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Entry Level Residential Structural Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

Structural Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$90 - $120/hr

Perform or review entry level engineering, design, analysis, and other technical tasks within the structural discipline utilizing current technology, available standards, calculation software ...

... Structural Engineer in Chicago, IL . Key Responsibilities Include : * Site studies evaluating damages to materials or components for residential structures. * Write a technical report providing ...

To help support our rapidly growing Structural needs, HDR is seeking a talented entry level civil or structural engineer who has experience working hard and is excited to design structural system in ...

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Entry Level Residential Structural Engineer information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$51.5K

$102.4K

$156.6K

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

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level residential structural engineer in Chicago, IL is $102,396.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $82,400.00 and $116,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an entry level residential structural engineer do?

An Entry Level Residential Structural Engineer assists in designing and analyzing the structural components of homes and small residential buildings. They work with senior engineers to ensure that structures are safe, stable, and compliant with local building codes. Their responsibilities may include creating drawings, performing calculations, conducting site visits, and collaborating with architects and contractors. This role is ideal for recent engineering graduates looking to gain practical experience in the residential construction industry.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level residential structural engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Residential Structural Engineer, you need a solid understanding of structural engineering principles, proficiency in mathematics, and a bachelor's degree in civil or structural engineering. Familiarity with CAD software, structural analysis programs like SAP2000 or ETABS, and knowledge of relevant building codes are typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you collaborate with team members and clients. These skills and qualities are crucial for designing safe, code-compliant structures and ensuring successful project completion.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level residential structural engineers, and how can they be addressed?

Entry level residential structural engineers often encounter challenges such as managing multiple projects simultaneously, interpreting building codes, and coordinating with architects and contractors. To address these, it's helpful to develop strong organizational skills, regularly consult with more experienced engineers, and actively participate in team meetings. Familiarity with structural analysis software and continuous learning about code updates can also ease the transition into the role and help ensure successful project outcomes.

What is the difference between Entry Level Residential Structural Engineer vs Entry Level Commercial Structural Engineer?

AspectEntry Level Residential Structural EngineerEntry Level Commercial Structural Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Civil or Structural Engineering, EIT/FE examBachelor's in Civil or Structural Engineering, EIT/FE exam
Work EnvironmentResidential buildings, small-scale projectsCommercial buildings, larger-scale projects
Industry UsageHomeowners, residential construction firmsDevelopers, commercial construction companies

Both roles typically require a bachelor's degree in civil or structural engineering and passing the Fundamentals of Engineering exam. The main difference lies in the project focus: residential structural engineers work on homes and small buildings, while commercial structural engineers handle larger commercial structures. The work environments and client bases also differ, with residential roles focusing on individual homeowners and commercial roles serving larger organizations.

What are the most commonly searched types of Residential Structural Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL?

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

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Residential Structural Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Entry Level Residential Structural Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Residential Structural Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Residential Structural Engineer jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Residential Structural Engineer job openings in Chicago, IL as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $102,396 per year, or $49.2 per hour.

Structural Engineer

PROENERGY

Chicago, IL • On-site

$90 - $120/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

PROENERGY is an engineering, R&D, and manufacturing powerhouse. The company addresses every need for fast-start power generation: turbine and package manufacturing, turnkey project execution, power purchase agreements, and asset lifecycle care for turbines and plants. Where others see impossible energy challenges, PROENERGY provides innovative aeroderivative solutions.

Our Footprint

PROENERGY delivers fast-start, dispatchable power solutions from worldwide centers for aeroderivative excellence. We are investing more than $1 billion through 2028 in infrastructure to serve our customers.

In Sedalia, Missouri,our 600,000 sq ft Center for Excellence in Manufacturing-a world-class investment in fast-start power and the only campus of its kind in the world is growing by 40 percent.

In Houston, Texas,our 500,000 sq ft Center for Excellence in Lifecycle Care features a Level-IV depot and aero repair facility, which executes comprehensive services for aeroderivative engines under one roof.

