Graduate Engineer Structural (Bridges)

Graduate Engineer - Structural (Bridges) Location: Des Moines, IA Type: Full‑Time | Salaried | Hybrid Eligible | Flex Time Eligible MSA Professional Services is seeking a Graduate Engineer – Structural to join our bridge design team. This entry-level opportunity is ideal for a recent civil engineering graduate interested in building a career designing, evaluating, and supporting the construction of bridges and other transportation structures. You’ll work alongside experienced bridge engineers on projects from planning and design through construction, gaining hands-on experience with structural calculations, plan development, field investigations, and construction observation. You’ll receive guidance and mentorship as you build your technical skills, learn the engineering consulting industry, and work toward professional licensure. MSA specializes in the sustainable development of communities and is proud to be 100% employee owned. With roots reaching back to 1919, MSA has grown from a rural land survey company into a multidisciplinary network of nearly 550 engineers, architects, planners, funding experts, surveyors, GIS experts, environmental scientists, and more who are committed to making communities better places to live, work, and play. Come join the ownership team here! Employee Testimonial: "As an employee-owned company (100% ESOP), working at MSA is not just a job. We're genuine co-owners, and this ESOP setup promotes a culture of collaboration and engagement throughout MSA because we all have a direct financial interest as owners." -Project Engineer - Transportation, Cedar Rapids Office Responsibilities Bridge Design & Technical Support Assist experienced engineers with structural analysis and design calculations for bridge replacement, rehabilitation, and other transportation structure projectsSupport preparation of bridge plans, details, specifications, cost estimates, technical reports, and other construction documentsUtilize structural engineering and design software to complete assigned technical tasks under the guidance of experienced staffPerform quality checks on your work and develop an understanding of applicable design standards, codes, and agency requirements Field & Construction Support Participate in field investigations and inspections to document existing bridge and structural conditionsAssist with construction observation, field measurements, documentation, and verification of construction activitiesWork with engineers, contractors, client representatives, and other project stakeholders during field assignmentsSupport the evaluation of structural conditions and development of repair or rehabilitation solutions Project & Team Collaboration Work closely with Project Managers, structural engineers, designers, and multidisciplinary project teams to complete assigned tasksCommunicate progress, questions, and project needs to senior staff while developing greater independence on familiar assignmentsParticipate in project and client meetings alongside experienced staffBuild an understanding of project scope, schedules, budgets, and how individual contributions affect successful project delivery Professional Development Develop technical expertise in bridge and structural engineering through hands-on project experience and mentorshipBuild strong technical writing, communication, problem-solving, and time-management skillsSeek feedback and learning opportunities from experienced bridge engineersDevelop the engineering knowledge and experience needed to progress toward professional licensure Qualifications Education Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering from an ABET-accredited program requiredStructural engineering emphasis preferred Experience No professional engineering experience requiredBridge, structural, transportation, or civil engineering internship/co-op experience preferred Licensure Professional licensure is not requiredDegree should support future Engineer-in-Training (EIT) and Professional Engineer (PE) licensure Skills Foundational knowledge of structural engineering principles, practices, and techniquesInterest in bridge design, rehabilitation, and transportation structuresFamiliarity with engineering design and analysis software; experience with CADD platforms is a plusAbility to interpret technical information and engineering data with guidanceStrong verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skillsEffective problem-solving and organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple assignmentsAbility to work collaboratively while developing greater technical independenceOpenness to mentoring, feedback, and continued professional development Work Authorization This position requires authorization to work in the United States for any employer. We are unable to provide sponsorship for this role. Benefits & Compensation Salary Range: $62,600 – $100,000, depending on experience and qualifications. Candidates with significant experience may also be considered for a higher-level role with increased compensation. Why Join MSA Collaborative Culture – Work in an open, team-oriented environment where ideas are welcomed and perspectives are valued. Multi-Disciplinary Opportunities – Explore new interests, collaborate across disciplines, and apply your skills where they can make the greatest impact. Supportive Environment – Enjoy the balance of guidance and independence so you can do your best work. Commitment to Inclusion – We strive to create a workplace where everyone can bring their authentic selves, grow professionally, and contribute diverse perspectives that drive innovation. Passion & Purpose – Our teams take pride in their work and enjoy sharing ideas, solving complex problems, and building meaningful projects together. Communities of Practice – Collaborate with colleagues across the company to share knowledge, exchange ideas, and continue learning. Work-Life Integration – We support our employees as professionals, parents, and community members with flexibility to balance work and life commitments. Commitment to Learning – Grow your career through professional development, continuing education, and tuition reimbursement. Community Engagement – We actively support the communities where we live and work through volunteerism, education initiatives, and community partnerships. Additional Benefits Eligible employees also receive a comprehensive benefits package, including: Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance for employees and eligible dependentsPaid Time Off: Minimum of 17 days in the first yearPaid Holidays: 8 holidays annuallyPaid Parental Leave: 2 weeks for both parents, with additional paid leave for birth parentsEmployer-Paid Insurance: Life, short-term disability, and long-term disability coverageEmployee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP): As a 100% employee-owned company, eligible employees receive company shares at no cost401(k) Retirement Plan: With a generous employer match that is immediately 100% vestedShort-Term Incentive Program (STIP): Annual performance-based bonus opportunity Together, these benefits reflect our commitment to supporting our employees’ well-being, growth, and long-term success. MSA is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer that is committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. At MSA, we value a diverse, inclusive workforce and we provide equal employment opportunity for all applicants and employees. All qualified applicants for employment will be considered without regard to an individual’s race, color, sex, gender identity, gender expression, religion, age, national origin or ancestry, citizenship, physical or mental disability, medical condition, family care status, marital status, domestic partner status, sexual orientation, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other basis protected by federal, state or local laws. If you are unable to submit your application because of incompatible assistive technology or a disability, please contact us at hr@msa-ps.com Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer