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Civil Structural Designer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Bechtel

Ensures civil/structural systems designs comply with all applicable installation codes, regulations, and standards Education and Experience Requirements: Requires bachelor's degree (or ...

Lionakis

Structural Designer I

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$66K - $86K/yr

As a Structural Designer, you will... * Provide structural analysis, calculations, and design ... Engineering, or Civil Engineering (with a structural emphasis). Preference will be given to ...

Lionakis

Structural Designer II

Irvine, CA · On-site

$81K - $100K/yr

As a Structural Designer, you will... * Provide structural analysis, calculations, and design ... Engineering, or Civil Engineering (with a structural emphasis). Preference will be given to ...

Lionakis

Structural Designer I

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$66K - $86K/yr

As a Structural Designer, you will... * Provide structural analysis, calculations, and design ... Engineering, or Civil Engineering (with a structural emphasis). Preference will be given to ...

Lionakis

Structural Designer II

Irvine, CA · On-site

$81K - $100K/yr

As a Structural Designer, you will... * Provide structural analysis, calculations, and design ... Engineering, or Civil Engineering (with a structural emphasis). Preference will be given to ...

GFT.

Principal Civil / Structural Engineer

Roseville, CA · On-site

$140K - $180K/yr

Independently designs and/or leads the charge to complete major projects * Manages and leads major ... Expert-level knowledge of civil/structural engineering concepts, theories and practices.

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All JobsCivil Structural Designer JobsCivil Structural Designer Jobs in California

Civil Structural Designer information

See California salary details

$25

$48

$71

How much do civil structural designer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for civil structural designer in California is $48.78, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $37.02 and $56.20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some typical projects a Civil Structural Designer works on, and how do they collaborate with other disciplines?

Civil Structural Designers typically work on projects such as bridges, commercial buildings, industrial facilities, and infrastructure upgrades. Their role involves creating detailed drawings and models that specify how structures should be built to meet safety and code requirements. Collaboration is key—they regularly coordinate with civil engineers, architects, and construction teams to ensure designs are feasible and align with project goals. Effective communication and teamwork are essential, as structural designers need to integrate feedback from multiple stakeholders throughout the design process.

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

AspectCivil Structural DesignerCivil Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires a diploma or bachelor's in civil or structural engineering, with some certificationsRequires a bachelor's degree in civil engineering, often licensed as a Professional Engineer (PE)
Work EnvironmentDesign offices, construction sites, consulting firmsDesign offices, project management, construction supervision
Industry UsageFocuses on structural design aspects of projectsBroader scope including planning, design, and project management

The Civil Structural Designer specializes in creating detailed structural designs, while the Civil Engineer has a broader role encompassing planning, analysis, and overseeing construction. Both roles often collaborate but differ mainly in scope and responsibilities.

Is AI replacing structural engineers?

AI is increasingly used to assist civil structural designers by automating routine calculations, optimizing designs, and analyzing data. However, the role of a structural engineer remains essential for complex decision-making, oversight, and ensuring safety standards, as AI tools complement rather than replace human expertise. Skilled designers who adapt to new technologies can enhance productivity and accuracy in their work.

What is a civil structural designer?

A civil structural designer is a professional who plans, analyzes, and designs structural elements of infrastructure projects such as buildings, bridges, and dams. They use engineering principles and design software to ensure safety, stability, and compliance with codes and standards. Strong knowledge of materials, structural analysis, and drafting tools like AutoCAD or Revit is essential for this role.

What does a Civil Structural Designer do?

A Civil Structural Designer is responsible for creating detailed drawings and plans for structures such as buildings, bridges, and other infrastructure projects. They use specialized software to develop blueprints that ensure structures are safe, functional, and compliant with relevant codes and standards. Their work involves collaborating with engineers and architects, analyzing project requirements, and making adjustments to designs as needed. Civil Structural Designers play a crucial role in the planning and development phases of construction projects.

Can you make $500,000 as a civil engineer?

