Entry Level Residential Structural Engineer Jobs in California

At KPFF Consulting Engineers, we are more than just an engineering design firm. For over 65 years, we have dedicated ourselves to innovative, sustainable engineering that shapes the built environment and tackles complex building and infrastructure challenges. Our team culture emphasizes collaboration, growth, and mentorship, supporting each member’s professional journey with flexibility, generous benefits, and a collaborative approach to work-life integration.

With over 1,400 professionals across 27 offices nationwide, KPFF’s decentralized structure allows each office the flexibility to pursue projects aligned with their regional strengths. Learn more at www.kpff.com.

We are seeking an Entry-Level Structural Engineer to join our growing engineering team in Sacramento. This role offers an excellent opportunity for recent graduates or early-career professionals to advance their structural engineering skills while working on diverse and impactful projects. As a KPFF engineer, you will collaborate closely with experienced engineers to assist in the analysis, design, and documentation of various structural systems.

• Assist in Structural Analysis and Design: Contribute to the analysis and design of building components, utilizing industry-standard software under the guidance of senior engineers.
• Prepare Structural Calculations and Documentation: Perform structural calculations, prepare technical documents, and assist in the development of comprehensive project documentation.
• Support Design Development: Help senior engineers in creating design solutions for various structural systems, ensuring adherence to project requirements and industry standards.
• Create and Modify Structural Drawings: Use AutoCAD or similar software to develop and update structural drawings, ensuring accuracy and quality.
• Participate in Site Visits: Conduct site visits to assess existing structures, monitor construction progress, and support the evaluation of structural integrity.
• Prepare Engineering Reports: Assist in creating detailed structural engineering reports and documentation to support project deliverables.
• Collaborate with Multi-Disciplinary Teams: Work closely with architects, contractors, and other stakeholders to ensure cohesive and efficient project execution.
• Maintain Project Records and Documentation: Organize and manage project records to maintain clear, accurate documentation throughout the project lifecycle.
• Support Quality Control: Contribute to quality control processes, ensuring structural designs meet company and industry standards.

• Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering or Structural Engineering
• Engineer in Training (EIT) certification, or a clear path to obtain within the next six months
• Proficiency in structural analysis software (e.g., AutoCAD, ETABS, SAP2000, or similar)
• Strong understanding of structural engineering principles and mechanics
• Basic knowledge of building codes and construction standards
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Excellent attention to detail and organizational abilities
• Effective written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team
• Previous internship experience in structural engineering is a plus

Physical Demands and Work Environment

• Ability to sit or stand for extended periods while working on a computer, reviewing plans, or conducting site visits.
• Capacity to move around project sites, climb ladders, and navigate uneven terrain.
• Occasionally lifting up to 15 pounds of equipment or materials.

Compensation

The base salary for this role is competitive, with a range of $70,000 - $80,000, determined by experience, education, and skills. KPFF also offers performance-based bonuses to recognize outstanding contributions. Additional details about the full compensation package will be provided during the interview process.

Culture and Benefits
At KPFF, we offer a rewarding career path that emphasizes autonomy, innovation, and professional development. Our culture prioritizes employee ownership, teamwork, and shared values, creating an environment where contributions are celebrated, and career growth is encouraged. We aren’t just colleagues; we’re a community dedicated to collaborative innovation, providing you the platform to make a lasting impact on meaningful projects.

KPFF Employee Benefits

• Medical Plan Options: Choice of Traditional PPO or HDHP with HSA, covering preventive care and prescriptions.
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA): Tax-advantaged accounts for healthcare and dependent care expenses.
• Dental & Vision: Full preventive care, plus coverage for major dental services and vision allowances.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Free, confidential support for personal, family, and work challenges.
• Life & AD&D Insurance: Company-provided life insurance equal to one year’s salary, plus AD&D.
• 401(k) Retirement Plan: KPFF contributes 3% of salary, with no match needed. 
• Disability Insurance: Short-term and long-term coverage at 60% income, fully covered by KPFF.
• Paid Time Off: Generous PTO, two floating holidays, and paid company holidays.
• Paid Family Leave: Six weeks at 60% pay, with options to use PTO for full income.

KPFF Consulting Engineers participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S.

KPFF Consulting Engineers is an equal opportunity employer and considers all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, ethnicity, national origin, religion, marital status, sex/gender (including sexual orientation or gender identity), pregnancy, veteran status, citizenship status, physical or mental disability, or any other protected basis.