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Associate Structural Engineer Jobs in California

We are seeking a senior-level Structural Engineer with 15+ years of experience (i.e., Senior Associate/Associate Principal) to join our dynamic and diverse team of architects and engineers.

Structural - Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$90K - $110K/yr

LEED accreditation or Green Associate preferred. * One year project engineering experience on ... Structural: * Experience with complex analysis tools for structural design. * Experience in the ...

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Associate Structural Engineer information

See California salary details

$49.3K

$98.1K

$150K

How much do associate structural engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate structural engineer in California is $98,098.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,000.00 and $111,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the highest paying job in structural engineering?

The highest paying roles in structural engineering typically include senior-level positions such as Principal Structural Engineer or Engineering Manager, which often require extensive experience, advanced certifications, and leadership skills. These roles can offer salaries exceeding $150,000 annually, especially in large firms or specialized industries like aerospace or infrastructure projects.

What is the difference between Associate Structural Engineer vs Structural Engineer?

AspectAssociate Structural EngineerStructural Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's degree in civil or structural engineering; some may have EIT certificationBachelor's degree in civil or structural engineering; often EIT certification, PE license preferred
Work EnvironmentEntry-level to mid-level roles in consulting firms, construction, or engineering servicesMid-level to senior roles, overseeing projects and design work in similar settings
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly used in consulting firms, construction companies, and government agenciesUsed across similar industries, often with more project management responsibilities

The main difference between an Associate Structural Engineer and a Structural Engineer lies in experience and responsibilities. Associate Structural Engineers are typically early in their careers, focusing on assisting with design and analysis, while Structural Engineers have more experience, often leading projects and making critical decisions. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and certifications, but the Structural Engineer role usually involves greater independence and responsibility.

What are some common challenges faced by Associate Structural Engineers when transitioning from design to construction phases?

Associate Structural Engineers often encounter challenges when their design concepts are implemented on-site, such as unanticipated site conditions or discrepancies between plans and actual construction. Effective communication with contractors and adaptability are crucial to resolving these issues promptly. Collaborating closely with senior engineers and construction teams helps ensure that design intent is maintained while accommodating necessary field adjustments, making teamwork and problem-solving essential skills in this phase.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Associate Structural Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Associate Structural Engineer, you need a solid understanding of structural analysis, design principles, and engineering mathematics, typically supported by a bachelor's degree in civil or structural engineering and EIT/FE certification. Proficiency with industry-standard software such as AutoCAD, Revit, ETABS, or SAP2000 is essential for modeling and analyzing structures. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills set standout candidates apart. These competencies ensure the safe, efficient, and compliant design of structures while facilitating successful project collaboration.

What are Associate Structural Engineers?

Associate Structural Engineers are early to mid-career professionals who assist in designing, analyzing, and overseeing the construction of structures such as buildings, bridges, and other infrastructure. They work under the supervision of senior engineers to ensure projects meet safety standards, building codes, and client specifications. Their responsibilities often include creating structural drawings, performing calculations, conducting site visits, and coordinating with architects and contractors. This role serves as a key step toward becoming a licensed structural engineer and taking on more advanced project leadership.
What are the most commonly searched types of Structural Engineer jobs in California? The most popular types of Structural Engineer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Associate Structural Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Associate Structural Engineer job openings:

Structural Engineer | 15+ Years

Wje

Pasadena, CA

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Posted 12 hours ago


Job description

Bring your problem-solving mindset, entrepreneurial spirit, and established expertise to the Los Angeles (Pasadena, CA) officeof Wiss, Janney, Elstner Associates, Inc. (WJE). We are seeking a senior-level Structural Engineer with 15+ years of experience (i.e., Senior Associate/Associate Principal) to join our dynamic and diverse team of architects and engineers.

