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Associate Structural Engineer Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Structural Associate

Chicago, IL · On-site

$115K - $135K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Thornton Tomasetti applies engineering and scientific principles to solve the world's challenges ... Your Role As an Associate in our Forensics Practice, you'll guide complex investigations, lead ...

Structural Associate

Chicago, IL

$115K - $135K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Thornton Tomasetti applies engineering and scientific principles to solve the world's challenges ... Your Role As an Associate in our Forensics Practice,you'llguide complex investigations, lead teams ...

Structural Technician

Chicago, IL · On-site +1

$52K - $100K/yr

The Structural Technician takes specific job-related information and converts it into the format of ... Education and Experience: • Associate's Degree in Engineering Drafting or an Engineering related ...

New

Senior Structural Associate

Chicago, IL · On-site

$120K - $165K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Thornton Tomasetti applies engineering and scientific principles to solve the world's challenges ... The Role We have a new opportunity for a Senior Associate to join our Structural Practice in ...

Senior Structural Associate

Chicago, IL

$120K - $165K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Thornton Tomasetti applies engineering and scientific principles to solve the world's challenges ... The Role We have a new opportunity for a Senior Associate to join our Structural Practice in ...

Structural Designer II

Bolingbrook, IL

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

With hundreds of engineers in-house, the company designs, manufactures, integrates, and installs a ... Associates degree in Structural, Architectural, or Mechanical design or equivalent experience

New

Structural Revit Technician

Peoria, IL · On-site

$26 - $38/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Prepare Structural construction documents including plans, elevations, schedules, and details ... Associate's degree in Engineering Technology, Drafting, or related degree or combination of ...

Showing results 21-40

Associate Structural Engineer information

See Illinois salary details

$48.5K

$96.3K

$147.3K

How much do associate structural engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate structural engineer in Illinois is $96,321.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $77,500.00 and $109,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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?

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 is an associate structural engineer?

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 Illinois?

The most popular types of Structural Engineer jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Associate Structural Engineer jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Associate Structural Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Associate Structural Engineer job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $96,321 per year, or $46.3 per hour.

Associate Substation Structural Engineer

Black & Veatch

Chicago, IL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 16 days ago


Black & Veatch rating

8.9

Company rating: 8.9 out of 10

Based on 19 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

55th of 449 rated engineering


Job description

Together, we own our company, our future, and our shared success.

As an employee-owned company, our people are Black & Veatch. We put them at the center of everything we do and empower them to grow, explore new possibilities and use their diverse talents and perspectives to solve humanity's biggest challenges in an ever-evolving world. With over 100 years of innovation in sustainable infrastructure and our expertise in engineering, procurement, consulting and construction, together we are building a world of difference.  

Company : Black & Veatch Corporation  

Req Id : 113492 

Opportunity Type : Staff 

Relocation eligible : Yes 

Full time/Part time : Full-Time  

Project Only Hire : No 

Visa Sponsorship Available: No 

Why Black and Veatch

Black & Veatch allows you to lend your talent and perspective to humanity's biggest challenges in a flexible environment where you are empowered to grow and explore new possibilities. We offer competitive compensation; 401K match and benefits that start day one. 

 
At Black & Veatch, you own your career with purpose and meaning. You are empowered to grow and explore new possibilities at every step of your career journey. Bring your big ideas knowing you are safe to be who you are and speak up with concerns or questions and put your diverse talents and perspectives to use.

The Opportunity

As an Associate Substation Structural Engineer, you will have the opportunity to: 

  • Perform structural design engineering and analysis on substation scopes 
  • Collect and assimilate data for engineering work. Perform research and prepare calculations in accordance with Black & Veatch and industry standards on larger and more complex assignments.  
  • Develop recommendations for equipment and materials, beginning to expand knowledge into other disciplines and/or functional areas. 
  • Understand and work successfully within budget, project schedule, and quality requirements. 
  • Assist with providing guidance to engineering team members.  
  • Maintain positive client relations, understanding client interests and drivers through effective communication with the project team. 
The Team

Black & Veatch isRanked #4 Overall in Powerby Engineering News-Record (2025). Our Technology, Commercial & Industrial Team has specialized capabilities focused on the latest needs for clients in a fast-growth technology-led arena of advanced manufacturing, and generative AI computing including gigafactories, bio/ag tech, data centers anddistributed infrastructure. By joining our market sector, you will have the opportunity to be involved in cutting-edge technology and work with a team that moves quickly with decisions and expectations. 

