Chief Building Engineer Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

About Western Partitions, Inc.

Western Partitions, Inc. (WPI) is one of the largest and most reputable interior and exterior contracting firms in the US. WPI provides superior contracting services for drywall, prefabrication, metal studs, acoustical systems, wall panels, fireproofing, firestopping, stucco, claddings, painting, windows, doors/frames/hardware, and more.

Since WPI's inception in 1972, we have provided award-winning construction without sacrificing integrity, safety, or efficiency. We are proud that a significant percentage of our business comes from repeat customers. Our service-oriented, fast-track approach, coupled with an attention to detail has resulted in a superior reputation within our industry. We work hard every day to earn our customers' trust and confidence.

Throughout our history, our dedication to our employees, quality of work, and customers has set us apart. The strongest characteristic of our organization is the prominent level of pride we take in every job we complete. Our employees are driven to do the job right the first time without compromise. Lastly, our customers choose WPI based on the emphasis we place on communication, trust, and respect.

WPI is seeking an Engineering Manager to oversee the current engineering department. The candidate should have a background in structural engineering, preferably with a strong background in Cold-Formed Metal Framing (CFMF), and managing a staff of engineers and drafters.

The Engineering Manager will be responsible for supporting all of WPI's engineering needs across our regional operations. The main functions of the engineering department are preparing drawings and calculations, and supporting the estimating and field teams. The Engineering Manager will serve as the face of the department. They must be highly collaborative, communicative, and focused on keeping WPI at the forefront of Cold-Formed Metal Framing (CFMF) construction techniques and lean construction practices.

The Engineering Manager will oversee a department of over 10+ engineers and BIM designers. They will be required to manage the department employees and maintain staffing levels according to WPI's project demands.

Key areas of responsibility include:

• All engineering for WPI projects including CFMF, interior non-structural walls and ceilings, ACT ceilings, cladding, and structural grid ceilings.
• Developing shop drawings and calculation packages for design team, GC, and AHJ review, with a professional engineering stamp as required.
• Supporting regional estimators with engineering cost estimates, stud sizing, and technical guidance to help develop lean and competitive bids.
• Managing and mentoring a team of engineers and drafters, including performance evaluations, workload assignments, and professional development.
• Providing rapid and expert field support for active construction projects, including stamped sketches and drawing revisions as needed.
• Collaborating with the prefab department on pre-construction engineering, panel design, lifting design, and means and methods.
• Maintaining awareness of current and upcoming building codes, industry trends, and new CFMF technologies, and disseminating key updates across all WPI regions.
• Conducting regular check-ins with the EVP, COO, and Regional Managers to monitor project backlog, staffing needs, and cross-regional communication.

Basic Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering with a Structural emphasis.
• Active Professional Engineering (PE) license with the ability to obtain licensure in any state WPI operates within.

• 10+ years of experience directly with CFMF engineering.
• Proven experience managing a team of multiple employees.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple priorities across regions and teams.
• Comfortable working independently and making sound engineering judgments under pressure.
• Strong oral and written communication skills; ability to work collaboratively at all levels of the organization.
• Willingness to travel to jobsites, facilities, and events as needed.

• Experience in construction and prefabrication environments.
• Familiarity with major WPI project markets: Mission Critical, Hospitality, Higher Education, Tenant Improvement, Commercial, and Multi-tenant Residential.
• Prior managerial experience at an engineering company specializing in CFMF design.

At WPI our employees are our greatest asset. We put our people first and are proud to provide a comprehensive benefits package designed to meet the needs of our employees at every stage of life.

In our commitment to fostering an environment where everyone can thrive personally and professionally, we offer:

• Competitive pay
• Incentive bonus plan
• 401(k) retirement savings plan with match
• Medical, prescription drug, dental and vision insurance plans with flexible spending account option
• Life insurance, accidental death, and disability benefits
• Flexible paid time off policy and paid holidays

Updated 06/01/2026