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Entry Level Structural Engineer Jobs in Kent, WA

Power Systems Engineer

Tacoma, WA · On-site

$113K - $159K/yr

This is an entry-level to mid-level Engineering position that has growth potential into the ... Heavy civil, geotechnical, structural, or hydropower industry related engineering experience Strong ...

Power Systems Engineer

Tacoma, WA · On-site +1

$113K - $159K/yr

This is an entry-level to mid-level Engineering position that has growth potential into the ... Heavy civil, geotechnical, structural, or hydropower industry related engineering experience

Showing results 21-27

Entry Level Structural Engineer information

See Kent, WA salary details

$56.4K

$112.2K

$171.6K

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

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level structural engineer in Kent, WA is $112,211.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $90,300.00 and $127,600.00 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.

How much do entry-level structural engineers make?

Entry-level structural engineers typically earn between $55,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on location, education, and industry. Starting salaries may increase with relevant internships, certifications, and proficiency in design software like AutoCAD or Revit.

Is there a high demand for entry level structural engineers?

Entry level structural engineers are in steady demand due to ongoing infrastructure projects and construction growth. Employers seek candidates with strong technical skills, proficiency in design software, and relevant internships, making entry-level positions available in many regions.

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 Kent, WA? For Entry Level Structural Engineer jobs in Kent, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Structural Engineer jobs in Kent, WA look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Structural Engineer jobs in Kent, WA are:
What cities near Kent, WA are hiring for Entry Level Structural Engineer jobs? Cities near Kent, WA with the most Entry Level Structural Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Structural Engineer job openings in Kent, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $112,211 per year, or $53.9 per hour.

Power Systems Engineer

City of Tacoma

Tacoma, WA • On-site

$113K - $159K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 26 days ago


City Of Tacoma rating

8.9

Company rating: 8.9 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

121st of 844 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Position Description Tacoma Power's Generation division is seeking a Power Systems Engineer, to join their team. This is an entry-level to mid-level Engineering position that has growth potential into the organization. Working under the guidance of the Professional Licensed Civil Engineers, this position will be responsible for the implementation and coordination of the Dam Safety Surveillance & Monitoring Plan (DSSMP) for Tacoma's seven High Hazard Dams.

The DSSMP monitors the stability and performance of the dam, especially identifying initiation of Potential Failure Modes (PFM). This position will assist in the Dam Safety Workgroups mission of supporting public safety, risk management, and regulatory compliance for Tacoma Power's Hydroelectric facilities. We are looking for a candidate who is curious and self-driven with a background in Civil Engineering.

While experience in hydropower or dam safety is beneficial, it is not required. The ideal person thrives in a collaborative environment and values input from teammates with a wide range of backgrounds and perspectives. They ask thoughtful questions, take initiative in their work, and are motivated by tackling technical challenges that support public safety and risk management.

Most importantly, they are adaptable and ready to grow within a diverse team dedicated to the safe operation of Tacoma Power's hydroelectric facilities. This position is expected to conduct site visits to Tacoma's dams, work from Tacoma Public Utilities office at least three days per week and reside a maximum of 2-hours from Tacoma, WA. Responsibilities Include: Support the maintenance, coordination, and implementation of technical monitoring, inspection, and data collection programs for hydropower systems.

Participate in field inspections, site visits, and evaluations to verify conditions, document observations, and identify any unusual or concerning trends. Assist in organizing, collecting, and performing initial review of technical data, including preparing charts, graphs, photos, and summary reports to inform engineering evaluation. Provide support in the selection, installation, verification, and documentation of instrumentation or field-monitoring equipment used for performance evaluation.

Contribute to the development, updating, and delivery of training materials and programs related to monitoring procedures, field practices, and technical workflows. Assist with engineering analyses, calculations, and technical investigations that support assessments of infrastructure condition, performance, and reliability. Support the preparation, organization, and maintenance of technical documentation, regulatory materials, and internal program guidance.

Provide preliminary technical observations and communicate findings to senior engineering staff for further review and decision-making. Participate in the coordination of consultant-performed work, including reviewing deliverables, tracking progress, and supporting scope, schedule, and budget management. Collaborate with cross-functional teams (engineering, natural resources, operations, & technical staff) to support safe, reliable, and compliant operation of Tacoma Power's hydroelectric dams.

