Employment FAQ

1. What type of projects would I work on as a structural engineer with BLSE?

   We typically work with experienced architects on a variety of commercial building projects including banks, medical facilities, hotels, office buildings, and church facilities. Structural designs utilize all common building materials such as steel, concrete, masonry, and timber. Current examples of our work include a $10 million new school project, a $12 million county office building, and a $250 million condominium project.

2. How many projects do BLSE structural engineers work on each year?

   We serve a wide client base throughout Pensacola, Northwest Florida, and Southern Alabama, and complete more than 100 projects annually. Each engineer typically works on about 25 different projects and is generally exposed to another 25 throughout the year.

3. What hours would I be expected to work in my job as a structural engineer with BLSE?

   Our professional staff averages about 45 hours per week. Working long hours is not encouraged unless absolutely necessary and we very rarely work weekends.

4. What sort of assignments might I be responsible for when employed with BLSE?

   Assignments vary depending on employee experience level. Entry level engineers work closely with our licensed staff to calculate loads, size members, develop computer models, draw plans and details, check shop drawings, and perform field observation. Experienced engineers analyze and evaluate structural systems, develop total building solutions, write project specifications, interact with clients, and manage projects.

5. What does a typical BLSE compensation package include?

   BLSE offers competitive salaries commensurate with experience. In addition, employees receive full group health insurance coverage including family members, a qualified retirement plan with matching company contributions, and vacation time. We also take care of continuing education expenses and registration fees, professional society membership fees, and licensure and testing fees. Discretionary fringe benefits are also extended to some employees.

6. What are the qualifications for employment with BLSE?

   Engineers are expected to have earned a bachelors degree in engineering. Other desirable qualifications include experience in the design or construction field, passing the FE exam, and aspirations toward registration as a Professional Engineer. Technicians are required to have training or experience with AutoCAD. A passion for structural engineering is a valuable asset for any employee.

7. Does employment with BLSE open any doors to registration as Professional Engineer?

   Employment with BLSE provides a direct path to licensure as a Professional Engineer in the Structural discipline for candidates who have passed the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam. Employees also gain invaluable project experience, which is excellent preparation for the Structural Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE) exam. In addition, our staff of registered Professional Engineers is well-qualified to provide guidance for engineering interns.

8. Will I be properly trained to succeed in a career as a Professional Engineer with BLSE?

   We believe in a hands-on approach that involves new engineers in real design projects immediately. Experienced staff members help new employees learn company standards, understand project tasks, and work through project assignments. New engineers are encouraged to contemplate and research problems to develop comprehensive solutions from day one.

9. What are the options for career advancement through employment with BLSE?

   Professional growth and development are encouraged for every structural engineer who signs on with our team. We continually provide challenging work for all career levels and assign tasks relevant to employee experience. We also encourage career growth by paying for continuing education expenses and registration fees, professional society membership fees, and licensure and testing fees.

10. What is it like to live in Pensacola, Florida?

    Beautiful beaches, an invigorating atmosphere, historic museums, and many natural surroundings underlie the ambiance of life in Pensacola. Golfing, fishing, scuba diving, and sailing are also common pastimes along the emerald coast. The variety of activities and inviting community contribute to Pensacola’s motto… "where thousands live the way millions wish they could."

Email your resume to hr@blse.net today.