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Entry Level Structural Engineering Jobs in Chicago, IL

GFT.

Entry Level Bridge Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$75K - $85K/yr

GFT is seeking an Entry Level Bridge Engineer to join our Transportation group in Chicago or ... Bachelor's Degree in Civil or Structural Engineering from an ABET-accredited program. * 0-1 years ...

New

GFT.

Entry Level Bridge Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$75K - $85K/yr

GFT is seeking an Entry Level Bridge Engineer to join our Transportation group in Chicago or ... Bachelor's Degree in Civil or Structural Engineering from an ABET-accredited program. * 0-1 years ...

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All JobsStructural Engineering JobsEntry Level Structural Engineering JobsEntry Level Structural Engineering Jobs in Chicago, IL

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 Sep 14, 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 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 Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Structural Engineering jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Structural Engineering jobs in Chicago, IL?

For Entry Level Structural Engineering jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles 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:

Entry Level Structural Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Structural Engineering job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $102,396 per year, or $49.2 per hour.

Entry Level Bridge Engineer

Chicago, IL • On-site

GFT.
Construction • 1 - 5K employees
Learn more about GFT.external

$75K - $85K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago

New

Job description

GFT is seeking an Entry Level Bridge Engineer to join our Transportation group in Chicago or Schaumburg, IL. This role follows a hybrid work model, requiring 3 days of onsite attendance per week. 

Working on the bridge team at GFT offers the opportunity to engage in transformative projects that enhance transportation infrastructure and improve community connectivity. Whether working on highways and bridges or traffic engineering, our team excels in resilient, sustainable design and construction, delivering innovative solutions that address the complexities of modern, multimodal roadway systems and ensure safe, efficient, and reliable travel for all. Explore some of our signature bridge projects here.  

What you’ll be challenged to do:

As an entry level bridge engineer, you will support the design and evaluation of bridge and transportation structures, working closely with senior staff on a variety of assignments. You’ll help prepare construction documents, perform calculations, gather cost estimate information, and assist with inspections and technical reports. This is a collaborative, growth-oriented role designed for those early in their career.

December 2026 and Spring 2027 graduates are encouraged to apply!

In this capacity, the successful candidate will be responsible for the following:

  • Support preparation of plans, details, and specifications for bridge projects.
  • Assist in structural design and analysis under the direction of senior engineers.
  • Perform calculations, quantity take-offs and cost estimates.
  • Perform load rating analyses and assist in the preparation of load rating reports.
  • Prepare technical reports and inspection documentation.
  • Assist with shop drawing reviews and help ensure compliance with contract documents.
  • Perform field inspection on a variety of bridge and tunnel structures.
  • Prepare inspection documentation and perform reporting tasks.
  • Use CADD to develop construction plans.

In this capacity, the successful candidate will be responsible for the following:

  • Support preparation of plans, details, and specifications for bridge projects.
  • Assist in structural design and analysis under the direction of senior engineers.
  • Perform calculations, quantity take-offs and cost estimates.
  • Perform load rating analyses and assist in the preparation of load rating reports.
  • Prepare technical reports and inspection documentation.
  • Assist with shop drawing reviews and help ensure compliance with contract documents.
  • Perform field inspection on a variety of bridge and tunnel structures.
  • Prepare inspection documentation and perform reporting tasks.
  • Use CADD to develop construction plans.


What you will bring to our firm: 

  • Bachelor’s Degree in Civil or Structural Engineering from an ABET-accredited program.
  • 0–1 years of bridge design experience or demonstrated interest in structural engineering through applied academic coursework, past internships, or work experiences.
  • Experience using CADD tools such as AutoCAD, Civil 3D, or MicroStation.
  • Working knowledge of structural design software and plan development processes.
  • Proficiency in MS Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Outlook).
  • Good communication and teamwork skills with interest in growing technical knowledge.
  • Physically capable of performing field work including working at heights, carrying ladders and gear, working in adverse weather conditions, etc.
  • Valid Driver's License and ability to travel to project sites as needed.

What we prefer you bring: 

  • Passed the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam.
  • Interest in pursuing licensure.


Compensation:

The salary range for this role is $75,000 to $85,000; Salary is dependent upon experience and geographic location.

Featured Benefits: 
• Hybrid (in-person and remote) work environment.
• Comprehensive benefits package including wellness programs, parental leave, and pet insurance, in addition to medical, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance.
• Tax-deferred 401(k) savings plan.
• Competitive paid-time-off (PTO) accrual.
• Tuition reimbursement for continued education.
• Commitment to professional development, access to internal and external training programs, and support of active participation in professional organizations
• Incentive compensation for eligible positions.

At GFT, a privately held AEC firm, we innovate where transportation, water, power, and buildings converge. We call this the Infrastructure of Life. We measure our success by the strength of our relationships – that’s why we’re the employer of choice for 5,000+ of the industry’s brightest engineers, planners, architects, inspectors, designers, and more.

Our clients choose us for our expertise and prefer us for our nimble approach, creativity, and personal touch. Backed by over a century’s experience, together we’re building a lasting legacy for future generations: stronger communities, a healthier planet, and better lives.
GFT: Ingenuity That Shapes Lives™ is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veterans’ status or other characteristics protected by law.


Unsolicited resumes from third party agencies will be considered the property GFT.

Sponsorship is not being offered for this position.


Location: Chicago, IL; Schaumburg, IL
Core Business Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Employment Status: Full-Time


GFT does require the successful completion of a criminal background check for all advertised positions.


"California Applicants"
Applicants in the County of Los Angeles - Qualified applications with arrest or conviction records will be considered for employment in accordance with the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers and the California Fair Chance Act.
Applicants in the City of San Francisco - Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.
Applicants in the State of California - Qualified applications with arrest or conviction records will be considered for employment in accordance with the California Fair Chance Act.
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