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Contract Structural Engineer Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Structural Engineer

Morton, IL ยท On-site

$67K - $70K/yr

Generates engineering and construction plans from written contracts by utilizing AutoCAD. * Ensures ... structural integrity of the building; and communicating project status and completion dates with ...

Structural Engineer

Morton, IL ยท On-site

$67K - $70K/yr

Generates engineering and construction plans from written contracts by utilizing AutoCAD. * Ensures ... structural integrity of the building; and communicating project status and completion dates with ...

RCS Staffing has an immediate need for a Lead Structural Engineer in Downers Grove, IL. This is a ... Since 1994, RCS recruits top talent for direct hire, temp-to-perm and contract staffing positions ...

Senior Structural Engineer

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$103K - $140K/yr

Conduct design development and contract document work sessions at project sites in conjunction with ... Master's degree in Structural Engineering or Architectural Engineering with Structural emphasis * A ...

Contract Compensation: $50.00 or (DOE) Contractor Work Model: Onsite - onsite Hours: 40 hours/week Overview System One is e are seeking a high-caliber Structural Engineer to join an engineering team ...

Senior Structural Engineer

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$103K - $140K/yr

Conduct design development and contract document work sessions at project sites in conjunction with ... Master's degree in Structural Engineering or Architectural Engineering with Structural emphasis * A ...

Contract Compensation: $50.00 or (DOE) Contractor Work Model: Onsite - onsite Hours: 40 hours/week Overview System One is e are seeking a high-caliber Structural Engineer to join an engineering team ...

Contract Compensation: $50.00 or (DOE) Contractor Work Model: Onsite - onsite Hours: 40 hours/week Overview System One is e are seeking a high-caliber Structural Engineer to join an engineering team ...

Contract Compensation: $50.00 or (DOE) Contractor Work Model: Onsite - onsite Hours: 40 hours/week Overview System One is e are seeking a high-caliber Structural Engineer to join an engineering team ...

Contract Compensation: $50.00 or (DOE) Contractor Work Model: Onsite - onsite Hours: 40 hours/week Overview System One is e are seeking a high-caliber Structural Engineer to join an engineering team ...

Contract Compensation: $50.00 or (DOE) Contractor Work Model: Onsite - onsite Hours: 40 hours/week Overview System One is e are seeking a high-caliber Structural Engineer to join an engineering team ...

Contract Compensation: $50.00 or (DOE) Contractor Work Model: Onsite - onsite Hours: 40 hours/week Overview System One is e are seeking a high-caliber Structural Engineer to join an engineering team ...

Contract Compensation: $50.00 or (DOE) Contractor Work Model: Onsite - onsite Hours: 40 hours/week Overview System One is e are seeking a high-caliber Structural Engineer to join an engineering team ...

Contract Compensation: $50.00 or (DOE) Contractor Work Model: Onsite - onsite Hours: 40 hours/week Overview System One is e are seeking a high-caliber Structural Engineer to join an engineering team ...

Wood has key contracts in place and a strong project portfolio presenting opportunities for rapid expansion of this practice. The Chicago Structural Engineering team is heavily focused on ...

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Contract Structural Engineer information

See Illinois salary details

$48.5K

$96.3K

$147.3K

How much do contract structural engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for contract 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 does a contract structural engineer do?

A Contract Structural Engineer is a professional who is hired on a temporary or project basis to analyze, design, and oversee the construction of structures such as buildings, bridges, or other infrastructure. Their main responsibility is to ensure that these structures are safe, stable, and comply with building codes and regulations. They work closely with architects, contractors, and clients to develop structural solutions that meet project requirements. Contract Structural Engineers may handle a variety of tasks, from creating detailed technical drawings to inspecting work on-site and providing engineering reports.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a contract structural engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Contract Structural Engineer, you need a solid background in civil or structural engineering, strong analytical skills, and a relevant engineering degree with professional certification (such as PE or Chartered Engineer status). Proficiency with structural analysis software like SAP2000, ETABS, or AutoCAD, and familiarity with building codes and standards, is typically required. Excellent problem-solving, communication, and project management skills help you collaborate with clients and multidisciplinary teams effectively. These skills and qualifications are essential for delivering safe, compliant, and cost-effective structural solutions within project constraints.

What are some typical challenges a contract structural engineer faces when working with multiple clients and projects simultaneously?

As a Contract Structural Engineer, managing multiple clients and projects concurrently often requires strong organizational skills and the ability to balance competing priorities. You may encounter challenges such as adapting to different project requirements, coordinating with various teams, and ensuring that all deliverables meet specific codes and standards within tight deadlines. Effective communication and proactive problem-solving are essential, as you'll frequently collaborate with architects, contractors, and project managers to address design changes or resolve site issues. Staying updated on industry best practices and maintaining flexibility can help you navigate these common challenges successfully.

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

AspectContract Structural EngineerStructural Engineer
CredentialsPE license, relevant engineering degrees, often contract-specific certificationsPE license, engineering degree, professional certifications
Work EnvironmentProject-based, freelance or temporary roles, on-site or remoteFull-time employment, office or site-based
Employer & Industry UsageConsulting firms, construction projects, freelance workEngineering firms, construction companies, government agencies

Contract Structural Engineers typically work on a project basis, often as freelancers or consultants, focusing on specific projects with temporary contracts. Structural Engineers usually hold full-time positions within firms or companies, providing ongoing engineering services. Both roles require similar credentials but differ mainly in employment type and work setup.

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 Contract Structural Engineer jobs?

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

Infographic showing various Contract Structural Engineer job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $96,321 per year, or $46.3 per hour.

Structural Engineering

Sterling Engineering Inc.

Chicago, IL โ€ข On-site

$140K - $150K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

New


Job description

Title: Sr. Structural Engineer
Location: Chicago, IL
Hire Type: Direct Hire
Compensation: $140,000 - $150,000
Benefits: Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO, Paid Holidays, 401K

Must have Skill Set: AutoCAD Civil3D, Civil Engineering, Utilities Infrastructure, Power Distribution, Permitting & Regulatory Standards

Overview: The Sr. Structural Engineer acts as a project team lead responsible for managing complex civil and structural engineering assignments from initial design to as-built completion. This role involves preparing construction documents, overseeing underground and overhead power installations, conducting independent design reviews, and coordinating directly with clients, sub-consultants, and field teams to ensure project deliverables meet technical standards, timelines, and budgets.

Job Duties:
  • Contribute to and act as a team lead for project teams in the design, modification, and analysis of civil engineering initiatives
  • Investigate, troubleshoot, and resolve complex civil and structural engineering issues
  • Create civil designs from preliminary stages through to as-built documentation
  • Produce plans, surveys, reports, data, and construction documents matching client specifications
  • Prepare, review, approve, and negotiate proposals, contracts, cost estimates, and contract revisions
  • Oversee and perform design work for underground and overhead power installations
  • Coordinate design activities, vendor purchase specifications, and pre-engineered systems to align with codes and client requirements