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Entry Level Structural Engineer Jobs in Ithaca, NY

Entry Level Structural Engineer information

See Ithaca, NY salary details

$48.2K

$95.9K

$146.6K

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

As of Jul 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level structural engineer in Ithaca, NY is $95,861.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $77,200.00 and $109,000.00 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 cities near Ithaca, NY are hiring for Entry Level Structural Engineer jobs? Cities near Ithaca, NY with the most Entry Level Structural Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Structural Engineer job openings in Ithaca, NY as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 91% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $95,861 per year, or $46.1 per hour.

Structural Engineering Designer (Entry Level)

HUNT Engineers Architects and Surveyors

Horseheads, NY โ€ข On-site

$60K - $70K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

About the Role
Are you ready to begin your career designing structures that support communities and shape the built environment?
Join our team and gain hands-on experience working alongside experienced structural engineers on a variety of exciting building projects.
As an Entry Level Structural Engineer, you will collaborate with multidisciplinary teams and work under the guidance of licensed Professional Engineers to support the design and delivery of structural projects. This role provides the opportunity to develop your technical skills while contributing to real-world projects from concept through construction.
Your responsibilities will include assisting with structural design and analysis, developing structural models and construction drawings, preparing details and technical documentation, supporting construction administration activities, performing field observations and inspections, and contributing to project reports. You will receive mentorship and support as you build your knowledge of structural engineering principles and industry standards.
The ideal candidate will have a foundation in structural engineering concepts, strong problem-solving abilities, and a desire to continue learning and growing as an engineer. Familiarity with structural design software such as STAAD or RAM, as well as Revit and AutoCAD, is preferred but not required.
Success in this role requires strong communication skills, attention to detail, organization, and the ability to collaborate effectively with team members. This is an excellent opportunity for a motivated engineer to build a strong foundation while making a meaningful impact as part of a talented design team.
This position is open to the following office locations; please indicate which office you would prefer when filling out an application:
  • Horseheads, NY
  • Towanda, PA

Qualifications
  • Basic understanding of structural engineering principles related to the design of buildings
  • Ability to complete basic structural analysis for steel, concrete, masonry, and wood with oversite
  • The ability and willingness to review and learn design codes such as Building Code of New York State, International Building Code, ASCE-07, AISC, and ACI
  • Team and support cross-discipline colleagues per direction of project leads
  • Take initiative, problem solve, and be excited to learn on a daily basis
  • Effectively communicate through oral, written, and visual means with project teams
  • Bachelor of Science or Engineering in Civil Engineering is required. An emphasis on Structural Engineering or Masters in Structural Engineering is a plus
  • 0-2 Year of Experience
  • EIT Certification, or ability and desire to obtain EIT certification within 1 year of hire
  • Desire and willingness to learn

Benefits
  • Paid Holidays
  • PTO
  • Dental, Health, and Vision Insurance
  • FSA/ HSA
  • Life Insurance
  • 401(K) plan
  • Continuing Education Support

About HUNT
HUNT is a full-service A/E Firm with offices located in Albany, NY, Binghamton, NY, Horseheads, NY, Rochester, NY, and Towanda, PA.
As a firm, our vision is to build vibrant communities by empowering creativity and partnership. We have accomplished this to date by being an entrusted partner to our clients/communities, providing full-service design that is innovative, practical and community focused. In addition, we offer a family friendly, flexible workplace that aims to encourage long, successful, sustainable careers through a variety of life stages. We are excited to welcome you to apply to this strong culture and hope that your values align with those of the firm, which will further enhance our culture even as we look toward targeted growth opportunities.
HUNT is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE). Salary commensurate with experience and qualifications.