Entry Level Structural Engineering Jobs in Champaign, IL

MSA is seeking a motivated and collaborative Graduate Engineer - Structural to join our growing structural team. This entry-level opportunity is ideal for a recent engineering graduate who is passionate about designing meaningful public infrastructure and community-focused facilities. In this role, you'll contribute to projects that directly improve how communities live, work, and connect - including municipal buildings, water and wastewater facilities, waterfront structures, parks and recreation amenities, and storage/tank structures.

You'll work alongside experienced structural engineers, architects, and multidisciplinary teams to help deliver innovative, sustainable, and practical solutions for municipalities and infrastructure clients in communities we live, work and play in. From concept development through construction, you'll gain hands-on experience while building a strong technical foundation and growing your professional engineering career.

MSA Professional Services is 100% employee-owned, meaning every employee has a direct stake in the success of the company. This ownership mindset drives our collaborative culture, long-term thinking, and commitment to delivering high-quality work for the communities we serve.

• Assist with the structural design and analysis of buildings and infrastructure-related structures.
• Support projects involving municipal facilities, water and wastewater treatment plants, waterfront and marine structures, parks and recreation facilities, and tank/storage structures.
• Perform engineering calculations and develop construction documents under the supervision of licensed engineers.
• Utilize structural analysis and modeling software, BIM/CADD platforms, and other engineering tools to support project delivery.
• Assist with preparing technical reports, specifications, and engineering studies.

• Participate in field investigations, condition assessments, and construction observation activities.
• Review shop drawings, respond to contractor questions, and document field conditions during construction.
• Coordinate with multidisciplinary teams including civil, transportation, mechanical, electrical, and environmental professionals.
• Attend project meetings and interact with clients, contractors, and regulatory agencies alongside senior staff.

• Build foundational knowledge in structural engineering principles, industry standards, and municipal infrastructure design.
• Develop technical communication, project coordination, and problem-solving skills through mentorship and hands-on project experience.
• Pursue professional licensure goals, including obtaining Engineer-in-Training (EIT) certification.

• Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering with a structural emphasis or related engineering field from an ABET-accredited program.
• Foundational understanding of structural engineering principles and building systems.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and familiarity with structural analysis, BIM, or CADD software.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team-oriented environment while managing multiple assignments.

• Internship or cooperative education experience in structural engineering or consulting.
• Exposure to Revit, AutoCAD, RISA, RAM, STAAD, SAP2000, or similar structural software platforms.
• Interest in municipal, industrial, and infrastructure-related building design.
• Engineer-in-Training (EIT) certification or ability to obtain within six months of hire.

Ideal Candidate Profile

• The ideal candidate is curious, detail-oriented, and excited to learn from experienced mentors while contributing to projects that serve the public good. They are energized by solving technical challenges, collaborating across disciplines, and seeing their work positively impact communities.

Eligible employees also receive a comprehensive benefits package, including:

• Compensation Range: $62k to $100k (commensurate with experience)

• Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) - As a 100% employee-owned company, eligible employees receive company shares at no cost

• 401(k) Retirement Plan - Generous employer match that is immediately 100% vested

• Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance for employees and eligible dependents

• Paid Time Off - Minimum of 17 days in the first year

• Paid Holidays - 8 holidays annually

• Paid Parental Leave - 2 weeks for both parents, with additional paid leave for birth parents

• Employer-Paid Insurance - Life, short-term disability, and long-term disability coverage

• Short-Term Incentive Program (STIP) - Annual performance-based bonus opportunity

MSA is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

MSA is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace and encourages candidates from all backgrounds to apply.

If you require a reasonable accommodation during the application or interview process, please contact hr@msa-ps.com so we can assist you.