Full Time Fresh Graduate Software Engineer Jobs in Champaign, IL

Project Engineer – Structural (Building Structures)

Design the structures that shape communities. Lead projects that matter.

MSA is seeking a Project Engineer – Structural to lead the planning and design of impactful building structures serving municipalities and infrastructure clients. This role focuses on projects such as municipal buildings, water and wastewater facilities, waterfront structures, parks & recreation facilities, or tank design — projects that directly support thriving, resilient communities.

If you’re a licensed PE or SE (or interested in acquiring your SE) who thrives on diverse projects, enjoys collaborating with others, and wants to lead meaningful projects from concept through construction, this is your opportunity.

This role is based out of our Champaign IL office.

Who we are:

For over 100 years, MSA has helped shape communities through engineering excellence. What began in 1919 with a single practitioner in Baraboo, Wisconsin, has grown into a robust firm of over 500 employee owners across the U.S.

Our purpose is simple: to make communities stronger, safer, and more sustainable. We believe in the power of relationships, trust, and doing the right thing — and we take pride in seeing our work come to life.

At MSA, we understand that great work happens when you contribute great value, and maintain a balanced life and career.  That’s why we offer:

• Employee Ownership = True Investment: MSA is a 100% employee-owned firm. That means when you join our team, you’re not just doing a job — you’re building your legacy and sharing in the success of the firm.

• A Culture of Mentorship and Collaboration: Work alongside a talented, cross-disciplinary team that values mentorship, professional development, and team success.

• A flex time program that empowers you to manage your schedule — because life doesn’t always fit inside 9 to 5

• A flexible work environment, including hybrid and remote options where possible, to support your productivity and well-being

• Plan and execute structural design with a high degree of autonomy and technical judgment

• Perform and validate engineering calculations and structural analyses

• Develop detailed construction documents, specifications, and technical reports

• Perform QA/QC reviews and ensure regulatory compliance

• Provide field oversight during investigations and construction, resolving complex issues in real time

• Serve as a client liaison for assigned projects

• Lead multidisciplinary coordination with civil, environmental, and architectural teams

• Present technical recommendations at client meetings and agency reviews

• Oversee scope, schedule, and budget for complex project phases

• Anticipate risks and proactively guide mitigation strategies

• Mentor junior engineers, fostering technical and professional growth

• Contribute to proposals and new client pursuits

• Support cross-selling and strategic growth initiatives

• Represent MSA in industry organizations and technical conferences

• Bachelor’s degree in Structural or related Engineering field (ABET-accredited)

• 4+ years of post-graduate experience (8+ with a Master’s degree)

• Professional Engineer (PE) license required, Structural Engineer (SE) preferred or expressed interest in obtaining

• Expertise in structural engineering principles and building design standards

• Advanced proficiency with Revit, structural modeling/analysis software, and Microsoft Office

• Strong financial awareness — understanding scope, budgets, and profitability

• The selected candidate must be authorized to work for any employer in the U.S. without requiring visa sponsorship now or in the future. We are unable to provide or take over sponsorship of an employment visa for this role.

Why MSA?

• Better Together: A collaborative environment that values open ideas, diversity, and authenticity. Our diverse perspectives fuel innovation and success in our employee-owned firm.
• Multi-disciplinary Opportunities: Follow your interests, explore new experiences, and apply your skills where they have the most impact.
• We've Got Your Back: Enjoy support when you need it and independence when you don't. We are 400+ strong, working as one cohesive team.
• Passion & Purpose: We're passionate about our work and proud of it! Share inspirations, "geek out," and think big with us.
• Pay & Perks: Competitive pay and unique perks that make MSA stand out.
• Communities of Practice: Our think tanks and idea generators—regular collaboration and learning opportunities.
• Work-Life Integration: Life doesn't stop when work begins. We support your professional and personal balance.
• Commitment to Learning: Ongoing training, tuition reimbursement, and cutting-edge technology to keep you connected and creative.
• Community Engagement: Giving back through volunteering, education, STEM outreach, and event participation, backed by corporate sponsorship and donations.

The salary for this position ranges from $79,000 to $126,529 per year commensurate with experience. Higher compensation within this range will be paid to candidates with significant experience and exceptional qualifications.

Best-in-Industry Benefits - Eligible employees enjoy:

• Quality Insurance Options: Medical, dental, and vision coverage for you and your family
• Paid Time Off: Minimum of 17 days in the first year for full-time employees
• Paid Holidays: 8 holidays per year
• Paid Parental Leave: 2 weeks for both parents, with additional time for birth parents under MSA’s Short Term Paid Leave
• Supplemental Insurance: 100% paid life, long-term disability, and short-term disability insurance
• Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP): 100% employee-owned, with stock provided at no cost
• 401k Retirement Savings Plan: Generous employer match, immediately 100% vested
• Short Term Incentive (STIP) bonus

MSA is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer that is committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. At MSA, we value a diverse, inclusive workforce and we provide equal employment opportunity for all applicants and employees. All qualified applicants for employment will be considered without regard to an individual’s race, color, sex, gender identity, gender expression, religion, age, national origin or ancestry, citizenship, physical or mental disability, medical condition, family care status, marital status, domestic partner status, sexual orientation, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other basis protected by federal, state or local laws.  If you are unable to submit your application because of incompatible assistive technology or a disability, please contact us at hr@msa-ps.com

Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer