Structural Design Engineer

Cherokee Federal; Alexandria (VA); On-site; USD 95,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

Cherokee Federal is seeking an Engineer – Junior to Mid-level in the United States (Alexandria, VA). The role requires an active Top Secret clearance or the ability to obtain one.

You will guide blast mitigation design, structural analyses, and protective measures for both new and existing facilities, including overseas projects. Responsibilities include research, testing, and modeling using CAD and BlastX, with opportunities to contribute to standards and advanced protective systems.

Qualifications

• Bachelor degree in engineering or closely related field required.
• 3 years for Junior level; 7 years for Mid level in blast mitigation/anti-ram design.
• Experience designing blast-resistant buildings and retrofit projects.

Responsibilities

• Assist in research, development, testing, and evaluation of blast-resistant technologies and protective designs.
• Provide input on design standards and construction methods for existing and new facilities.
• Support the design and construction of blast-resistant buildings and anti-ram barriers.
• Lead development of anti-ram vehicle barrier systems to increase standoff distances.
• Perform computer modeling of structural responses to dynamic loading events.

Skills

Blast mitigation design

Structural engineering research

Dynamic loading analysis

Education

Bachelor of Science in Engineering Technology, Construction Management, Mechanical, Structural, or Civil Engineering

Tools

CAD

BlastX (USACE)

Graphing/plotting

Office productivity software

Job description

This position requires an active Top Secret clearance or the ability to obtain a Top Secret clearance to be considered.

The engineer must provide guidance with regard to blast effects vulnerabilities and protective designs on existing structures and facilities under design and construction; technical support at blast mitigation testing; expertise in the field of structural engineering research involving design and construction of structures in the area of blast mitigation; computer modeling of structures and the effects of structures due to dynamic loading. Experience and user-level ability and skills in CAD, USAGE Blast modeling software (BlastX), Graphing/plotting, and office productivity software.

Estimated Starting Salary Range for Engineer – Junior to Mid-level: $95k - $150K

Pay commensurate with experience.

Full time benefits include Medical, Dental, Vision, 401K, and other possible benefits as provided. Benefits are subject to change with or without notice.

Engineer – Junior to Mid-level Responsibilities Include:

• Assist in research, development, testing, and evaluation of forced entry, ballistic, vehicle anti-ram, and blast-resistant technologies, materials, designs, and construction systems.
• Provide input on design standards, protective materials, and construction methods for existing structures, buildings under construction, and new building designs.
• Support the design and construction of blast-resistant buildings and the implementation of blast mitigation measures for existing facilities.
• Contribute to the development and improvement of anti-ram vehicle barriers and structural elements that enhance forced entry and ballistic resistance.
• Offer guidance on blast effect vulnerabilities and protective designs for existing and new structures.
• Participate in technical support for blast mitigation testing and related field activities.
• Utilize structural engineering research methods to support the design and construction of blast-resistant infrastructure.
• Perform computer modeling of structural responses to dynamic loading events.
• Apply software tools such as CAD, BlastX (USACE), graphing/plotting programs, and standard office productivity software.
• Lead research and development efforts in physical protection systems for overseas facilities against terrorist attacks.
• Design and oversee implementation of blast-resistant structures for both new construction and upgrades to existing buildings.
• Develop and evaluate anti-ram vehicle barrier systems to improve standoff distances from potential explosive threats.
• Design advanced structural elements to enhance protection against forced entry and ballistic threats.
• Provide technical guidance on blast vulnerabilities and protective solutions for both existing and in-design facilities.
• Deliver support during blast testing activities and interpret results for application to real-world structures.
• Conduct advanced structural modeling and simulations related to dynamic and blast loading using specialized software.
• Maintain working knowledge and practical use of CAD, BlastX (USACE), graphing/plotting tools, and general office software.
• Collaborate with industry committees and standards bodies; active membership in ASCE’s Blast, Shock, and Vibratory Committee and ASTM is preferred.
• Performs other job-related duties as assigned

Engineer – Junior to Mid-level Experience, Education, Skills, Abilities requested:

• Bachelor of Science in Engineering Technology, Construction Management, Mechanical, Structural, or Civil Engineering from an accredited university is required.
• Junior-Level Engineer: Minimum of three (3) years of relevant experience, specifically in the design, fabrication, and construction of forced entry/ballistic resistant (FE/BR) and blast mitigation systems.
• Mid-Level Engineer: Minimum of seven (7) years of hands‑on experience in blast mitigation and/or anti-ram design.
• Demonstrated knowledge and experience in the following areas:
• Design of blast-resistant buildings for both new construction and retrofit projects
• Implementation of blast mitigation measures for existing facilities
• Development and enhancement of anti-ram vehicle barrier systems to increase standoff distance from vehicle-borne threats
• Design and advancement of structural elements that improve protection against forced entry and ballistic threats
• Must pass pre-employment qualifications of Cherokee Federal

Company Information

Cherokee Nation Strategic Programs (CNSP) is a part of Cherokee Federal – the division of tribally owned federal contracting companies owned by Cherokee Nation Businesses. As a trusted partner for more than 60 federal clients, Cherokee Federal LLCs are focused on building a brighter future, solving complex challenges, and serving the government’s mission with compassion and heart. To learn more about CNSP, visit cherokee-federal.com.

Cherokee Federal is a military friendly employer. Veterans and active military transitioning to civilian status are encouraged to apply.

• Blast and Anti-Ram Engineer
• Facilities Protection Engineer
• Structural Analysis
• Protective Design
• Anti-Ram Systems
• FE/BR (Forced Entry/Ballistic Resistance)

Many of our job openings require access to government buildings or military installations. Candidates must pass pre-employment qualifications of Cherokee Federal.

Legal Disclaimer

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to protected veteran status, disability or any other status protected under applicable federal, state or local law. Many of our job openings require access to government buildings or military installations. Candidates must pass pre-employment qualifications of Cherokee Federal.