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Entry Level Structural Engineering Jobs in Montana

... civil/structural engineering field. * National Highway Institute (NHI) coursework (Fracture ... Association of Diving Contractors International (ADCI) Entry Level Tender/Diver, Air Diver, or Air ...

... civil/structural engineering field. * National Highway Institute (NHI) coursework (Fracture ... Association of Diving Contractors International (ADCI) Entry Level Tender/Diver, Air Diver, or Air ...

Entry Level Structural Engineering information

See Montana salary details

$45.9K

$91.2K

$139.5K

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

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level structural engineering in Montana is $91,234.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $73,400.00 and $103,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What types of projects and responsibilities can an entry-level structural engineer expect in their first year?

As an entry-level structural engineer, you can expect to work on a variety of tasks such as assisting with calculations, drafting structural plans using CAD software, and helping to prepare project documentation. You'll likely support senior engineers in conducting site visits, reviewing construction drawings, and ensuring compliance with building codes. Collaboration with architects, contractors, and other engineers is common, offering valuable exposure to multidisciplinary teamwork. Over time, you'll gradually take on more independent tasks as you build your technical knowledge and confidence.

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 background in civil or structural engineering, typically with a bachelor's degree in engineering and understanding of fundamental design principles. Familiarity with industry-standard software such as AutoCAD, Revit, and structural analysis tools like SAP2000 or ETABS, as well as passing the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam, is usually expected. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication skills help you excel in project collaboration and client interactions. These competencies ensure the safety, reliability, and efficiency of structural designs while supporting project success within multidisciplinary teams.

What does an entry level structural engineer do?

An entry level structural engineer assists in designing and analyzing structures like buildings, bridges, and other infrastructure to ensure they are safe and stable. They typically work under the supervision of experienced engineers, helping with calculations, preparing drawings, and reviewing construction materials. Their work often involves using computer-aided design (CAD) software and collaborating with architects and construction teams. Entry level structural engineers also help ensure projects comply with relevant codes and regulations, and they may visit construction sites to observe progress or resolve issues.

What is the difference between Entry Level Structural Engineering vs Civil Engineering?

AspectEntry Level Structural EngineeringCivil Engineering
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Structural or Civil Engineering, Engineer-in-Training (EIT) certificationBachelor's in Civil Engineering, EIT certification
Work EnvironmentDesign firms, construction sites, consulting companiesTransportation, environmental, construction, and design projects
Industry UsageSpecializes in structural design and analysis of buildings and bridgesBroader scope including infrastructure, transportation, and environmental projects

Entry Level Structural Engineering focuses specifically on designing and analyzing structures like buildings and bridges, requiring specialized knowledge in structural systems. Civil Engineering covers a wider range of infrastructure projects, including transportation and environmental work. Both roles often require similar credentials and work environments, but structural engineering is more specialized within the civil engineering field.

What are the most commonly searched types of Structural Engineering jobs in Montana? The most popular types of Structural Engineering jobs in Montana are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Structural Engineering jobs in Montana? For Entry Level Structural Engineering jobs in Montana, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Structural Engineering jobs in Montana look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Structural Engineering jobs in Montana are:
What cities in Montana are hiring for Entry Level Structural Engineering jobs? Cities in Montana with the most Entry Level Structural Engineering job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Structural Engineering job openings in Montana as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 92% In-person, and 8% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $91,234 per year, or $43.9 per hour.
Civil Engineering Specialist - Bridge Design

Civil Engineering Specialist - Bridge Design

State of Montana

Helena, MT • Hybrid

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 28 days ago


State Of Montana rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 48 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

1st of 50 rated states


Job description

The Montana Department of Transportation (MDT) is recruiting for a Civil Engineering Specialist in the Bridge Bureau in Helena. 

Joining the MDT Bridge Bureau means joining a committed and loyal team of approximately sixty professionals in the bridge design, bridge management, bridge inspection, and bridge project management fields. We serve with pride and use our guiding principles of engineering excellence, teamwork, and innovation to provide outstanding customer service to the people of Montana. The wide breadth of experience within the Bridge Bureau provides an exceptional environment to develop your leadership, engineering, and project management skills, all while having the support and collaboration of the best bridge engineering staff in the state.

As part of our team, you can expect to be treated with respect and professionalism. The work we do is critical to public safety, and you will find a strong team in the Bridge Bureau to help support your professional success. Recognition at all levels is commonplace, laughter and positive reinforcement is frequent, and you can look forward to the reward of solving highly complex and critical structural engineering challenges that make a difference in the lives of everyday Montanans.

