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Entry Level Civil Structural Engineer Jobs in California

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Entry Level Civil Structural Engineer information

See California salary details

$27.9K

$68.5K

$119.5K

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

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level civil structural engineer in California is $68,500.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,878.00 and $80,296.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

AspectEntry Level Civil Structural EngineerEntry Level Civil Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Civil Engineering, EIT/FE examBachelor's in Civil Engineering, EIT/FE exam
Work EnvironmentDesigning and analyzing structures like bridges, buildingsBroader civil projects including transportation, water systems
Industry UsageConstruction firms, structural consultingConstruction, infrastructure, consulting firms
Common Search IntentStructural design, analysis, load calculationsGeneral civil projects, site planning

Entry Level Civil Structural Engineers focus on designing and analyzing structures such as bridges and buildings, requiring specialized structural knowledge. In contrast, Entry Level Civil Engineers work on a broader range of civil projects, including transportation and water systems. Both roles typically require a bachelor's degree and EIT certification, but their daily tasks and industry focus differ.

What does an entry level civil structural engineer do?

An entry level civil structural engineer assists in designing, analyzing, and inspecting structures such as buildings, bridges, and other infrastructure projects. They typically work under the supervision of senior engineers, using computer-aided design (CAD) software to create drawings and models. Their responsibilities also include preparing reports, performing basic calculations, and helping ensure projects comply with safety and regulatory standards. Over time, they gain experience and take on more complex tasks as they work toward professional licensure.

What types of projects and responsibilities can I expect as an entry level civil structural engineer?

As an entry level civil structural engineer, you'll typically assist with the design, analysis, and inspection of structures such as bridges, buildings, or infrastructure projects. Your daily tasks may include preparing drawings, running calculations under the supervision of senior engineers, and conducting site visits to observe construction progress. You'll also collaborate closely with architects, contractors, and other engineering disciplines to ensure projects meet safety codes and client requirements. This role is a great opportunity to develop technical and communication skills while gaining exposure to a variety of project phases.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Civil Structural Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Civil Structural Engineer, you need a bachelor's degree in civil or structural engineering, a solid grasp of engineering principles, and fundamental knowledge of building codes and standards. Familiarity with design software such as AutoCAD, Revit, and structural analysis tools like SAP2000 or ETABS is typically expected. Attention to detail, effective communication, and a willingness to learn are key soft skills that help you excel in this role. These competencies ensure safe, compliant designs and effective collaboration with teams on construction projects.
What are the most commonly searched types of Civil Structural Engineer jobs in California? The most popular types of Civil Structural Engineer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Entry Level Civil Structural Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most Entry Level Civil Structural Engineer job openings:
Civil/Structural Engineer (Ph.D.)

Civil/Structural Engineer (Ph.D.)

Exponent Inc.

Menlo Park, CA

Full-time

Retirement

Re-posted 21 hours ago


Job description

Exponent is the only premium engineering and scientific consulting firm with the depth and breadth of expertise to solve our clients’ most profoundly unique, unprecedented, and urgent challenges.  

We are committed to engaging multidisciplinary teams of science, engineering, and regulatory experts to empower our clients with solutions that create a safer, healthier, more sustainable world. For over five decades, we've connected the lessons of past failures with tomorrow's solutions to advise clients as they innovate technologically complex products and processes, ensure the safety and health of their users, and address the challenges of sustainability.  

Join our team of experts with degrees from top programs at over 500 universities and extensive experience spanning a variety of industries. At Exponent, you’ll contribute to the diverse pool of ideas, talents, backgrounds, and experiences that drives our collaborative teamwork and breakthrough insights. Plus, we help you grow your career through mentoring, sponsorship, and a culture of learning. Thanks for your interest in joining our team! 

Key statistics: 

  • 950+ Consultants 
  • 640+ Ph.D.s 
  • 90+ Disciplines 
  • 30+ Offices globally 

We are currently seeking a Civil/Structural Engineer for our Civil & Structural Engineering Practice in Menlo Park, CA. In this role, you will work as part of a team to conduct analytical and computer problem solving, perform experimental field investigations and diagnostic surveys, and maintain client relations. Assignments will require the ability to gather information from and convey technical conclusions to individuals in engineering, business, and industry.


  • Inspection, analysis and determination of causes of structural performance failures
  • Conducting analytical and computer problem solving
  • Performing field investigations and diagnostic surveys
  • Preparing technical reports and presentations
  • Continued professional development towards establishing professional expertise

  • Ph.D. in Civil Engineering with a Structural Engineering focus, or a related field
  • P.E. or S.E. license or the ability to become licensed within two years in the State of California
  • Presently legally authorized to work in the United States. No immigration sponsorship or processing required.
  • Excellent creative problem-solving ability
  • Outstanding verbal and written communication skills
  • Ability to work independently as well as lead and work in multi-disciplinary teams
  • Ability to gather information from and convey technical conclusions to individuals in engineering, business, and industry

Applicants are encouraged to submit a CV (Curriculum Vitae) with publications (feel free to include publications that are in review or pending) [not restricted to 1 page]. 


To learn more about life at Exponent and our impact, please visit the following links:
https://www.exponent.com/careers/life-exponent
https://www.exponent.com/company/our-impact

Attracting, inspiring, developing, and rewarding exceptional people with diverse backgrounds and expertise are central to our corporate culture. Our diverse team allows us to provide better value to our clients and enjoy an enriched work environment.  

Our firm is committed to offering a variety of programs and resources to support health and well-being. We believe that providing competitive benefits as well as compensation and recognition programs empowers our staff to do work that makes a difference. 


At Exponent, we have found that in-person interactions deepen employee engagement and are crucial for development, for realizing the full potential of our talented and diverse teams, and for building a more inclusive workplace where all have a sense of belonging. In our offices, you can expect a supportive culture and a collaborative, dynamic, multi-disciplinary work environment. Our consultants engage in-person in the office unless they are traveling for client work or other business activities.

We value the rich lives our colleagues enjoy outside of work and understand that work/life balance is critical to our employees and their well-being. Consultants have the autonomy to balance their work and personal schedules so you can meet with clients, visit inspection sites, attend conferences, and make time for priorities outside of work, too. It is this flexible, agile work style and working hours that allow our teams to drive innovation and results in their own ways, while meeting the needs of clients.  #LI-Onsite


Our consultants are rewarded for their technical and business contributions and have an opportunity to plan for future success and career growth. Exponent's total compensation plan is consistent with its expectations of the quality and quantity of work performed and with the professional standards set by Exponent. At the Associate and Senior Associate level, total compensation includes base salary, bi-weekly bonuses for high-intensity efforts, annual bonus and 401(k) employer contribution of 7% of base salary.

The base salary range for this position is dependent on experience and capabilities which will be assessed during the interview process.


USD $117,000.00 - USD $145,000.00 /Yr.

Access benefits information on our Life@Exponent page: 

https://www.exponent.com/careers/life-exponent 

Exponent is a proud equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other protected status. 

If you need assistance or accommodation due to a disability, you may email us at HR-Accommodations@exponent.com. 


US-CA-Menlo Park