestones are met effectively.

When prompted about rewards in your profession, share your passion for contributing to communities through infrastructure enhancements. Discuss the satisfaction of seeing your designs come to life and positively impact the environment and safety of public spaces, which aligns with KPFF's mission.