Black & Veatch provides complete engineering, procurement, and construction new asset and operating asset services in the following areas: 

  • Substations 
  • Overhead Transmission Lines 
  • Underground Transmission Lines 
  • Renewables Integration 
Key Responsibilities
  • Execute structural analysis, perform calculations, and prepare sketches and drawings for the design of supporting structures and foundations for substation equipment and other energy infrastructure. 
  • Assist with generating project-specific specifications and the procurement process. 
  • Work with structural technicians in preparation of structural drawings and specifications.  
  • Assist with construction phase engineering duties such as site visits, responding to RFI's, and review of contractor submittals. 
  • Coordinate with other discipline engineers for project alignment 
  • Focuses on the needs of internal clients (project team leadership) while attempting to gain basic understanding of external client's main interests and drivers 
Preferred Qualifications
  • Basic knowledge of Structural Engineering design principles and applicable design guides and standards 
  • Basic structural steel design experience using 3D analysis and design software such as RISA 3D, STAAD Pro, or equivalent 
  • Basic foundation design experience using analysis and design software such as LPile, RISA Foundation, SP-Mats, etc. 
  • Basic experience performing structural connection and miscellaneous calculations using MS Excel and/or Mathcad 
  • Written Communications, Drive for Results, Priority Setting, Planning, and Listening 
  • The following experience would be a plus (but not required) based on the work anticipated from the client(s): 
    • Experience with design in the energy sector, whether substations, power generation, renewables, or similar fields 
    • Structural design of equipment structures and their respective foundations 
Minimum Qualifications
  • Requires a bachelor's degree in engineering from either a recognized accredited program in their home country or the country in which the professional is practicing
  • Minimum of 1 year related work experience
  • All applicants must be able to complete pre-employment onboarding requirements (if selected) which may include any/all of the following: criminal/civil background check, drug screen, and motor vehicle records search, in compliance with any applicable laws and regulations.
Work Environment/Physical Demands
  • Some positions may be relocation eligible. Speak to your recruiter if you have interest in relocation. 
  • Hybrid or flexible work options may be offered after the first 90 days of employment based upon manager discretion, job performance and work assignments. 
Salary Plan
ENG: Engineering
Job Grade
015

Black & Veatch endeavors to make www.bv.com/careers accessible to any and all users. If you would like to contact us regarding the accessibility of our website or need assistance completing the application process because of a disability, please contact the Employee Relations Department at +1-913-359-1622 or via our accommodations request form. This contact information is for disability accommodation requests only; you may not use this contact information to inquire about the status of applications. General inquiries about the status of applications will not be returned.

Black & Veatch is committed to being an employer of choice by creating a valuable work experience that keeps our people engaged, productive, safe and healthy.

Our comprehensive benefits portfolio is a key component of this commitment and offers an array of health care benefits including but not limited to medical, dental and vision insurances along with disability and a robust wellness program.

To support a healthy work-life balance, we offer flexible work schedules, paid vacation and holiday time, sick time, and dependent sick time.

A variety of additional benefits are available to our professionals, including a company-matched 401k plan, adoption reimbursement, tuition reimbursement, vendor discounts, an employment referral program, AD&D insurance, pre-taxed accounts, voluntary legal plan and the B&V Credit Union. Professionals may also be eligible for a performance-based bonus program.

We are proud to be a 100 percent ESOP-owned company. As employee-owners, our professionals are empowered to drive not only their personal growth, but the company's long-term achievements - and they share in the financial rewards of the success through stock ownership.

By valuing diverse voices and perspectives, we cultivate an authentically inclusive environment for professionals and are able to provide innovative and effective solutions for clients.

BVH, Inc., its subsidiaries and its affiliated companies, complies with all Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) laws and regulations. Black & Veatch does not discriminate on the basis of age, race, religion, color, sex, national origin, marital status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender Identity and expression, disability, veteran status, pregnancy status or other status protected by law.

For our EEO Policy Statement, please click here. 

Notice to External Search Firms: Black & Veatch does not accept unsolicited resumes and will not be obligated to pay a placement fee for unsolicited resumes. Black & Veatch Talent Acquisition engages with search firms directly for hiring needs.


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About Black & Veatch

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Company: Black & Veatch Family of Companies Together, we own our company, our future, and our shared success. As an employee-owned company, our people are Black & Veatch. We put them at the center of everything we do and empower them to grow, explore new possibilities and use their diverse talents and perspectives to solve humanity's biggest challenges in an ever-evolving world. With over 100 years of innovation in sustainable infrastructure and our expertise in engineering, procurement, consulting and construction, together we are building a world of difference.

Industry

Civil engineering construction

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Overland Park, KS, US

Year founded

1915