Structural Drawings for 2-Story Light Gauge Steel Framing - 21/09/2025 15:47 EDT

Job ID: 39811211

Budget: $750 – $1,500 USD

Summary
We are seeking an experienced structural engineer to prepare permit-ready structural drawings for a two-story vertical extension on top of an 1853 five-story loft building in Manhattan.

Note: The first milestone I need — if possible by tomorrow — is:
Preliminary structural drawings plans showing the structure and beam/framing sizes for the PH.
If this is feasible, the job is likely yours.

There will still be a full assessment of the existing building as required by the NYC DOB, whether completed by us or others. This initial milestone is strictly for the lender’s review.

For context, the existing building is a 6-story brick masonry structure with floors designed for 160 psf (heavy storage/manufacturing). At this stage, I am looking for a preliminary letter of opinion to satisfy the lender prior to the final assessment.

Project Overview
Proposed construction: Cold-formed light gauge steel framing with a concrete deck floor system.
Existing structure: Unreinforced multi-wythe loadbearing brick masonry with existing floors designed for 160 psf (heavy industrial use).
Scope of work: Structural drawings suitable for submission to NYC DOB for permitting.

Structural Engineer (design + detailing)
Engineer develops both design and drawing package. Must have strong background in structural design and detailing of cold-formed steel framing with masonry bearing systems.

Licensed NY PE (optional)
Same responsibilities as option 2.
Additionally, provide signed & sealed drawings. Possibly submit Alt-CO/Alt-1 for permit to NYC DOB.

Timeline
This project is significantly behind schedule due to unforeseen circumstances. We are looking for candidates who can begin immediately and deliver on an expedited timeline.

First Milestone is preliminary/ Schematic Framing Plans - Identifying the main load-bearing elements and the overall supports. Vertical Load System: Deciding on columns, bearing walls, and framing locations. Foundation/ Existing Bearing Concept: Proposing support and attachments at various point of existing structure. Develop Preliminary Framing Layouts: Create simple, single-line drawings showing the basic layout of key structural members. This includes: Floor and roof framing direction (e.g., where joists or beams will span). Approximate locations of major beams, girders, and columns. Identification of bearing walls and any floor decks or slabs.

Deliverables: A set of basic, non-detailed drawings often called "preliminary" plans. They are not suitable for construction but are used for coordination, initial cost estimates, and confirming the design direction with the client.

Second Milestone is DDs: Identify the primary lateral system and load path incorporate with framing. Perform detailed structural analysis based on applicable building codes (e.g., calculating live load, wind, and seismic loads). Refine member framing sizes with more detailed analysis. Develop connection details and critical sections to ensure the system can be built as designed.

Deliverable: A more detailed set of drawings showing dimensioned framing plans with member sizes, key elevations, and critical sections and typical details.

Third milestone would be CDs which would be complete code-compliant set of drawings for permitting and construction. Finalize all structural calculations and member sizing.
Create comprehensive, fully annotated, and dimensioned drawings.
Detail all connections and provide general structural notes covering design criteria, material specifications, inspection requirements, and construction standards.
The Professional Engineer (P.E.) reviews, signs, and stamps the drawings

Deliverable: The complete set of structural construction documents, which typically includes:
General Notes and Specifications
Foundation Plan
Floor Framing Plans
Roof Framing Plan
Structural Sections, Elevations, and Schedules
Typical Details Building Sections and Detail