InKansas City, we have an office with an Engineering team that supports our sought-after solutions for turnkey projects and contracted power.

And ourworldwide service centersensure local service expertise near our customers. Our expanding service footprint includes Phoenix, Buenos Aires, New Brunswick, and additional locations in Europe, Australia, and Southeast Asia.

Our Philosophy

We take care of our people and strive to make a positive difference for the world. We offer competitive pay, excellent benefits that include Medical, Dental, Vision, and Life/Disability Insurance at minimal cost to the employee, 10 paid holidays, paid time off, and a 401K plan. If you are looking for a rewarding career and possess specialized knowledge and quality-oriented problem-solving skills, we encourage you to apply today.

Position Summary

At PROENERGY, we emphasize a ONE-TEAM approach where our Engineering, Procurement, Construction, Start-Up, Document Controls, and Operations teams work seamlessly for our clients as a solutions provider for the power industry. We seek a Structural Engineer reporting to our Principal Structural Engineer that has a passion for ownership and pride in the quality of our deliverables. The Structural Engineer will create deliverables for our EPC projects including calculations, technical specifications, and drawings. As we establish our in-house structural standards you will help to review our third party client designs, including equipment suppliers. Your ability to adapt and be flexible will be invaluable as you coordinate multiple jobs, develop guidelines and procedures, and provide design oversight to our subsidiaries. This position will be in the office in Leawood, KS as we build our culture in person.

Reports To: Principal Structural Engineer

Position Responsibilities
  • Perform or review entry level engineering, design, analysis, and other technical tasks within the structural discipline utilizing current technology, available standards, calculation software, templates, and cataloged products.
  • Prepare/review structural analysis calculations (Foundations and steel support structures) and structural specifications.
  • Work collaboratively with our integrated EPC team along with our clients to execute RFIs, deliverable reviews, change order requests, engineering equipment buyout, etc
  • Seek ways to improve customer satisfaction, the quality of the work product, and operating efficiencies.
  • Help develop, review and implement guidelines and procedures to ensure engineering standardization and templating of our PowerFLX work.
  • Stay up to date with the latest technology and industry practices and finds practical applications.
Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor’s degree in civil and/or structural engineering from an accredited program.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills, strong interpersonal skills, and the ability to clearly and effectively present complex information to all levels of employees, management, and clients.
  • The position requires the ability to effectively multi-task and manage numerous projects/tasks simultaneously, frequently within an aggressive and compressed schedule.
  • Independently applies knowledge and ensures compliance with quality program. Establishes related processes and promotes a culture that is conducive to quality.
  • Knowledgeable of the ASCE, AISC, ACI, IBC, and other industry codes, specifications, and standards
  • Able to perform with support from Principal engineering calculations, e.g., reinforced foundation designs, anchor rod design, steel design, connection and baseplate designs.
  • Knowledgeable in structural design software, e.g., SAP2000, Hilti, MathCAD, IdeaStatica, etc.
  • Comfortable with change and ambiguity; adaptable, collaborative and a systems thinker
  • Perform work safely and effectively. Understand and follow oral and written instructions, including warning signs, equipment use, and other policies.
  • Work during normal operating hours to organize and complete work within given deadlines. Work overtime and weekends as required.
Desired Qualifications
  • Engineer in Training (EIT) certification with the intent to pursue a full Professional Engineers (PE) License.
  • Actively involved in industry recognized professional societies
  • Experience working on an EPC team.
  • Aconex Document Controls software knowledge
  • General understanding of construction and constructability practices & principles
  • Working knowledge of technical aspects of the proposal and estimate process
  • Previous experience in complex structural design for power generation facilities.
  • Previous experience in dynamic foundation analysis, vibration analysis.
  • Previous experience with deep foundations.

It is PROENERGY’s policy to provide equal opportunity in employment to all its employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, age, disability, national origin, marital status, ancestry, medical condition, military status, or any other characteristic protected by State or Federal law.

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