Structural Engineer

Remote Project Engineer – Residential Wood-Framed Structures Dow Engineering PLLC Location: Fully Remote (Preference for candidates in the Tacoma/Seattle area) Employment Type: 1099 Independent Contractor (Per-Project Basis; Hourly Billing for Select Projects) Compensation: Competitive per-project or hourly rates based on scope and experience (details discussed during interview) About Dow Engineering PLLC We are a Seattle-based civil and structural engineering firm specializing in residential and light commercial projects throughout Washington state. We're seeking a self-sufficient Project Engineer to handle structural calculations and design for wood-framed residential structures, ensuring full compliance with Washington state building codes and standards. This is a remote, independent contractor role ideal for a motivated engineer who thrives working autonomously from home. Local candidates (Tacoma/Seattle area) are preferred for potential occasional in-person coordination, but the position is open nationwide to qualified applicants. Job Summary As a Project Engineer, you will independently produce structural engineering calculations, analysis, and documentation for residential wood-framed buildings (single-family homes, townhomes, additions, etc.). All work must comply with the Washington State Residential Code (based on the International Residential Code with state amendments), Washington State Building Code (structural provisions), and local jurisdictional requirements. Deliverables will be prepared in AutoCAD and exported as PDF files for review and stamping by the Principal Professional Engineer. This role requires strong self-motivation, attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple projects efficiently in a remote environment. Key Responsibilities Perform structural analysis and calculations for wood-framed residential structures, including but not limited to: Foundation design Floor and roof framing (joists, beams, trusses) Wall framing and shear wall design Header/beam sizing Lateral load resistance (wind and seismic per Washington state requirements) Connection details (hold-downs, straps, anchors) Ensure designs meet or exceed Washington state standards, including applicable provisions from the 2021 Washington State Residential Code (IRC amendments), Chapter 23 (Wood) of the Washington State Building Code, and relevant local amendments (e.g., seismic/wind zones in the Puget Sound region). Use engineering judgment for non-prescriptive elements where conventional light-frame construction tables do not apply. Prepare clear, organized calculation packages and supporting documentation. Create or revise structural drawings and details in AutoCAD. Export final deliverables as high-quality PDFs. Communicate project status, questions, and updates via Microsoft Teams. Collaborate remotely with the Principal Engineer for review feedback and revisions. Manage your own project timelines to meet client deadlines. Required Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering, Structural Engineering, or related field (Master's preferred). Professional Engineer (PE) license in Washington state (or ability to obtain reciprocity quickly; structural endorsement a plus). 3+ years of experience in structural design of residential wood-framed structures (single-family and multi-family light wood frame). Proven expertise in producing engineering calculations compliant with Washington state codes (including IRC/IBC adoptions, wind/seismic loads per ASCE 7 as referenced). Advanced proficiency in AutoCAD for structural drafting and detailing. Strong knowledge of wood design standards (e.g., NDS for Wood Construction, AWC Wood Frame Construction Manual where applicable). Excellent written and verbal communication skills for clear documentation and remote collaboration. Self-starter with the ability to work independently without daily supervision. Required Resources (Provided by Candidate) Personal computer capable of running AutoCAD and engineering analysis software. Valid licenses/subscriptions for AutoCAD (or compatible software) and any necessary engineering tools (e.g., spreadsheets, wood design software). Reliable high-speed internet connection. Microsoft Office/365 suite (including Teams for meetings and OneDrive for file sharing). Work Arrangement & Tools Fully remote – Work from your home office. Project files shared securely via OneDrive folders. Meetings and communication via Microsoft Teams. Payment via 1099 (per-project flat fee for most assignments; hourly rate for time-based or ongoing work). No benefits provided (independent contractor status). Preferred Qualifications Local to the Tacoma/Seattle area for occasional site visits or in-person meetings (if needed). Experience with residential permitting in Washington jurisdictions (e.g., Seattle, Tacoma, King/Pierce/Snohomish Counties). Familiarity with tools like RISA, Enercalc, or similar for wood frame analysis. How to Apply Please submit your resume, cover letter, and examples of relevant wood-frame residential calculation packages or stamped drawings (redacted if necessary) via Indeed. In your cover letter, include: Your Washington PE license number (or status). Years of experience with residential wood-frame design in Washington. Confirmation that you have the required computer, software, and internet setup. We review applications on a rolling basis and look forward to hearing from self-motivated engineers ready to contribute remotely! Dow Engineering PLLC is an equal opportunity employer. We value diverse perspectives and encourage applications from qualified candidates of all backgrounds. If this sounds like a great fit, apply today! Questions? Feel free to message through Indeed. Job Type: Part-time Pay: $81,142.35 - $97,719.83 per year Experience: Structural Engineering : 4 years (Required) AutoCAD LT: 2 years (Required) License/Certification: Professional Engineer License (Preferred) Location: Tacoma, WA (Required) Ability to Commute: Tacoma, WA (Required) Work Location: Remote