1

Aircraft Structural Design Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Structural Design Engineer

Naperville, IL · On-site

$92K - $101K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Description We are looking for a structural engineer with five or more years of experience. A self-starter with good communication skills is essential. Self-discipline, willingness to learn, and ...

Structural Design Engineer

Naperville, IL · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Description We are looking for a structural engineer with five or more years of experience. A self-starter with good communication skills is essential. Self-discipline, willingness to learn, and ...

Structural Design Engineer

Naperville, IL · On-site

$92K - $101K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Retirement

  • PTO

DescriptionWe are looking for a structural engineer with five or more years of experience. A self-starter with good communication skills is essential. Self-discipline, willingness to learn, and ...

Structural Design Engineer - Façade

Chicago, IL · On-site

$92K - $101K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

DescriptionWe are looking for a structural engineer with 4 - 7 years of diverse experience in architectural engineering. The chosen candidate will apply that experience in our curtain wall department ...

Design Engineer

Westmont, IL · On-site

$82K - $124K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Design Engineer (Precast Concrete) supports projects from initial design through fabrication ... Design structural frames, precast components, and connections for standardized and moderately ...

New

Senior Design Engineer - Bridge

West Chicago, IL · Hybrid

$85K - $115K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Key Responsibilities Structural Design & Analysis * Design transportation structures including highway bridges, retaining walls, and box culverts. * Prepare structural analysis and design ...

Senior Design Engineer - Bridge

West Chicago, IL · On-site

$85K - $115K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Key Responsibilities Structural Design & Analysis * Design transportation structures including highway bridges, retaining walls, and box culverts. * Prepare structural analysis and design ...

Senior Design Engineer - Bridge

West Chicago, IL · Hybrid

$85K - $115K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

Key Responsibilities Structural Design & Analysis * Design transportation structures including highway bridges, retaining walls, and box culverts. * Prepare structural analysis and design ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Aircraft Structural Design Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$44.3K

$106.6K

$198.3K

How much do aircraft structural design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for aircraft structural design engineer in Chicago, IL is $106,582.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $83,400.00 and $126,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Aircraft Structural Design Engineer vs Aerospace Design Engineer?

AspectAircraft Structural Design EngineerAerospace Design Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Aerospace or Mechanical Engineering, certifications like EASA or FAABachelor's in Aerospace, Mechanical, or Aeronautical Engineering, similar certifications
Work EnvironmentAircraft manufacturing, maintenance, and repair facilitiesAircraft, spacecraft, and satellite design firms
Industry UsagePrimarily in aviation and defense sectorsIn aerospace, space exploration, and defense industries

While both roles involve designing aircraft components, the Aircraft Structural Design Engineer focuses specifically on aircraft structures, whereas the Aerospace Design Engineer may work on a broader range of aerospace projects, including spacecraft and satellites. The roles share similar credentials and work environments but differ in scope and application.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an aircraft structural design engineer?

To thrive as an Aircraft Structural Design Engineer, you need a strong background in aerospace or mechanical engineering, proficiency in structural analysis, and a solid understanding of aerodynamics and materials science, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Expertise with CAD software (such as CATIA or SolidWorks), finite element analysis (FEA) tools, and familiarity with aviation industry standards are crucial. Strong problem-solving, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication skills help you excel in this role. These skills ensure the design and integrity of safe, efficient aircraft structures, meeting regulatory requirements and project goals.

What does an aircraft structural design engineer do?

An Aircraft Structural Design Engineer is responsible for designing, analyzing, and testing the structural components of aircraft to ensure they meet safety, performance, and regulatory standards. Their work includes creating detailed blueprints, selecting appropriate materials, and using computer-aided design (CAD) software to model structures such as fuselages, wings, and landing gear. They also collaborate with other engineering teams to integrate structural designs with systems like avionics and propulsion. Ensuring structural integrity while minimizing weight and cost is a key part of the role.

What are the common challenges faced by aircraft structural design engineers when working on new aircraft models?

Aircraft Structural Design Engineers often encounter challenges such as balancing weight optimization with structural integrity and safety requirements. They must also navigate strict regulatory standards and certification processes, which require meticulous attention to detail and thorough documentation. Collaborating with multidisciplinary teams—including aerodynamics, materials, and manufacturing engineers—is crucial for integrating various system requirements, which can sometimes lead to complex coordination efforts. Staying updated on the latest materials and design technologies is also essential to deliver innovative and efficient solutions.
Infographic showing various Aircraft Structural Design Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 86% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $106,582 per year, or $51.2 per hour.

Structural Design Engineer

1872 Consulting

Merrillville, IN • On-site

Full-time

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

JOB TITLE: Structural Design Engineer Merrillville, IN The ideal candidate should have significant experience in design work (excluding field work). Since the business focuses on design, the primary responsibility will involve creating structural designs and drawings. As a Structural Design Engineer, you will play a key role in the design and analysis of structural components for a variety of projects, with a focus on heavy industry, metals, chemical/petrochemical, and environmental sectors. You will be responsible for ensuring the structural integrity and safety of designs while meeting and exceeding client expectations. Job Summary
  • Location: On-site 5 days/week in Merrillville, IN
  • Industry: Heavy Industry, Metals, Chemical/Petrochemical or Environmental
Responsibilities & Duties
  • Structural Design:
    • Lead structural design efforts for various projects, ensuring compliance with industry standards.
    • Perform detailed structural analysis and calculations for diverse structures.
  • Collaboration and Coordination:
    • Work collaboratively with interdisciplinary teams, including electrical and civil engineers, to ensure integrated project delivery.
    • Coordinate with other disciplines to optimize structural design within the overall project scope.
  • Project Management:
    • Manage multiple structural design projects concurrently within established schedules and budgets.
    • Assist in the development of feasibility studies for structural components.
  • Client Interaction:
    • Engage with clients to understand project requirements, present design proposals, and ensure client satisfaction.
    • Prepare and review project proposals, providing accurate cost estimates.
  • Safety and Compliance:
    • Perform all structural design work in adherence to safety standards and regulations.
    • Ensure that designs comply with relevant building codes and industry regulations.
Job Requirements:
  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in Structural Engineering.
  • 8+ or more years of relevant work experience in structural design, preferably in heavy industry or related sectors.
  • Professional Engineer (PE) registration is preferred.
  • Proficient in structural analysis software and design tools.
  • Familiarity with industry standards and codes.
  • Strong communication and presentation skills.
  • Ability to manage projects and budgets effectively.
U.S. Citizen, Green Card Holders, and candidates with current work visas already in the United States will be considered for this opportunity.

1872 Consulting logo

About 1872 Consulting

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

1872 Consulting, based in Chicago, IL, USA, operates within the IT consulting industry. Armed with a diverse team of experts, the company offers specialized IT consulting services, focusing on modernizing business technologies and driving innovative business strategies. Established in 1872, the company has a rich history marked by its commitment to bridging the gap between businesses and technology. Its mission is to empower organizations to surpass their business goals by providing state-of-the-art IT solutions and service. The company prides itself on its core values of integrity, excellence, and innovation, instilling these principles in every project they undertake.

Industry

It services

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

Chicago, IL, US

Year founded

2014