Structural Engineer – Protective Design

Specialized technical work: Develop experience with protective design methodologies, structural dynamics, advanced analysis, and the behavior of structures under extreme loading conditions.

Challenging engineering problems: Work on projects where standard solutions may not apply and thoughtful analysis, creativity, and engineering judgment matter.

Meaningful project impact: Contribute to designs intended to improve safety, resilience, and protection of people and critical infrastructure.

Variety across markets: Support projects in sectors such as aviation, aerospace, manufacturing, industrial facilities, and other complex or mission-critical environments.

Collaborative project teams: Work alongside structural engineers and multidisciplinary teams of architects, contractors, consultants, and clients.

Early-career development: Learn directly from engineers experienced in protective design while gradually taking on greater technical responsibility.

Master’s degree in Structural Engineering, or a closely related graduate program with a strong structural engineering emphasis.

Strong foundation in structural engineering principles, analysis, and mechanics.

Coursework, research, internship, or professional experience related to areas such as structural dynamics, blast engineering, progressive collapse, extreme loading, or nonlinear analysis.

Curiosity and an analytical mindset, with an interest in understanding how structures behave beyond conventional design conditions.

Ability to communicate technical concepts clearly and work effectively with engineers, architects, contractors, consultants, and other project partners.

Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Government Security Clearance.

You do not need to arrive as a protective design expert. Experience with any of the following can help you succeed and grow in the role:

Structural analysis programs such as ETABS, SAP2000, RISA-3D, or LS-DYNA.

BIM and drafting tools such as Revit or AutoCAD.

Computational modeling or programming using MATLAB, Python, or similar tools.

Advanced structural analysis, finite element analysis, nonlinear analysis, or structural dynamics through academic research, coursework, internships, or professional experience.

Primarily performed in an office environment, with extended periods working at a desk or computer.

Occasional visits to project or construction sites, which may involve walking, standing, kneeling, or navigating uneven terrain.

Occasional lifting of objects weighing up to 15 pounds.

Occasional travel to project sites, client meetings, or other KPFF offices, which may involve driving or air travel.

Protective design offers a different path within structural engineering. You’ll have the opportunity to build strong structural fundamentals while developing expertise in a highly specialized field where engineering decisions can directly influence the safety and resilience of buildings and infrastructure.

At KPFF, we value technical curiosity, collaboration, autonomy, and continuous learning. You’ll work closely with experienced engineers, contribute to real project work early in your career, and have opportunities to grow your technical capabilities and responsibilities over time.

Mentorship & Growth: Learn alongside engineers with deep protective design experience through project-based mentorship, KPFF’s Forefront Education Program, technical training, and ongoing professional development.

Strong Connections: Work within a collaborative team and build relationships across KPFF as well as with architects, contractors, clients, federal partners, and other technical disciplines.

Supportive Environment: We encourage sustainable careers and provide resources that support employee well-being, professional involvement, community engagement, and connection with colleagues.

This position is not eligible for visa sponsorship. Candidates must be authorized to work in the United States without sponsorship now or in the future.

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.