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Entry Level Structural Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

AECOM is actively seeking a highly motivated Entry Level Structural Engineer to join our California team . Office location is either in Orange, Los Angeles, San Diego, or Ontario, CA . This position ...

AECOM is actively seeking a highly motivated Entry Level Structural Engineer to join our California team . Office location is either in Orange, Los Angeles, San Diego, or Ontario, CA . This position ...

AECOM is actively seeking a highly motivated Entry Level Structural Engineer to join our California team Office location is either in Orange, Los Angeles, San Diego, or Ontario, CA . This position is ...

As a Structural Engineer you will work with project teams in developing a range of engineering ... As an Entry-Level Structural Engineer , you will work with multi-discipline project teams in ...

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Entry Level Structural Engineer information

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$50K

$99.4K

$152K

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

As of Jun 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level structural engineer in the United States is $99,400.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $80,000.00 and $113,000.00 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 are hiring for Entry Level Structural Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Structural Engineer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Structural Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Structural Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level Structural Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Structural Engineer jobs include:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Structural Engineer job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 1% As Needed, 94% Full Time, 1% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $99,400 per year, or $47.8 per hour.
Entry-Level Structural Engineer

Entry-Level Structural Engineer

Kleinfelder Inc

San Diego, CA • On-site

$64K - $86K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 8 days ago


Kleinfelder rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

271st of 352 rated engineering


Job description

Job Description
Take Your Design Career to the Next Level
Kleinfelder, a Forbes' Top Employer for Engineers in North America, is committed to a people-first culture, technical excellence, and creating opportunities where employees can thrive!
Are you ready to be challenged, make a difference, and experience professional growth in your career? Our collaborative, multidisciplinary group spanning architectural, structural, civil, electrical, mechanical, process engineering, pipeline design, and integrity management works together to deliver integrated, high-impact solutions.
Step into Your New Role
Kleinfelder is currently seeking a Entry-Level Structural Engineer to join our growing our SoCal Area in San Diego, California!
The ideal candidate will participate in and contribute to a diverse range of engineering services in our team-oriented environment providing public and private clients with professional engineering services for structural design projects including Buildings, infrastructure, and retaining walls; developing design calculations, load ratings and specifications. The work is often fast paced with multiple ongoing projects and deliverables, including a wide variety of tasks with competing priorities. The ideal candidate will possess strong oral and written communication skills, excellent inter-personal skills for working in multiple group settings, and a strong desire to learn, grow, and succeed.
Responsibilities would include:
  • Performing analysis and design of structures including seismic analysis
  • Performing spreadsheet calculations using Excel or specific software programs
  • Reviewing shop drawings and performing construction administration duties
  • Reading and interpreting agency standard drawings and specifications
  • Creating technical reports
  • Preparing technical specifications with assistance from senior level staff
  • Performing condition assessment site visits with senior level staff to investigate and asess existing aging structures requiring repair and make recommendations

Education:
  • Bachelor's degree in Civil and/or Structural Engineering from an accredited engineering program. Master's degree preferred.
  • EIT certification or the ability to attain within 6 months of hire

Required Experience:
  • 0 - 3 years experience in structural design calculations and detailing or 2 years related experience with a Master's
  • Experience in the following software/programs: RISA, SAP, Bluebeam, MathCAD, Excel
  • Based in or willing to relocate to San Diego County, California

Following an offer, candidates will be required to satisfactorily complete employment reference checks, verification of professional licensure and/or educational credentials, a motor vehicle report (MVR), and a comprehensive background check.
Move Forward with Kleinfelder: Kleinfelder and its' subsidiaries and affiliates, has been connecting great people to the best work since 1961. We are engineers, scientists, and construction professionals providing solutions that improve our clients' transportation, water, energy, and other private infrastructure. As a responsive, cross-disciplinary team of bright, curious, and innovative problem-solvers, we are dedicated to doing the right thing, every day, on every project from over 110 offices in the US, Canada, and Australia. Connecting great people to the best work is our purpose - together, we deliver.
Progress with an Employer that Values You
Kleinfelder, and its' subsidiaries and affiliates, is an inclusive organization free from discrimination. We are a stronger organization when we are a diverse workforce and believe that through diversity, equity, and inclusion comes creativity, innovation, and unity. We are proud to offer the following:
Benefits:Kleinfelder, and its' subsidiaries and affiliates, offers an excellent compensation and benefits package, including: medical, dental, vision, life insurance, 401(k) plan, and paid holidays. The expected salary range for the position is displayed in accordance with the California Pay Transparency Law. Final agreed upon compensation is based upon individual qualifications and experience. Salary Range: $64,550 - $86,220.
Career Development:We are committed to investing in the professional development of our staff, offering each employee every opportunity to grow, develop, and take control of their career paths. We support these efforts through reimbursements for continuing education as well as many of the expenses associated with trainings and certifications, and opportunities for career development through our internal Mentoring Program.
Equal Opportunity:Kleinfelder, and its' subsidiaries and affiliates, is an Equal Opportunity Employer - Minorities/Women/Disabled/Veterans. (Compliant with the new VEVRAA and Section 503 rules)
NOTICE TO THIRD PARTY AGENCIES
Please note that Kleinfelder, and its' subsidiaries and affiliates, does not accept unsolicited resumes from recruiters or employment agencies. In the absence of a signed Recruitment Fee Agreement, Kleinfelder, and its' subsidiaries and affiliates, will not consider or agree to payment for any referral compensation or recruiter fee. In the event a recruiter or agency submits a resume or candidate without a previously signed agreement, Kleinfelder, and its' subsidiaries and affiliates, explicitly reserves the right to pursue and hire those candidate(s) without any financial obligation to the recruiter or agency. Any unsolicited resume, including those submitted to hiring managers, are deemed to be the property of Kleinfelder.