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Aircraft Structural Design Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Design Engineer

Crete, IL · On-site

$90K - $100K/yr

Engineered Material Handling Products * TrackRunner Robot * Industries * Automotive & Stamping ... Focus in machinery, mechanical or structural design preferred. * A demonstrated working knowledge ...

Structural Engineer

Itasca, IL · On-site

$95K - $135K/yr

Collaborate closely with design and engineering teams to refine concepts * If licensed, stamp and approve drawings internally What We're Looking For * 5-10+ years of experience in structural ...

Structural Engineer

Warrenville, IL · Hybrid

$75K - $90K/yr

Structural Engineer This role focuses on structural analysis and design for transportation infrastructure and related structural projects. You will prepare detailed plans, specifications, quantity ...

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Structural Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$65K - $80K/yr

M2E is seeking a staff structural engineer with 1-3 years of experience. Responsibilities include ... Supervised structural analysis and design using computer software and hand calculations.

As a Structural Engineer/Structural Designer at DLR Group you will be responsible for the design of ... As part of the integrated design team you create buildings that elevate the human experience ...

Do you want use your engineering expertise to help win projects? Do you want to see your visions ... Design and specify structural systems including load calculations, gravity and lateral system ...

Showing results 21-40

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 6, 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 87% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $106,582 per year, or $51.2 per hour.

Lead Engineer - Civil & Structural

Intellectt INC

Chicago, IL • On-site

Contractor

Re-posted 17 days ago


Job description

Hello,

I hope you’re doing well.

My name is Vyshu, and I’m reaching out from Intellectt Inc. regarding an exciting contract opportunity for a Lead Engineer – Civil & Structural based in Chicago, Illinois with one of our prestigious clients.

I would love to connect and discuss this opportunity in more detail. Please feel free to share your updated resume at vyshnavi.t@intellectt.com

Job Title: Lead Engineer – Civil & Structural
Location: Chicago, Illinois (Onsite)
Duration: 6–12 Months

Job Summary:
We are seeking an experienced Structural Engineer to lead industrial structural design activities, coordinate with clients and offshore teams, and ensure compliance with relevant design codes and standards.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Lead structural design of industrial structures in compliance with ACI 318, ASCE 7, ANSI/AISC 360, IBC, etc.
  • Develop and review designs using STAAD Pro, ETABS, SAFE, and similar software
  • Prepare and coordinate modeling using AutoCAD, PDMS, TEKLA, etc.
  • Work closely with clients, consultants, and offshore engineering teams (India)
  • Ensure design outputs meet client requirements and obtain necessary approvals
  • Participate in technical meetings, interdisciplinary coordination, and quality reviews
  • Support onsite team and provide engineering inputs as required

Required Skills & Experience:

  • Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Civil/Structural Engineering
  • 12+ years of experience in industrial structural design
  • Strong knowledge of international structural design codes
  • Proficiency in structural analysis/design tools (STAAD Pro, ETABS, SAFE)
  • Good communication and coordination skills
  • Ability to work across US and India time zones

Key Requirement:
Strong leadership in structural engineering design with client-facing coordination experience

Thanks & Regards,
Vyshnavi
Recruiter
Intellectt Inc 
Vyshnavi.t@intellectt.com
Direct: 732 204 6550
Desk number: 732 412 6999 - Ext: 225