Construction STEM OPT Jobs in Idaho

INTRODUCTION

At JH Kelly, we’re seeking a driven, detail-oriented Project Engineer to support the successful execution of Structural, Mechanical and multi-discipline construction projects throughout the Treasure Valley market. In this role, you will work closely with Project Managers, playing a key part in keeping projects on track by assisting with scheduling, cost tracking, documentation and coordination across teams and trades.

This position puts you at the center of dynamic construction projects - supporting cutting-edge semiconductor, data center and commercial developments, while gaining hands-on experience in project delivery from preconstruction through closeout. You'll help ensure work is planned, executed safely, and completed to the highest quality standards.

We are looking for candidates with steel/structural construction experience and/or a Construction Management or related degree who are eager to apply strong technical fundamentals, problem-solving skills, and collaborative mindset in a fast-paced, real-world construction environment.

About us

Celebrating over a century of excellence, JH Kelly is a fourth-generation, family-owned construction powerhouse known for tackling complex commercial and heavy industrial projects. With offices in Vancouver, Longview, Seattle, Bellingham, WA, and Milwaukie, OR, we’re an industry leader fueled by an award-winning team committed to safety, quality, and a dynamic, tight-knit culture.

PAY RANGE: $43 – $57 per hour (DOE), FLSA non-exempt (overtime eligible).

BENEFITS PACKAGE

• Comprehensive Medical/Vision/Rx – Dental/Ortho Coverage: JH Kelly pays 87.5% of total premiums.
• Paid Vacation and Holidays: Generous PTO model to support work-life balance.
• 401K: 50% company match on the first 6% of employee contributions.
• Life Insurance, AD&D, STD & LTD: Paid 100% by JH Kelly.
• Annual Performance Bonuses: Opportunity for additional compensation based on performance.
• Profit Sharing: Participate in JH Kelly’s profit-sharing program. Averaging 9% of total compensation for the past 10 years.

HERE’S A DEEPER DIVE INTO WHAT YOU’LL TAKE ON:

Design Interpretation & RFI Management

• Compare models, specs, P&IDs, and drawings to identify conflicts or missing information.
• Write and manage clear, technically sound RFIs, proposing solutions and following through to resolution.
• Work closely with the Engineer of Record and Owner to clarify design intent and ensure constructability.

Work Package Development

• Create detailed, field-ready work packages for procurement, fabrication, pre-assembly, rigging, and installation.
• Use tools like Autodesk Construction Cloud, Revizto, Stratus, and Bluebeam to organize and communicate the scope clearly.
• Coordinate with PMs and schedulers to align packages with project milestones and field needs.

Field Engineering Support

• Serve as the primary technical contact for field supervisors, responding to questions, resolving design issues, and assisting with construction convenience items.
• Provide technical backup and documentation for lift plans, cartage plans, elevated work planning, and QA/QC walkdowns.
• Participate in pull planning/Last Planner-style scheduling sessions to support field execution.

Quality Assurance & Turnover

• Perform field verification of installed work to ensure conformance with specifications and design.
• Track punch lists and corrective actions to completion.
• Ensure documentation is complete and systems are turned over clean and compliant.

Team Collaboration & Culture

• Build strong working relationships with foremen, field leadership, project engineers, and PMs.
• Mentor interns or junior engineers, contributing to a positive, high-trust project culture.
• Show up as a calm, consistent, and capable technical partner on site.

WHAT YOU BRING

• Experience: 3+ years in construction project engineering, or structural coordination, with a strong understanding of steel/structural systems, including fabrication, detailing, erection sequencing and installation practices. Experience supporting multi-discipline projects and coordinating with fabricators, erectors, and design teams is preferred. Exposure to commercial, industrial or high-tech construction environments is a plus.
• Skills: Proficient with Navisworks, Revizto, Autodesk Construction Cloud, and Bluebeam. Strong project management, communication, and problem-solving skills, with the ability to write clear RFIs and interpret technical documents.
• Mindset: Field-first, gritty, and resourceful, with a passion for precision and quality. You’re a trusted partner to field teams, relatable, and professional.
• Education: Bachelor’s degree in construction management, mechanical or industrial engineering, or equivalent hands-on experience.

Physical Requirements

This role requires transitioning between office and construction field settings. In the office, you’ll sit for extended periods at a computer, performing repetitive tasks like typing and communicating by telephone. In the field, you’ll stand and walk for extended periods on various surfaces, including uneven terrain, climb stairs, kneel, crouch, and crawl to inspect tight spaces, and occasionally lift up to 40 pounds. Good vision and hearing are essential for reading plans, inspecting work, and communicating on-site. You’ll work outdoors in various weather conditions, adhere to site-specific dress codes, and wear PPE (hard hats, gloves, safety glasses, steel-toed boots). Flexibility to travel between job sites and work outside regular business hours when needed is required. Reasonable accommodations are available to support individuals with disabilities.