This position is part of a career ladder with career advancement opportunities.

For a full job description, please contact Morgan Stibi at mstibi@mt.gov. 

Benefits of working for MDT and the State of Montana include:

  • Culture of public service and a commitment to work/life balance
  • Potential hybrid remote work arrangement available 
  • Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance
  • Access to Montana Health Centers, low-cost clinics for state employees and their families
  • State Retirement plan and additional savings opportunities (deferred compensation)
  • Employees in this position receive overtime compensation or compensatory time for all time in a pay status over 40 hours in a workweek
  • Paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays
  • Eligibility for Public Service Student Loan Forgiveness
  • Benefits apply on first day of employment
  • Relocation assistance may be offered to the successful candidate at the time of offer

For information on the Montana Department of Transportation's mission, vision, and values, please visit our website: https://www.mdt.mt.gov/about.aspx#values 

Required Education and Experience:

All levels require a combination of education and experience equivalent to Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering, Civil Engineering Technology, or a closely related field of study. Related degrees may include Environmental Engineering, Geologic/Geotechnical Engineering, Materials Engineer, Mechanical Engineering, or Engineering Science

Entry Level - Civil Engineering Specialist Level 1 

Prior work experience is not required for entry level.

Mid-Level - Civil Engineering Specialist Level 2 

This position also requires a minimum of 6 months to 2 years of engineering or directly related work experience.

Certifications, licensure, or other credentials include: Proof of passage of the Fundamental Engineering Exam (FE).

Top Level - Civil Engineering Specialist Level 3 

This position also requires a minimum of 2 years to 4 years of engineering or directly related work experience.

Certifications, licensure, or other credentials include: Proof of passage of the Fundamental Engineering Exam (FE), Engineering Intern Certification (EIT), or licensed Professional Engineer.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

  • This position requires advanced knowledge of the theory, principles, methods and techniques of Civil Engineering and the associated mathematics and physical sciences, especially the methods and practices of bridge structural design.
  • This position must be familiar with AASHTO Design Specifications and standards, Bridge Bureau standards and policies, industry guidelines and practices, and bridge and road construction methods.
  • The employee must have demonstrated skills at performing engineering analyses; and applying engineering concepts, techniques and procedures to a variety of situations and circumstances.
  • The incumbent must be skilled at evaluating structural calculations and contract documents for clarity, accuracy, completeness and constructability; and identifying construction and design conflicts.
  • This position requires skill at applying engineering judgement when interpreting design guidelines and standards.
  • Skilled at preparing calculations, reports, and other documentation necessary to complete a design project.
  • This position requires skill in the use of office engineering instruments including computers and handheld calculators.
  • Effective written and verbal communication skills are also necessary for preparing plans and sharing information with designers, engineers, non-technical personnel, and the public.

Required Application Materials:

  • A resume detailing your qualifications and work history.
  • A cover letter of no more than two pages addressing your qualifications for the position.
  • Your online application and all required materials must be submitted before midnight on the closing date. Ensure all materials submitted are selected as "Relevant."

If you need an accommodation with the application process, please contact the HR representative listed above.

Other Information: 

  • Driver's record will be verified. Successful applicants will be required to sign a release form which authorizes the Department to obtain the applicant's permanent driving records. Compliance with Mont. Admin. R. 2.6.201, "State Vehicle Use," and MDT Policy #6.03.001, "State Vehicle Use Policy" are conditions of employment.
  • This position is being posted in accordance with the bargaining unit agreement. Non-bargaining unit employees or employees of another bargaining unit may apply. If the position is not filled with a bargaining unit applicant, the non-bargaining unit applicants may be considered. However, bargaining unit applicants will have preference.
  • The Montana Department of Transportation is an equal opportunity employer. Women, racial and ethnic minorities, people with disabilities, and veterans and disabled veterans are encouraged to apply. People with disabilities needing assistance in the application process, or those needing this job announcement in an alternative format may call the Human Resources and Occupational Safety Division, at 406.444.6054.
  • The Montana Department of Transportation (MDT) is committed to continuous improvement of our employee safety program and our safety and health processes, and to achieving an injury-free workplace.
  • Effective 5/26/2026, MDT is participating in E-Verify to confirm employment eligibility. After accepting a job offer and completing Form I-9, your information will be submitted to the Department of Homeland Security and Social Security Administration for verification. For more information about E-Verify, please visit the E-Verify website found here, https://www.e-verify.gov.
     

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