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Civil Engineer Structural Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Zachry Engineering Corporation (ZEC) is seeking a Engineer I Civil/Structural to work out of our Downers Grove, IL office. The ideal candidate will perform engineering duties in planning, designing ...

Structural Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$80K - $180K/yr

Civil/Structural Engineer Job Location: 720 E Butterfield Rd, Suite 200 Lombard, IL 60148 Primary Function: Provides design services for support of projects that involve Substation Engineering and ...

Onsite in Naperville IL Qualifications: * 3+ years of experience in Structural Engineering * Knowledge of AISC codes * Professional Engineer (PE) License required * BS Degree in Civil Engineering ...

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Structural Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$65K - $80K/yr

Bachelor of Science degree in Civil or Structural Engineering from an ABET-accredited program. Master's degree is a plus. * 1-3 years of professional structural engineering experience. * EIT ...

Structural Engineer IV

Chicago, IL · On-site

$99K - $160K/yr

Ability to manage the civil/structural aspect of substation projects with little oversight. Performs other duties as required. Responsibilities * Conduct and review structural engineering ...

Showing results 41-60

Civil Engineer Structural Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$39.1K

$85.2K

$126.7K

How much do civil engineer structural engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for civil engineer structural engineer in Chicago, IL is $85,166.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,500.00 and $101,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by structural engineers on multidisciplinary project teams?

Structural engineers often work closely with architects, mechanical engineers, and contractors, which can lead to challenges in coordinating design intentions, timelines, and technical requirements. Ensuring that the structural design integrates seamlessly with architectural aesthetics and MEP (mechanical, electrical, plumbing) systems is crucial, and may require frequent communication and compromise. Managing changes in project scope or addressing unforeseen site conditions can also add complexity, making adaptability and strong collaboration skills essential for success.

What does a civil engineer structural engineer do?

A Civil Engineer Structural Engineer is responsible for designing, analyzing, and overseeing the construction of structures such as buildings, bridges, and tunnels to ensure they are strong, stable, and safe. They use principles of physics and mathematics to evaluate how structures will withstand forces like gravity, wind, and earthquakes. Structural engineers often collaborate with architects and construction teams, select appropriate building materials, and ensure projects comply with safety codes and regulations.

What pays more, a structural engineer or a civil engineer?

Generally, structural engineers tend to earn higher salaries than civil engineers due to specialized skills in designing and analyzing load-bearing structures. Salary differences can vary based on experience, certifications, and location, but structural engineering often commands a premium in the construction and design industries.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a civil engineer structural engineer?

To thrive as a Civil/Structural Engineer, you need a solid background in structural analysis, design principles, mathematics, and a relevant engineering degree, often supported by licensure such as a PE (Professional Engineer) certification. Proficiency with CAD software, structural analysis tools (like SAP2000 or ETABS), and familiarity with building codes and standards is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and effective communication skills help you collaborate with clients, architects, and construction teams. These competencies are crucial to ensure safe, efficient, and compliant infrastructure projects from concept to completion.

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

AspectCivil EngineerStructural Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Civil Engineering, PE license often requiredBachelor's in Civil or Structural Engineering, PE license often required
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, design offices, urban planningDesign offices, construction sites, structural analysis labs
Industry UsageBroadly involved in infrastructure, transportation, water resourcesSpecialized in designing and analyzing structures like buildings and bridges
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

While both Civil Engineers and Structural Engineers work within the construction and infrastructure industry, Civil Engineers have a broader scope, handling various projects like transportation and water systems. Structural Engineers focus specifically on the safety and stability of structures. Both roles require similar credentials and often collaborate on projects, but their primary responsibilities differ.

What are popular job titles related to Civil Engineer Structural Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL? For Civil Engineer Structural Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Civil Engineer Structural Engineer jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Civil Engineer Structural Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Civil Engineer Structural Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $85,166 per year, or $40.9 per hour.

Engineer I Civil/Structural

Zachry Group

Downers Grove, IL • On-site

$75K - $106K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 10 days ago


Zachry Group rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 63 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

63rd of 80 rated construction


Job description


Zachry Engineering Corporation (ZEC) is seeking a Engineer I Civil/Structural to work out of our Downers Grove, IL office. The ideal candidate will perform engineering duties in planning, designing, and supporting the construction phase of structures, ensuring that they are built in accordance with the plans and specifications.
Responsibilities
  • Support senior engineers with planning, preparing and developing detailed design and specifications for major and complex structures, systems and equipment.
  • Design concrete foundations for support of equipment and buildings in power plants.
  • Design structural steel for power plants including platforms, pipe racks, and pipe and electrical supports.
  • Perform material take offs of steel and concrete structures.
  • Develop project specifications.
  • Review shop drawings.
  • Participate in project planning and preparation of budgets and estimates.
  • Serve in a technical capacity to provide solutions to complex engineering problems within the Civil / Structural department.
  • Coordinate with other internal engineering disciplines on project designs.

Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in civil engineering with a focus on Structural Engineering.
  • Minimum of 1 year of work-related industry experience.
  • Strong interpersonal skills.
  • Passed the Fundamentals of Engineering examination (Preferred).
  • Excellent presentation and communication skills required.
  • Proficient with Civil Structural Engineering Software (STAAD Pro, RISA).
  • Must possess permanent authorization to work in the USA without the need of sponsorship now or in the future. (No Student Visas).

#LI-CT1
In accordance with Illinois Equal Pay Act, the expected salary range for this Engineer I Civil/Structural position is between $75,400 and $106,145 annually. Actual pay will be adjusted based on experience, geographic location, and other job-related factors as permitted by law.
This Engineer I Civil/Structural position is eligible for participation in Zachry's Total Employee Rewards Program, which includes medical, dental, vision, life insurance, disability coverage, and other ancillary benefits. This position is also eligible for participation in the 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan.

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About Zachry Group

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Zachry Group is America's pacesetter in turnkey construction, engineering, maintenance, turnaround and fabrication services in the power, energy, chemicals, manufacturing and industrial sectors. It works with customers to plan, build, and renew their most critical facilities, so they can achieve their immediate and long-term goals, all at the highest safety standards. Zachry Group operates 35 offices, and averages 20,000 employees working in more than 400 locations nationwide. Please visit www.zachrygroup.com for more information.

Industry

Construction

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

San Antonio, TX, US

Year founded

1924