Early Career Structural (Buildings) Engineer

WSP is seeking a Full-Time Early Career Structural (Buildings) Engineer to work in one of the following locations: Denver, CO; Seattle, WA; Tacoma, WA; Portland, OR; or Virginia Beach, VA. This role supports our Federal Programs AEC Team on structural engineering projects for federal, defense, and public-sector clients.

About the Role

This position is ideal for an early-career engineer seeking broad technical exposure, direct mentorship, and hands-on experience from design through construction-phase support. Our Federal Programs Team includes highly motivated engineers, architects, and interior designers working across the U.S. and internationally. Key clients include the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, U.S. Navy, U.S. Coast Guard, U.S. Postal Service, and U.S. National Park Service.

The structural team focuses on practical, mission-driven facilities with varied technical challenges, including security, budget, schedule, constructability, and multidisciplinary coordination. This role offers exposure to structural design, renovations, foundations, equipment support, seismic design, and other specialized requirements while developing engineering judgment through mentorship.

Responsibilities

• Develop engineering judgment through mentorship, design reviews, interdisciplinary coordination, and exposure to multiple project phases.
• Assist with structural analysis and design of new and existing buildings, including gravity and lateral systems, foundations, and steel, concrete, masonry, and wood components under experienced supervision.
• Develop structural drawings, specifications, calculations, and design documentation using site observations, existing-condition information, geotechnical reports, and other project data.
• Perform routine structural calculations and use engineering software to evaluate building loads, analyze structural systems, and design members and connections in accordance with applicable codes and standards.
• Assist with structural design concepts, system selection, and material choices while coordinating requirements with architectural, civil, geotechnical, mechanical, electrical, and fire protection disciplines.
• Prepare accurate structural calculations, design drawings, specifications, reports, and building information models using engineering and drafting software.
• Participate in site visits and construction-phase services, including documenting existing conditions, reviewing submittals, and assisting with RFI responses while adhering to safety requirements.
• Complete company, safety, and project-specific training.
• Adhere to WSP’s Code of Conduct and exercise responsible decision-making regarding company resources.
• Perform additional responsibilities as required by business needs.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Structural or Civil Engineering, or equivalent.
• 0 to 1 year of relevant structural engineering experience, including internships or co-ops.
• Analytical mindset with the ability to research codes, standards, and project requirements.
• Basic familiarity with structural building codes and design standards.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills for engineering and non-engineering audiences.
• Self-leadership with attention to detail, multitasking, and prioritization in a dynamic environment.
• Ability to work independently under general supervision and as part of a team.
• Basic proficiency with technical writing, office automation, software, spreadsheets, and engineering tools.
• Familiarity with structural analysis, design, drafting, or modeling software such as RISA-3D, ETABS, SAP2000, RAM Concept, SAFE, Revit, or AutoCAD.
• Commitment to workplace safety and adherence to WSP’s health, safety, and drug/alcohol policies.
• Ability to work extended schedules as required by project needs.
• Occasional travel may be required.
• Authorization to work in the United States immediately.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Civil or Structural Engineering, or equivalent.
• Engineer-in-Training (EIT) certification, or ability to obtain it post-hire.
• Prior internship related to structural engineering.
• Active membership or participation in local professional practice organizations.

Benefits

WSP provides a comprehensive benefits suite focused on health and financial stability, including:

• Medical, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance coverage.
• Retirement savings plans.
• Paid sick leave, vacation (or personal time), and parental leave.
• Paid time off for bereavement, voting, and naturalization proceedings.

Pay

Expected salary ranges (varies by location):

• All locations except Colorado: $63,800 – $100,000.
• Colorado only: $68,200 – $93,800.

Compensation is based on education, experience, knowledge, skills, abilities, and internal equity. WSP reserves the right to adjust pay and benefits based on project-specific requirements.