Entry-Level Architect/Architectural Engineer (Washington, D.C.)

Wiss Janney Elstner Associates • Washington DC, DC

20d

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 Washington, D.C. office. WJE is a global firm of engineers, architects, and materials scientists that solves complex problems in the built environment. The firm emphasizes collaboration, trust, personal responsibility, open communication, continuous learning, innovative thinking, and hands-on mentoring.

The position involves hands-on forensic investigations, condition assessments, construction observations, and field testing related to building enclosures and materials. The Associate will research building materials, systems, codes, standards, and guidelines; support design recommendations and problem-solving; assist with peer reviews of new designs and building enclosure systems; and work with project teams, clients, contractors, and other disciplines. The role includes responsibility for key project aspects and completing assignments with limited oversight under the guidance of licensed professionals.

The work may involve office, field, and construction sites; outdoor temperature extremes; work at heights and in hazardous locations; travel; and use of personal protective equipment and access equipment. WJE offers base salary, incentive pay, and benefits. The stated annual starting base salary range is $79,280 to $118,920.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree or better in architecture, architectural engineering, civil engineering, structural engineering, or building science from an NAAB- or ABET-accredited program.
• Solid foundation in architectural and structural engineering principles, with demonstrated interest in investigation, evaluation, construction, and design of modern and historic structures, building systems, and construction materials.
• Relevant internship and/or research experience.
• Effective technical, graphical, written, and verbal communication skills.
• Proactive team player willing to take on various responsibilities and work independently.
• Ability to prioritize tasks and adapt to changing demands while maintaining excellence, integrity, and attention to detail.
• Ability to travel and drive and safely operate a motor vehicle.
• Ability to lift and carry materials and equipment up to 50 lbs.
• Ability to work outdoors in temperature extremes, safely work at heights, and work in occupationally hazardous locations.
• Ability to safely use or operate ladders, scaffolds, lifts, and other access equipment, and to understand and appreciate safety training for workplace and construction hazards.
• Medically fit to use respiratory protection devices and other forms of personal protective equipment.
• Ability to inspect buildings and structures visually and with instruments; attend meetings at office, field, and construction sites; read construction drawings and other printed or digital materials; and record data and write reports and letters.

Responsibilities

• Perform hands-on forensic investigations, condition assessments, and construction observations of building enclosure and materials issues, including documenting distress and collecting test samples.
• Conduct field testing and gather data using technologies such as digital instrumentation and imaging tools.
• Research building materials, enclosure systems, manufacturers’ technical information, building codes, industry standards, and design guidelines to support design recommendations and problem-solving.
• Assist with peer reviews of new designs and evaluations of building enclosure systems for new construction, including exterior walls, roofing, waterproofing, fenestration, and below-grade systems.
• Interface with project teams, clients, contractors, and other architectural and engineering disciplines.
• Assume responsibility for key aspects of projects and complete assignments with limited oversight under the guidance of licensed professionals.

Benefits

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

What This Job Offers

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