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Entry Level Structural Engineering Jobs in Chicago, IL

Utility Locator

Chicago, IL

$16.50 - $20.75/hr

HBK Engineering, LLC is a fully licensed, professional engineering design firm headquartered in ... HBK provides civil, environmental, structural, electrical, subsurface utility, construction support ...

Utility Locator

Chicago, IL

$16.50 - $20.75/hr

HBK Engineering, LLC is a fully licensed, professional engineering design firm headquartered in ... HBK provides civil, environmental, structural, electrical, subsurface utility, construction support ...

... engineering, manufacturing, and in-house logistics. We're proud of our Tier 1 supplier legacy for manufacturing propulsion-agnostic, structural automotive components, and assemblies around the globe.

... engineering, manufacturing, and in-house logistics. We're proud of our Tier 1 supplier legacy for manufacturing propulsion-agnostic, structural automotive components, and assemblies around the globe.

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Showing results 1-20

Entry Level Structural Engineering information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$51.5K

$102.5K

$156.7K

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

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level structural engineering in Chicago, IL is $102,477.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $82,500.00 and $116,500.00 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 Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Structural Engineering jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Structural Engineering jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Structural Engineering jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Entry Level Structural Engineering jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Entry Level Structural Engineering job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Structural Engineering job openings in Chicago, IL as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 80% In-person, 7% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $102,477 per year, or $49.3 per hour.
Engineer, In-Vessel Visual Inspection

Engineer, In-Vessel Visual Inspection

Constellation Energy

Crest Hill, IL • On-site

$87K - $154K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 days ago


Constellation Energy rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 96 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

12th of 74 rated oil and gas companies


Job description

Who We Are

As the largest private-sector power producer in the world and the nation's largest producer of clean and reliable energy, Constellation is focused on our purpose: lighting the way to a brilliant tomorrow for all. We have been the leader in clean energy production for more than a decade, and we are cultivating a workplace where our employees can grow, thrive, and contribute. Now integrated with Calpine, our portfolio includes 55 gigawatts of capacity from nuclear, natural gas, geothermal, hydro, wind and solar facilities, with the generating capacity to power the equivalent of 27 million homes.
Our culture and employee experience make it clear: We are powered by passion and purpose. Together, we're creating healthier communities and a cleaner planet, and our people are the driving force behind our success. At Constellation, you can build a fulfilling career with opportunities to learn, grow and make an impact. By doing our best work and meeting new challenges, we can accomplish great things. Join us in meeting the country's energy needs today and tomorrow.

Total Rewards

Constellation offers an extensive selection of benefits and rewards to help our employees thrive professionally and personally. We provide competitive compensation and a wide-range of benefits that support both employees and their families, helping them prepare for the future. In addition to highly competitive salaries, eligible employees are offered a bonus program, 401(k) with company match, employee stock purchase program comprehensive medical, dental and vision benefits, including robust wellbeing programs disability and life insurance benefits paid time off for vacation, holidays, and sick days and much more.

***This Engineering role can be filled at the Entry, Mid-level, or Senior Engineer level. Please see minimum qualifications list below for each level***

Expected salary range:

Entry-Level - $87,000

Mid-Level - $92,700 - $114,000

Sr Level - $122,400- $154,000

Ranges are per year based on experience, along with a comprehensive benefits package that includes bonus and 401K.

Primary Purpose of Position

Responsible for performing engineering and technical tasks, under general supervision, in support of nuclear plant operations.


Primary Duties and Accountabilities

  • Perform engineering and technical tasks as assigned by supervision applying general engineering principles
  • Assure all engineering products prepared are in accordance with applicable safety analyses, industry codes, engineering specifications and all regulatory requirements.
  • Participate in the development and implementation of effective processes and techniques at appropriate levels of detail and in compliance with established policies and procedures.
  • Recommend format and methodology improvements to standard processes and procedures.
  • Perform other job assignments and duties as directed by management or pursuant to company policy, including but not limited to emergency response, departmental coverage, call outs, and support of outage activities in positions outside the department.

Minimum Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Chemical, Civil/Structural, Electrical, Industrial, Mechanical or Nuclear) with 2 years of nuclear experience or related engineering experience
  • Maintain minimum access requirements or unescorted access requirements, as applicable, and favorable medical examination and/or testing in accordance with position duties

Preferred Qualifications

  • Engineer in training certification
  • Good grasp of techniques and a good understanding of the fundamental functions performed by the group

What Constellation Energy employees say

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