Graduate Engineer

About DKO Engineering, PLLC

DKO Engineering is a boutique forensic structural engineering practice headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina. We partner with insurers, property owners, attorneys, and design build teams to determine why structures fail and how to restore them, whether after hurricanes on the coast, fires in mill towns, or construction defects on a high rise. Our size lets us move fast; our deep technical bench lets us tackle the toughest problems. We offer opportunities to do fieldwork, report writing, and repair design. If you enjoy field investigations more than cookie cutter design, you’ll fit right in.

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What You’ll Do

• Assist senior engineers with field investigations of commercial, industrial, and residential structures (roofs, façades, foundations, and structural systems).
• Travel to project sites (regionally and out of state) to document damage from events such as wind, hail, fire, water intrusion, and construction deficiencies.
• Measure, photograph, drone scan, and document existing conditions.
• Support structural analysis efforts (steel, concrete, masonry, wood, light-gauge metal) to evaluate performance, code compliance, potential failure mechanisms, and repair options.
• Prepare draft technical reports documenting observations, analysis, and preliminary conclusions.
• Assist in developing repair recommendations and construction documents.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams and contribute to internal knowledge development.
• Assist in design and production of construction drawings and specifications.
• Draft designs and repairs in AutoCAD LT or Revit LT.

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Professional Development Opportunities

• Direct supervision by licensed Professional Engineers on real-world forensic investigations.
• Gain exposure to litigation support, including report development and expert analysis.
• Participate in internal training, site visits, and technical discussions to build forensic engineering expertise.
• Receive mentorship and guidance toward Professional Engineer (PE) licensure.

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What You’ll Bring

• Education: B.S. in Civil Engineering or Engineering Technology (minimum), with a structural emphasis preferred.
• Licensure/Testing: Passed the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam or actively pursuing it (required for EIT designation).
• Experience: 0-3  years in structural engineering, construction, or related field (internships included).
• Technical Skills: Familiarity with structural analysis principles and basic design codes; experience with AutoCAD, Revit, or similar drafting tools is a plus; possession or willingness to obtain certification in basic drone flight (FAA Part 107).
• Ability to lift, carry, and move objects (including ladders) weighing up to 50 pounds unassisted.
• Communication: Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to organize and clearly document field observations and technical findings for collaboration and use in reports.
• Traits We Love: Responsiveness, curiosity, strong desire to learn, comfort working in the field, including climbing roofs and performing investigations in crawlspaces and attics, and a team-oriented mindset with a proactive approach to problem-solving.

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What We Offer

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience, plus performance-based bonuses.
• Growth Path: Clear progression from graduate engineer to licensure.
• Benefits: 100 % employer-paid employee medical premium, 401(k) with up to 4 % employer match, and a structured bonus program.
• Support and compensation for FE/PE exams and continuing education.
• Mentorship: Direct access to experienced forensic engineers and subject matter experts.
• Flexibility: Hybrid model, flexible hours, and comp time for travel days.
• Competitive small-business-industry PTO and leave.
• Tools & Tech: Latest software suites, DJI drones, and field gear.
• Culture: Small team camaraderie, quarterly volunteer days, and teambuilding activities encouraged.

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How to Apply

Email dkoadmin@dkoengineering.com with:

We review applications on a rolling basis and will reach out to schedule a 30 minute video chat if there’s a mutual fit.

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DKO Engineering, PLLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.