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Contract Structural Engineer Jobs in Decatur, IL

AutoCAD Operator

Decatur, IL

$21.63 - $34.13/hr

Review of contract documents with team members and checking of drawings for accuracy and ... structural integrity of critical energy, industrial and public infrastructures. Committed to ...

AutoCAD Operator

Decatur, IL · On-site

$21.63 - $34.13/hr

Review of contract documents with team members and checking of drawings for accuracy and ... structural integrity of critical energy, industrial and public infrastructures. Committed to ...

AutoCAD Operator

Decatur, IL

$21.63 - $34.13/hr

Review of contract documents with team members and checking of drawings for accuracy and ... structural integrity of critical energy, industrial and public infrastructures. Committed to ...

Contract Structural Engineer information

See Decatur, IL salary details

$48.5K

$96.4K

$147.4K

How much do contract structural engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for contract structural engineer in Decatur, IL is $96,415.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $77,600.00 and $109,600.00 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 Decatur, IL?

The most popular types of Structural Engineer jobs in Decatur, IL are:

What cities near Decatur, IL are hiring for Contract Structural Engineer jobs?

Cities near Decatur, IL with the most Contract Structural Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Contract Structural Engineer job openings in Decatur, IL 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 $96,415 per year, or $46.4 per hour.

Chief Executive Officer - Engineering

Employment Resource Group

Decatur, IL • On-site

$150 - $250/hr

Other

Re-posted 8 days ago


Job description

This is a rare and defining opportunity for a visionary leader to step into the chief executive role of a well‑established, privately held engineering firm with deep roots in transportation, municipal, structural, land development, and surveying services. With approximately $11 million in revenue and a team of 60 professionals, the firm is positioned for its next chapter – one defined by profitability growth, expansion into new service verticals, and the deliberate development of the next generation of technical leaders. The incoming Chief Executive Officer will inherit a close‑knit, client‑first culture built on trust and collaboration, and will have the opportunity to shape the firm’s strategic direction as a true owner with a path to meaningful equity. This is not a caretaker role – it is a platform for a bold, empathetic, and operationally excellent leader to leave a lasting mark.

Job Duties and Responsibilities
  • Lead the overall strategic direction, operational performance, and growth agenda of the firm.
  • Drive measurable improvements in profitability through disciplined margin management, operational efficiency, and resource allocation.
  • Conduct a comprehensive organizational assessment of team capabilities, service line health, and backlog positioning within the first six months.
  • Stabilize and recover the Survey division by identifying root causes of weak backlog and executing a near‑term recovery strategy.
  • Build trust and operating rhythm with the existing leadership team, aligned with EOS (Entrepreneurial Operating System) principles.
  • Expand client relationships and develop new revenue opportunities across planning, construction inspection, and aviation/airports service verticals.
  • Strengthen the firm’s positioning for government, IDOT, and WBE‑related contract pursuits.
  • Architect and launch a leadership development program to accelerate the next generation of principals and project managers.
  • Serve as the cultural cornerstone of the firm, preserving its collaborative, client‑obsessed identity while leading strategic transformation.
  • Champion a forward‑looking operating model that balances the firm’s traditional values with modern practices including flexible work policies.
  • Interface directly with key clients, translating their needs into actionable company priorities.
  • Manage and mentor young engineers, fostering a team environment defined by empathy, accountability, and shared purpose.
Qualifications

Required

  • Ten or more years of progressive leadership experience in civil/structural engineering, land development, surveying, or transportation infrastructure services.
  • Demonstrated P&L accountability with a proven track record of driving profitability improvements within a professional services or engineering firm.
  • Experience building, coaching, and developing technical and operational leaders within an organization.
  • Strong business development acumen with ability to expand client relationships and pursue new service verticals.
  • Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Civil Engineering, Business Administration, or related field.
  • PE licensure strongly preferred.

Preferred

  • Experience operating within an EOS (Entrepreneurial Operating System) or similar structured business framework, or the demonstrated aptitude to champion one.
  • Established network in Illinois, particularly in municipal, land development, or state agency (IDOT) markets.
  • Background in or exposure to aviation/airports, construction inspection, and planning service sectors.
  • Experience with WBE and IDOT proposal development and procurement processes.
  • Willingness to relocate; candidates from the Midwest region preferred.
Competencies
  • Visionary with an entrepreneurial mindset – sees the firm’s growth potential and owns the path forward.
  • People‑first leader who earns trust organically, leads with empathy, and creates an environment people choose to stay in.
  • Client‑focused with outstanding communication and relationship management skills.
  • Forward‑thinking with the ability to anticipate next steps and act decisively.
  • Calculated risk‑taker who is analytical in follow‑through and meticulous in execution.
  • Proactive problem solver with high personal energy and a positive, open‑minded presence.
  • Persuasive and intuitive communicator, comfortable with courageous conversations.
  • Effective multitasker capable of managing competing strategic and operational priorities.
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