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Associate Structural Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

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 ...

New

Arco/murray

Structural BIM Modeler

Downers Grove, IL · On-site

$28K/mo

... Engineers and Project Managers in our Downers Grove, IL location. The Structural BIM Modeler will ... Scholarship for associates' children up to $28,000 per child * 1-month paid sabbatical after every ...

Human Resources

Structural BIM Modeler

Downers Grove, IL · On-site

$28K/mo

... Engineers and Project Managers in our Downers Grove, IL location. The Structural BIM Modeler will ... We are dedicated to the well-being of our associates and are proud to be consistently recognized as ...

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All JobsAssociate Structural Engineer JobsAssociate Structural Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Associate Structural Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$51.5K

$102.5K

$156.7K

How much do associate structural engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate structural engineer in Chicago, IL is $102,477.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $82,500.00 and $116,500.00 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 Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Structural Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Associate Structural Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL? For Associate Structural Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Associate Structural Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Associate Structural Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Associate Structural Engineer jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Associate Structural Engineer job openings:
Associate Structural Engineer jobs near you
Assistant Structural Designer (Chicago)

Assistant Structural Designer (Chicago)

Burns & McDonnell

Chicago, IL • On-site

Full-time

Posted yesterday

Burns & McDonnell rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 49 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

4th of 78 rated construction

Job description

An Assistant Structural Designer will assist in various phases of planning, site evaluations, analytical designs, report preparation, specifications, and preparation of proposal and construction documentation and structural plans as part of a project team. This position will work on various projects with a diverse portfolio of project types and clients.

  • Assist in preparing detailed construction drawings for steel and reinforced concrete structures using structural specifications, engineering calculations, sketches, detailed drawings, and design information according to project standards and procedures.
  • Assist with a full range of drawing production work, including problem analysis, design layout, and calculations on non-routine assignments of substantial variety and complexity.
  • Assist with design on a variety of projects pertaining to industrial, manufacturing, and other clients, ranging from facility modifications to new facilities.
  • Assist engineers and designers in performing 2D drafting and 3D modeling tasks. Design will be prepared using engineering standards and procedures.
  • Assist with a variety of assignments using prescribed methods and standard techniques, including drawing sequence and presentation, sizing various components, and refining rough sketches.
  • Assist with initial rough designs or sketches and redlines or mark-ups on ongoing projects.
  • Assist with preparing structural calculations. Assist with interpreting and applying design codes and specifications related to design requirements.
  • Design and draft structural elements and details.
  • Complete and review design drawings within scope, budget, and schedule.
  • Assist with schedules, budgets, and project criteria into structural design and layouts.
  • Assist with organizing and maintaining all revisions of project drawings, plot files, and project-related information in a logical and well-structured manner.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.
  • Complies with all policies and standards.
  • Bachelor's Degree in drafting technology or related field and 2 years of related experience required.
  • Or Associate's Degree and 3 years of related experience required.
  • Or 4 years of progressive detailing and design experience required.
  • Basic understanding of design software such as AutoCAD, Civil 3D, MicroStation, and Excel to develop the design deliverables.
  • Basic knowledge of design, calculations, and design systems.
  • Basic knowledge in the theory and practices of structural discipline; competent in the fundamental concepts of other disciplines as they relate to the assigned discipline; and capable of operating related discipline design software necessary to execute production tasks.
  • Ability to work collaboratively with others (Project Managers, Engineers, and Designers) in a multi-disciplinary project team environment to resolve design or drawing issues as appropriate and to accomplish objectives.
  • Excellent written & verbal communication skills.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, and attention to detail.

What Burns & McDonnell employees say

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About Burns & McDonnell

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Burns & McDonnell assists clients of all sizes and industries by providing extensive physical services ranging from assessments, integrated security solutions, and large security architecture designs. Services we typically provide include security and safety system design, threat, risk, and vulnerability assessments, security surveys, security master planning, compliance to federal security programs, independent validation and verification of integrated security system operations, management of installation and maintenance, and staff augmentation to develop and implement facility management and protection processes.

Industry

Civil engineering construction

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Kansas City, MO, US

Year founded

1898

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