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Associate Structural Engineer Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Primera

Structural Designer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$75K - $90K/yr

An Associate's Degree in design & drafting is required; 3+ years of experience with structural design. * You're proficient with business and engineering applications . Microsoft Office and AutoCAD ...

Hksinc

Sr. Structural Drafter

Chicago, IL

$84K - $105K/yr

Performs structural CA tasks assigned by senior engineering staff or Structural Drafting Manager ... Associate's or professional trade certification in related field or relevant experience * Typically ...

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All JobsAssociate Structural Engineer JobsAssociate Structural Engineer Jobs in Illinois

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 Jun 15, 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, 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 Illinois? The most popular types of Structural Engineer jobs in Illinois are:
What are popular job titles related to Associate Structural Engineer jobs in Illinois? For Associate Structural Engineer jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Associate Structural Engineer jobs in Illinois look for? The top searched job categories for Associate 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:
Associate Structural Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Associate Structural Engineer job openings in Illinois as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 88% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $96,321 per year, or $46.3 per hour.
Structural Designer

Structural Designer

Primera

Chicago, IL • On-site

$75K - $90K/yr

Full-time

Retirement

Posted 27 days ago

Job description

Job Type
Full-time
Description
Perform detailed design of new utility structures, including transmission lines and substations. Create design documents, technical specifications, and prepare drawings for utility projects. Continue to learn, grow, and have some fun while doing it!
WHO WE ARE
We're a people-first organization. We value knowledge and learning. We believe in the power of connection and collaboration and we seek to build relationships that mean something. We employ some of the best and brightest in the industry and we work hard to maintain a culture that our people can be proud of. The secret to our success is our ability to connect with clients to provide a first-class customer experience.
WORKING FOR PRIMERA
Our Utilities division is a talented team of experts working together to provide solutions that are vital to energizing our future. We provide full-service electrical, civil, and structural engineering services to support electric and gas utilities nationwide. We're also fortunate to support wind farms and renewables; transmissions systems; and university and industrial facilities.
WHO YOU ARE
  • You know design. You have knowledge of the overall design process. An Associate's Degree in design & drafting is required; 3+ years of experience with structural design.
  • You're proficient with business and engineering applications. Microsoft Office and AutoCAD and/or MicroStation proficiency are a must. Experience with Advanced Steel is ideal.
  • You're a people person with the ability to interface and collaborate effectively with other team members while also being able to work independently with some direction. Your strong organization, time management and communication skills will contribute to your success.
  • You're a detail-loving designer. You're meticulous and have a knack for quality. We need someone who can design with the best of them.

WHAT YOU'LL DO
  • You'll flex your designing muscle. You'll prepare structural drawings for utility structures including reinforced concrete, steel, and masonry. Structures include, but are not limited to, substation equipment supports and foundations, control buildings, transmission line structures/load trees, etc. You'll also prepare bills of materials and prepare & review drawings & specifications. You'll assist in file management including, but not limited to, project documentation, scoping documents, design input documentation, quality check lists, project filing, etc. You'll manage the quality review process for your projects.
  • You'll ensure adherence to company and industry standards. The details make the difference. You'll apply our standards, guidelines, specifications, practices and procedures in preparing design drawings. You also have a familiarity with industry standards for reinforced concrete, steel design, welded and bolted steel connections, foundation details, etc.
  • You'll connect with people. You'll regularly communicate and coordinate project activities with senior-level designers and engineers to resolve design issues.
  • You'll enjoy what you do. You'll work with great people, learn, grow and have a good time doing it.

SOME OF WHAT YOU'LL ENJOY
  • An excellent benefits package including 401K match and employee stock ownership, gym and transit subsidies, paid volunteer time off, parental leave, continuing education reimbursement and much more
  • Flexible work scheduling in a fast-growing company
  • Colleagues that appreciate differences in people, perspectives, cultures, and ideas
  • The fruits of our employee-led committees focused on offering engaging social, wellness and community service activities all year long

For more information about Primera please visit our website: PrimeraEng.com.
Equal Employment Opportunity
Primera is committed to the principles of equal employment opportunity. Primera's practices and employment decisions, including those regarding recruitment, hiring, assignment, promotion and compensation, shall not be based on any person's race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, age, ancestry, disability, physical handicap, marital status, sexual orientation, veteran status, citizenship status or other protected group as defined by law.
Salary Description
$75,000-$90,000

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