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

01 Wiss, Janney, Elstner Associates, Inc.; Washington (District of Columbia); On-site; USD 79,000 - 119,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health plans

401(k) matching

Paid time off

Education assistance

Job summary

Wiss, Janney, Elstner Associates, Inc. (WJE) in Washington, DC seeks an entry-level Associate with a degree in architecture, architectural engineering, or building science to contribute to forensic investigations and building enclosure projects.

You will work with engineers, architects, and materials scientists on complex problems in the built environment. The role offers hands-on mentoring and exposure to field testing, data collection, and design evaluation, with responsibilities across

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in architecture, architectural engineering, civil engineering, structural engineering or building science from NAAB or ABET accredited program.
• Strong technical, graphical, written, and verbal communication skills.
• Internship and/or research experience appreciated.

Responsibilities

• Perform forensic investigations, condition assessments, and construction observations of building enclosure and materials issues.
• Conduct field testing and data collection using digital instrumentation and imaging tools.
• Research building materials, enclosure systems, codes, standards, and design guidelines to support recommendations.
• Assist peer reviews of new design and evaluation of building enclosure systems for new construction.

Skills

Communication skills

Team player

Analytical thinking

Technical writing

Attention to detail

Education

Bachelor's degree or higher in architecture/architectural engineering/building science

Job description

Wiss, Janney, Elstner Associates, Inc. (WJE) is seeking an entry-level Associate with a degree in architecture, architectural engineering, or building science to join our Washington, D.C. office. WJE is a global firm of engineers, architects, and materials scientists. Clients around the world turn to us to solve the most significant, complex, and challenging problems in the built environment. With experience from more than 175,000 projects and unmatched laboratory and testing capabilities, WJE is recognized as a leader in delivering innovative, yet practical, solutions. Working at WJE is a collaborative team experience, grounded in trust and personal responsibility. We foster an environment of open communication, continuous learning, innovative thinking, and hands‑on mentoring. Our culture thrives on free‑flowing collaboration and knowledge sharing across disciplines. We seek highly motivated and dedicated individuals who want to be challenged, engage directly in project work, and learn from the industry’s most accomplished experts. We value people who demonstrate outstanding Character, unwavering Commitment to our mission and culture, deepening Expertise, and genuine Enthusiasm for their work.

Responsibilities:

• Perform hands‑on forensic investigations, condition assessments, and construction observations of building enclosure and materials related issues, which may include documenting distress and collecting test samples
• Conduct field testing and gather data using a variety of technologies including 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 design and evaluation 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

Qualifications:

• 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 the investigation, evaluation, construction, and design of various 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 a high standard of excellence, integrity, and attention to detail

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to attend meetings at various office, field, and construction sites
• Ability to perform inspections of buildings and other structures, both visually and with instruments
• Ability to lift and carry materials and equipment up to 50 lbs.
• Ability to perform work in the temperature extremes presented by work in the outdoors
• Ability to read construction drawings, diagrams, printed materials, and computer screens
• Ability to record data clearly and write passages for reports, letters, etc.
• Ability to travel
• Ability to safely work at heights
• Ability to safely use and/or operate ladders, scaffolds, lifts, and other access equipment
• Ability to understand and appreciate safety training specific to numerous workplace and construction hazards
• Ability to safely work in a variety of occupationally hazardous locations
• Medically fit to utilize respiratory protection devices and other forms of Personal Protective Equipment
• Ability to drive and safely operate a motor vehicle

Culture, Compensation, and Benefits:

WJE offers a robust, total compensation structure composed of base salary, incentive pay, and industry‑leading benefits: Base salary is determined through consideration of a candidate’s qualifications, skills, competencies, and proficiency for the role while remaining mindful of our commitment to internal equity. Employees receive variable compensation based on personal and company performance, typically resulting in above‑market total compensation. A good faith estimate of the annual starting base salary (gross) is in the following range: $79,280.00 - $118,920.00

WJE’s industry‑leading, total rewards package enables our employees to grow and thrive with comprehensive health and financial benefits, including:

• Robust and affordable health plans for employees and their families, including HSA as well as low and high‑deductible PPO options
• Generous 401(k) matching of 110% for the first 6% of eligible pay, vesting immediately
• Time off to care for yourself and others
• Investments in employees’ educational assistance and professional development

Learn more about WJE’s total rewards package here.

WJE is an Equal Opportunity Employer as to all protected groups, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.

WJE will consider qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with the requirements of Fair Chance Ordinances.

Founded in 1956, Wiss, Janney, Elstner Associates (WJE) is an interdisciplinary firm of engineers, architects, and materials scientists committed to helping clients solve, repair, and avoid problems in the built world. Supported by unparalleled laboratory and field‑testing capabilities, our experts draw on more than seventy years of experience to deliver innovative and practical solutions grounded in deep technical expertise.