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Freelance Entry Level Structural Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

AECOM is actively seeking a highly motivated Entry Level Structural Engineer to join our California team . Office location is either in Orange, Los Angeles, San Diego, or Ontario, CA . This position ...

AECOM is actively seeking a highly motivated Entry Level Structural Engineer to join our California team . Office location is either in Orange, Los Angeles, San Diego, or Ontario, CA . This position ...

AECOM is actively seeking a highly motivated Entry Level Structural Engineer to join our California team Office location is either in Orange, Los Angeles, San Diego, or Ontario, CA . This position is ...

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Freelance Entry Level Structural Engineer information

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$50K

$99.4K

$152K

How much do freelance entry level structural engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for freelance entry level structural engineer in the United States is $99,400.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $80,000.00 and $113,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Freelance Entry Level Structural Engineer vs Structural Designer?

AspectFreelance Entry Level Structural EngineerStructural Designer
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree in civil or structural engineering; may need EIT certificationUsually holds a degree in civil or structural engineering or related field; certification varies
Work EnvironmentFreelance projects, consulting, remote or on-site workDesign offices, consulting firms, or project sites
Industry UsageCommonly hired for small projects, freelance consulting, or entry-level tasksInvolved in creating structural plans, often within firms or as consultants

In summary, Freelance Entry Level Structural Engineers focus on consulting and project-based work independently, often requiring certification like EIT, while Structural Designers typically work within firms creating detailed structural plans. Both roles require a background in civil or structural engineering but differ in work setting and project scope.

What does a Freelance Entry Level Structural Engineer do?

A Freelance Entry Level Structural Engineer assists in designing, analyzing, and inspecting structures like buildings and bridges to ensure they are safe and compliant with regulations. They typically work on specific projects for clients, helping to create drawings, perform calculations, and support senior engineers. As freelancers, they manage their own schedules and clients, often working remotely or on-site as needed. Their work helps ensure that structures are stable, efficient, and meet safety standards.

What are some common challenges faced by freelance entry level structural engineers, and how can they be overcome?

Freelance entry level structural engineers often face challenges such as building a client base, managing multiple projects with varying deadlines, and staying updated with industry standards and software. To overcome these, it's beneficial to network actively, maintain clear communication with clients regarding timelines, and invest time in continuous learning, especially with structural analysis tools. Utilizing project management software and seeking mentorship from experienced engineers can also help streamline workflow and professional growth.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Freelance Entry Level Structural Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Freelance Entry Level Structural Engineer, you need a bachelor’s degree in civil or structural engineering, a solid understanding of structural analysis, and strong mathematical skills. Familiarity with software such as AutoCAD, Revit, and structural analysis tools like SAP2000 or ETABS is typically required. Effective communication, time management, and problem-solving abilities help you collaborate with clients and deliver projects independently. These skills and qualities ensure you produce safe, efficient designs and build client trust as you establish your reputation in the industry.
More about Freelance Entry Level Structural Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Freelance Entry Level Structural Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Freelance Entry Level Structural Engineer job openings:
What states have the most Freelance Entry Level Structural Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Freelance Entry Level Structural Engineer jobs include:
Infographic showing various Freelance Entry Level Structural Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Locum Tenens, 14% Full Time, 74% Part Time, and 10% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $99,400 per year, or $47.8 per hour.
Entry-Level Structural Engineer | Designer

Entry-Level Structural Engineer | Designer

Degenkolb Engineers

Sacramento, CA • Hybrid

$84K - $112K/yr

Other

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago


Job description

Company Background: Founded in 1940 and headquartered in San Francisco, Degenkolb Engineers has more than eight decades of commitment to innovation, client service, and life-long learning. We deliver customized structural solutions in a variety of practice areas such as healthcare, education, science and technology, forensics, construction engineering, and federal buildings. We address every project need—whether meeting stringent codes, staying on budget, adhering to tight schedules, or creating landmark structural systems.

Position Description: We review candidates for this Entry-Level Structural Engineer | Designer position throughout the year in all of our California offices (Los Angeles, Sacramento, San Diego, and Oakland), as well as our Midwest offices in Detroit and Grand Rapids, MI. Applicants may indicate interest in multiple locations on a single application.

Ideal Candidate: A high-achieving master’s student (undergraduate GPA 3.40 or above) with a passion for structural engineering, seismic analysis (non-Michigan offices) and/or steel (Michigan). You want to be part of a high-performing team that supports your professional development with a challenging mix of projects, mentorship, and lifelong learning opportunities.

Compensation and Benefits: The pay rate for this position, across the various offices, generally ranges between $84,000 and $112,000 annually. This range is a good faith estimate provided pursuant to pay transparency laws. Actual pay rates will be based on various factors, including location, company geographic differentials, education level, and candidate qualifications. 

Benefits include health and life insurance, commuter benefits, paid parental leave, 401(k) with company Profit Sharing contribution, employee ownership in a privately held stock plan, financial support for professional activities, company holidays, and a generous paid time off program.

Culture: We offer a flexible hybrid work schedule and a fun office environment! Our firm is highly collaborative and filled with experts united by a passion for industry involvement, pride in company ownership, and respect for personal lives. You will benefit from focused professional development within a supportive and transparent team environment, as well as opportunities for committee participation and leadership, variety in work assignments, and a pay scale set at the 75th market percentile. To learn more about the company, please visit: https://degenkolb.com/culture/