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Entry Level Residential Structural Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

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 ...

Structural Designer

Aurora, IL · On-site

$57K - $76K/yr

... entry-level Structural Designer to join our Retail Display & Packaging team at the Aurora Customer ... Create prototypes, samples, engineering drawings, and specifications for customer review and ...

... entry-level Structural Designer to join our Retail Display & Packaging team at the Aurora Customer ... Create prototypes, samples, engineering drawings, and specifications for customer review and ...

Engineer, Mechanical

Plainfield, IL · On-site

$114K - $122K/yr

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS for Entry Level E01 Engineer &ndash New Graduate * Bachelor&rsquos degree in Engineering (Chemical, Civil/Structural, Electrical, Industrial, Mechanical or Nuclear) * Maintain ...

Engineer, Mechanical

Crest Hill, IL · On-site

$114K - $122K/yr

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS for Entry Level E01 Engineer &ndash New Graduate * Bachelor&rsquos degree in Engineering (Chemical, Civil/Structural, Electrical, Industrial, Mechanical or Nuclear) * Maintain ...

Engineer, Mechanical

Joliet, IL · On-site

$114K - $122K/yr

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS for Entry Level E01 Engineer &ndash New Graduate * Bachelor&rsquos degree in Engineering (Chemical, Civil/Structural, Electrical, Industrial, Mechanical or Nuclear) * Maintain ...

Showing results 21-40

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 7, 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 EIT/Coordinator

HDR

Chicago, IL • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday


HDR rating

9.3

Company rating: 9.3 out of 10

Based on 60 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

26th of 453 rated engineering


Job description

At HDR, our employee-owners are fully engaged in creating a welcoming environment where each of us is valued and respected, a place where everyone is empowered to bring their authentic selves and novel ideas to work every day. As we foster a culture of inclusion throughout our company and within our communities, we constantly ask ourselves: What is our impact on the world?
Watch Our Story:' https://www.hdrinc.com/our-story'
We believe building engineering is more than systems and structures, it's about powering progress and enabling innovation. As part of HDR's Building Engineering Services Group, you'll help design the critical infrastructure that supports the digital age and shapes the spaces where people work, connect, and thrive. From high-performance data centers driving the future of AI to dynamic commercial environments, your work will directly support technological advancement, sustainability, and human experience. We bring together mechanical, electrical, structural, and civil engineering experts to solve complex design challenges with precision, creativity, and collaboration. Whether you're optimizing energy efficiency, integrating resilient systems, or engineering the backbone of next-generation facilities, your contributions will help define the future of the built environment. This isn't just a job, it's a chance to lead innovation, engineer impact, and build a legacy of excellence.
Each and every role throughout our organization makes a difference in our ability to change the world for the better. Read further to learn how you could help make great things possible not only in your community, but around the world.
HDR is currently seeking a Structural EIT/Coordinator for our Building Engineering Services Business Group located in downtown Chicago, IL. Our team is an integrated facility and infrastructure design team consisting of core services of Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing, Structural and Site Civil Engineering. With a team of experienced Mission Critical engineers, our local team also focuses on Healthcare, Science and Technology, Justice, Power Distribution, and Transportation projects. We are also developing our market presence in the Commercial Real Estate, Finance, Hospitality, Municipal, Manufacturing/Industrial, and Federal sectors. Regardless of the market sector we provide engineering excellence for our clients by setting realistic expectations and delivering high quality designs, on time.
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 building systems. This position is responsible for production of design drawings, calculations and specifications.
In the role of Structural EIT/Coordinator, we'll count on you to:
  • Conduct analyses to develop design options or recommendations and assist in the preparation of cost estimates and specifications for structural engineering projects
  • Perform routine engineering assignments requiring application of standard techniques and procedures
  • Work independently on small projects or assist more senior engineers on larger projects
  • Give direction to clerical and technical personnel as needed
  • Perform other duties as needed

Preferred Qualifications
  • Engineer in Training (EIT) certificate.
  • Candidates hired without their EIT will have the title of "Coordinator" and will be expected to obtain their EIT for career progression.
  • Proficiency in Revit
  • Previous experience with an architectural/engineering or engineering consulting firm
  • 2+ years' experience designing structural systems for building projects

#LI-EV1
Qualifications
Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in Structural Engineering
  • Microsoft Office, AutoCAD, RISA, Staad, SAP, Tedds, RAM, ETABS, SAFE or similar
  • An attitude and commitment to being an active participant of our employee-owned culture is a must

What We Believe
HDR is our company. Together, we build on each other's life experiences and perspectives to make great things possible every day. This shapes our collaborative culture, encourages organizational trust and connects us closer to the clients and communities we serve.
Our Commitment
As employee owners, we all have a role in creating an inclusive environment where each of us is welcomed, valued, respected and empowered to bring our authentic selves to work every day.
Our eight Employee Network Groups (Asian Pacific, Black, Hispanic/Latino(a), LGBTQ+, People with Disabilities, Veterans, Women, Young Professionals) help create a sense of belonging and foster a supportive environment where everyone is empowered to engage and contribute. Each group has an executive sponsor and is open to all employees.

What HDR employees say

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Get the full story on Breakroom


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About HDR

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At HDR, we specialize in engineering, architecture, environmental and construction services. While we are most well-known for adding beauty and structure to communities through high-performance buildings and smart infrastructure, we provide much more than that. We create an unshakable foundation for progress because our multidisciplinary teams also include scientists, economists, builders, analysts and artists.

Industry

Specialized design services

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Omaha, NE, US

Year founded

1917