Responsibilities:

  • Project management, including client development, project scoping, assembling and managing appropriate project teams, maintaining project schedules and budgets, and managing client expectations and deliverables

  • Technical leadership, including applying sound engineering judgment and a deep understanding of governing codes, design guidelines, and industry practices; collaborating with interdisciplinary project teams across WJE as the structural engineering subject-matter expert (SME); leveraging your expertise for a variety of structural engineering projects, including the investigation, design, analysis, repair, and renovation of new and existing structures, construction materials, loading conditions, and construction types; preparing technically excellent client deliverables; providing high-quality reviews and oversight of work by others; and performing and training others in hands-on fieldwork

  • Mentorship, including exemplifying WJE's culture of shared destiny and knowledge sharing to better the team around you: locally and company-wide, formally and informally, on-and-off projects, for technical topics and overall career development

  • Contributions to structural engineering practice and company-wide objectives, including participating in the attraction, development, and engagement of up-and-coming consultants; collaborating with other WJE experts for in-house knowledge-sharing and training initiatives; and engaging in meaningful involvement in industry-related professional organizations, conferences, and technical committees

Qualifications/Competencies:

  • Licensed Structural Engineer (SE) in the State of California; Professional Engineer (PE) with the ability to obtain SE licensure may be considered for candidates with significant relevant experience

  • Master's degree in civil/structural engineering or related field

  • Minimum fifteen years of relevant structural engineering industry experience, including technical and project management (e.g., failure/damage investigation; non-destructive evaluation and instrumentation; seismic/structural analysis and design for repair, retrofit, and rehabilitation of existing structures; and/or specialty consulting of new systems and materials from design through construction)

  • Excellent technical, graphical, written, and verbal communication skills

Physical Requirements:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job, with or without a reasonable accommodation. This position requires visual acuity and listening ability. Individuals must have the dexterity to be able to operate computers, printers, copiers, telephones, voicemail, and other office and field equipment. Requirements may also include:

  • Ability to travel and attend meetings at various office, field, and construction sites

  • Ability to perform inspections of buildings and other structures, both visually and with instruments

  • Ability to safely work at heights, in confined spaces, and in a variety of occupationally hazardous locations, including outdoors with exposure to temperature extremes

  • Ability to safely use and/or operate ladders, scaffolds, lifts, and other access equipment

  • Ability to lift and carry materials, tools, and other heavy equipment up to 50 lbs.

  • Medically fit to utilize respiratory protection devices and other forms of Personal Protective Equipment

  • Ability to drive and safely operate a motor vehicle

Culture, Compensation, and Benefits:

Wiss, Janney, Elstner Associates, Inc. (WJE) is a global firm of engineers, architects, and materials scientists. Clients worldwide seek our expertise to solve the most significant, interesting, and challenging problems in the built world. Our applied experience from more than 175,000 projects combined with unparalleled laboratory and testing capabilities have made WJE a leader in providing innovative yet practical solutions to the clients we serve.

Working at WJE is a team endeavor characterized by a culture of trust and personal responsibility. We encourage open communication, continuous learning, innovative thinking, ongoing mentoring, and free-flowing collaboration. We seek highly talented and hard-working individuals who want to be challenged, who want hands-on work, who want to set a higher standard, and who want to be mentored by the industry's most accomplished experts. People with outstanding Character, unwaveringCommitment to our core and culture, strongExpertise, and genuineEnthusiasm for their work.

Learn more about the Extraordinary People we hire at WJE at www.wje.com/careers

WJE offers a robust, total compensation structure composed of base salary, incentive pay, and industry-leading benefits:

  • Base salary is determined through consideration of a candidate's qualifications, skills, competencies, and proficiency for the role while remaining mindful of our commitment to internal equity.

  • Employees receive variable compensation based on personal and company performance, typically resulting in above-market total compensation.

A good faith estimate of the annual starting base salary (gross) is in the following range:

$115,650.00 - $192,750.00

WJE's industry-leading, total rewards package enables our employees to grow and thrive with comprehensive health and financial benefits, including:

  • Robust and affordable health plans for employees and their families, including HSA as well as low and high-deductible PPO options

  • Generous 401(k) matching of 110% for the first 6% of eligible pay, vesting immediately

  • Time off to care for yourself and others

  • Investments in employees' educational assistance and professional development

Learn more about WJE's total rewards package here.

WJE is an Equal Opportunity Employer as to all protected groups, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.

WJE will consider qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with the requirements of Fair Chance Ordinances.