Position Title: Structural Engineer
Office Location: Chelsea, AL | Local candidates only | No visa sponsorship
Work Schedule: Full-time, 40 hours/week | In-office Mon-Thu, WFH Fridays
Work Authorization: Must be authorized to work in the US without sponsorship, now or in the future
Hiring Manager: SVP Structural Analysis
Pay Range: $97,000 to $120,000 annually
This position may be filled in either Broomfield, CO or Chelsea, AL. One position is available.
The RoleIKE PoleForeman is a structural analysis application used by electric utilities, telecommunications companies, and engineering firms to design, build, and maintain overhead distribution pole lines. As our Structural Engineer, you'll work alongside our existing structural engineer to own the engineering methodology and theory behind it.
Together, you'll review and validate the calculations already in the software, research and document the calculations required for new features, and partner with our development team to implement and test them. Much of this involves building worked examples that make engineering calculation workflows clear. You'll also work closely with the product manager to set priorities for the development team.
Our customers rely on PoleForeman to reflect how distribution lines are actually designed and built in the field. This role is accountable for making sure it does, and for the liability utilities carry when it doesn't.
Why This Role- Hands on the product: this is a role for someone who wants to do the engineering, not manage a spreadsheet at arm's length from it.
- Real ownership: you own the structural analysis methodology behind a product utilities depend on.
- Engineering that ships: your calculations become software that thousands of line designers use.
- Direct customer contact: you'll talk with clients about analysis results and the theory behind them, not just work from a spec.
- Field meets code: this is where structural theory, the NESC, and real construction practice have to line up.
Key Responsibilities & Expected Outcomes- Own the structural analysis methodology in PoleForeman, including finite element analysis (FEA), buckling, and related calculations.
- Review and validate existing engineering calculations, and research and document calculations for new features.
- Apply utility distribution design and construction experience to ensure analysis calculations align with industry practice and sound engineering judgment.
- Assess the customer impact of defects in analysis results, communicate urgency to the team, and partner with the product manager to reprioritize work as needed.
- Partner with the software development team to design, implement, and test new product features.
- Perform product testing and verification of analysis results.
- Author and maintain engineering technical manuals and product documentation.
- Collaborate with internal teams to scope, plan, and support product development.
- Support the client support team in answering technical questions from customers.
- Engage directly with clients to explain analysis results and the engineering theory behind the software.
Outcome: PoleForeman's structural analysis reflects real design and construction practice, is validated and documented, and earns the confidence of the utilities that rely on it.
Where and How You'll WorkThis role is based at one of two IKE offices, with a hybrid schedule. Candidates must live within commuting distance of their office; relocation assistance is not available.
- Location: Chelsea, Alabama (southeast of Birmingham; The Narrows). This team works closely together and is in the office Monday through Thursday, so we'd expect you there those days. Fridays are yours to work from home. Candidates must live within commuting distance; relocation assistance is not available.
- Hours: Our teams span US time zones from Eastern to Pacific, and our New Zealand engineering team is 18 to 20 hours ahead of Colorado. Some early morning or evening meetings help us stay connected.
- Travel: About 5 to 10% for company meetings, conferences, and team collaboration.
- Work Authorization: This position is not eligible for employer-sponsored work authorization. Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States without the need for current or future employer-sponsored work authorization.
What You'll BringRequired- Minimum 5 years of experience in the utility industry, including overhead distribution line design and working knowledge of how those lines are constructed in the field, including guying practice (down guys, span guys, sidewalk anchors) and lead lengths. Deeper field experience is a strong plus.
- Strong foundational knowledge of finite element analysis methods, with a solid grounding in physics and mathematics.
- Background or experience in computational analysis of structural systems.
- Working knowledge of the National Electrical Safety Code (NESC), ASCE Design Standards, and/or California General Order 95 (GO 95), or the ability to learn them quickly.
- Able to establish credibility quickly with field and office personnel by knowing what you're looking at and speaking their language.
- Ability to apply sound engineering judgment to ambiguous or novel problems.
- Self-motivated and curious, with the instinct to dig into unfamiliar problems independently rather than wait for direction.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to work effectively with internal team members and external clients.
- Bachelor's degree in engineering, physics, mathematics, or a related field, or equivalent experience. We care more that you think like an engineer than where you studied.
Preferred- Experience with pole loading analysis (PLA) or structural analysis software development.
- Understanding of the legal and safety liability utilities carry for overhead line design.
- Professional Engineer (PE) license.
- Programming experience applied to engineering problems, through coursework, research, or professional work.
- Familiarity with software development practices such as version control, code review, and Agile delivery.
- Master's degree in Structural, Civil, or Mechanical Engineering, Engineering Mechanics, Applied Mechanics, or Mathematics.
Pay and BenefitsThe base pay range for this role is
$97,000 to $120,000 annually. Final pay depends on skills, experience, qualifications, and location.
We take care of our people with a comprehensive benefits package, including:
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance
- 401(k) with a 4% company match, plus pre-tax and Roth options
- Company-paid basic life insurance
- Paid time off and paid holidays
- Employee assistance program
Benefits are subject to change. Full details are shared during the offer process.
Application DeadlineThis position will remain open until November 30, or when filled.
