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

Wiss Janney Elstner Associates • Houston, TX

10d

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. WJE is a global firm of engineers, architects, and materials scientists that solves complex problems in the built environment through investigative expertise, laboratory and testing capabilities, and practical solutions. The work environment emphasizes collaboration, trust, personal responsibility, open communication, continuous learning, innovative thinking, and hands-on mentoring.

The role involves hands-on forensic investigations, condition assessments, construction observations, field testing, data analysis, research, and repair design relating to building enclosures and materials. The Associate contributes to project analysis and client deliverables, including drawings, specifications, reports, and presentations, and works with project teams, clients, contractors, and other design disciplines. Under guidance from licensed professionals, the Associate takes responsibility for project aspects and completes assignments with limited oversight.

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, with demonstrated interest in investigation, rehabilitation, construction, and design of 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.
• Visual acuity and listening ability; dexterity to operate office and field equipment.
• Ability to attend meetings at office, field, and construction sites; inspect buildings and other structures visually and with instruments; lift and carry materials and equipment up to 50 pounds; and work outdoors in temperature extremes.
• Ability to read construction drawings, diagrams, printed materials, and computer screens; record data clearly; and write report and letter passages.
• Ability to travel and drive and safely operate a motor vehicle.
• Ability to safely work at heights and use or operate ladders, scaffolds, lifts, and other access equipment.
• Ability to understand and appreciate safety training for workplace and construction hazards and to work safely in occupationally hazardous locations.
• Medical fitness to use respiratory protection devices and other personal protective equipment.

Nice To Haves

• Relevant internship and/or research experience.

Responsibilities

• Perform forensic investigations, condition assessments, and construction observations related to building enclosures and materials, including documenting distress and collecting test samples.
• Conduct field testing and gather data using technologies such as digital instrumentation and imaging tools.
• Analyze data and research modern and historic construction documents, governing codes, and design guidelines to support analysis, problem-solving, and repair design.
• Complete analyses using advanced software and calculations.
• Assist with drafting and preparing conceptual, preliminary, and final client deliverables, including structural and architectural construction drawings, specifications, written reports, and presentations.
• 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 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 investments.
• Variable compensation based on personal and company performance, typically resulting in above-market total compensation.

What This Job Offers

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