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Entry Level Structural Engineer Jobs in Columbia, SC

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Entry Level Structural Engineer information

See Columbia, SC salary details

$46.3K

$92K

$140.6K

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

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level structural engineer in Columbia, SC is $91,959.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $74,000.00 and $104,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the typical responsibilities of an Entry Level Structural Engineer during their first year on the job?

In their first year, Entry Level Structural Engineers usually support senior engineers with tasks such as drafting structural plans, performing basic calculations, assisting with site inspections, and preparing reports. They often use software like AutoCAD or Revit to create and modify drawings, and may participate in project meetings to gain exposure to project workflows. Collaboration with architects, contractors, and other engineering disciplines is common, allowing new engineers to learn industry standards and communication skills while gradually taking on more responsibility as they gain experience.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Structural Engineer, you need a solid understanding of structural analysis, engineering principles, and a bachelor's degree in civil or structural engineering. Familiarity with technical tools such as AutoCAD, Revit, and structural analysis software like SAP2000 or ETABS is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication help you collaborate with multidisciplinary teams and address design challenges. These abilities are crucial for ensuring the safety, integrity, and successful completion of construction projects.

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

AspectEntry Level Structural EngineerCivil Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Civil or Structural Engineering, Engineer-in-Training (EIT) certificationBachelor's in Civil Engineering, EIT certification
Work EnvironmentDesign firms, construction sites, consulting firmsPublic agencies, construction, consulting, infrastructure projects
Industry UsageSpecializes in structural design and analysisBroader scope including transportation, water resources, and structural work

Entry Level Structural Engineers focus on structural design and analysis, often working closely with civil engineers who handle broader infrastructure projects. While both roles require similar credentials, structural engineers specialize in ensuring the safety and stability of structures, whereas civil engineers may work on a wider range of projects. Understanding these differences helps job seekers identify the right career path within the civil engineering industry.

What does an entry level structural engineer do?

An entry level structural engineer assists in designing, analyzing, and inspecting structures such as buildings, bridges, and other infrastructure. They typically work under the supervision of senior engineers, helping to ensure that structures are safe, stable, and meet all regulatory requirements. Their tasks often include creating drawings and models, performing calculations, preparing reports, and visiting construction sites to observe and document progress. Entry level engineers also collaborate with architects, contractors, and other professionals to solve engineering problems as they arise.

What Does an Entry-Level Structural Engineer Do?

An entry-level structural engineer works under the guidance of senior engineers and on project teams to design residential and commercial buildings. Your responsibilities in this career include creating drawings, preparing cost estimates, and evaluating building codes. Your duties also involve making local field visits to review construction, meeting with clients and contractors, writing proposals, learning standard techniques, and working with 3D models. You assist others while obtaining valuable hands-on experience to move forward in your career as a structural engineer.

More about Entry Level Structural Engineer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Structural Engineer jobs in Columbia, SC? The most popular types of Structural Engineer jobs in Columbia, SC are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Structural Engineer jobs in Columbia, SC? For Entry Level Structural Engineer jobs in Columbia, SC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Structural Engineer jobs in Columbia, SC look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Structural Engineer jobs in Columbia, SC are:
What cities near Columbia, SC are hiring for Entry Level Structural Engineer jobs? Cities near Columbia, SC with the most Entry Level Structural Engineer job openings:
Entry Level Structural Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Structural Engineer job openings in Columbia, SC as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 88% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $91,959 per year, or $44.2 per hour.
Entry-Level Bridge / Structural Engineer

Entry-Level Bridge / Structural Engineer

Mead & Hunt

Lexington, SC • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 29 days ago

Mead & Hunt rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

243rd of 368 rated engineering

Job description

Established in 1900, Mead & Hunt is a nationally recognized professional services consulting firm providing comprehensive planning, design, and construction solutions across a diverse range of sectors. From architecture, food and beverage processing, and federal projects to transportation, water infrastructure, and beyond, our innovative methodologies deliver cost-effective, forward-thinking solutions that elevate both our clients and the communities we serve.
At Mead & Hunt, our culture is founded on prioritizing people, doing the right thing, and making decisions that make sense. As an employee-owned company, we emphasize flexibility, giving back to our communities, and fostering lasting relationships. Through various employee programs, we invest in the growth and well-being of our employees.
Mead & Hunt is currently looking for a highly motivated individual to join our Transportation team as an Entry Level Bridge/Structural Engineer in Lexington, SC.
Responsibilities include:
  • Develop plans, specifications, and cost estimates for bridge engineering projects.
  • Contribute to the preparation of comprehensive design reports.
  • Perform geometric design and related engineering tasks for bridge projects.
  • Conduct load rating analyses for bridges and culverts to evaluate structural integrity.

The successful candidate will have a bachelor's degree in civil engineering, structural engineering or similar discipline from an accredited college or university or the ability to obtain within nine months of hire.
The ideal candidate will have any/all of the following:
  • EIT preferred
  • Designing/Drafting software (MicroStation preferred)
  • Transportation projects experience (specifically bridgework) and/or relevant coursework
  • MS Office Suite software
  • Effectively communicating both verbally and written with clients and colleagues
  • Collaborating in a team environment
  • Prioritizing and balancing multiple commitments
  • Bridge design tasks

Why Mead & Hunt?
  • Strong Company Culture
  • Robust Career Advancement, Training, & Growth Opportunities
  • Employee-Owned Firm
  • Flexible Schedules
  • Diverse Skillsets, One Company
  • Impressive Benefits Package

If you have strong communication and organizational skills, are self-motivated, and can work well both independently and as part of a team, complete the online application process for this job posting at www.meadhunt.com/careers.
Mead & Hunt proudly offers medical, dental, and vision insurance, paid time off, paid sick leave, parental leave, a 401K plan with a generous company match, life and disability insurance, and an employee assistance program.
Mead & Hunt will not sponsor a visa (H-1B, etc.) for this position.
All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment without regard to protected veteran status, disability, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin.
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