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Entry Level Structural Engineer Jobs in Lafayette, LA

Entry Level Plumbing Engineer

Lafayette, LA · On-site

$67K - $85K/yr

Entry Level Plumbing Engineer At Salas O'Brien we tell our clients that we're engineered for impact ... types as well as structural and building sciences, infrastructure asset management, advanced ...

Entry Level Structural Engineer information

See Lafayette, LA salary details

$47.7K

$94.9K

$145.2K

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

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level structural engineer in Lafayette, LA is $94,925.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $76,400.00 and $107,900.00 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 Lafayette, LA? For Entry Level Structural Engineer jobs in Lafayette, LA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Structural Engineer jobs in Lafayette, LA look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Structural Engineer jobs in Lafayette, LA are:
What cities near Lafayette, LA are hiring for Entry Level Structural Engineer jobs? Cities near Lafayette, LA with the most Entry Level Structural Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Structural Engineer job openings in Lafayette, LA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 89% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $94,925 per year, or $45.6 per hour.
Entry Level Plumbing Engineer

Entry Level Plumbing Engineer

Salas O'Brien, Inc.

Lafayette, LA

$67K - $85K/yr

Full-time

Posted 28 days ago


Salas O'Brien rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 12 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

235th of 442 rated engineering


Job description

Entry Level Plumbing Engineer

At Salas O’Brien we tell our clients that we’re engineered for impact. This passion for making a difference applies just as much to our team as it does to our projects. That’s why we’re committed to living our values every day: inspiring, achieving, and connecting as shared owners of our success with a focus on a sustainable future.

Building for the long-term means that all of our team members can expect to work on amazing projects with a people-first approach to problem solving. It also means that each member of our team has truly limitless potential to build a unique, meaningful, and high-impact career—and they’ll receive great total rewards along the way.

About Us:

Founded in 1975, Salas O’Brien is an employee-owned engineering and professional services firm focused on achieving impact for our clients, our team, and the world. We know that tomorrow’s requirements are today’s opportunities, and we are here to design lasting solutions for pressing challenges.

We work across a variety of industries providing integrated engineering and consulting services. Our specialized experience includes design for data centers, healthcare, science and technology, high-rise buildings, clean energy, education, and other building types as well as structural and building sciences, infrastructure asset management, advanced robotics, and more.

Our technical expertise is paired with an exceptional team of business development, human resources, finance and accounting, information technology, and marketing professionals, all of whom play a key role in bringing our commitments to life every day.

Job Summary:

The Entry Level Plumbing Engineer serves to engage in all phases of a project from programming to construction document development to construction administration. This involvement is intended to grow individuals and nurture design talents. You’ll be part of a team that provides creative solutions that build success for our clients and employees. Your role will include developing and sustaining relationships with in-house teams and contractors while providing technical solutions through design and consulting services that address the facility manager and/or owner’s requirements.

In this role, you will:

  • Clearly communicate design recommendations to our clients, project teams, construction contractors and vendors in presentations, meetings, via email and phone as necessary
  • Work independently or as part of a team on projects with other technical staff to develop the mechanical systems designs that are needed, assuring that the work is accurate and coordinated, and that the quality assurance measures have been followed.
  • Participate in plumbing department standard development and maintenance
  • Assist the work of other engineers and designers as a design Engineer to generate project deliverables.
  • You will be a great fit if:
  • You have a minimum of a BS in Mechanical Engineering.
  • You can provide timely services that meet the needs of the clients and the overall project schedule requirements

Skills/abilities:

  • Able to work within a project team to efficiently produce project 3-D Revit models and construction documents of building plumbing systems
  • Able to implement and utilize project specific model and drawing standards
  • Can effectively coordinate work with other project team members
  • Exhibit excellent problem-solving skills, able to find creative, innovative solutions to challenges.
  • Have excellent listening, written and verbal communication skills, and is sensitive situations where it is necessary to effectively communicate and coordinate with others
  • Have excellent teamwork skills
  • Be effective at handling multiple tasks
  • Be able to quickly adapt to changes
  • Demonstrate a high standard of professionalism and customer service

Location: Lafayette, LA

Travel: Less than 10%

Benefits:

This role is also eligible for performance-based bonuses and a comprehensive U.S. based benefits package, including:

  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Paid time off and company holidays
  • Wellness programs and employee assistance resources
  • Professional development support

For more information, visit our full benefits overview here.

Equal Opportunity Employment Statement

Salas O’Brien provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, colour, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state/provincial, or local laws. Salas O’Brien will accommodate the disability-related needs of applicants as required by law.

Third-Party Agency Notice
Salas O’Brien does not accept unsolicited resumes from external recruiters or agencies. We only work with approved partners engaged directly by our Talent Acquisition team for specific searches. Unsolicited submissions will not be eligible for placement fees.


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