Structural Engineering Intern

The Special Projects Group of KPFF is growing and looking for an ambitious and initiative-driven Junior, Senior or Graduate School level Structural Engineering student for a summer internship in the Tacoma Office of our Special Projects Group.

The Structural Engineering Summer Internship being offered is approximately 40 hours a week for up to 90 days depending on candidate’s availability.

Job responsibilities will vary depending on the project and individual intern.

Our work leans toward heavy civil, transportation and highways, structural, industrial and waterfront infrastructure throughout the US with a focus on the West Coast and Pacific Northwest regions.

We frequently function as prime consultants and are tasked with solving unusual, multi-discipline challenges that require an innovative and team-oriented approach.

We often work closely with contractors on alternative delivery projects, including design-build contracts.

• Assist a structural engineer with various tasks associated with the project design, including calculations, member sizing and detailing, documentation, plan production and review, and cost estimating.
• Assist with project site visits. The applicant may be required to navigate through a jobsite and must comply with all Company and Site safety requirements in the office and on the jobsite.

• Ability to work collaboratively with project team members and clients on a variety of projects
• Detail oriented and desire for continued learning
• Pursuing a bachelor’s or master’s degree in civil engineering.
• Willingness to work on a variety of projects
• Structural analysis coursework, including moment and shear diagrams, load calculations, load paths, and mechanics of materials. Concrete, steel, foundation engineering, and/or timber coursework is a plus.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Programs
• Excellent teamwork, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Interest in pursuing a career as a structural engineer after college.

Example of Projects:

• Ports, harbors and light industrial related projects on the waterfront for a variety of public and private clients
• Highway and roadway structures engineering, including bridges, retaining walls, and draining structures
• Container terminal infrastructure design
• Marinas & Ferry terminals
• Rail infrastructure
• Work done by other disciplines and supported by structures, including:
• Fisheries Engineering; hatchery building and pond design, diversion and intake structures; Fish passage replacement
• Stormwater conveyance and treatment and design
• Environmental cleanup and habitat restoration
• Waterway dredging

• Duties are primarily conducted in a standard office setting, requiring prolonged periods of sitting at a desk or computer table.
• Occasionally may be required to lift objects weighing up to 15 lbs.
• Occasionally visiting project locations and performing field inspections which may involve walking, standing, kneeling, or navigating uneven terrain.

Culture and Benefits:

Join KPFF for a career adventure that celebrates your expertise and fuels your development.

Here, autonomy and innovation converge, empowering you to tackle complex challenges and blossom into a consulting trailblazer.

Our culture fosters teamwork, ownership, and common values, ensuring that your accomplishments are celebrated, and your career trajectory is in your hands.

At KPFF, we're not just coworkers; we're a vibrant community fueled by collaborative creativity, offering you the chance to leave a lasting mark on pioneering projects.

The salary for this role is competitive and will be determined based on the candidate's experience, education, and skills.

The expected range for a qualified candidate is $27-$32 per hour.

Since 1996, KPFF's Special Projects Group has been at the forefront of addressing specialized challenges in project development.

With over 150+ team members in three offices strategically located in Long Beach, CA, Tacoma, WA, and Seattle, WA, our approach combines dedicated project managers, a skilled technical team, and a commitment to innovation.

We offer a comprehensive range of services including civil, structural, and mechanical engineering, machinery design, construction and project management, and planning services.

We specialize in the management and design of heavy civil, structural, industrial, and waterfront infrastructure projects across the United States.

Our team thrives on solving unique, multi-disciplinary challenges, collaborating closely with clients such as the Ports of Long Beach, Los Angeles, Tacoma, and Seattle, as well as various municipalities and government agencies.

Join us at KPFF Special Projects Group and be part of a dynamic team driving innovation and excellence in project delivery.

KPFF, a multi-office, multi-discipline engineering firm, is committed to Excellence, Trust, Relationships, Stability, and Passion.

With over 60 years of experience, we provide creative solutions for diverse projects, scales, and industries.

Our 1,500+ professionals in 36 offices nationwide thrive in a decentralized structure, offering abundant flexibility and numerous opportunities for professional growth.

At KPFF, join a legacy of excellence where every team member has the opportunity to contribute to innovative solutions and impactful projects.

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.