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Entry Level Structural Engineer Jobs in Ruston, LA

The Civil Structural Engineer is an entry-level position working for HGA at our office in Ruston, LA. We are seeking qualified candidates for this position. This position is responsible for assisting ...

Entry Level Structural Engineer information

See Ruston, LA salary details

$40.4K

$80.2K

$122.7K

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

As of May 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level structural engineer in Ruston, LA is $80,238.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $64,600.00 and $91,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 cities near Ruston, LA are hiring for Entry Level Structural Engineer jobs? Cities near Ruston, LA with the most Entry Level Structural Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Structural Engineer job openings in Ruston, LA as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 96% Full Time, 1% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 74% Physical, 13% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $80,238 per year, or $38.6 per hour.
Civil Engineer

Civil Engineer

HGA

Ruston, LA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

The Civil Structural Engineer is an entry-level position working for HGA at our office in Ruston, LA. We are seeking qualified candidates for this position.
This position is responsible for assisting in the development and execution of civil/structural engineering for projects assigned. Responsible for preparing and review of construction drawings. Directly involved with the Designer in the development of 3D graphic modeling work. Supports construction and procurement with preparation of drawings and material take-offs.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
• Generation of calculations for the Civil and Structural projects
• Create drawings using Autocad/Cadworks or Civil 3D.
• Learn how to use the 3D scanner or total station to obtain field information.
• Assess the requirements of a project, break a project into tasks, and work with other engineers.
• Prepare engineering calculations for stormwater adhering to state/local requirements in support of detailed plans and construction documents.
• Checks all technical drawings for accuracy.
• Maintains communications between other engineers, designers, and other disciplines.
• Generates all appropriate discipline communication records for proper dissemination of project information.
• Increase communications as the workload increases.
• May serve as a field engineer during construction.
Requirements:
EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE
• B.S. in Civil Engineering from accredited university
• 0-3 years of experience in Civil/Structural design
• Knowledge of engineering practices, design details, international codes and standards, procedures, and specifications
• Knowledge of AutoCAD 2018 or newer version and 3-D drawing is preferred and Civil 3D.
• Experience in designing concrete and steel using STAAD Pro, RISA, or other computer software.
• Experience with a consulting engineering firm preferred.
• Proficiency in MS Windows, MS outlook, MS Excel, MS Word
• Candidates must be local to the Northern Louisiana area
SKILLS & ABILITIES
• Self-Starter
• Ability to react promptly and efficiently to shifting priorities, demands, and timelines through analytical and problem-solving capabilities.
• Ability to elicit cooperation from a variety of sources including team members, subcontractors, and other departments.
• Ability to bring projects and tasks to successful completion through political sensitivity.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, interpersonal skills, leadership skills, and presentation skills.
• Customer service skills an asset.
• Ability to effectively prioritize and execute tasks in a high-pressure environment.
• Ability to manage time and resources efficiently.
• Capability and willingness to learn, understand, and apply new technologies.
HGA is an Equal Opportunity Employer
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identify, national origin, or protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Veterans/Disabled

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About HGA

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Architectural services

Company size

501 - 1,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Minneapolis, MN, US

Year founded

1953