Civil structural designers typically do not earn $500,000 annually; such high salaries are rare and usually reserved for senior executives or highly specialized consultants with extensive experience and advanced certifications. Most civil engineers earn between $60,000 and $120,000 per year, depending on location, experience, and industry sector. Achieving a $500,000 salary would generally require leadership roles, ownership stakes, or working in high-paying industries or regions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Civil Structural Designer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Civil Structural Designer, you need a solid background in civil engineering principles, structural analysis, and drafting, typically supported by a relevant degree or diploma. Proficiency in technical tools such as AutoCAD, Revit, and structural analysis software, along with knowledge of building codes, is essential. Attention to detail, strong problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork and communication skills distinguish top performers in this field. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient, and compliant structural designs that meet project requirements and industry standards.

How much money does a civil structural engineer make?

A civil structural engineer's salary varies based on experience, location, and industry, but typically ranges from $60,000 to $120,000 annually. Entry-level engineers earn toward the lower end, while experienced professionals with advanced skills and certifications can earn higher salaries, especially in urban or high-demand areas.

What Is the Job of a Civil Structural Designer?

The job of a civil structural designer is to provide engineering services for the construction of buildings, bridges, and structure foundation. Your responsibilities in this career include producing 3D models and 2D drawings with CAD software in accordance with project specifications. You investigate sites and complete steel and concrete modeling and drafting for both the front-end planning and detailed engineering phase. You are expected to help the lead designer deliver project requirements related to cost, schedule, quantities, and scope and perform conceptual layout work. Other duties include working closely with engineers, writing reports and correspondences, and speaking with clients and employees.

More about Civil Structural Designer jobs
What cities in California are hiring for Civil Structural Designer jobs? Cities in California with the most Civil Structural Designer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Civil Structural Designer jobs in CA? For Civil Structural Designer jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Civil Structural Designer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Civil Structural Designer job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $101,469 per year, or $48.8 per hour.
Sr Structural Designer

Sr Structural Designer

Anvil Corporation

Caspar, CA

Other

Re-posted 6 days ago

Job description

Job Description: JOB SUMMARY
This position serves as a civil/structural designer on a large project or group of projects for industrial and petrochemical clients. Works closely with engineers to develop civil/structural drawings and models.
RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES
Work with civil/structural engineer to produce project deliverables
Produce detailed engineering drawings directly from 3D Tekla models as well as traditional 2D drawing production methods using AutoCAD
Ensure civil/structural design meets local, client and industry standards
Analyze point cloud, survey data, maps, drawings, aerial photography, topographical and geotechnical data for project planning and execution purposes
Perform periodic field visits to project sites to obtain information and verify existing field conditions
Interact with Anvil project teams and other disciplines to develop and support project requirements
Review vendor documents for civil/structural design development
Review fabrication drawings to ensure compliance with civil/structural design drawings
Learn and comply with Anvil's Project Services Quality System
REQUIRED SKILLS AND ABILITIES
Background in petrochemical/heavy industrial industry - Required
Familiarity with structural steel, civil, concrete, and earthwork design - Required
Excellent organizational and communication skills - Required
Experience with AutoCAD computer design/drafting software - Required
Experience with Tekla Structures 3D modeling/drafting software
Experience with Civil 3D, Navisworks, MS Word, and MS Excel
Experience with using laser scan and point cloud data
Familiarity with AISC, IBC, ACI codes and OSHA requirements
Ability to perform effectively in a fast-paced work environment with multiple priorities and deadlines - Required
Willingness and ability to travel on short duration assignments
Willingness to work occasional overtime as required
Proficient with project management and reporting tools
Detailed understanding of typical refinery project front end loading and detailed design phase engineering - Required
Applicants must be able to obtain a TWIC card.
Possess a valid driver’s license - Required
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
10+ years of professional experience in civil/structural design
2-year degree from technical school
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer
Must be able to lift up to 15 pounds at a time
Perform field walks in industrial environment while wearing full-length fire-retardant clothing, hard hat, boots, & gloves.
Climb caged ladders to access industrial equipment for observation

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