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Entry Level Structural Engineering Jobs in Rhode Island

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Entry Level Structural Engineering information

See Rhode Island salary details

$49K

$97.3K

$148.9K

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

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level structural engineering in Rhode Island is $97,344.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $78,300.00 and $110,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 Rhode Island?

The most popular types of Structural Engineering jobs in Rhode Island are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Structural Engineering jobs in Rhode Island?

For Entry Level Structural Engineering jobs in Rhode Island, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Structural Engineering jobs in Rhode Island look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Structural Engineering jobs in Rhode Island are:

Entry Level Structural Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Structural Engineering job openings in Rhode Island as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 67% In-person, and 33% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $97,344 per year, or $46.8 per hour.

Entry Level Structural Designer - 2027 Graduate

Providence, RI • On-site

VHB
Civil Engineering Construction • 1 - 5K employees
Learn more about VHBexternal

$81K - $83K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 14 days ago

VHB rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Overview
ABOUT THE POSITION
Are you a 2027 graduate? VHB's Providence, RI office is seeking an entry-level Structural Designer to join our Structures and Bridge team within our Transportation practice.
Learn more about our Structures practice at VHB: Bridges & Structures | VHB
Responsibilities
  • Perform conceptual, preliminary, and final design of bridges, retaining walls, and simple vertical structures including traffic sign and signal supports
  • Perform bridge inspections and load capacity ratings
  • Perform bridge scoping studies and alternatives analyses
  • Drafting of project details and plans using MicroStation software platforms
  • Calculate construction item quantities and cost estimates
  • Develop construction contract documents and specifications

Skills and Attributes
  • Effective and comfortable in a highly collaborative team environment
  • Strong technical skills
  • Excellent verbal, written and interpersonal communication skills
  • Self-motivated and willing to take responsibility
  • Excellent attention to detail and a strong commitment to quality
  • Eager to learn and take on technical challenges

Qualifications
  • BS in Civil Engineering (structural emphasis)
  • 0-1 years of experience

The full-time annual base salary range for this position, located in Rhode Island, is $81,000 to $83,000. The base salary offered will be determined based on job-related factors, including geographic location, internal equity, experience, credentials, skills, education, work schedule, and other factors permitted by law. The posted salary range reflects base pay only. Additional compensation and benefits available to eligible employees are outlined in our Total Rewards Program.
Annual base salary is one component of VHB's Total Rewards package. In addition to base pay, eligible employees may receive annual incentive compensation bonuses, spot bonuses, and merit-based salary increases, providing opportunities to increase earnings beyond base pay. VHB also offers a differentiating work experience, including a comprehensive benefits package that includes eligibility to participate in the VHB 401(k) plan, medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance, wellness programs, tuition reimbursement, and recognition programs.
Details on VHB's benefits package can be found here: Benefits Checklist
Building what's next, together.
Our people make the difference. We foster a technology-empowered, people-driven, future-ready culture where agility, innovation, and collaboration shape how we work every day.
When you join VHB, you'll find:
  • Meaningful work on complex projects with real community impact
  • A collaborative, inclusive culture that values curiosity and shared success
  • Support to grow your skills and lead through change
  • Learning and development supported by evolving tools and technologies, including AI
  • Best-in-class benefits and a flexible, hybrid work environment

We're growing across the East Coast and are consistently recognized as a great place to work. Ready to shape what's next? Learn more about what sets our employee experience apart and connect with us.
VHB is a proud Equal Opportunity Employer. Since our founding, we have intentionally fostered a culture of inclusion and belonging, supported by deep-rooted core values, one of which is diversity. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or other characteristics protected by law.
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#LI-Hybrid

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