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Freelance Tank Design Engineer Jobs in California

At DN , we don't just construct tanks-we engineer resilience, reliability, and innovation into every project in order to protect the world's most precious resource. We are seeking a Structural Design ...

Structural Design Engineer

El Cajon, CA · On-site

$95K - $125K/yr

At DN , we don't just construct tanks-we engineer resilience, reliability, and innovation into every project in order to protect the world's most precious resource. We are seeking a Structural Design ...

At DN , we don't just construct tanks-we engineer resilience, reliability, and innovation into every project in order to protect the world's most precious resource. We are seeking a Structural Design ...

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Freelance Tank Design Engineer information

What is a freelance tank design engineer?

Freelance Tank Design Engineers are professionals who specialize in designing tanks for various applications, such as storage, processing, or transportation of liquids and gases, and work independently rather than as full-time employees for a single company. They typically provide services like creating technical drawings, performing stress and safety analyses, and ensuring compliance with industry standards. These engineers often work with clients from industries such as oil and gas, water treatment, and manufacturing, and may be responsible for managing multiple projects simultaneously. Their freelance status allows them flexibility in choosing projects and clients, but also requires strong project management and business skills.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a freelance tank design engineer?

To thrive as a Freelance Tank Design Engineer, you need expertise in mechanical or civil engineering, fluid dynamics, and structural analysis, usually backed by a relevant engineering degree and professional experience. Proficiency with CAD software (such as AutoCAD or SolidWorks), industry standards (like API 650 or ASME), and finite element analysis tools is typically required. Strong project management, problem-solving abilities, and client communication skills distinguish top performers in this field. These competencies are crucial for designing safe, efficient tanks that meet client specifications and regulatory requirements while managing projects independently.

How do freelance tank design engineers typically collaborate with clients and other engineering professionals during a project?

Freelance Tank Design Engineers often work closely with clients to understand specific requirements, such as capacity, materials, and regulatory standards. Collaboration usually involves regular virtual meetings, progress reports, and sharing design drafts for feedback. Additionally, they may coordinate with structural engineers, fabricators, and safety experts to ensure the design meets all functional and compliance needs. Strong communication skills and proficiency with design software are essential to maintain smooth collaboration throughout the project lifecycle.

What is the difference between Freelance Tank Design Engineer vs Mechanical Tank Design Engineer?

AspectFreelance Tank Design EngineerMechanical Tank Design Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires engineering degree, certifications varyRequires engineering degree, often professional licensure
Work EnvironmentIndependent, project-based, remote or on-siteCompany-based, office or plant setting
Industry UsageFreelance, consulting, project-specificFull-time employment, design departments
Search/Comparison IntentYes, often compared for project scope and flexibilityYes, for full-time roles and expertise

The main difference is that a Freelance Tank Design Engineer works independently on various projects, offering flexibility and diverse experience, while a Mechanical Tank Design Engineer is typically employed full-time within a company, focusing on ongoing design tasks within a structured environment.

What are the most commonly searched types of Tank Design Engineer jobs in California?

The most popular types of Tank Design Engineer jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Freelance Tank Design Engineer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Freelance Tank Design Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Freelance Tank Design Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution.

Structural Design Engineer

DN Tanks LLC

El Cajon, CA • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 9 days ago


Job description

Our culture is rooted in a shared vision - to help keep the world's most precious resource safe - and in the core values that guide us in pursuing this vision and delivering on our mission to clients.

We provide the highest quality liquid storage design and construction services at the best long-term value with an unrivaled customer experience. We have built over 3,500 pre-stressed concrete liquid storage tanks over the past 90 years around the country and world, as a result we have become the leader in the industry when it comes to quality and innovation.


Are you ready to design and build something that lasts? At DN, we don't just construct tanks-we engineer resilience, reliability, and innovation into every project in order to protect the world's most precious resource. We are seeking a Structural Design Engineer to join our team, bringing expertise, creativity, and problem-solving skills to our industry-leading water solutions.
At DN, we push the boundaries of structural engineering to create durable, long-lasting concrete storage tanks for all water. Our projects span across the country, providing critical infrastructure that supports communities and businesses. We are committed to excellence, teamwork, and forward-thinking solutions.
What You'll Do:
    • Design and analyze environmental concrete tank structures using industry best practices.
    • Conduct structural calculations, modeling, and load analysis to optimize performance and durability.
    • Utilize FEA modeling software to streamline designs
    • Collaborate with construction teams and project managers to ensure design integrity from concept to completion.
    • Engage in problem-solving and troubleshooting during project execution.
    • Stay ahead of industry advancements and integrate new technologies into designs.
Qualifications:
Required
    • Bachelor's or Master's degree in Civil Engineering with a structural emphasis
    • Engineer-in-Training (EIT) certification
    • 3-7 years of structural engineering design experience
    • Experience designing reinforced concrete and structural steel systems
    • Proficiency with structural analysis software such as SAP2000, SAFE, ETABS, RISA, RAM, or similar
    • Working knowledge of IBC, ASCE 7, ACI, and AISC design standards
    • Ability to independently manage multiple design assignments and project priorities
Preferred
    • Professional Engineer (PE) license or active pursuit of licensure
    • SE license is a plus
    • Experience with water, wastewater, industrial, heavy civil, or infrastructure projects
    • Familiarity with ACI 350
    • Experience supporting projects during construction
Total Rewards
Our Total Rewards offerings are designed to invest in our employees and their families, including:
    • Competitive base compensation plus eligibility for DN's annual incentive bonus program
    • 401(k) retirement plan consisting of a 100% employer match on the first 6% of employee contributions and an additional 3% Safe Harbor company contribution
    • Medical coverage effective on date of hire, with DN covering 80%-85% of premiums depending on plan selection
    • Dental coverage effective on date of hire, with DN covering 75% of premiums
    • Voluntary vision coverage effective on date of hire
    • Flexible Spending Account options for eligible medical, dental and dependent-care expenses
    • Company-paid life insurance, accidental death & dismemberment coverage, and long-term disability coverage
    • Paid time off starting at 16 days annually, increasing with tenure, plus 9 paid holidays each year
    • Half-day Fridays between July 4 and Labor Day
    • Paid parental leave for birth mothers and spouses or committed partners
    • Employee Assistance Program available at no cost to employees and household members for work/life support
    • Tuition reimbursement
    • Gym reimbursement
    • Employee referral incentive program
    • Career growth, internal mobility and professional development opportunities within a stable, purpose-driven company
This is our good faith estimate of the base salary compensation range for this opportunity. Individual pay decisions will vary based upon the experience and qualifications of the applicant. This range is based on market rates and determined by considering many factors such as external market salary survey data, internal data for comparable roles, and the operational and budgetary objectives of the company.

At DN, we're building careers-not just filling positions. If this role excites you but your experience doesn't align perfectly with the listed qualifications, we still encourage you to apply. We consider candidates across multiple engineering levels and are committed to placing great people where they can make the biggest impact and continue to grow.


DN is An Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or veteran status, age, or any other federally protected class. All employment is decided on the basis of qualifications, merit, and business need.