Maintain awareness of updates in applicable regulations, standards, guidelines, and best practices, and support integration of those updates into program materials. Participate in professional development activities to strengthen skills in engineering analysis, monitoring practices, and infrastructure evaluation. Qualifications Power Systems Engineer Minimum Qualifications Minimum Education* Bachelor's degree in civil engineering or directly related field Minimum Experience* 2 years of engineering experience in a power utility, or similar field Licensing, Certifications and Other Requirements Washington State Driver's License *Equivalency: 1 year of experience = 1 year of education Power Systems Engineer, Associate Minimum Qualifications Minimum Education* Bachelor's degree in civil engineering or directly related field Minimum Experience* 0-1 years depending upon assignment Licensing, Certifications and Other Requirements AS ASSIGNED: Washington State Driver's License *Equivalency: 1 year of experience = 1 year of education Preferred Qualification: ABET accredited civil engineering program Engineer in Training Knowledge & Skills Basic understanding of Concrete Structures, Soil Mechanics, and Hydraulics.

Heavy civil, geotechnical, structural, or hydropower industry related engineering experience Strong Observational Skills Strong Organizational Skills Strong written and oral communication skills. The successful candidate must have the ability to produce coherent documents submitted to external agencies. The ability to read and interpret engineering drawings.

The ability to analyze and display data to identify statistical trends and relationships with off-the-shelf software or self-written code. Selection Process & Supplemental Information Pay Details: Power Systems Engineer Annual Salary: $113,568.00- $159,910.40 Power Systems Engineer, Associate Annual Salary: $98,280.00- $138,320.00 Employee Benefits | City of Tacoma Tacoma Power Tacoma Power is an almost 100% hydroelectric, municipally-owned public power utility, located in Tacoma. We serve approximately 180,000 customers as one of the three operating divisions of Tacoma Public Utilities, alongside Tacoma Water and Tacoma Rail

As one of the most livable, walkable cities in the country, you'll find that Tacoma is a great fit for all interests with places to bike, run, hike, and explore, the perks of a big city, and the charm of a small town. We welcome you to take a look at our website and discover how the City of Tacoma can make your next career move part of our combined destiny: http://www.cityoftacoma.org/ https://www.mytpu.org/ http://www.traveltacoma.com/ City of Tacoma's Commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion A Commitment to Equity & Diversity At the City of Tacoma, we're on a mission to make our workforce as diverse and inclusive as the community we serve. We actively seek out candidates from a wide range of backgrounds and cultures

Join our team at the City of Tacoma and help us build a more vibrant, inclusive, and equitable community for all. If you have a less traditional background, we want to hear about your transferrable skills and experience. We value a variety of perspectives and are excited to see what you bring to the table.

The Community Tacoma is centrally located just 32 miles south of the city of Seattle and 31 miles north of the state capital, Olympia. The City of Tacoma is also home to the Port of Tacoma, which is among the largest container ports in the United States. Like most cities in the northwest, Tacoma is surrounded by beautiful nature, offering residents many opportunities for outdoor adventures.

Largely suburban in nature with a small, but dense, urban core, Tacoma is home to numerous institutes of higher learning that attract students from across the country. The University of Washington Tacoma, Pacific Lutheran University, University of Puget Sound, a satellite campus of the Evergreen State College, three community/technical colleges, and several trade and business schools are within Tacoma's geographic area. Downtown's Cultural District is the site of the Washington State History Museum, Museum of Glass, the Tacoma Art Museum, and America's Car Museum.

With its affordable housing and distinctive neighborhoods and business districts, the city has been recognized numerous times as a best city to live in the nation. To see a few of the great things Tacoma has to offer, view this YouTube Video. View this exciting video to learn more about the City of Tacoma: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2n5MWl8KFvI Application Process Interested individuals should apply online by completing the application and attaching a resume and cover letter by the closing date and time listed on the job announcement

Applications received without attaching the required materials may not progress in the selection process. Applicants who have the strongest backgrounds related to the responsibilities of this position may be invited to participate in the interview process, which may include a work problem. Appointment is subject to passing a background check.

Get Assistance For assistance with the application process or questions regarding this job announcement please contact the Human Resources office at (253) 591-5400 by 4:00 p.m. of the closing date of the job announcement. For technical difficulties using the NEOGOV system, call the applicant support line at 1-855-524-5627 between 6:00a.m

and 5:00 p.m. Pacific Standard Time. This will allow us to assist you before the job announcement closes

Communication with the City of Tacoma We primarily communicate via email during the application process. Emails from Tacoma.gov and/or governmentjobs.com should be placed on your safe domain list to ensure that you receive notifications in a timely manner. As a precaution, you may also want to check your junk email folders

Note: The provisions of this job announcement do not constitute an expressed or implied contract. Any provision contained herein may be modified and/or revoked without notice


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