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Entry Level Structural Engineer Jobs in Encinitas, CA

ES3 is a socially responsible, high-end engineering firm specializing in the design, test, and ... structural dynamic modeling. ES3 has facilities in California, Georgia, Oklahoma, Texas, and Utah.

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Entry Level Structural Engineer information

See Encinitas, CA salary details

$53.7K

$106.8K

$163.3K

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

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level structural engineer in Encinitas, CA is $106,764.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $85,900.00 and $121,400.00 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.

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Structural Engineer jobs in Encinitas, CA? For Entry Level Structural Engineer jobs in Encinitas, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Encinitas, CA are hiring for Entry Level Structural Engineer jobs? Cities near Encinitas, CA with the most Entry Level Structural Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Structural Engineer job openings in Encinitas, CA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 90% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $106,764 per year, or $51.3 per hour.

Senior CAD Designer / Associate Manager

West Yost

San Diego, CA

$80K - $110K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago


Job description

Who We Are:

West Yost is a water resource management and engineering firm focused exclusively on water. Since our founding in 1990, we have partnered with public agencies including cities, counties, utilities, and water districts to plan, design, and deliver water, wastewater, and stormwater solutions that support safe, reliable, and resilient communities.

Our team of more than 270 professionals brings together expertise in groundwater, water supply, treatment, infrastructure, recycled water, stormwater, construction management, and operations technology. We support projects from early planning and permitting through design and construction and complement our engineering services with program management and public outreach to help clients move work forward and engage their communities.

We are proud to be certified as a Great Place to Work, and to be recognized among Fortune's Best Workplaces in Consulting and Professional Services from 2023 to 2025, as well as a top-ranked firm in the AEC Advisors Diversity Index. At West Yost, we are committed to being the water firm of choice for our clients and our team, advancing water resources for future generations through strong partnerships, practical solutions, and a shared commitment to quality.

Compensation Range: $80,205 - $110,520.  Based on our Lake Oswego office location.  (West Yost uses geographic salary differentials that would apply for candidates in other regions). 

Status: Full-time, Exempt

Location(s):  

  • Lake Oswego, Oregon
  • San Diego, California
  • Sacramento, California
  • Reno, Nevada
  • Concord, California
  • Irvine, California

 (https://www.westyost.com/locations/ ).

 

This is a Hybrid role with 3 days in the office and 2 days remote.

 

SENIOR CAD DESIGNER/ASSOCIATE MANAGER 

BASICJOB FUNCTION 

The CAD Designer II/Associate Manager is a key member of the engineering team, with responsibility for drafting and design of various water and wastewater infrastructure projects in the public sector. They will collaborate with a team of civil engineers and project managers to provide outstanding engineering designs and construction documents. They will also assist the CAD Manager in tracking and balancing group CAD tasks and workload management.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND ACCOUNTABILITIES (IN ORDER OF IMPORTANCE) 

    • Develop 2D and 3D designs, drawings, plans, exhibits, and maps using Civil 3D
    • nder the guidance of the engineering team and project manager. 
    • Complete construction drawings for water and wastewater projects involving underground and above ground utilities including: pipelines; pumping and
    • booster stations; water and wastewater treatment plant, civil and process mechanical equipment and systems; structural and electrical, instrumentation, and control systems. 
    • Update, revise, and scale designs as necessary according to client feedback.
    • Work with other internal teams to get designs approved and executed. 
    • Assist the CAD Manager in balancing workload, tracking tasks and driving work
    • to completion.
    • Assist the CAD Manager in managing the CAD team.

QUALIFICATIONS 

    • Certification from a college or technical school or an Associate degree in CAD
    • Drafting or Design. 
    • 10+ year(s) of experience in CAD design for the A/E/C industry. 
    • Proficient with Bluebeam Revu, Civil 3D, and other 3D software
    • programs. Familiarity with Revit, BIM concepts, and MicroStation are a plus. 
    • Proficient in MS Office including Word and Excel. 
    • Proven ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines. 
    • Proven ability to assist a team in balancing workload across a group.
    • Proven ability to manage entry-level CAD Staff
    • Must effectively communicate with all project team members. 

 

Travel Requirements

*This position may require travel to other offices and/or client offices.

 

A Little About the West Yost Life

You will experience many opportunities to grow and develop professionally with your colleagues through collaborative in-person work experience, knowledge sharing, and mentorship opportunities. We also offer hybrid and flexible work schedules to our employees to help promote and encourage a healthy work/life balance.  All of our team members have access to local and company-wide events, our Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Workgroup, Culture Workgroup, Wellness Workgroup, book clubs, charitable giving and community service, firm-wide resources, peer groups (young professionals & middlers group), and mentorship and leadership programs.  We support and foster your career success and encourage you to be in control of your future with us.

At West Yost, we make space for connection across the firm. Each month, we hold an all-hands meeting that bring together team members from every location, including those working remotely, to stay aligned and engaged. Individual sectors and teams also hold their own monthly meeting. At the local level, our offices host gatherings, from camping trips and river rafting to community events and celebrations.

Once a year, we come together in person for our Annual All Staff event, a firmwide experience focused on learning, networking, and building relationships across teams. That evening, we continue our longest-standing tradition, the Duck Dinner, where West Yosters are encouraged to bring a guest and enjoy a night of great food, connection, and entertainment.

We work hard, and we place equal value on having fun.

Our commitment to quality begins with our hiring practices. We employ the most talented team members in our industry from all backgrounds. We are highly selective of the individuals we choose to represent the firm, seeking only those individuals whose technical abilities and commitment to client service matches our vision for excellence.  We are dedicated to our number one asset, our employees.  Because we are employee-owned, we are responsible for and rewarded by our own success. Come to West Yost where, with our support, you'll do the best work of your life.

 

Standard Benefits:

We provide a comprehensive array of valuable benefits to protect your health, your family, and your way of life. Benefits include medical, dental, vision, flexible spending accounts, health saving accounts (with West Yost contribution), paid vacation, paid sick leave and holidays, two employee assistance programs, travel assistance program, 401(k) profit sharing with employer match, leaves of absence with additional supplemental paid time off, parental leave, life and AD&D insurance, short-term and long-term disability insurance, and even pet insurance.

Other Unique Benefits:

You'll be provided with support in on-going education through our 529 college savings plan/student loan repayment program, tuition reimbursement, paid professional memberships, paid training, and Leadership Academy programs. You'll be recognized for your contributions at West Yost through milestone anniversary benefits, peer to peer recognition programs, the potential for employee stock ownership, annual monetary and paid time off bonuses, performance-based bonus eligibility, merit increase eligibility, and employee referral bonuses. We also offer a wellness reimbursement.

We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.
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