Mechanical Engineer (0-3 yrs exp)

KPFF Special Projects Division

Since 1996, KPFF's Special Projects Division 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 Division and be part of a dynamic team driving innovation and excellence in project delivery.

About the Role:

The Special Projects Division of KPFF is growing and looking for an ambitious and initiative-driven entry-level Mechanical Engineer for either our Seattle or Tacoma offices. Our mechanical engineering group specializes in heavy machinery and movable structures design typically associated with large heavy civil, transportation, structural, industrial and waterfront infrastructure projects throughout the US. The Special Projects Division is an inter-discipline team of mechanical, structural, civil, and construction engineers and project managers. We frequently function as prime consultants and are tasked with solving unusual, multi-disciplined challenges that require an innovative and team-oriented approach.

What You’ll Be Doing:

• Collaborating daily with your mechanical engineering team and providing support on various tasks associated with project design, including research, calculations, SolidWorks modeling, drawing production and review, finite element simulations, simulation report production, and construction cost estimating.
• Participating in project site visits and performing field observations. The applicant may be required to navigate through a job site and must comply with all company and site safety requirements in the office and on the job site.  

Who We’re Looking For:

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering
• Understanding of core mechanical engineering concepts (or subjects, or topics, or principles), including machine design principles, statics, dynamics, kinematics, fluid mechanics, and strength of materials
• Familiarity with force analysis including free-body diagrams and shear/bending/moment diagrams
• Knowledge of stress analysis, including exposure to finite element analysis (FEA)
• Proficiency in SolidWorks including parts modeling, assembly creation, and drawing production
• Familiarity with AutoCAD and/or Revit
• Ability to work collaboratively with project team members and clients on a variety of projects
• Detail oriented and desire for continued learning
• Clear communication and writing skills

Example of Projects:

• Moveable vehicle and pedestrian bridges and other heavy moveable structures
• Doors for aircraft hangars and other large buildings
• Container terminal infrastructure design
• Marina design
• Ports, harbors, shipyards and other industrial waterfront projects
• Fluid power design
• Fuel piping systems
• Bulk material handling systems
• Rail Locomotive Maintenance Facility Infrastructure

Physical Demands and Work Environment:

• Duties are primarily conducted in a standard office setting, requiring prolonged periods of sitting at a desk.
• Occasionally may be required to lift objects weighing up to 15 lbs.
• Occasionally visiting project locations and performing indoor/outdoor field observations, which may involve walking, standing, kneeling, climbing stairs/ladders and 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.

We are passionate about supporting our employees through flexible and comprehensive Benefits. Our Benefits include:

• 401(k) retirement savings plan with employer contribution (regardless of employee contribution)
• Medical insurance (two plans available to choose from)
• Dental insurance
• Vision Insurance
• Health Savings Account (HSA) with employer contribution
• Healthcare and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
• Life insurance
• KPFF Paid Family Leave
• Short-term and Long-term disability insurance
• Paid holidays (including two floating Holidays)
• Paid time off (vacation, sick, jury duty)

Other Perks:

• Hybrid work schedule 
• Monthly technical educational sessions
• Professional development series
• Mentorship program
• Monthly social events
• Bonus for Professional Engineer (PE) Certification
• Winter parties and summer picnics
• Office committee opportunities
• Community projects participation
• Offsite retreats

Compensation:

The base 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 with 0-3 years of experience is $83,000-$100,000. Additionally, we offer performance-based bonuses to recognize and reward outstanding contributions in each Reporting Center. During the interview process, we'll provide detailed information and address any questions you may have about the overall compensation package and benefits.

About Us:

KPFF:

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 29 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 is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer.

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.