Entry-Level Architect/Architectural Engineer (Houston, TX)

Wiss, Janney, Elstner Associates, Inc. • Houston, TX

11d • $79,280 - $118,920 • Onsite

About The Position

Wiss, Janney, Elstner Associates, Inc. (WJE) is seeking an entry-level Associate with a degree in architecture, architectural engineering, or building science to join its Houston, Texas office. The role involves hands-on investigation and analysis of building enclosure and materials-related issues, including forensic investigations, condition assessments, construction observations, and field testing. The Associate will research construction documents, codes, and design guidelines; analyze findings using software and calculations; and help prepare drawings, specifications, reports, and presentations for clients. The position works with project teams, clients, contractors, and other architectural and engineering disciplines, and takes responsibility for assigned project work under the guidance of licensed professionals.

WJE describes its work environment as collaborative and grounded in trust, personal responsibility, open communication, continuous learning, innovative thinking, and mentoring. The position includes office, field, and construction-site work, travel, and work in conditions that may involve outdoor temperature extremes, heights, and occupational hazards.

WJE offers base salary, variable incentive compensation based on personal and company performance, and a total rewards package that includes health and financial benefits, 401(k) matching, time off, educational assistance, and professional development. The good-faith estimate for annual starting base salary is $79,280 to $118,920.

Requirements

• Master's degree or higher in architecture, architectural engineering, or building science from an NAAB- or ABET-accredited program.
• Solid foundation in architectural and/or structural engineering principles.
• Demonstrated interest in investigation, rehabilitation, construction, and design involving modern and historic structures, building systems, and construction materials.
• Effective technical, graphical, written, and verbal communication skills.
• Proactive team player willing to take on varied responsibilities and work independently.
• Ability to prioritize tasks and adapt to changing demands while maintaining excellence, integrity, and attention to detail.
• Ability to attend meetings at office, field, and construction sites; inspect buildings and structures visually and with instruments; and travel.
• Ability to lift and carry materials and equipment up to 50 pounds and work outdoors in temperature extremes.
• Ability to work safely at heights and use ladders, scaffolds, lifts, and other access equipment.
• Ability to understand and follow safety training for workplace and construction hazards, work in occupationally hazardous locations, and be medically fit to use respiratory protection and other personal protective equipment.
• Ability to drive and safely operate a motor vehicle.

Nice To Haves

• Relevant internship and/or research experience.

Responsibilities

• Perform hands-on forensic investigations, condition assessments, and construction observations related to building enclosure and materials issues; document distress and collect test samples as needed.
• Conduct field testing and gather data using digital instrumentation, imaging tools, and other technologies.
• Analyze data and research modern and historic construction documents, governing codes, and design guidelines to support analysis, problem-solving, and repair design.
• Complete analysis using advanced analysis software and calculations.
• Assist with drafting and preparing conceptual, preliminary, and final client deliverables, including construction drawings, specifications, written reports, and presentations.
• Interface with project teams, clients, contractors, and other architectural and engineering disciplines.
• Take responsibility for key aspects of projects and complete assignments with limited oversight under the guidance of licensed professionals.

Benefits

• Health plans for employees and families, including HSA and low- and high-deductible PPO options.
• 401(k) matching of 110% for the first 6% of eligible pay, with immediate vesting.
• Time off to care for yourself and others.
• Educational assistance and professional development.
• Variable compensation based on personal and company performance.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level