ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Freelance Structural Steel Designer Jobs in Alabama

Actalent

Structural Designer

Birmingham, AL

$45 - $50/hr

We are seeking an experienced Senior Structural Designer to support complex power generation and ... Design and detail structural steel, reinforced concrete, platforms, equipment supports, ductwork ...

New

Yates Construction

Structural Designer

Birmingham, AL · On-site

Yates Engineers provides engineering services for pulp and paper, steel manufacturing, chemical ... As a Structural Designer, your general responsibility will be to perform all aspects of design ...

Yates Construction

Structural Designer

Birmingham, AL · On-site

Yates Engineers provides engineering services for pulp and paper, steel manufacturing, chemical ... As a Structural Designer, your general responsibility will be to perform all aspects of design ...

4pconsultinginc

Structural Engineer 2

Birmingham, AL · On-site

Prepare and review structural designs, calculations, and construction documents . * Conduct site ... Produce and check structural steel design calculations, drawings, and connection details . * Ensure ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsStructural Steel Designer JobsFreelance Structural Steel Designer JobsFreelance Structural Steel Designer Jobs in Alabama

Freelance Structural Steel Designer information

What does a freelance structural steel designer do?

A Freelance Structural Steel Designer is a professional who creates structural designs and drawings for steel frameworks used in buildings, bridges, and other infrastructure projects. They work independently, often collaborating with architects, engineers, and contractors to ensure that steel structures are safe, functional, and cost-effective. Their responsibilities include analyzing load requirements, creating detailed blueprints, selecting appropriate materials, and ensuring compliance with building codes and standards. Freelance designers typically use specialized software like AutoCAD or Tekla Structures to produce their designs and may work on a range of projects from small renovations to large-scale constructions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a freelance structural steel designer?

To thrive as a Freelance Structural Steel Designer, you need expertise in structural engineering principles, steel design codes, and a relevant degree in civil or structural engineering. Proficiency with CAD software (such as AutoCAD or Tekla Structures), structural analysis programs, and familiarity with industry standards like AISC are typically required. Strong communication, project management, and problem-solving skills help you effectively collaborate with clients and other stakeholders while delivering accurate, timely designs. These abilities are essential to ensure safe, cost-effective, and compliant steel structures that meet client and regulatory requirements.

What are some common challenges faced by freelance structural steel designers when coordinating with project teams remotely?

Freelance structural steel designers often encounter challenges in communication and collaboration, especially when working remotely with architects, engineers, and contractors. Sharing complex design changes, ensuring everyone is updated with the latest drawings, and aligning on project timelines can be more difficult without face-to-face meetings. To overcome these challenges, it is essential to use reliable project management and file-sharing tools, maintain clear documentation, and schedule regular virtual check-ins. Building strong professional relationships and setting clear expectations from the outset also help facilitate smoother coordination.

What is the difference between Freelance Structural Steel Designer vs Structural Engineer?

AspectFreelance Structural Steel DesignerStructural Engineer
CredentialsDesign certifications, CAD skillsEngineering degree, licensure
Work EnvironmentFreelance projects, consultingEngineering firms, construction sites
Industry UsageDesigning steel frameworks, detailingStructural analysis, project oversight

Freelance Structural Steel Designers focus on creating detailed steel framework designs, often working independently or with clients. Structural Engineers have a broader role, including analysis, calculations, and ensuring safety compliance. While both roles require design knowledge, Structural Engineers typically hold licensure and perform more comprehensive structural assessments.

What are popular job titles related to Freelance Structural Steel Designer jobs in Alabama?

For Freelance Structural Steel Designer jobs in Alabama, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Freelance Structural Steel Designer jobs in Alabama look for?

The top searched job categories for Freelance Structural Steel Designer jobs in Alabama are:

What cities in Alabama are hiring for Freelance Structural Steel Designer jobs?

Cities in Alabama with the most Freelance Structural Steel Designer job openings:

Freelance Structural Steel Designer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Freelance Structural Steel Designer job openings in Alabama as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Lead Structural Designer (20 years)

4pconsultinginc

Birmingham, AL • On-site

Contractor

Posted 2 days ago

New

Job description

Title: Senior Structural Designer (20 years)
Location- Birmingham, AL
Client- Alabama Power
Contract- 2 Years 

Job Summary

We are seeking a Senior Structural Designer II with 20+ years of heavy industrial and/or power plant design experience. This role will support structural design activities involving structural steel, reinforced concrete, and ductwork, including 3D modeling, design drawings, material takeoffs, vendor drawing reviews, and field verification.

The ideal candidate will have strong AutoCAD experience, a solid structural detailing background, and the ability to work effectively with engineers, plant personnel, contractors, and vendors.

Key Responsibilities

  • Develop 3D models and design drawings for structural steel, reinforced concrete, and/or ductwork.

  • Prepare layouts, conceptual designs, and detailed structural drawings.

  • Review vendor and shop fabrication drawings for accuracy and compliance.

  • Prepare material takeoffs and assist with project cost estimates.

  • Coordinate structural design activities with other engineering disciplines, clients, contractors, and vendors.

  • Perform site walkdowns to verify existing conditions and obtain field information.

  • Evaluate constructability and resolve field/design issues.

  • Incorporate engineering comments, field data, and design changes into drawings and models.

  • Prepare clear, accurate, and concise drawing notes and documentation.

  • Support design quality, safety, and project schedule requirements.

Required Qualifications

  • 20+ years of structural design experience in heavy industrial, power generation, or similar facilities.

  • Strong proficiency with AutoCAD.

  • Experience designing and detailing:

    • Structural steel

    • Reinforced concrete

    • Industrial structures and/or ductwork

  • Experience preparing engineering drawings, layouts, and material takeoffs.

  • Experience reviewing fabrication and vendor shop drawings.

  • Ability to perform field walkdowns and support constructability reviews.

  • Strong communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills.

  • Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary project team.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Strong 3D modeling experience.

  • Experience with Bentley/Microsoft-based design tools and/or Advance Steel.

  • Steel and concrete detailing background.

  • Previous power plant or utility engineering experience.

Key Skills

Structural Design | AutoCAD | 3D Modeling | Structural Steel | Reinforced Concrete | Advance Steel | Bentley | Steel Detailing | Concrete Detailing | Ductwork | Material Takeoffs | Shop Drawing Review | Field Walkdowns | Constructability | Power Plant Design | Heavy Industrial