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Entry Level Structural Engineering Jobs in Placentia, CA

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Entry Level Structural Engineering information

See Placentia, CA salary details

$52.6K

$104.6K

$160K

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

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level structural engineering in Placentia, CA is $104,609.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $84,200.00 and $118,900.00 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 popular job titles related to Entry Level Structural Engineering jobs in Placentia, CA? For Entry Level Structural Engineering jobs in Placentia, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Structural Engineering jobs in Placentia, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Structural Engineering jobs in Placentia, CA are:
What cities near Placentia, CA are hiring for Entry Level Structural Engineering jobs? Cities near Placentia, CA 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 Placentia, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $104,609 per year, or $50.3 per hour.

Entry Level - Structural Designer

KPFF Consulting Engineers

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$77K - $87K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 21 days ago

Job description

Company Description
At KPFF Consulting Engineers, we are more than just an engineering design firm. For over 60 years, we have dedicated ourselves to innovative, sustainable engineering that shapes the built environment and tackles complex infrastructure challenges. Our team culture emphasizes balance, growth, and well-being, supporting each member's professional journey with flexibility, generous benefits, and a collaborative approach to work-life integration.
With over 1,400 professionals across 27 offices nationwide, KPFF's decentralized structure allows each office the flexibility to pursue projects aligned with their regional strengths. Learn more at www.kpff.com.
Job Description
KPFF is looking for full-time structural engineering professionals who are self-motivated and eager to deepen their knowledge of structural engineering while gaining real-world experience.
Our engineers work in a team structure that allows frequent collaboration and connection to all layers of our organization, from interns to Principals. We foster a culture where our engineers collaborate outside of the project work through social events, educational programs and technical training. We provide numerous opportunities for professional growth, learning, and teaching. Individual accomplishments and successful projects determine your future at KPFF, and your dedication and talent will drive your career here.
Benefits
KPFF is proud to provide our employees with benefits options that fit their unique lives, including:
  • Medical insurance options to choose from, VSP Vision Insurance, and Delta Dental Insurance
  • 7 paid holidays, and 2 floating holidays for you to use each year
  • 2 weeks vacation annually, with competitive seniority based accruals
  • 2 weeks of personal and sick time to care for yourself and your family members
  • KPFF will contribute 3% of your base salary to your 401 (k) regardless of your contribution
  • KPFF Paid Family Leave: Provides 60% of your base salary while on an approved leave for up to 6 weeks in a rolling 12-month period
  • 40-hour work schedule, Monday through Friday
  • Flexible scheduling - core hours of collaboration are 9:30-3:30 PM
  • Those who earn their CA PE or SE at KPFF receive a licensing bonus in addition to testing fee reimbursement
  • Monthly Cell Phone stipend
  • Monthly Way We Work stipend for remote work and transit expenses
  • Semi-annual Bonuses
  • Opportunities for educational events, relationship building, and fun!

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
  • Basic knowledge of engineering fundamentals
  • Excellent interpersonal communication and professional demeanor
  • Effectively work on a team with individuals of varying backgrounds and experiences
  • Exceptional written and verbal communication skills
  • Solid technical skills
  • Ability to independently plan, document, organize, and engage in problem solving
  • Excellent research and information gathering skills

Salary
Pay Range $77,000-$87,000 salary depending on education.
Qualifications
Minimum Qualifications
  • BS in Civil Engineering (with an emphasis in Structures)
  • Transcripts must show completed courses in: Concrete, Steel, or Wood Design
  • No full-time work experience is required

Preferred Qualifications
  • 3.0 Cumulative GPA or above in Bachelor's coursework
  • Master's degree in Civil Engineering with an emphasis in Structures is preferred
  • Candidates with transcripts showing completed graduate coursework in:
    • Structural Design
    • Steel or Wood Design
    • Concrete
    • Seismic
  • Previous intern or full-time experience in a Structural or Civil Engineering role is preferred
  • EIT Certification

Additional Information
Application Process
If you are interested in this position, please apply on our careers page. Resumes sent elsewhere will not be considered.
Please provide transcripts for all undergraduate and graduate courses as well as a cover letter. In your cover letter (PDF) please respond to the following prompts:
  • Why have you decided to pursue Structural Engineering?
  • Should you be selected, what are your goals & interests for this internship?

Physical Demands and Work Environment
  • Duties are performed in a normal office environment while sitting at a desk or computer table.
  • Duties require the ability to actively engage with a computer for several hours per day.
  • May occasionally need to lift items up to 15 lbs.
  • Duties require in-person attendance, Monday through Friday, during our business hours of 8 AM to 5 PM at our office in Downtown Los Angeles for the training period.
  • Following a satisfactory training period a hybrid schedule of 2 days per week in the office may be accommodated.

Our Employees
Our employees are valued and empowered, collaborative and team oriented, innovative in their approach and passionate about their work. They are reliable, trustworthy and open with a high level of integrity. They value diversity, are inclusive and are committed to critically thinking through problems and finding solutions.
Our Offices
Our Greater Los Angeles Structural office has two locations at the Bloc in Downtown Los Angeles and at the Irvine Towers in Irvine. A warm and friendly environment, we are dedicated to growing with our employees and allowing people to pursue their passions.
KPFF Consulting Engineers participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S.
KPFF Consulting Engineers is an equal opportunity employer and considers all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, ethnicity, national origin, religion, marital status, sex/gender (including sexual orientation or gender identity), pregnancy, veteran status, citizenship status, physical or mental disability, or any other protected basis.

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